Icewater Creek Campground

Introduction / Overview

For those who seek adventure and a base camp for exploring the vast trail networks of Central Washington, Icewater Creek Campground is a hidden gem. Situated in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Cle Elum, this is a no-frills, authentic campground that caters to a specific kind of outdoor enthusiast. It is not a place for those looking for a quiet, secluded forest retreat, but rather a hub for motorized recreation. Visitors often describe it as a great base for "moto adventure," offering a small but well-located staging area for exploring an extensive system of dirt trails and gravel roads. The campground's atmosphere is communal and lively, especially on weekends, filled with the energy of fellow riders and adventurers. It is a place where functionality and location are prized over modern amenities, providing a genuine and action-packed camping experience.

Location and Accessibility

Icewater Creek Campground is located in the beautiful Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA. Access to the campground is via Forest Service Road 33, a road that some visitors note can have potholes and be a bit tight, especially for larger vehicles. It’s important to be prepared for this type of forest service road. The location itself is the campground's biggest asset, as it sits near the frigid waters of both Icewater Creek and Taneum Creek. This proximity not only provides a pleasant soundscape but also offers easy access to the North Fork Taneum Trail #1377 and a beginner-friendly motorcycle loop trail that originates right from the campground. For RV campers, it's worth noting that the turnaround can be tight, so vehicles over 25 feet might find it challenging to navigate. The central location for all these activities makes it a prime staging area for day trips into the surrounding wilderness.

Services Offered

• Tent and RV Sites: The campground offers sites that can accommodate both tent campers and RVs. It's a small campground, and spaces can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
• Public Toilets: Vault toilets are available on-site, providing a necessary convenience for campers in this primitive setting.
• Running Water: The campground has running water available, which is a significant amenity for a basic forest service site, saving campers from having to pack in all their water.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a perfect spot for meal prep and dining outdoors.
• Kid-Friendly: The campground and the surrounding area are great for kids. There are kid-friendly hikes, including a small dirt bike trail that is noted as being "pretty challenging," offering a good starting point for young riders.
• On-site Parking: Parking is available at each campsite, and the campground also serves as a trailhead parking area for those using the surrounding trails.
• No Hookups: It's important to be aware that this is a primitive campground with no hookups for RVs.

Features / Highlights

• Central Base Camp for Motorized Recreation: The most notable feature of Icewater Creek is its function as a base for dirt biking and ATV riding. It provides direct access to an extensive network of trails, making it a top choice for adventure seekers.
• Proximity to North Fork Taneum Trail #1377: This major trail is easily accessible from the campground, providing a gateway to more challenging and rewarding terrain.
• Kid-Friendly Trails: A unique highlight is the small, single-track dirt bike trail for kids that starts right from the campground. It’s an ideal way to introduce young ones to the sport in a relatively safe and contained environment.
• Creek-Side Ambiance: The campground is located next to Icewater Creek, which can be up to 10 degrees colder than the surrounding area. This offers a refreshing coolness and the soothing sound of the creek, which can also help drown out some of the ambient noise from the trails.
• Peaceful on Weekdays: While it can be busy and noisy on weekends, visitors who camp during the week often find they have the place to themselves, offering a more peaceful and secluded experience.
• Primitive Charm: The lack of a high-tech feel is a feature in itself. The campground provides a raw, natural experience where you can truly focus on the outdoors and the activities you came for.

Contact Information

Address: Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA
Phone: (509) 664-9200
Mobile Phone: +1 509-664-9200

What is worth choosing?

For Washington residents who are passionate about motorized recreation, Icewater Creek Campground is an ideal and highly practical choice. What makes it worth choosing is its unparalleled location as a central hub for dirt biking and hiking adventures. The convenience of being able to step out of your tent or RV and immediately hit the trails is a significant advantage that sets this campground apart. While it may not be the quietest or most luxurious option, it perfectly serves its purpose as a functional and well-located base camp. The presence of amenities like vault toilets and running water also adds a level of comfort that is often missing from similar primitive sites.The community atmosphere is another reason to choose Icewater Creek. You are surrounded by people who share your passion for the outdoors and off-road activities, creating a friendly and welcoming environment. The area is also fantastic for families, with a kid-friendly trail that provides a safe way for children to get a taste of the adventure. The surrounding scenery, including the cool creek and forested trails, provides a beautiful backdrop for your stay. For those who prioritize a location that facilitates their specific outdoor hobby and don’t mind a few bumps in the road to get there, Icewater Creek Campground is an excellent choice. It’s a place to get out, ride, explore, and truly experience the rugged beauty of Washington’s backcountry.

Icewater Creek Campground

Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA