Cle Elum River Group Site

For those of us in Washington who truly embrace the rugged beauty of the wilderness, and perhaps prefer a more authentic, less-serviced camping experience, the Cle Elum River Group Site holds a special place. Nestled within the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Ronald, WA, this campground isn't about luxury amenities. Instead, it offers something more profound: a direct connection to nature, year-round recreational opportunities, and a sense of enduring tradition for many local campers. It's a place that, despite its lack of conventional services, continues to draw dedicated enthusiasts back for decades.

The Cle Elum River Group Site is a beloved destination for a reason. As one long-time visitor enthusiastically states, "Great place for camping, any season. ... Been going camping here for past 20+ years. Lot have changed but still favorite spot to come back." This testament to its enduring appeal speaks volumes about the unique atmosphere and experiences it provides. It’s a large, reservable group site, making it ideal for big family gatherings, scouting trips, or group adventures, accommodating a substantial number of people.

What sets this campground apart, and what local users appreciate, is its dedication to a more primitive camping style, often referred to as "boondocking camping" in reviews. This means "no services" like traditional hookups, requiring campers to be self-sufficient and prepared for a true wilderness experience. This rustic nature is part of its charm, inviting campers to disconnect from modern conveniences and fully immerse themselves in the surrounding forest and mountains. While it "can be crowded Fri- Saturday," especially when "fire allowed through end of June," savvy locals know that the "Best to come during week days" to enjoy a more serene environment.

The natural setting is a constant highlight. Situated in a "mixed-conifer forest" at an elevation of 2,300 feet and surrounded by "high mountains," the scenery is stunning. The adjacent Cle Elum River, and nearby Lake Cle Elum, are "teeming with fish," offering prime opportunities for anglers. Beyond fishing, the area is a "great spot for hiking, fishing, swimming, birding." Even in winter, when the campground officially closes, the area transforms into a paradise for "excellent skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling." One reviewer even fondly recalled "Snowshoeing is great on sunny days with cold temperatures, even did fire in snow," demonstrating the hardy spirit required and rewarded by winter visits to this wild place.

While the campground offers a more rugged experience, with mentions of people sometimes leaving "lot of garbage behind," this serves as a reminder of the "Leave No Trace" principles that are crucial for preserving such natural treasures. Responsible local campers understand the importance of packing out what they pack in, ensuring the long-term enjoyment of this cherished spot. For those willing to embrace a more self-reliant approach, the rewards are immense: unparalleled access to diverse recreation, breathtaking natural beauty, and a deep sense of connection to Washington's wild heart.

In this comprehensive overview, we'll delve deeper into the specifics of Cle Elum River Group Site, including its location and how to access this more remote gem, the essential (and limited) services it provides, its unique features and highlights, and ultimately, why it remains a cherished destination for Washington locals seeking an authentic wilderness adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Cle Elum River Group Site is located at 23931 Salmon La Sac Rd, Ronald, WA 98940, USA. This places it deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, near the head of Lake Cle Elum and just off its namesake river, the Cle Elum River. The location is set in a "mixed-conifer forest" at an elevation of 2,300 feet, surrounded by "high mountains," offering stunning scenic views characteristic of the Central Cascades.

Access to the campground involves navigating via I-90 to exit 80, then heading north through the charming, historic towns of Roslyn and Ronald before continuing onto Salmon La Sac Road. This road leads directly into the national forest and to the campground. While the drive is generally straightforward, being aware that you are heading into a more remote area is key. As one review about dispersed camping in the area suggests, some side roads might be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance might be beneficial, especially during wetter seasons, though the main access road to the group site is typically well-maintained.

Due to its mountain setting, accessibility can be seasonal. The campground is generally open from the end of May to mid-September, with winter closures due to snow. However, the surrounding "French Cabin Creek Sno-Park" accommodates winter enthusiasts, making the area accessible for "skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling" even when the campground itself is closed. This provides year-round recreational potential in the vicinity, which is highly valued by Washington locals who embrace all four seasons.

The remoteness contributes to its appeal for those seeking an escape from crowded areas, especially on weekdays. While "no services" means campers need to be self-sufficient, the trade-off is direct access to an abundance of natural recreation. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the world's premier National Scenic Trails, is accessible near the campground, offering unparalleled hiking opportunities. Additionally, Speelyi Beach on Cle Elum Lake is a short drive away, providing a sandy beach for swimming and kayaking. This combination of deep forest immersion, river access, and proximity to major trailheads makes Cle Elum River Group Site a truly authentic wilderness basecamp for experienced local adventurers.

Services Offered

Cle Elum River Group Site is characterized by its rustic nature, offering limited but essential facilities typical of a National Forest campground, particularly for a group site. It's important for campers to be prepared for a self-sufficient experience.

• Group Site: This is a large, reservable group site suitable for "large family and group camping excursions," with a capacity of up to 100 people at times. Reservations are typically required and should be made in advance, especially for peak season.
• Campsites: The group site is equipped with several picnic tables and campfire rings with grills, allowing for group meals and campfires (when conditions permit).
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground.
• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are provided for sanitation. Reviews mention "clean facilities" in other nearby Cle Elum River campgrounds, implying similar standards.
• No Electric Hookups: As a "boondocking camping" site with "no services" in terms of hookups, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs. Campers should be prepared for off-grid living.
• No Showers: Showers are not typically available at this type of rustic forest campground.
• Garbage Disposal: Some sources mention garbage disposal or dumpsters, though one review noted issues with people leaving "lot of garbage behind," emphasizing the importance of packing out trash.
• Direct River Access: Located just off the Cle Elum River, providing easy access for fishing, birding, and general enjoyment of the riverside environment.
• Proximity to Trails: Serves as a launching point for numerous hiking, biking, and horse riding trails within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail.
• Seasonal Accessibility: The campground is typically open seasonally, from late spring to early fall, due to snow conditions.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Offers a true "boondocking camping" feel with "no services," appealing to those who prefer a rustic and self-sufficient outdoor adventure.
• Ideal for Groups: Designed as a "large reservable group site," making it perfect for family reunions, large gatherings, or organized group trips.
• Stunning Natural Setting: Located in a "mixed-conifer forest" at 2,300 feet, surrounded by "high mountains" and offering "stunning scenic views" of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
• Prime Fishing Opportunities: The adjacent Cle Elum River and nearby Lake Cle Elum are "teeming with fish," including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon, making it excellent for anglers.
• Extensive Trail Access: Serves as a basecamp for "hiking, fishing, swimming, birding" in summer, with access to numerous trails including the iconic Pacific Crest Trail.
• Winter Sports Hub (Nearby): While the campground closes in winter, the surrounding area, particularly the adjacent French Cabin Creek Sno-Park, provides "excellent skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling" opportunities.
• Peaceful Atmosphere (Weekdays): Can be very quiet and serene, especially during weekdays, offering a true escape from noise and crowds.
• Long-Standing Favorite: A cherished spot for many local campers, with some returning for "20+ years," indicating its consistent appeal and special character.
• Campfire Friendly (Seasonally): Campfires are allowed in designated rings when fire restrictions are not in place, perfect for traditional camping evenings.

Contact Information

Address: 23931 Salmon La Sac Rd, Ronald, WA 98940, USA

Phone: (509) 649-3744 (Cle Elum Ranger District office for Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-649-3744

For reservations: The site is often reservable via Recreation.gov (or similar National Recreation Reservation System). It's advisable to check online or call the Ranger District for booking details.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Cle Elum River Group Site is an exceptionally suitable destination for Washington locals, particularly those who seek an authentic, rustic, and group-oriented wilderness experience. For many of us, the true charm of camping lies in disconnecting from the everyday and fully immersing ourselves in nature, and this campground offers just that, making it a cherished local gem.

Its primary appeal to Washingtonians lies in its "boondocking camping" style and "no services" approach. This isn't a drawback for the seasoned local camper; it's a feature. It means a quieter, less commercialized environment, where self-reliance is key, and the focus is squarely on the natural surroundings. This provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a deeper connection with the wilderness that many Washington residents crave.

The fact that it's a "large reservable group site" is a significant advantage for families and friends looking to gather for an outdoor adventure. Unlike individual sites, the group site provides ample space and dedicated facilities for larger parties, fostering a communal camping experience that can create lasting memories. This makes it perfect for local families who want to share their love of the outdoors with a larger circle.

The "any season" appeal, as noted by a long-time visitor, underscores its versatility. While the campground itself closes in winter, the surrounding area, particularly the Sno-Parks, transforms into a playground for "snowshoeing" and "snowmobiling." This year-round recreational potential is highly valued by Washingtonians who embrace all the outdoor opportunities our diverse climate offers, ensuring that the Cle Elum River area remains a draw even when the snow falls.

Furthermore, the abundance of activities directly accessible from the campground—including "hiking," "fishing" in a river "teeming with fish," and opportunities for birding—means there's no shortage of ways to engage with the natural environment. The proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail is an added bonus for serious hikers. While acknowledging the occasional issue with "garbage behind" left by others, this also serves as a strong reminder for responsible locals to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, preserving this beautiful spot for future generations.

In essence, Cle Elum River Group Site offers Washington locals a true wilderness retreat, ideal for group adventures, quiet weekdays, and year-round outdoor pursuits. It's a place where the focus is on nature, self-sufficiency, and creating lasting memories in the heart of the beautiful Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Cle Elum River Group Site

23931 Salmon La Sac Rd, Ronald, WA 98940, USA