Alder Thicket Campground

For Washington locals seeking a genuine escape into the wild, where the sounds of nature prevail and the stars shine bright, Alder Thicket Campground near Pomeroy offers an authentic and invigorating wilderness experience. Nestled within the expansive Umatilla National Forest, this campground is a true gem for those who appreciate primitive camping amidst breathtaking natural beauty. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the demands of daily life and reconnect with the serene rhythms of the Pacific Northwest forest.

Alder Thicket is renowned for its "beautiful area" and the sense of deep wilderness it provides, while still being remarkably accessible from town. It’s not your typical amenity-rich park; instead, it caters to the adventurous spirit, offering "plenty of great camping places around this area if you’re adventurous." Visitors have reported awe-inspiring wildlife sightings, including wolves and large deer, underscoring its truly wild character. With its tall pine trees, relatively flat camping areas, and basic facilities like fire pits, picnic tables, and a pit/vault toilet, Alder Thicket provides the essentials for a comfortable yet rugged outdoor adventure. It’s a call to the wild, inviting you to "pack it in and pack it out" and embrace the untouched beauty of Washington's natural landscapes.

Alder Thicket Campground is located at NF-055, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA, nestled within the expansive Umatilla National Forest in southeastern Washington. This location provides an ideal balance for locals seeking a true wilderness experience without venturing too far into completely uncharted territory. As one reviewer noted, it’s "good wilderness that isn’t too terribly far from town - maybe 45 minutes from civilization," referring to Pomeroy.

Access to Alder Thicket typically involves driving on forest service roads, which are generally well-maintained but can be unpaved or gravel in sections. This journey contributes to the feeling of escaping into the wild, gradually leaving behind the hustle and bustle of urban areas. The campground is situated on top of a ridge, offering scenic views and a unique atmospheric quality, though campers should be prepared for it to be "windy at times."

The proximity to Pomeroy ensures that basic supplies and services are within a reasonable drive, providing a convenient resupply point before or after your wilderness immersion. For Washingtonians looking to explore diverse ecosystems, the Umatilla National Forest offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, from dense forests to open ridges, all accessible from this centralized location. The relative ease of access combined with its truly wild setting makes Alder Thicket Campground a highly desirable and practical choice for those looking for an authentic Pacific Northwest outdoor adventure without committing to multi-day backcountry treks.

• Designated Camping Areas: The campground offers "mostly flat camping area" with clear spaces suitable for tents and potentially smaller RVs or vans.
• Fire Pits: Individual campsites are equipped with fire pits, allowing campers to safely build campfires (when conditions allow) for warmth, cooking, and ambiance.
• Picnic Tables: Some campsites include picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Pit/Vault Toilet: A basic "pit/vault toilet" is available on-site, offering a primitive restroom facility. Reviewers indicate it is functional and meets basic needs.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that there is no direct potable water source at Alder Thicket Campground. Visitors must "pack it in" (bring) all their necessary drinking and cooking water.
• No Garbage Service: The campground operates on a "pack it out" principle. There are no garbage bins or collection services, requiring campers to take all their trash with them when they leave.
• Minimal Cell Signal: As noted by a reviewer, there is "minimal cell signal" at the campground, ensuring a true unplugged experience.
• No Electrical Hookups: There are no electrical hookups or modern amenities like showers. This is a primitive camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served: While not explicitly stated in reviews, campgrounds of this nature in national forests are typically first-come, first-served, meaning no reservations are taken. Campers should arrive early, especially during peak seasons.

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Alder Thicket Campground offers a truly immersive "good wilderness" experience. It's a place where you can feel deeply connected to nature, far from urban distractions, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a genuine outdoor adventure.
• Abundant Wildlife Sightings: Reviewers highlight significant wildlife encounters, including seeing a "wolf (definitely wasn’t a coyote)" and "many big deer." This makes it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Chipmunks were also spotted, adding to the natural charm.
• Close to Civilization (Relatively): Despite its wild feel, the campground is "maybe 45 minutes from civilization" (Pomeroy). This strikes a perfect balance for those who want a deep wilderness experience without being completely cut off for emergency resupplies or a quick trip to town.
• Tall Pine Trees and Natural Beauty: The campground is set amidst "lots of tall pine trees," providing a beautiful, shaded, and serene environment. The overall "beautiful area" enhances the camping experience, offering picturesque surroundings.
• Mushroom Foraging Opportunities: The mention of "Morel mushrooms nearby" is a significant highlight for foragers and nature enthusiasts, indicating potential for finding these sought-after fungi in season.
• Trails for Riding Nearby: The presence of "trails for riding nearby" makes Alder Thicket an excellent choice for equestrians or mountain bikers looking to explore the Umatilla National Forest on two wheels or four legs.
• Minimal Cell Signal for Disconnection: For those looking to truly unplug and escape digital distractions, the "minimal cell signal" is a distinct advantage, encouraging full immersion in nature and personal reflection.
• Basic but Functional Facilities: While primitive, the provision of fire pits, some picnic tables, and a pit/vault toilet ensures essential needs are met, allowing campers to enjoy the wild without being entirely unprepared. The "mostly flat camping area" also provides comfortable pitching spots.

Address: NF-055, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA

Phone: (509) 843-1891

Mobile Phone: +1 509-843-1891

For specific information regarding Alder Thicket Campground, including current conditions, road access, and fire restrictions, it is best to contact the Pomeroy Ranger District, which is part of the Umatilla National Forest. Their general contact number is the one provided above. As this is typically a primitive, first-come, first-served campground, reservations are not usually accepted for individual sites, so always check with the local ranger district for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

For Washingtonians who value authentic outdoor experiences and a deep connection with nature, Alder Thicket Campground in the Umatilla National Forest offers an ideal escape. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of accessible wilderness and the opportunity to truly disconnect, aligning perfectly with the Pacific Northwest ethos of embracing the wild. The fact that it's "good wilderness that isn’t too terribly far from town - maybe 45 minutes from civilization" (Pomeroy) means that residents can enjoy a profound escape without committing to multi-day expeditions or extremely remote travel. This convenience makes it perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip or a quick recharge.

Locals, often seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, appreciate the primitive nature of Alder Thicket. The "pack it in and pack it out" philosophy resonates with those committed to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the pristine beauty of the area is preserved for all. The presence of basic amenities like fire pits, some picnic tables, and a pit/vault toilet provides enough comfort for a comfortable stay without detracting from the rustic charm. The "mostly flat camping area" makes setting up camp relatively easy, whether you’re in a tent or a smaller RV.

Furthermore, the rich natural environment surrounding Alder Thicket offers abundant opportunities for activities that appeal directly to Washington residents. The chance to spot "many big deer" and even a "wolf" speaks to the healthy wildlife population, making it a dream destination for wildlife watchers and photographers. Foraging for "Morel mushrooms nearby" (in season, of course) adds a unique local flavor to the camping experience. The availability of "trails for riding nearby" caters to equestrians and mountain bikers, allowing them to explore the diverse terrain of the Umatilla National Forest. The "minimal cell signal" is not a drawback for many locals but rather a highlight, offering a rare opportunity for true digital detox and quality time in nature. Alder Thicket Campground embodies the rugged beauty and accessible adventure that Washingtonians seek, making it a perfect spot to create lasting outdoor memories close to home.

Alder Thicket Campground

NF-055, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA