Holden Ballpark Campground

For those in Washington state seeking a true wilderness escape, Holden Ballpark Campground offers a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience. Nestled within the breathtaking Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground serves as an ideal basecamp for adventurers eager to explore the magnificent Glacier Peak Wilderness Area. It’s a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the starry night sky is your only ceiling.

Holden Ballpark Campground is not your typical drive-in camping spot. Its remote location ensures a tranquil environment, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. This unique characteristic is precisely what makes it so appealing to those who cherish genuine outdoor immersion. Whether you're planning an extended backpacking trip or simply a few nights under the stars, this campground provides a fantastic launching point or a welcoming conclusion to your wilderness journey.

Holden Ballpark Campground is situated at NF-8301, Chelan, WA 98816, USA, approximately one mile outside of Holden Village. What makes this campground truly distinct is its accessibility – or rather, its intentional lack thereof for personal vehicles. There are no roads that directly connect the City of Chelan to Holden Village or the campground, making the journey an adventure in itself.

To reach Holden Ballpark Campground, visitors typically begin their journey from Chelan by taking a scenic boat ride on the "Lady of the Lake" ferry across Lake Chelan to Lucerne Landing. This ferry service provides a picturesque introduction to the region's stunning landscapes. From Lucerne, a shuttle bus operated by Holden Village transports visitors about 11 miles on Forest Service Road #8301 to Holden Village. The campground is then a short, approximately one-mile walk west of Holden Village, near the Glacier Peak Wilderness Boundary. This multi-modal approach to reaching the campground truly enhances the sense of stepping away from the everyday and into the heart of the wilderness.

Holden Ballpark Campground provides essential amenities designed to facilitate a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience. While it emphasizes self-sufficiency and a connection with nature, some key services are available to support your stay:

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining outdoors.
• Bear Box: To ensure the safety of both campers and local wildlife, a bear box is provided for secure food storage, protecting your provisions from curious bears.
• Toilet Facilities: A Wallowa Toilet (outhouse) is available on-site for basic restroom needs.
• Water Access: While there is no potable water source directly at the campground, Railroad Creek is nearby, providing access to a natural water source for filtering.
• Designated Campsites: The campground offers a limited number of sites, typically two to four, promoting a more intimate and less crowded camping environment.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required or accepted. This adds to the spontaneous, adventurous spirit of the location.

Holden Ballpark Campground stands out for several reasons, making it a favorite among experienced campers and those looking for a genuine wilderness experience:

• Gateway to Glacier Peak Wilderness: Its proximity to the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area makes it an unparalleled starting or ending point for numerous hiking and backpacking trails. This is a prime location for serious trekkers.
• Secluded and Remote: The lack of direct vehicle access ensures a quiet and serene environment, far from road noise and urban distractions. This seclusion is a major draw for those seeking true peace and quiet.
• Creekside Location: Being close to Railroad Creek provides a soothing natural soundtrack and convenient access to water for filtering and other needs. Some reviews mention the pleasant sound of the creek.
• Bear-Aware Facilities: The presence of a bear box highlights the campground’s commitment to safety and responsible outdoor practices in an active wildlife area.
• Rustic Charm: While some might find it "a bit overgrown" as one customer review noted, this contributes to its natural, untamed charm, appealing to campers who prefer a less manicured setting.
• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by mountainous terrain, the campground offers stunning views and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural splendor of the North Cascades.
• No Camping Fees: Camping at Holden Ballpark Campground itself is free, though transportation costs to reach Holden Village and then the campground apply.

For general inquiries related to the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which oversees Holden Ballpark Campground, you can contact the Chelan Ranger District. For specific inquiries about transportation to Holden Village and services there, contacting Holden Village directly is recommended.

Address: NF-8301, Chelan, WA 98816, USA (Note: This is the general location, not a direct mail address for the campground itself).

Phone: (509) 682-4900 (Chelan Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-682-4900 (Chelan Ranger District)

For Washington residents, Holden Ballpark Campground represents an extraordinary opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the raw beauty of the state’s wilderness. Its unique, challenging accessibility is precisely what preserves its remote charm, making the journey part of the adventure. This isn't a campground for those seeking RV hookups or elaborate facilities; it's for the seasoned hiker, the avid backpacker, and anyone who dreams of sleeping under a canopy of stars with the gentle murmur of a creek nearby.

As a local, you have the distinct advantage of being relatively close to this gem, allowing for multi-day trips that delve deep into the Glacier Peak Wilderness. The combination of stunning scenery, essential amenities like bear boxes and picnic tables, and its function as a true gateway to expansive trail systems, makes Holden Ballpark Campground an ideal choice. It offers an authentic, rugged Washington outdoor experience that will leave you refreshed, invigorated, and with a profound appreciation for the natural wonders right in your backyard. Embrace the adventure, and discover the serene solitude that awaits at Holden Ballpark Campground.

Holden Ballpark Campground

NF-8301, Chelan, WA 98816, USA