Scenic RV campground on turquoise Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park with Thunder Creek hiking, lake swimming, and mountain views.
Colonial Creek South sits on the south shore of Diablo Lake, famous for its vivid glacier-fed turquoise color. It is one of the most visually stunning campgrounds in Washington, with jagged peaks rising directly above the water. The Thunder Creek trail departs from camp and the Diablo Lake Overlook is a short drive away.
Colonial Creek South shares the same Diablo Lake shoreline as its northern counterpart, where the lake's extraordinary turquoise color — caused by glacial flour suspended in meltwater draining from North Cascades glaciers — creates one of the most iconic mountain lake scenes in Washington. Thunder Creek trail climbs from the lake's south arm into the heart of North Cascades National Park's wilderness, passing cathedral old-growth forest before reaching the glaciated alpine terrain of the Cascade Crest. The North Cascades ecosystem surrounding Diablo Lake supports Washington's recovering wolf and grizzly bear populations, and wolverine have been documented on the high ridges within a day's hike of the campground.
Sourced from first-hand visits, park ranger notes, and RV community reports. Updated when conditions change.
Sites near the boat launch in the lower loop have the best access to Diablo Lake's famous turquoise water — the glacial flour colour is most vivid July through September. Upper loop sites have partial lake views and more shade. Book the lower loop sites 6 months out; they are among the most photographed campsites in WA. Bring insect repellent — mosquitoes can be heavy near the water mid-summer.
| 📍 Nearest Town | Sedro-Woolley, WA |
| ⛽ Gas Station | 22 mi |
| 🛒 Grocery Store | 40 mi |
| 🏪 Costco | 50 mi |
| ☕ Starbucks | 40 mi |
| 🏕️ Nearest State Park | 30 mi |
Stock up in Sedro-Woolley, WA before heading out — services get limited near the campground.
Ready to book?
Check availability online. Reserving 6 months in advance.