De Roux Campground

For Washington locals who truly embrace the spirit of primitive camping and desire direct access to extensive trail systems, De Roux Campground near Leavenworth offers a unique and appealing destination. Nestled within the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground serves as an excellent jumping-off point for both hikers and those exploring the wilderness on horseback. Unlike more developed campgrounds, De Roux provides a rugged, back-to-basics experience, appealing to individuals and groups who value self-sufficiency and immersion in nature over extensive amenities.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of De Roux Campground, tailored for Washington residents considering their next outdoor adventure. We will delve into its specific location, detailing how to access this relatively remote yet rewarding site. Furthermore, we will highlight the services and features that define the camping experience here, drawing directly from available public information and traveler insights. Understanding these aspects is crucial for planning a successful trip, particularly given the campground's primitive nature.

De Roux Campground is particularly notable for its popularity among equestrian campers, a significant demographic within Washington's outdoor community. The presence of hitching posts and ample space for horses underscores its role as a specialized recreational hub. However, its appeal extends beyond horse enthusiasts to any camper willing to forego luxurious facilities for immediate access to breathtaking trails and a quiet, natural setting. While not designed for utmost privacy, the communal atmosphere often fosters a sense of camaraderie among fellow outdoor adventurers.

Our goal is to equip you with all the necessary details, from what to expect in terms of facilities to the kind of recreational activities available right at your doorstep. For Washington locals who cherish authentic outdoor experiences and the rugged beauty of their state's wilderness, De Roux Campground represents a valuable, albeit primitive, resource. Prepare to discover why this campground is a cherished starting point for countless adventures into the heart of the Central Cascades.

De Roux Campground is located at NF-9737, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA, placing it deep within the scenic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. While its address links it to the popular Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, accessing De Roux Campground requires a journey into more remote, forested terrain. This positioning makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a true wilderness experience, away from the more crowded areas.

Accessibility to De Roux Campground involves navigating Forest Service Roads. From Leavenworth, you would typically follow directions towards the Teanaway River Road. The specific route involves taking State Route 970 near Cle Elum for about 7 miles, then turning left onto Teanaway River Road. Continue on Teanaway River Road for approximately 7 miles until it becomes North Fork Teanaway Road. When North Fork Teanaway Road ends, you'll continue onto gravel Forest Service Road 9737, which leads directly to De Roux Campground after about 8 miles.

It is crucial for visitors to be aware that Forest Service Road 9737 can be quite rough, and while generally accessible by most vehicles, a higher-clearance vehicle is often recommended, especially after periods of adverse weather. The road can be dusty during dry spells and may have potholes or uneven surfaces. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in this area, so downloading maps or having a physical map is highly advisable before heading out.

Despite the somewhat rugged access, the journey itself is part of the adventure, winding through beautiful forests and offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The remoteness contributes to the campground's primitive feel and its suitability as a trailhead for extensive backcountry exploration. For Washington locals, understanding these access nuances is key to planning a smooth and enjoyable trip to this unique wilderness gateway. The drive time from major cities like Seattle is approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes, and from Wenatchee, it's about 2 hours and 23 minutes, making it a viable weekend escape.

• Campsites: De Roux Campground offers several small, primitive campsites. While specific numbers can vary, reviews indicate that most spots are compact but typically include a picnic table.

• Toilets: A pit toilet (also known as a vault toilet) is available at the campground. Reviewers note that these facilities are generally well-maintained.

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

• Fire Rings: Fire rings are present at each site, allowing campers to build campfires for warmth and cooking, provided there are no active fire bans in place.

• Hitching Posts: A significant service for equestrian campers, hitching posts are available at the campground, making it suitable for those bringing horses.

• Stock Water: Water for horses can be obtained from the nearby creek, which is a crucial amenity for equestrian use.

• No Potable Water: It is important for all campers to note that potable (drinking) water is NOT available at De Roux Campground. Visitors must bring all their own water or have a reliable method for filtering/purifying water from natural sources.

• No Trash Service: This is a "pack it in, pack it out" campground. No dumpsters or trash disposal services are provided, requiring campers to carry out all their waste to minimize environmental impact.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites at De Roux Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. Availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

• Primitive Camping Experience: De Roux Campground offers a true primitive camping experience, with minimal development and a focus on self-sufficiency. This appeals to campers who prefer a rugged, back-to-basics approach to outdoor recreation.

• Equestrian-Friendly: A major highlight is its suitability for horse camping. With hitching posts and access to stock water from the creek, it's a popular choice for equestrians exploring the extensive trail networks in the area.

• Trailhead Access: The campground doubles as the De Roux Trailhead, providing immediate access to various hiking and horse-riding trails. This makes it an ideal basecamp for day hikes or longer backcountry excursions into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

• Jumping-Off Point for Wilderness Exploration: It serves as an excellent starting point for accessing the surrounding wilderness areas, including routes that may lead towards the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Its location is strategic for deeper exploration.

• Natural Setting: Surrounded by dense forested terrain and offering mountain views, the campground provides a serene and picturesque natural environment, perfect for escaping urban noise.

• Community Feel (Less Privacy): While sites are small and offer limited privacy, this often fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere among fellow campers, especially those sharing interests in hiking and equestrian activities.

• No Campfires Allowed at Trailhead: While campsites typically have fire rings, some information indicates no campfires may be allowed at the immediate trailhead areas, reinforcing the importance of checking current fire restrictions.

Address: NF-9737, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA

Phone: (509) 852-1100 (This number is associated with the Cle Elum Ranger District, which manages the area including De Roux Campground within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-852-1100 (Same as above, likely for general inquiries to the managing Forest Service district.)

For the most up-to-date information regarding De Roux Campground's operational status, road conditions (especially for NF-9737), current fire restrictions, and any changes to amenities, it is highly recommended to contact the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest directly. Their official website or a call to the provided number will be the best source for planning your trip to this primitive site.

De Roux Campground offers a compelling and highly suitable option for Washington locals who seek a genuine, unadulterated wilderness experience. Its primitive nature, while requiring more preparation from campers, is precisely what makes it appealing to those who cherish self-sufficiency and a deeper connection with nature. For Washingtonians looking to escape the conventional campground scene, De Roux provides a refreshing alternative, fostering a sense of adventure and resilience.

A significant draw for the local community is its exceptional access to an extensive network of hiking and horse trails. As a direct trailhead, De Roux serves as an immediate gateway to the vast and stunning landscapes of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This makes it an ideal basecamp for day excursions into the backcountry, multi-day backpacking trips, or scenic horseback rides through diverse terrain. For equestrians, the availability of hitching posts and stock water is a critical amenity that distinguishes De Roux from many other camping locations, making it a prime destination for Washington's thriving horse-riding community.

The "pack it in, pack it out" policy, along with the absence of potable water, reinforces a strong ethic of Leave No Trace, a principle deeply valued by environmentally conscious Washington residents. This commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area ensures that the campground remains pristine for future generations. While the sites may be small and lack extensive privacy, the communal atmosphere often leads to shared experiences and a friendly environment among fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Its location, though requiring navigation on Forest Service roads, places it within a reasonable driving distance for many across Washington, particularly from the Puget Sound region and Eastern Washington. This accessibility, combined with its truly wild character, makes De Roux Campground an invaluable resource for locals. It represents an opportunity to truly disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and engage directly with the rugged, beautiful landscapes that define the Evergreen State. For those seeking a raw, authentic, and trail-centric camping adventure, De Roux Campground is an exceptional choice.

De Roux Campground

NF-9737, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA