Refrigerator Harbor Campground
03 reviewsRefrigerator Harbor Campground
$10.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Lake Chelan Federal Dock Site Permit: $10/day or $75/season, required from May 1 - October 31 for all National Forest and Park Service docks.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Chelan, Refrigerator Harbor Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape accessible only by boat. This secluded haven features a welcoming dock that accommodates up to three vessels, where boaters can tie up and discover four thoughtfully positioned tent sites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for memorable evenings under the stars. A rustic shelter provides respite from the elements, while two facilities ensure comfort during your stay. Open throughout all seasons, this tranquil retreat offers exceptional shelter from down-lake winds, creating a peaceful sanctuary where the gentle lapping of waves provides nature's soundtrack. While up-lake winds may occasionally stir the waters, the campground's strategic position near the historic Lucerne Ranger Station adds a touch of frontier heritage to your outdoor experience.
Refrigerator Harbor Campground is described as a primitive, boat-in-only site with four tent sites available. The focus is on basic, low-impact camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the shores near the historic Lucerne Ranger Station, a testament to the early forest service pioneers who once patrolled these pristine waters. This proximity to the old ranger station connects modern campers with the rich heritage of conservation and stewardship that has preserved Lake Chelan's natural beauty for generations to enjoy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of Lake Chelan, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with temperatures dipping to a brisk 28°F, perfect for hardy souls seeking solitude. As spring awakens the surrounding wilderness, temperatures climb steadily toward glorious summer days that reach a comfortable 80°F, inviting swimmers and sun-seekers to enjoy the lake's refreshing waters. The region's characteristically dry climate means more blue-sky days for your adventures, whether you're casting a line at dawn or stargazing around an evening campfire.
ElevationPerched at 1,150 feet above sea level, Refrigerator Harbor Campground offers an elevated perspective that transforms Lake Chelan into a sprawling canvas of sapphire blue. From this vantage point, campers are treated to sweeping panoramic views where the lake's 50-mile expanse stretches toward distant peaks, creating photo opportunities that capture the grandeur of the North Cascades region.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, where Refrigerator Harbor Campground serves as your gateway to one of Washington's most spectacular natural treasures. The crystalline waters of Lake Chelan lap gently at the campground's edge, while towering mountains rise dramatically from the shoreline, their rugged peaks reflected in the lake's mirror-like surface. This stunning convergence of water and mountain creates an ever-changing landscape where morning mists dance across the water, afternoon sun illuminates granite cliffs, and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest's Lake Chelan area, where ancient glaciers carved one of the nation's deepest lakes through solid bedrock. This remarkable landscape showcases the raw power of ice age forces, with dramatic fjord-like walls plunging into waters that reach depths of nearly 1,500 feet, creating a unique ecosystem where alpine and aquatic environments meet in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site can be accessed year-round. It is a boat-in campground, which may limit accessibility for those without access to a boat.
Sites SizeFour tent sites are available. No further details on the size of these sites are provided.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne shelter, four tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but Federal Dock Permit required May 1 - October 31.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a mix of water-based and hiking activities, including both motorized and non-motorized boating, backpacking, and day hikes. A user review mentions a 'hidden cave,' adding a sense of adventure to the hiking experience.
Hiking
Hiking activities include both backpacking and day hikes. Specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed, but the remote location suggests opportunities for scenic and challenging hikes.Boating
Boating is a key activity here, with facilities supporting both motorized and non-motorized boats. The dock has a three-boat capacity.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking and canoeing are highlighted in an official guide, though no specific details on rental availability or designated areas are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsRequires boat-in access. Potential for wind exposure (especially up-lake winds).
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
100
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Chelan, approximately 40 miles down lake.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 31 (Federal Dock Permit required).
Trash and recyclingNo mention of dedicated trash or recycling facilities is available, though bear-proof garbage cans are reported.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is located directly on Lake Chelan with a dock.
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Chelan, boat approximately 40 miles up lake. Refrigerator Harbor Campground is on the south shore.OR From Chelan, travel south on Highway 97A for 3 miles. Turn right onto Southshore Road and go approximately 17 miles to Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park. From the Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park boat launch, boat approximately 21 miles up lake. Refrigerator Harbor Campground is on the south shore.
Boat-in access only; requires personal boat or ferry service. Commercial ferries (Lady of the Lake and Stehekin Ferry) provide service to Lucerne Ranger Station near this campground.Nearby places
Lucerne Ranger Station nearby
Chelan is approximately 40 miles downlake.
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park (approx. 21 miles up lake from the campground).
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Refrigerator Harbor Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights the campground's remote, clean environment and friendly atmosphere. The accessibility by boat adds to the unique appeal, and the cleanliness of the restrooms receives consistent praise.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
'Very clean and remote camping spot,' 'friendly people/ranger,' 'clean and usable bathrooms,' and 'hidden cave' are among the praised features.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
No complaints are specifically mentioned in the reviews provided.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should be prepared to bring potable water as none is available on-site. Access to the campground is by boat only, so appropriate planning for transportation is essential.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is accessible year-round, but no specific seasonal trends in user reviews are provided. Comments suggest it is popular during summer.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Been coming here every summer for the last couple years. Very clean and remote camping spot. People/ranger are very friendly. Has very clean and usable bathrooms and bear-cans.' 2. 'Clean...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited to boat-in access, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025