A Weekend at Colonial Creek Campground in the North Cascades
If you’re looking for a weekend that blends alpine adventure with lakeside chill time, Colonial Creek Campground in North Cascades National Park is the perfect launch point. Nestled right on the shores of glacial-blue Diablo Lake (seriously, the water color here is unreal), it’s an ideal basecamp for paddleboarding, hiking, swimming, and hammock lounging.
Whether you’re solo, with kids, or adventuring with a crew, here’s how you should spend a long weekend here:
Nicknamed the “American Alps,” the North Cascades are one of Washington’s most wild and underrated national parks—think jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and miles of (sometimes) uncrowded trails. One of the best places to base yourself? Colonial Creek Campground, nestled right on the shores of stunning Diablo Lake.
✨ Planning a trip? Here’s my full 3-day North Cascades itinerary to get you started »
Colonial Creek is divided into North and South Campgrounds. Both are beautiful, and some sites sit just steps from the lake. These lakeside spots go fast, so book early if you can—waking up with your own slice of Diablo Lake right outside your tent is a game changer. That said, the forested sites tucked away from the shore are peaceful and still absolutely worth it.
👉 You can book sites here. (at Recreation.gov)
Day 1: Pull In, Paddle Out
Aim to arrive by early afternoon to get your camp set up, string up your hammock (a must), and settle in. Once you’re unpacked, grab your paddle board or kayak and head straight for the water.
There’s a boat ramp right in the campground, and paddling on Diablo Lake is unforgettable. Just be mindful of the afternoon wind—late in the day can get choppy. Evening paddles are usually calmer, and sunset from the middle of the lake? Pure magic.
Evenings at Colonial Creek are for cozy campfires, stargazing, and maybe a few s’mores. Bring a warm layer—it cools down fast when the sun dips behind the mountains.
Day 2: Hike + Hammock + Views for Days
Start your morning with coffee by the lake, then hit the Thunder Creek Trail—you can hop on right from the South Campground. The trail winds through lush, old-growth forest along a glacial creek. Go as far as you’d like; even just a few miles out and back is serene and beautiful.
If you are feeling adventurous and want to travel a bit down Highway 20 then I would recommend a few hikes down the road.
Hike 1 – Easy: Blue Lake
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip | 1,050 feet of elevation gain | Alltrails Link
Description: On calm days, the lake’s clear waters perfectly reflect the surrounding mountain peaks, offering plenty of photo opportunities. It’s also short enough to pair with another hike. Be sure to arrive early or later in the day to avoid the crowds, especially in the Fall.
Hike 2 – Moderate: Maple Pass Loop
Distance: 6.5 miles round trip | 2,162 feet of elevation gain | Alltrails Link
This is probably the most famous hike in all of the North Cascades National Park. And with the views it offers, you will see why. They go for miles. (seriously)
After your hike – Washington Pass Overlook
If you are already at one of the hikes listed then definitely drive to Washington Pass Overlook for stunning views of Liberty Bell Mountain and the surrounding peaks. This is a quick, short, paved path to a seriously grand overlook.
Its perfect for a photo and its very accessible for everyone to enjoy ridiculous sweeping views!
When you get back from your day of adventure, its time for a paddle or even a dip in the lake. The water is cold, but perfect for cooling off. Stretch out in the sun, float for a while, or retreat to your hammock with a book.
Before sunset, take a quick drive up Highway 20 to the Diablo Lake Overlook. It’s one of the best views in the park, and even if you’ve seen it in photos, it’s something else in person.
Day 3: One Last Trail and One Last Paddle
Before you pack up, squeeze in one last hike. The Thunder Knob Trail starts just across from the North Campground. It’s a short, satisfying 3.5-mile round trip with rewarding views of the lake.
Still got some sunshine left? Go for one last swim or paddle before heading out. Then it’s time to pack up —though you’ll definitely be planning your return.
📍 Key Locations Around Colonial Creek Campground
- Diablo Lake Overlook: Approximately 1.5 miles east on State Route 20
- Thunder Knob Trailhead: Located near the North Campground, you can walk from the campground
- Thunder Creek Trailhead: Accessible from the South Campground
- Boat Launch & Fishing Pier: Situated within the campground
What to Know Before You Go
- Reservations: Colonial Creek South Campground takes reservations during peak season—book early if you want a waterfront site.
- Paddle Safety: Always wear a life jacket. Diablo Lake is stunning but chilly, and weather changes fast.
- Elevation & Weather: The campground sits at about 1,200 feet. Mornings and evenings can get cold, even in summer.
- Cell Service: Don’t count on it. Download maps, trail info, and playlists in advance.
- Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out. The North Cascades are wild and beautiful—let’s keep them that way.
What to Pack: Weekend Essentials for Colonial Creek
- Inflatable paddleboard or kayak (bonus points if it packs into your trunk)
- Life jacket (required for paddling!)
- Swimsuit + quick-dry towel
- Hammock + straps (trees are plentiful!)
- Layers, including a warm jacket for evenings
- Headlamp or lantern
- Jetboil or camp stove + easy camp meals
- Bug spray + sunscreen
- Trail shoes with good grip (especially for Thunder Creek)
- National Park Pass
Optional but awesome:
- Dry bag for paddling
- Camp chairs
- Lightweight backpacking chair for overlook picnics
- Book or journal
Whether you’re here for the hikes or just want to paddle out and drift for a while, Colonial Creek is one of those rare spots where it all just works. Adventure when you want it. Quiet when you need it. And cold lake swims you’ll be dreaming about for weeks.
See you out there!
