Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest Camping

Are you looking for the best camping spots in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest? With over 3.8 million acres of breathtaking wilderness, this forest stretches from the Canadian border to the Goat Rocks Wilderness along the Cascade Range in Washington State. Whether you're planning a family-friendly camping trip, a rugged dispersed camping adventure, or an RV-friendly getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know about camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Campground Camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest boasts over 150 developed campgrounds, offering a range of tent and RV sites. Many campgrounds are first-come, first-served, but some allow reservations. Here are some of the top-rated campgrounds in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest:

Best Campgrounds for Families & Tent Camping

• Kachess Campground – Located on Kachess Lake, this campground features 150 sites with vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and boat access. It’s a great spot for fishing and kayaking. (Reserve here)

• Lone Fir Campground – Ideal for hikers and bicyclists, with access to Cutthroat Creek Trail and Lone Fir Trail. Stunning mountain views and easy access to Highway 20.

• Klipchuck Campground – Perfect for birdwatching, this campground has 92 sites with access to Driveway Butte Trail and Early Winters Creek.

• Fox Creek Campground – A quiet, secluded campground with fishing opportunities near Fox Creek. Offers picnic tables, drinking water, and vault toilets.

Best RV Campgrounds in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

If you're traveling with an RV, trailer, or camper, these campgrounds offer the best RV-friendly camping options:

• Salmon La Sac Campground – Large RV sites with stunning views, located in the Cle Elum Ranger District.

• Falls Creek Campground – RV-friendly sites near Methow Valley, offering easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots.

• White Pass Lake (Leech Lake) Campground – A great RV camping destination in the Naches Ranger District, with nearby boating and fishing.

👉 Tip: Most campgrounds have a 14-day stay limit. If you need longer stays, check out dispersed camping options below.

Dispersed Camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

For those looking for a free camping experience, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers plenty of dispersed camping areas. These sites lack amenities, meaning campers must pack out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Top Dispersed Camping Areas:

• French Cabin Creek Recreation Area – A popular dispersed camping area in the Cle Elum Ranger District.

• Manastash Camp / Trailhead – Perfect for off-grid camping, offering access to hiking and ORV trails.

• South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping – Located in the Naches Ranger District, this area is great for remote camping near the water.

🔥 Important: Fire restrictions may be in effect. Always check current fire bans before building a campfire.

Group Camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

If you're camping with a large group, there are several group campgrounds available for reservation:

• East Kachess Group Site – A large group camping area with stunning lake views and spacious campsites.

• Pine Flats Campground – Located in the Entiat Ranger District, this site is great for group camping with fire pits and picnic tables.

• Icicle Group Campground – A popular group campsite in the Wenatchee River Ranger District.

Book early if you're camping during peak season, as group sites fill up fast!

Best Time to Camp in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

🌷 Spring & Summer (May–September)

• Best for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

• Most campgrounds and roads are fully accessible.

• Expect warm, dry days with cool nights.

🍁 Fall (September–November)

• Best time for wildlife watching and scenic photography.

• Fewer crowds, but some campgrounds may close early due to weather.

❄️ Winter (December–March)

• Popular for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

• Some campgrounds remain open, but many roads close due to snow.

Essential Tips for Camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

✔ Check road conditions – Many roads are gravel or narrow, so drive carefully, especially if you're in an RV or trailer.
✔ Be bear-aware – Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
✔ Pack rain gear – The forest gets up to 70 inches of annual precipitation.
✔ Fishing licenses required – If you plan to fish in Lake Wenatchee, Columbia River, or Waptus Lake, make sure you have a Washington State fishing license.
✔ Reserve campsites in advance – Some sites fill up months ahead, especially during summer weekends.

Getting to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

🚗 By Car:

• 2-hour drive from Seattle via I-90 and US-97.

• 3-hour drive from Yakima via US-12 and US-97.

• State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) provides scenic access but closes in winter.

⛺ Find More Information & Reservations

• Official Forest Website

• Recreation.gov – For reservations and site details.

• Washington State Campground Map

Plan Your Camping Trip to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Today!

Whether you’re looking for RV-friendly campgrounds, secluded dispersed camping, or a group campsite, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has it all. With over 140 campgrounds, stunning lakes, and scenic hiking trails, this hidden gem in Washington State is the perfect spot for your next camping adventure. Book early, check road conditions, and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience!