Camp Four Campground

For Washington locals yearning for a genuine escape into the heart of nature, Camp Four Campground in Winthrop offers a truly authentic and tranquil camping experience. Tucked away within the scenic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground is a beloved spot for those who appreciate peace, natural beauty, and the simplicity of disconnecting from the everyday. Unlike bustling resort-style campgrounds, Camp Four embraces a more rustic charm, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet serenity of the Methow Valley. It's a place where the sound of the Chewuch River replaces city noise, and the vast Washington sky becomes your ceiling.

The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its diverse landscapes, and the Methow Valley, where Camp Four is situated, exemplifies the drier, eastern side of the Cascades, offering a unique blend of forests, mountains, and open skies. As one satisfied camper noted, "Even in the rain, this is a beautiful and relaxing place to be." This sentiment perfectly captures the enduring appeal of Camp Four – its ability to provide a beautiful and restorative environment, regardless of the weather. It's an ideal destination for those seeking an unpretentious, nature-focused getaway, where the focus is on the environment rather than extensive amenities.

This article is designed to be your comprehensive guide to Camp Four Campground, specifically curated for Washington residents looking for their next outdoor adventure. We'll cover everything from its precise location and how to get there, to the practical services it offers, and the unique features that make it a standout choice for those who value quiet and natural immersion. We'll also provide essential contact information and explain why Camp Four is particularly well-suited for locals seeking a genuine escape in one of Washington's most picturesque regions. Get ready to embrace the simplicity and beauty that Camp Four Campground has to offer.

Camp Four Campground is located at NF-5160, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA. This address places it approximately 18 miles north of the charming Western-themed town of Winthrop, deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The campground is situated along the Chewuch River, providing a picturesque riverside setting.

Accessing Camp Four involves a scenic drive. Visitors will travel north on paved West Chewuch Road (county road 1213) and continue onto paved Forest Road #51. While the road is paved, it is a "long road," as one reviewer mentioned, and typical of forest roads, it may involve winding sections and varying conditions depending on the season and recent weather. This journey itself is often considered part of the experience, offering beautiful views of the surrounding forested terrain and mountainous landscapes.

For Washington residents, the drive to Winthrop and then to Camp Four is a manageable one, typically a few hours from major population centers like Seattle (via Highway 2 and then north on Highway 153 to Winthrop, or through the seasonal North Cascades Highway 20). The proximity to Winthrop is a distinct advantage, as the town offers essential services such as gas, groceries, restaurants, and outdoor gear shops, allowing campers to stock up before heading to the more secluded campground. However, it's important to note that once at Camp Four, immediate access to amenities is limited, reinforcing its rustic nature. Due to its location in a national forest, conditions can change, and it's always wise to check for alerts and notices regarding road conditions or closures on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website before embarking on your trip. The light usage of the campground, especially outside peak season, also contributes to its peaceful atmosphere.

• First-Come, First-Served Campsites: Camp Four Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. This requires campers to arrive early, especially during busy periods (July-August), to secure a spot.

• Basic Campsites: The campground provides basic, unserviced campsites suitable primarily for tent camping. Some sites have a maximum length of 16 feet, and trailers are generally not recommended due to site size limitations and the nature of the access road.

• Vault Toilets: Visitors will have access to vault toilets, which are common in more primitive or less developed campgrounds, providing essential sanitation facilities.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that potable water is NOT available at Camp Four Campground. Visitors must bring their own drinking water for the duration of their stay or be prepared with filtration/purification methods for natural water sources (e.g., from the Chewuch River, though treatment is essential).

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for food preparation, dining, and other camp activities.

• Fire Rings: Individual campsites typically include a fire ring, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking. However, campers must always check for and strictly adhere to any current fire restrictions or bans, which are common in dry summer months in this region.

• No Trash Receptacles: The campground operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" policy, meaning no trash receptacles are provided. Campers are responsible for removing all their waste to maintain the cleanliness of the area.

• Light Usage: The campground is generally noted for its light usage, especially outside the peak months, contributing to a more secluded and peaceful experience.

• Maximum Stay Limit: A maximum stay limit of 14 days is in effect, allowing campers to enjoy an extended period of immersion in the natural environment.

• Riverside Location on Chewuch River: The campground is beautifully situated along the Chewuch River, offering tranquil sounds of flowing water, opportunities for river-based recreation (like fishing, subject to regulations), and scenic views from many campsites.

• Beautiful and Relaxing Environment: As attested by a reviewer, "Even in the rain, this is a beautiful and relaxing place to be." The forested setting, clear river, and mountainous backdrop create a serene and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere for unwinding.

• Seclusion and Peace: Camp Four is known for its quiet and uncrowded nature, especially compared to more popular, reservable campgrounds. This makes it ideal for those truly seeking solitude and a respite from noise and crowds.

• Proximity to Winthrop: While feeling remote, the campground is only 18 miles from the unique, Western-themed town of Winthrop, offering a blend of wilderness escape with convenient access to a charming town for supplies and local culture.

• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: The area around Camp Four provides access to various outdoor recreational activities, including hiking trails (such as North Twenty Mile Trail #560 and a historic lookout hike) and road biking opportunities on East and West Chewuch Roads.

• Fishing in Chewuch River: The Chewuch River is a popular spot for fishing, offering campers the chance to cast a line and enjoy the quiet pursuit of trout, though checking Washington State Fishing Regulations is essential.

• Rustic, Authentic Camping Experience: For those who prefer a more traditional, less developed camping setting, Camp Four provides a genuine connection to nature without the distractions of modern amenities.

• First-Come, First-Served Advantage: While it means no reservations, the first-come, first-served system can be a highlight for spontaneous adventurers or those who prefer to explore and find a spot on the fly, as mentioned in a review, "No reservations. Awesome."

• Gateway to Methow Valley Exploration: Camp Four serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Methow Valley, known for its scenic beauty, cross-country skiing in winter, and numerous outdoor activities throughout the year.

Address: NF-5160, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA

Phone: (509) 996-4000 (Methow Valley Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-996-4000 (Methow Valley Ranger District)

As Camp Four Campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service, the primary contact for information, current conditions, and alerts is the Methow Valley Ranger District, which oversees this area of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. It is highly recommended to contact them or visit the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/okawen) for the most up-to-date information on road conditions, fire restrictions, water availability (or lack thereof), and operating season details before planning your trip. Since sites are first-come, first-served, direct contact is generally for informational purposes rather than booking.

For Washington locals, Camp Four Campground in Winthrop offers a quintessential and highly suitable outdoor escape, particularly for those who prioritize tranquility and a genuine connection with nature. Its appeal lies in its authentic, rustic charm and its capacity to provide a true "get away" experience right within their home state.

Firstly, the campground's location deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, along the serene Chewuch River, offers an immediate immersion into the natural beauty that Washington is so celebrated for. While it requires "the drive down the long road," as one reviewer put it, this journey is part of the allure, leading campers away from the crowds of more popular destinations. For Washingtonians who are accustomed to and seek out less-trafficked natural spaces, this remote setting provides the peace and quiet necessary for true relaxation and rejuvenation. The "beautiful and relaxing place to be," even in challenging weather, speaks volumes about its inherent natural appeal.

Secondly, Camp Four's first-come, first-served policy and minimalist services cater to a specific type of local camper: those who are self-reliant and prefer a less structured, more spontaneous adventure. The absence of potable water and limited site amenities encourages a return to basic camping skills, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and personal preparedness. This rugged yet accessible approach aligns perfectly with the independent spirit of many Pacific Northwestern outdoor enthusiasts, who often prefer to pack their own supplies and find their own slice of wilderness.

Moreover, the abundance of outdoor activities immediately accessible from Camp Four enhances its suitability for Washington locals. The Chewuch River provides opportunities for fishing and riverside relaxation, while nearby trails invite hiking and road biking, allowing campers to explore the diverse landscapes of the Methow Valley. This region is a playground for outdoor recreation, and Camp Four serves as an ideal, no-frills basecamp for exploring all it has to offer, from the iconic Western town of Winthrop just down the road to the vast expanse of the National Forest. It's a place where you can truly "unplug and recharge," returning to the rhythms of nature. For those seeking an authentic, peaceful, and self-sufficient camping experience in a stunning Washington setting, Camp Four Campground is an unparalleled choice that resonates with the true spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

Camp Four Campground

NF-5160, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA