Indian Camp Campground

For Washington locals seeking a rugged and authentic outdoor adventure, Indian Camp Campground in Cle Elum offers a distinctive wilderness experience. Nestled along the Middle Fork of the Teanaway River, this campground stands out for its unique blend of activities, catering specifically to both equestrian and ATV enthusiasts while still providing a serene environment for general campers. If you're looking to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Teanaway Community Forest, Indian Camp Campground is a destination that promises memorable moments.

Indian Camp Campground is a highly regarded "go to place" for many who frequent the area, particularly those who enjoy exploring the vast network of trails. What makes this campground particularly unique is its thoughtful segregation of activities: "Horse camping on one side. Atv on the others. Seems to work." This setup helps minimize potential conflicts between different user groups, allowing everyone to enjoy their chosen recreation without undue disturbance. This functional design contributes to the positive experiences reported by visitors, who often praise the atmosphere.

The natural setting of Indian Camp Campground is a major draw. The "river was beautiful," according to one delighted camper, highlighting the pristine waterways that are central to the Teanaway experience. The campground is surrounded by forested terrain, offering "lots of great riding" opportunities for both horses and ATVs, as well as picturesque trails for hiking and nature walks. Visitors consistently appreciate the "very fine dirt," which might refer to the quality of the unpaved roads and trails, making them ideal for equestrian and off-road activities.

It's important for prospective campers to understand the rustic nature of Indian Camp Campground. While restrooms (specifically pit toilets) are available, there is "no water" hookup, meaning campers must bring their own potable water. Similarly, "no horse corrals" are provided, so equestrian campers are advised to "bring your own or high line" for their horses. This emphasis on self-sufficiency is characteristic of a true wilderness camping experience, appealing to those who prefer a less developed and more authentic connection with nature.

Despite these self-reliant requirements, Indian Camp Campground is celebrated for its natural beauty and the abundance of recreational opportunities it provides. It's a place where you can disconnect from daily life and fully engage with the great outdoors, whether you're hitting the trails on horseback, exploring off-road, or simply enjoying the tranquil riverside setting. For Washington locals, it's a cherished spot that has been a favorite for years, offering a consistent and rewarding outdoor escape.

Indian Camp Campground is located at 4394 Middle, Teanaway Rd North Fork, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA. This places it deep within the scenic Teanaway Community Forest, an expansive and beloved recreational area in central Washington.

Access to the campground is primarily via the Teanaway Road network, which branches off from State Route 970 near Cle Elum. From I-90, visitors typically take exit 85 for Cle Elum and proceed east on SR-970 before turning onto Teanaway Road. The journey continues along various forks of the Teanaway Road, including Middle Teanaway Rd North Fork, leading into the heart of the forest. While the roads leading to the campground are generally gravel or dirt, they are typically navigable by standard vehicles, though conditions can vary with weather.

Cle Elum, the nearest town, serves as a gateway for campers to stock up on supplies, fuel, and last-minute necessities before heading into the less developed forest area. Drive times to Indian Camp Campground are generally manageable for Washington locals, being approximately 1 hour 58 minutes from Seattle, 1 hour 34 minutes from Yakima, and 1 hour 36 minutes from Wenatchee. This makes it an ideal destination for weekend trips or longer stays for those residing in Western and Central Washington.

The campground itself is situated along the Middle Fork of the Teanaway River, providing direct access to the beautiful waterway and surrounding trails. Its distinct separation for horse camping on one side and ATV/non-horse camping on the other helps manage traffic and activity, contributing to a more harmonious environment for all users. The unpaved nature of the access roads and the campground interior contribute to its rustic, wilderness feel, ensuring that visitors are fully immersed in the natural setting.

Indian Camp Campground, as a more rustic and wilderness-oriented site, offers essential services designed for a self-sufficient camping experience:

• Campsites: The campground features 11 regular campsites and two group campsites. These sites typically include a fire ring and a picnic table.
• Designated Horse and ATV Areas: The campground is uniquely divided to accommodate different recreational uses, with specific areas for horse camping and separate zones for ATV users and general campers.
• Restrooms: Pit toilets (vault toilets) are provided for visitor use. Reviewers have noted the presence of "restrooms," implying these basic facilities are available.
• No Potable Water: It is explicitly stated by reviewers that there is "no water" available at the campground. Campers must bring their own drinking water.
• No Horse Corrals: Equestrian campers need to "bring your own or high line" for their horses, as permanent corrals are not provided.
• No Garbage Collection: Visitors are required to practice "pack out all trash" principles, as garbage is not collected at the campground.
• Fire Rings: Campfires are permitted in approved fire rings at each site, subject to current burn bans.
• Phone Service: Some visitors have reported having cell phone service (e.g., Sprint), which can be a valuable, albeit unexpected, amenity in a wilderness setting.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations.
• Discover Pass Required: A valid Discover Pass is required for camping at Indian Camp Campground.

• Dual-Purpose Campground: A standout feature is its ability to cater to both equestrian camping and ATV/off-road vehicle use, with separate designated areas to minimize conflict and enhance the experience for all.
• Access to Extensive Trail Systems: The campground provides direct access to a vast network of trails within the Teanaway Community Forest, offering "lots of great riding" for horses, ATVs, mountain biking, and hiking.
• Riverside Location: Situated along the beautiful Middle Fork of the Teanaway River, offering opportunities for river access, relaxation by the water, and possibly fishing (check regulations). The "river was beautiful," as one review notes.
• Rustic Wilderness Experience: Ideal for those seeking a less developed, more natural camping environment. It provides a true sense of being in the wilderness without being entirely off-grid (some phone service reported).
• Affordable Camping: Access to campsites often requires only a Discover Pass, making it a very economical choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Spacious Sites: Campers have mentioned "Big areas for RVs, horse trailers and group sites," indicating ample space at individual sites.
• Secluded Atmosphere: With 11 regular and two group sites, it's a smaller campground that helps maintain a more private and secluded feel.
• Beautiful Scenery: Surrounded by forested terrain and mountain views, offering picturesque landscapes throughout the year. Wildflowers can be abundant depending on the season.
• Popular Local Spot: For years, it has been a "favorite place" and a "go to place" for locals, signifying its consistent appeal and reliability as an outdoor destination.

Address: 4394 Middle, Teanaway Rd North Fork, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA

Indian Camp Campground is managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of the Teanaway Community Forest. There isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself, as it's a primitive, first-come, first-served site.

For general inquiries about the Teanaway Community Forest, trail conditions, or DNR regulations, it's best to consult the official Washington State Department of Natural Resources website or their regional offices.

Relevant information can often be found by searching for "Teanaway Community Forest DNR" or "Washington DNR Recreation."

For Washington locals who are truly passionate about outdoor recreation and seek an immersive wilderness experience, Indian Camp Campground in Cle Elum stands out as an exceptional choice. Its appeal to residents lies in its unique blend of activity-specific zoning, rugged beauty, and an authentic connection to the vast Teanaway Community Forest, all within a reasonable drive from various parts of the state.

Many Washingtonians own ATVs, horses, or simply love to hike and explore challenging terrains. Indian Camp Campground’s thoughtful division of space for horse camping on one side and ATV/general camping on the other provides a harmonious environment that caters to these diverse interests without conflict. This makes it an ideal "go to place" for locals who want to fully engage in their chosen outdoor pursuits, whether it's "lots of great riding" on horseback or tackling trails on an ATV, knowing they have a designated and respectful space.

The campground's rustic nature, including the absence of potable water and the "pack out all trash" policy, aligns perfectly with the ethos of many environmentally conscious Washingtonians who embrace self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles. It offers a genuine escape from developed areas, allowing for a deeper connection with the "beautiful" Teanaway River and the surrounding forests. The availability of pit toilets and the potential for cell service add just enough convenience to make the rugged experience manageable.

Ultimately, Indian Camp Campground is suitable for locals because it provides an accessible yet wild setting for outdoor enthusiasts to pursue their passions. It has been a "favorite place for years" for a reason – it delivers a consistent, unpretentious, and richly rewarding wilderness camping experience in the heart of Washington's scenic backcountry.

Indian Camp Campground

4394 Middle, Teanaway Rd North Fork, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA