Ross Lake is a major recreation destination within the North Cascades, attracting visitors with a multitude of fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking opportunities.

Backcountry camping permits (free, first-come, first-served) are required, and may be obtained from the National Park Service in Marblemount.

Made up of a dozen cabins and 3 bunkhouses, it is situated approximately a quarter mile from the dam and rests entirely on log booms.

This is due to lower water levels caused by annual drawdowns of the lake for flood control of the Skagit River.

Travelers do not have to report to an official Port of Entry (as required at the nearby Pacific Crest Trail crossing), as they must reenter Canada to leave.