Cle Elum River Campground

For Washingtonians seeking an authentic and unfussy outdoor experience amidst the stunning scenery of the Central Cascades, Cle Elum River Campground offers a compelling retreat. Nestled in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, right where the Cle Elum River gracefully flows into Lake Cle Elum, this campground is a beloved spot for those who appreciate natural beauty over elaborate amenities. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy incredible views, and access a wealth of outdoor activities, all with a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere, this campground is a prime choice for your next adventure.

Cle Elum River Campground is particularly appealing for its blend of accessibility and its genuinely rustic feel. It's a place where spontaneity is rewarded, as many of its sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing for last-minute decisions to immerse yourself in nature. While it provides basic facilities, its real value lies in the stunning natural surroundings and the direct connection to the varied landscapes of the Cle Elum area, from serene lake views to rugged mountain trails.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Cle Elum River Campground, detailing its convenient location, the services it offers, its standout features and highlights, and important contact information. Ultimately, we’ll explore why this campground is an excellent fit for Washington locals eager to discover the natural treasures right in their own backyard.

Cle Elum River Campground is situated just north of the town of Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA, placing it in the scenic Cle Elum River Valley within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Its location at the head of Lake Cle Elum, right where the river meets the lake, provides unique opportunities for both river and lake-based recreation. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 2,300 feet, surrounded by mixed-conifer forest and impressive mountains.

To access the campground from the town of Cle Elum, you typically take State Highway 903 north for about 15 miles. You'll then turn left at the campground sign. If you encounter a T in the road, turn right to enter the main campground area. While it's conveniently close to Cle Elum, a small town that can offer last-minute supplies, the journey truly takes you into a more remote, forested setting.

One important aspect to note is that while the campground is "right next to the road," traffic isn't usually heavy, so noise is generally manageable. However, cell data coverage tends to stop near the town of Ronald, just south of the campground, and at the campground itself, phone coverage may be available but data often isn't. This "unplugged" environment is part of its charm for many, but it also means it's crucial to research the area and mark maps in advance if you plan to explore nearby trails or activities. For Washington residents, particularly those from the Puget Sound area, Cle Elum is a relatively easy drive east on I-90, making this campground a highly accessible option for weekend trips.

Cle Elum River Campground offers basic services designed for a rustic camping experience, emphasizing natural surroundings over extensive amenities. It caters to both tent and RV campers, though larger RVs should be mindful of site sizes.

• Campsites: The campground features 14 trailer/tent sites and a larger reservable group site with a capacity of up to 100 people (though some sources indicate 55+). Single sites are typically $20 per night, with a discount to $10 per night for Senior or Access pass holders. There's one double site available for $40 per night. Each campsite includes a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering. Many sites offer amazing views, particularly those along the water's edge.
• Toilets: Vault toilets (latrines) are available throughout the campground. While these are basic, recent reviews indicate they are generally in "decent shape." It's always advisable to bring your own hand sanitizer and any personal supplies. It is important to note that there is typically no potable water at the campground, so campers must bring their own supply.
• No Reservations for Single Sites: The individual campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted for these spots. This allows for spontaneous trips but also means it's wise to arrive early, especially on Friday evenings or during peak season, to secure a desirable spot. The group site, however, is reservable through Recreation.gov.
• Water Access: While there is "no direct water access from this campground" for activities like swimming right from your site, there are "some beaches just a few minutes south" on Lake Cle Elum, such as Speelyi Beach, which offers a wide sandy beach for wading, swimming, and splashing.
• Garbage Disposal: Some sources indicate that garbage disposal may be available, with bear-resistant trash cans and food storage lockers at some sites, which is a convenient and important service for keeping the area clean and protecting wildlife. However, given the varying nature of Forest Service campgrounds, it's always best to be prepared to pack out all trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

Cle Elum River Campground's appeal is rooted in its natural beauty and the diverse recreational opportunities available nearby:

• Scenic Views: The campground boasts amazing views, particularly from the water-side lots where the Cle Elum River meets Lake Cle Elum. The backdrop of mixed-conifer forest and high mountains creates a truly picturesque setting.
• Proximity to Lake Cle Elum: Being located at the head of Lake Cle Elum, visitors have easy access to this large reservoir. Lake Cle Elum is popular for a variety of water sports, including boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, water skiing, and swimming. Several nearby beaches, such as Speelyi Beach, offer excellent spots for lake activities. Anglers will find the waters teeming with fish, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon.
• Access to Hiking and Off-Roading Trails: The campground serves as a good base for accessing numerous trails. It's ideally situated for getting an early start on hiking trails located further up the road. The spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is also accessible near the campground, offering world-class hiking. For those interested in motorized recreation, the Cle Elum area is well-known for its ATV and off-roading trails.
• Tranquil River Setting: The campground's location directly on the Cle Elum River provides a calming ambiance with the soothing sounds of the flowing water.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests support an abundance of wildlife, including deer, porcupine, native fish, and various migratory birds, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• First-Come, First-Served Availability: For those who prefer spontaneous trips or find fully reservable campgrounds too restrictive, the abundance of first-come, first-served sites is a significant highlight, especially for weekday visits.

For general inquiries and to obtain the most current information regarding Cle Elum River Campground, including road conditions, fire restrictions, and potential site availability (for the group site), you can use the following contact details:

Address:Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA (located in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest)(A more specific, though still general, address for the area might be Salmon La Sac Road, Ronald, WA 98940, as it's often grouped with campgrounds in that vicinity.)

Phone:(509) 852-1100 (This is the phone number for the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which manages the campground.)Mobile Phone: +1 509-852-1100

Website:For information on the reservable group site and for general Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest details, it is highly recommended to visit Recreation.gov (www.recreation.gov) or the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (www.fs.usda.gov/okanogan-wenatchee). These resources often provide alerts, current conditions, and details on passes required.

Cle Elum River Campground is an outstanding choice for Washington locals, offering a quintessential Central Cascades camping experience that balances accessibility with rustic charm. Its prime location where the Cle Elum River meets Lake Cle Elum provides a versatile setting for a wide array of outdoor pursuits, making it suitable for various interests.

For residents across Washington, particularly those in the Puget Sound region, the drive to Cle Elum is manageable for a weekend getaway, allowing for a swift transition from urban life to forested tranquility. The campground’s first-come, first-served policy for single sites is a significant advantage for spontaneous adventurers, offering flexibility that many busy Washingtonians appreciate. Even if you arrive on a busy Saturday evening, there's a chance to secure a spot, with options to relocate to more desirable sites as they clear out.

The undeniable appeal for locals lies in the stunning natural environment and the abundance of activities. Whether it’s enjoying the "amazing views" from a water-side site, spending a day on Lake Cle Elum for boating or swimming, or heading out early to tackle the extensive network of hiking and off-roading trails, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. While the lack of consistent cell data encourages a welcome digital detox, it also necessitates a bit of pre-trip planning, a characteristic often embraced by seasoned Pacific Northwest campers. Cle Elum River Campground provides an authentic and beautiful escape, allowing Washingtonians to connect with the majestic landscapes of their home state, make lasting memories, and recharge in nature’s embrace.

Cle Elum River Campground

Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA