Camping on Ross Lake
Nineteen boat-in camps offering 58 campsites along the shores of Ross Lake. All Ross Lake campsites are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and bear-resistant food storage boxes. Some have docks, while some do not. A backcountry permit is required from the National Park Service for any overnight camping at these sites.
There are three ways listed below that Ross Lake Resort can help you access the campsites on Ross Lake. Be sure to educate yourself and read our "Be Prepared" section below before camping in the backcountry!
Reservations are required for equipment rentals and water taxis. Please ensure you have a reservation before picking-up your permit.
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Where to obtain a walk-up permit (Prior to your arrival at Ross Lake): National Park Service, Wilderness Information Center
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Address: 7280 Ranger Station Rd, Marblemount, WA 98267
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Phone number: (360) 854-7245
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Website: https://www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm
Equipment Rentals
Motorboats, canoes, and kayaks
Portage
Let us help you get your personal canoe or kayak to Ross Lake
Water Taxi
Let us transport you to your desired lake destination
Equipment Rentals
Ross Lake Resort is the only establishment on Ross Lake that offers equipment rentals such as motorboats, canoes, and kayaks. You can get detailed information and submit a rental request via our equipment rental page.
Portage
Ross Lake Resort offers a portage service for canoes and kayaks between Diablo and Ross Lake June 6th through October 31st in our 2024 season. For details and current portage rates, click here. Do you want to bring your personal watercraft that is larger than a canoe or kayak to Ross Lake? To do so you must go through Hozomeen Canada. Click here for more info.
Water Taxi
Our water taxi service is offered for hikers, campers, day-users, and other visitors who want to access the campgrounds and trailheads on Ross Lake. We are able to pick you and your party up and drop you off anywhere on the lake. Advanced reservations are required. Always remember that a camping permit from the National Park Service is required for overnight stays on Ross Lake
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Visit our Water Taxi and Portage Services Page for pricing information and to submit a water taxi request.
Getting Here
Please visit our Getting Here page for instructions on how to get to Ross Lake and the Resort.
Click here for a printable map of Ross Lake.
Be Prepared
Ross Lake is a BIG lake with STRONG afternoon winds. The weather can change quickly and without warning. Each week we have to assist/rescue multiple canoes/kayaks who get into distress on the lake. Please remember these key safety reminders:
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There is no restaurant on-site. We have a small gift shop with souvenirs, snacks and canned drinks.
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Know your skill level
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Be prepared for the elements
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Do not overload your vessel
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Paddle early in the day to minimize wind exposure
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Wear your life jacket
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Always check the weather conditions when planning your trip and before you head out. Click here to get the current weather conditions on Ross Lake.
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Do not forget, there is no cell phone coverage on Ross Lake.