Clear Lake South Campground

For many Washingtonians, the call of the wild means leaving behind the hustle and bustle, and truly immersing ourselves in nature. While our state offers a vast array of camping experiences, from luxurious RV resorts to remote backcountry sites, there’s a special charm to those that strike a balance – offering essential amenities within a beautifully rustic setting. Clear Lake South Campground, located near Naches in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, is one such place. It’s a quiet, scenic retreat that promises a genuine outdoor adventure, perfect for local families and individuals seeking a peaceful escape to the Central Cascades.

Washington is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from the Puget Sound to the towering peaks of the Cascades. Clear Lake South Campground offers a unique opportunity to explore the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, an area known for its sunny weather and access to both serene lakes and rugged trails. This campground isn't about flashy amenities or constant connectivity; it's about connecting with nature, enjoying the simplicity of a campfire (when permitted), and making memories by the lake. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Clear Lake South Campground, covering its inviting location and accessibility, the services it offers, its standout features, and why it's a suitable and appealing choice for Washington locals looking for an authentic camping experience.

Clear Lake South Campground is located in Naches, WA 98937, USA, specifically nestled in the scenic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. It sits picturesquely between the larger Rimrock Lake and the quieter Clear Lake, offering a prime spot in the Tieton River Valley. For Washington locals, particularly those from the Yakima Valley, Tri-Cities, or even the Seattle-Tacoma area (a roughly 2.5 to 3-hour drive), Naches serves as a convenient gateway to this beautiful region.

Accessing Clear Lake South Campground is relatively straightforward. From Naches, you'll take US Route 12 west. Turn left onto Tieton Road (Forest Service Road 1200), following signs for Clear Lake. The campground is situated on a gravel roadway approximately 4.2 miles down Tieton Road. While the roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained gravel, some sections can be "rough" as noted by a reviewer, and might benefit from a medium-clearance vehicle, though a Subaru with off-road tires successfully navigated it. RVs up to 22 feet in length are generally accommodated. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the stunning forest and aquatic environments that characterize this part of the Central Cascades.

Clear Lake South Campground, managed by the Forest Service, offers a rustic yet comfortable camping experience, providing essential amenities for a traditional outdoor stay.

• Designated Campsites: The campground features 29 single campsites and 2 double sites, suitable for both tent camping and RVs/trailers up to 22 feet. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Restroom Facilities: There are three vault toilets available to share between all sites, which are generally well-maintained for this type of rustic campground.
• Potable Water: A single water spigot is available to share among all sites for potable drinking water. Campers should bring containers for water collection and be mindful of water conservation.
• No Hookups: Importantly, individual sites do not have electricity, water, or sewer hookups, making it ideal for those seeking a more traditional, off-grid camping experience or for self-contained RVs.
• No Dump Station: There are no dump stations within the campground.
• First-Come, First-Served: Clear Lake South Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning sites cannot be reserved in advance. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak summer weekends, to secure a spot.
• Fee Structure: The pricing is set at $10 per camping spot per night, with an additional $10 per extra car per night (maximum of two vehicles per site). This pricing should be factored into your budget, as noted by previous campers.
• No Garbage Service: Campers are expected to "pack it in, pack it out," meaning all trash and waste must be carried out of the campground, upholding Leave No Trace principles.

Clear Lake South Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that draw Washington locals to its shores:

• Beautiful Lakeside Location: The campground is beautifully situated between Clear Lake and the larger Rimrock Lake, offering scenic views and easy access to both bodies of water.
• Water Activities: Clear Lake itself is suitable for non-motorized boating, such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, providing a peaceful environment for water enthusiasts. A nearby boat launch (at Clear Lake North Campground) accommodates both motorized and non-motorized boats.
• Hiking Opportunities: A "nice hike by the bridge up to Clear Lake" is mentioned by reviewers, indicating accessible trails for day hikes and exploration. The surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest provides extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring.
• Rustic Charm and Solitude: Visitors consistently describe it as a "rustic camping" experience and a "beautiful spot," often finding they have the lake almost to themselves, especially when compared to more crowded campgrounds. This provides a true sense of escape and tranquility.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution in this forested area, the night skies offer excellent opportunities for stargazing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides chances to observe local wildlife in their habitat.
• Proximity to Larger Attractions: While offering a serene escape, the campground is still within reasonable driving distance to larger attractions in the region, including parts of the Pacific Crest Trail and other areas within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

For inquiries about Clear Lake South Campground, including current conditions, fire restrictions, or specific road status, you should directly contact the managing authority: the Naches Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Address: Naches, WA 98937, USA (General area)

Phone: (509) 653-1403 (This is the phone number for the Naches Ranger District office).

Mobile Phone: +1 509-653-1403 (Same as above)

It is highly advisable to call the Naches Ranger District before your trip, particularly to confirm current road conditions on Tieton Road (FS Road 1200), fire danger ratings, any active burn bans (which frequently impact the use of fire rings), and general operating status. As a first-come, first-served campground, you cannot reserve a spot via phone, but the ranger district can provide invaluable real-time information to help you plan your visit safely and effectively. Additionally, checking the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website (www.fs.usda.gov/okawen) for recreation alerts and specific campground details is always a good practice.

Clear Lake South Campground is an ideal destination for Washington locals who cherish a truly authentic and rustic camping experience. For those of us who appreciate getting away from overly developed sites, the simplicity and natural beauty of Clear Lake South are incredibly appealing. It offers a chance to unplug completely, with no cell service or internet, fostering a deeper connection with nature and companions.

Its unique location between two beautiful lakes provides ample opportunities for non-motorized water activities and access to peaceful hiking trails. While the fishing might sometimes be slow, the quiet solitude and stunning scenery more than compensate. The straightforward fee structure, though involving a per-car charge, supports the maintenance of these beautiful, unreserved sites. For Washingtonians seeking a genuine escape into the Central Cascades, where the focus is on natural beauty, tranquility, and the joy of simple outdoor living, Clear Lake South Campground is a secret worth knowing and a place you'll want to return to again and again. It’s a testament to the wild, untouched beauty that makes our state so extraordinary.

Clear Lake South Campground

Naches, WA 98937, USA