The best camping near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Stretching 180 miles south from the Canadian border, this massive, 3.8-million-acre national forest offers something for everyone, from dry steppes and verdant valleys to towering glacial peaks and lush forests. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, climbing, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and, in winter, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Not surprisingly, the camping options are vast as well, with more than 140 developed and dispersed campsites and plenty of space for backcountry camping.

• Best for hikers and birdwatchers: The Klipchuk Campground offers easy access to hiking trails along the North Cascade Scenic Highway and great birdwatching from camp.
• Best for lake views and water access: All sites at the tent-only Glacier View Campground have lake and mountain views, plus easy access to Lake Wenatchee.
• Best for climbers: The Early Winters Campground is close to the Goat Wall and Fun Rock climbing areas.

1. Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early in the day or during the week to grab a spot. More than 20 campgrounds offer campsites available for advance reservations. Book a spot for peak season as soon as possible.

1. Be sure to check on seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campground.

Summer is the peak season for the forest, and despite the vast size, popular areas can see crowds. Spring is a great time for wildflowers and waterfalls, while late summer and fall bring berries and mushrooms. Late September and early October are good times to look for fall colors. The national forest is home to several ski resorts, which are snow dependent.

• Permits are required for fishing, hunting, and harvesting of berries and mushrooms. 
• Overnight permits are required for the Enchantments Area from May 15 to October 31, with a pre-season lottery held between February 15 and March 1. 
• Motorized and mechanized equipment, including bicycles and drones, are not permitted in designated wilderness areas.
• Pack some rain gear. Some areas of the forest can see up to 70 inches of precipitation a year.
• Pets are prohibited in the Enchantment Area and Ingalls Lake area of Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
• Cell phone coverage can be very spotty, especially in valleys and along rivers, streams, and lakes.