Ida Creek Campground

For Washington locals seeking a tranquil and picturesque camping experience nestled within the stunning Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Ida Creek Campground offers a compelling retreat. This charming campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere, even during busier times, and provides a direct connection to the natural beauty of the Icicle Creek area. Whether you're looking to unwind beneath towering trees, try your hand at fly fishing, or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek, Ida Creek Campground presents a perfect opportunity to disconnect and rejuvenate in the heart of Washington State.

Ida Creek Campground stands out for its serene setting and essential amenities, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a more rustic yet comfortable camping adventure. Despite the road being "a little rough," it's readily accessible, and the reward is a quiet escape with beautiful surroundings. Reviews consistently highlight its peacefulness and natural features, such as "large trees for cover and attaching a hammock or tarp shelter." This article will provide Washington residents with a detailed, factual overview of Ida Creek Campground, covering its prime location, available services, key features, and why it's a particularly suitable choice for locals looking to experience the tranquil side of Washington's outdoor offerings.

Ida Creek Campground is situated at NF-7600, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA. More specifically, it is located at the scenic confluence of Ida Creek and Icicle Creek, approximately 13 miles from the charming Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth. This places it deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, an area renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear waterways.

Accessing Ida Creek Campground from Leavenworth involves a drive along Icicle Creek Road, also known as Forest Service Road 7600. From Leavenworth, visitors will take US-2 West briefly, then turn left onto Icicle Road. This road, which eventually transitions from paved to gravel, leads directly to the campground. While reviewers note that "The road to get there is a little rough," they also reassure that "any 2wd vehicle can do it," indicating general accessibility. However, caution is advised, especially during certain seasons or after adverse weather, when road conditions might vary.

The drive itself is part of the experience, offering increasingly stunning views as you venture deeper into the forest. The campground's position "a little bit off the main road and along Icicle Creek" ensures a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature. Its proximity to Leavenworth (about a 15-20 minute drive) offers a perfect balance, allowing campers to enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while having the option for day trips to town for supplies, dining, or exploring the unique shops and cultural events. This blend of wild beauty and convenient access makes Ida Creek Campground a prime spot for Washington locals.

• Campsites: Ida Creek Campground offers a total of 10 single sites. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted, requiring visitors to physically arrive to claim a spot. The sites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet maximum length, as well as tents.

• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, providing essential comforts for outdoor cooking and gathering. The campground is praised for its "large trees for cover and attaching a hammock or tarp shelter," indicating ample shade and natural comfort.

• Restrooms: There are "2 pit toilets" available at the campground, providing basic and maintained restroom facilities for campers.

• Potable Water: A "water source" (potable water) is available at the campground, which is a significant convenience for campers. This eliminates the need to pack in all drinking and cooking water.

• No Electric/Sewer Hookups: It's important to note that electric hookups and sewage hookups are not available at Ida Creek Campground, emphasizing its rustic nature.

• Wheelchair Accessible: The campground is noted as being "wheelchair accessible," which can be a valuable feature for some visitors, ensuring a more inclusive outdoor experience.

• No Campfires Allowed (Current Alert): As of the latest information (July 2, 2025), all USFS Campgrounds in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including Ida Creek, are under a "STAGE TWO FIRE BAN." This prohibits "camp fires or open flame cooking with wood, charcoal, or wood pellet." The exception is that propane gas can be used as long as it has an on/off switch. Visitors must always check for current fire restrictions.

• Fees: The fee for a single site is $22 per night. An extra vehicle fee is $9 per night. A 50% discount is available for single site camping with Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access passes.

• Camp Host: While not explicitly stated in all data, other campgrounds in the area often have camp hosts, which could be the case here, contributing to cleanliness and assistance.

• Exceptional Quiet and Serenity: A consistently praised feature of Ida Creek Campground is its "Very quiet sites." Its location slightly off the main road contributes to a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape from noise and crowds. Sites like 1, 2, and 3 are specifically highlighted as "amazing" for their quietude.

• Riverside Setting and Views: The campground is beautifully situated "along Icicle Creek" and offers a "front-row view of the junction of Ida and Icicle Creeks." This provides a soothing natural soundtrack and scenic vistas of the flowing water and surrounding forested terrain and mountain views.

• Large Trees and Shade: The presence of "large trees for cover and attaching a hammock or tarp shelter" is a significant highlight, providing ample shade during warm summer days and enhancing the overall natural ambiance of the campsites.

• Fishing Opportunities: Icicle Creek is noted as a "great place to fly fish, as the small trout in the creek are feisty." While one reviewer found the "current was too fast, at early summer," the potential for rewarding fishing experiences is a key draw. It's important to "advise checking the regulations before fishing."

• Accessibility for Standard Vehicles: Despite the road being "a little rough," the fact that "any 2wd vehicle can do it" makes this secluded spot more accessible to a wider range of Washington locals, balancing wilderness immersion with reasonable ease of access.

• Proximity to Leavenworth: Its relatively short distance from the popular town of Leavenworth is a major advantage. This allows campers to enjoy a rustic outdoor experience while still having the convenience of visiting town for supplies, dining, or exploring its unique attractions.

• First-Come, First-Served Advantage: For spontaneous campers, the first-come, first-served policy for single sites can be a highlight, offering the possibility of a last-minute getaway (though it also means arriving early for desired spots).

• Wheelchair Accessible Features: The campground being "wheelchair accessible" is a positive feature, indicating efforts to make the natural environment more inclusive.

Address: NF-7600, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA

Phone: (509) 548-2550

Mobile Phone: +1 509-548-2550

For inquiries regarding Ida Creek Campground, the primary contact numbers (509) 548-2550 and +1 509-548-2550 connect directly to the Wenatchee River Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. As Ida Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, these numbers are not for making reservations. However, they are invaluable resources for Washington locals planning a visit. It is highly recommended to call ahead for the most current information regarding campground status, any active alerts such as fire bans (a Stage Two Fire Ban was in effect as of July 2, 2025, prohibiting wood fires), road conditions on Icicle Creek Road (NF-7600), and specific fishing regulations for Icicle Creek. This proactive check ensures a safe, well-informed, and enjoyable camping experience in this beautiful part of Washington State.

Ida Creek Campground presents an exceptionally suitable option for Washington locals seeking a tranquil, nature-focused camping experience without venturing too far into the deep wilderness. Its primary appeal lies in its serene and "very quiet sites," offering a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For those who prioritize peace and the soothing sounds of nature, Ida Creek delivers on its promise of a relaxing escape.

The campground's picturesque location at the confluence of Ida and Icicle Creeks, coupled with "large trees for cover and attaching a hammock or tarp shelter," provides an idyllic setting for unwinding. It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect, read a book, enjoy a quiet meal by your fire ring (when permitted), or simply listen to the "loquacious water" flow by. The presence of basic but essential amenities like pit toilets and potable water makes it a comfortable rustic choice, especially for those new to more primitive camping.

Furthermore, its accessibility – with a road that "any 2wd vehicle can do" – combined with its relatively close proximity to the popular town of Leavenworth, offers the best of both worlds. Locals can easily access supplies or enjoy a "day trip" to town, while still returning to the quiet embrace of their campsite. The opportunities for "fly fish" and simply enjoying the beautiful natural environment make it an active yet peaceful destination. For Washington residents looking for a tranquil and scenic camping spot that fosters relaxation and a deep connection with the natural beauty of their state, Ida Creek Campground stands out as an excellent and highly recommended choice.

Ida Creek Campground

NF-7600, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA