Lone Peak Campground

For Washington locals seeking a true escape into the scenic beauty of the Cascade foothills, Lone Peak Campground near Chelan, WA, offers a rustic and authentic outdoor experience. Nestled within the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground is less about luxurious amenities and more about connecting directly with nature. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate tranquility, stunning natural vistas, and direct access to a network of trails that beckon exploration.

Lone Peak Campground is perfectly positioned for adventurers looking to hike, mountain bike, or even explore on horseback. While it provides a more primitive camping experience compared to highly developed state parks, it boasts essential features for a comfortable stay, including picnic tables and vault toilets. Its proximity to the North Fork 25 Mile Creek Trail, a delightful hike alongside a vibrant creek, makes it a prime location for enjoying the local flora and fauna. If you're a Washingtonian yearning for a peaceful retreat where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, Lone Peak Campground in Chelan offers that genuine connection to the wilderness.

As with many forest campgrounds, it's a place where preparedness enhances your experience, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor. From shaded spots in pine forests to views overlooking the valley, Lone Peak Campground promises a refreshing break from the everyday.

Lone Peak Campground is situated near Chelan, WA 98816, USA. This address places it within the picturesque landscape of Central Washington, an area renowned for its deep blue lakes, sunny weather, and access to the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains. Chelan itself is a popular tourist destination, particularly famous for Lake Chelan, offering a variety of amenities and activities.

Accessing Lone Peak Campground typically involves driving a mix of paved and forest service roads. From Chelan, visitors will generally take Highway 97A south and then turn onto South Shore Road, continuing until Shady Pass Road (FS 5900). From Shady Pass Road, a turn onto Forest Service Road #5903 will lead to the Lone Peak Trailhead, where the campground is located. While the roads leading to the trailhead are often reported to be in good condition and well-marked, it's always advisable for Washington locals to check current road conditions, especially after heavy rains or during the shoulder seasons, as forest service roads can vary in quality. High-clearance vehicles are often recommended for forest roads, though not strictly necessary for this particular access.

The accessibility balances a sense of seclusion with relative ease of reach from Chelan. This allows campers to enjoy the wilderness while still being within a reasonable distance of town for supplies or other services, making it a convenient choice for a local Washington camping trip.

Services Offered:

• Tent and RV Campsites: Lone Peak Campground offers sites suitable for both tent camping and smaller RVs/trailers. Some information suggests trailers are "not advised" for certain sections, indicating a preference for smaller rigs or tents.
• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets are available for campers' convenience.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table, providing a designated area for meals and activities.
• Fire Rings: Campfire rings are provided at sites, allowing for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions and bans, especially during Washington's dry summer months).
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that potable (drinkable) water is generally NOT available at Lone Peak Campground. Visitors must bring all their own drinking water, or be prepared to filter/treat water from natural sources.
• Trash Receptacles: Trash receptacles may be provided, encouraging campers to dispose of waste properly and maintain a clean environment.
• Self-Contained Camping Encouraged: Given the primitive nature, campers who are more self-contained will have a more comfortable experience.

Features / Highlights:

• Access to Lone Peak Trail: The campground is directly associated with the Lone Peak Trail (#1264), which descends to the North Fork 25 Mile Creek Trail. This provides immediate access to hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding opportunities.
• Views of the Valley: The trail and surrounding areas offer "nice views of the valley" as it descends through a mix of open spaces and forest, including some reforested burn areas, providing a unique landscape.
• Proximity to North Fork 25 Mile Creek: The nearby North Fork 25 Mile Creek is described as "delightful" and has "a lot of water" from snowmelt, offering a pleasant riparian environment for walks and relaxation.
• Shaded Areas: The presence of pine forest provides a decent amount of shade, particularly along the creek, offering relief during sunny days.
• Quiet and Secluded: Visitors have noted seeing "no hikers during the entire outing" on the trail, suggesting a peaceful and uncrowded experience, ideal for solitude.
• Wildflower Viewing: The area is home to various wildflowers, like Applegate's Indian Paintbrush, Siskiyou Lewisia, and Arrowleaf Balsamroot, especially along the North Fork 25 Mile Creek Trail, adding to the natural beauty.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: While specific rules may vary by season or management (always confirm with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest or Chelan Ranger District), national forest campgrounds are generally dog-friendly, though leash laws and responsible pet waste management are always expected.

Contact Information:

Address: Chelan, WA 98816, USA

For Lone Peak Campground, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, direct phone numbers for the campground itself are typically not available. All inquiries, reservations (if applicable for national forest sites, though many are first-come, first-served), and current condition updates should be directed to the relevant Ranger District.

Primary Contact for Information:

• Chelan Ranger District (Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest): This is the managing office for the Lone Peak area.
• Phone: (509) 682-4900 (This is the general number for the Chelan Ranger District).
• Website: It is highly recommended to visit the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/okawen) and navigate to their "Recreation" section, specifically looking for "Lone Peak Trail #1264" or general camping information for the Chelan area. This website will provide the most up-to-date information on:
  • Current fire restrictions and bans.
  • Trail conditions and any closures.
  • Operating seasons for the campground and roads.
  • Fee information (if any) and payment methods (often digital payment via Recreation.gov app for some forest sites).

Always check these official resources before planning your trip to ensure a safe and informed visit to Lone Peak Campground.

Lone Peak Campground is an excellent choice for Washington locals who cherish a quieter, more rustic camping experience away from the bustling crowds of highly developed sites. Its location near Chelan, nestled within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, offers a convenient yet profound escape into nature, making it highly suitable for residents across the state.

For Washingtonians, this campground provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in the state's diverse outdoor activities. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders will particularly appreciate the direct access to the well-maintained Lone Peak Trail and the connection to the scenic North Fork 25 Mile Creek Trail. The chance to wander through shaded pine forests, cross an "old burn area" revealing nature's resilience, and enjoy the sights of wildflowers provides a rich and varied outdoor experience.

While it’s a more primitive setting without potable water, this characteristic appeals to locals who are prepared and value self-sufficiency, seeking a genuine connection to the wild. The quiet atmosphere and the possibility of seeing few other people on the trails offer a true sense of solitude and rejuvenation. Lone Peak Campground is a testament to Washington's commitment to preserving its natural spaces, providing locals with an accessible yet untouched piece of wilderness right in their backyard. It's the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories in the heart of our beautiful state.

Lone Peak Campground

Chelan, WA 98816, USA