Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows

Nestled high in the captivating Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, near the summit of Blewett Pass, Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows offers a truly unique and serene camping experience. For Washington residents, particularly those with horses or a passion for extensive hiking and exploring rugged landscapes, this campground is a treasured destination. It’s a place where the pristine beauty of the Central Cascades meets the vastness of the eastern Washington wilderness, providing an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from daily life and immerse yourself in nature. This comprehensive guide will explore what makes Ken Wilcox Horse Camp a must-visit for local outdoor enthusiasts, detailing its remote yet accessible location, the essential services it provides, and the distinctive features that set it apart.

Ken Wilcox Horse Camp isn't your average campground. It's renowned for its focus on equestrian users, offering amenities specifically designed for horse camping, though it's equally appealing to hikers and those seeking a quiet, natural retreat. The camp has a storied past, with dedicated volunteers from the Back Country Horsemen of Washington (BCHW) playing a vital role in its restoration and ongoing maintenance after a significant fire in 2012. While areas of previous fires have left unique, almost "sci-fi" like landscapes of standing deadwood, the surrounding environment remains breathtakingly beautiful. Visitors consistently praise the tranquility and the sheer amount of terrain available for exploration. Imagine setting out on a trail directly from your campsite, winding through diverse forests, vast meadows, and perhaps catching glimpses of distant peaks like Mount Rainier. This camp offers a genuine wilderness experience, albeit one that requires a bit more preparation due to its high elevation and remote nature. It's the perfect spot for those seeking solitude, challenging trails, and an authentic connection with Washington's magnificent natural heritage.

Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows is located at NF-9712, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA. Situated near the summit of Blewett Pass, approximately 8 miles east off Highway 97, this high-elevation campground (around 5,500 feet) provides a truly immersive backcountry experience. While its remote location is part of its charm, it also means that accessibility is seasonal and requires careful planning.

Access to the camp is primarily via Forest Service Road 9712. Reviews indicate that the road from Highway 97 is generally a "well-maintained gravel road," offering "spectacular views along the way." However, visitors must be prepared for potential challenges, especially during early spring. As noted by a recent traveler in mid-May 2025, snowmelt can still cover the road up to 4 miles out, making access difficult or impossible. The operating season typically runs from early June through late October, subject to weather conditions and snowpack. It is crucial to check current conditions with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (specifically the Cle Elum Ranger District) before planning your trip, particularly in spring or late fall. While the primary access is off Highway 97, some users mentioned trying to access it from the "Liberty side," which also had snow in early June. This area is remote, and cellular service can be limited or non-existent, so downloading maps and necessary information beforehand is highly recommended. Despite the potential for a "bumpy, narrow, uphill drive" on Forest Service roads, the journey is considered a "small price to pay" for the "high country wonderland" that awaits.

• Campsites: Ken Wilcox Horse Camp offers 19 campsites designed for both tent and RV/trailer camping. These are described as "well-appointed" with a rustic feel.
• Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a fire pit with a grate and a picnic table, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available on-site for restroom facilities, which are generally well-maintained.
• Stock Water: Water for horses and pack animals is readily available from a well pump or Naneum Creek, which runs near the camp.
• Hi-lines and Hitch Rails: Specific amenities for equestrian users include hi-lines (for tying horses securely) and hitch rails at campsites, allowing for safe and convenient horse handling.
• Overflow Area: An overflow camping area may be available, providing additional space during peak times.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites at Ken Wilcox are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically taken.

• Direct Trail Access: The campground offers direct access to an extensive network of multi-use trails, including segments that connect to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). This makes it an ideal base for both day hikes and longer backpacking or equestrian treks.
• Equestrian Focus: As a dedicated "Horse Camp," it is perfectly suited for riders, offering specialized facilities like corrals, hi-lines, and ample space for horse trailers, making it a premier destination for equestrian adventures.
• Stunning Mountain Views: Located in the high country, the camp and surrounding trails offer spectacular views of the eastern Cascades, including occasional glimpses of Mount Rainier. Previous fire areas provide unique "sci-fi" landscapes.
• Blissful Solitude: Visitors consistently praise the quiet and secluded nature of the campground, providing a true escape from crowds and urban noise. It's a place to "just enjoy nature."
• Wildlife Abundance: The area is rich in wildlife, with elk frequently seen in Haney Meadow and on nearby trails, as well as various bird species.
• Diverse Terrain: Trails traverse a mix of fir and ponderosa pine forests, open meadows, and unique rock formations, offering varied and engaging landscapes for exploration.
• 4x4 Trail Access: The surrounding area provides access to fun 4-wheel drive trails, such as 4W312, appealing to off-road enthusiasts.
• Seasonal Wildflowers: In spring and early summer, vast fields of wildflowers add vibrant color to the landscape.
• Certified Weed-Free Hay Required: For equestrian users, it's important to note that certified weed-free hay or processed feed is required to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Address: NF-9712, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA

Phone: (509) 664-9200

Mobile Phone: +1 509-664-9200

For the most current information regarding operating seasons, road conditions (especially snow reports), fire restrictions, and any changes to amenities or accessibility, it is highly recommended to contact the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, specifically the Cle Elum Ranger District, using the provided phone numbers. As sites are first-come, first-served, directly calling for current conditions is crucial before embarking on your trip. Further information can also often be found on the U.S. Forest Service website or Recreation.gov.

For residents across Washington State, Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows offers a genuinely unique and deeply rewarding outdoor experience. Its location in the high country of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, while seasonal and requiring careful planning, provides an accessible gateway to a vast wilderness that feels miles away from urban life. For those in Washington who own horses, this campground is virtually unmatched, offering purpose-built amenities like hi-lines and easy access to an extensive network of multi-use trails, including portions of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail.

Beyond its equestrian focus, Ken Wilcox Horse Camp is ideal for any local seeking true solitude and immersion in nature. Unlike more crowded campgrounds, its remote setting ensures peace and quiet, allowing visitors to truly "enjoy nature" as reviews suggest. The stunning mountain views, the opportunity to observe abundant wildlife including elk, and the chance to explore diverse landscapes—from serene meadows to unique post-fire forests—make every visit an adventure. While there are no potable water hookups or elaborate facilities, this rustic charm is precisely what appeals to those looking for a more authentic backcountry experience.

The commitment of volunteers from the Back Country Horsemen of Washington in maintaining the camp and trails further highlights its community value and ensures that this precious resource remains open for public enjoyment. For Washingtonians ready to embrace the state's wild beauty, equipped for a high-elevation environment, and eager for a genuine connection with the outdoors, Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows is a highly recommended destination. It's a place where you can test your gear, embark on memorable rides or hikes, and find that elusive peace only found deep within Washington's magnificent forests.

Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows

NF-9712, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA