Owhi Campground

Welcome, Washington adventurers! If your ideal escape involves crystal-clear waters, towering mountains, and a profound sense of tranquility, then Owhi Campground in Cle Elum, WA, is a destination you simply must experience. Nestled along the pristine shores of Cooper Lake, Owhi is renowned among locals as a truly special place – "one of my favorite places in the world," as one camper described it. This walk-in, tent-only campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself deeply in the natural beauty of the Central Cascades, far from the distractions of everyday life.

Owhi Campground is beloved for its calm, clear waters, which are absolutely perfect for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. The surrounding mountains and dense forests provide a breathtaking backdrop, creating a picturesque setting for your outdoor adventures. What truly sets Owhi apart is its peaceful atmosphere; patrons are consistently described as respectful and quiet after dark, ensuring a restful night under the stars. For those yearning to truly unplug, the lack of cell service is a cherished feature, allowing for a complete digital detox. While reaching your campsite requires a short walk from your car down a small hill, carrying your gear is a small price to pay for the stunning views and serene lakeside experience that await you. Owhi is more than just a campground; it’s a sanctuary where you can reconnect with nature and create unforgettable memories amidst Washington’s spectacular wilderness.

Owhi Campground is located in Cle Elum, WA, with the address listed as Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA. More specifically, it is situated on Cooper Lake, within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This places it in the heart of Washington's scenic Central Cascades, making it a relatively accessible, yet wonderfully secluded, escape for locals across the state.

Accessing Owhi Campground from Cle Elum typically involves taking State Highway 903 north for about 16 miles, then turning left onto Forest Road 46 (also known as Cooper River Road). You'll continue for approximately 5.3 miles before turning right onto Road 4616, and then proceed about half a mile to the campground, which will be on your left on spur road 113. While the road into the campground is described by some as "pretty rough for about a quarter mile," it's generally considered "doable with most cars," meaning you don't necessarily need a high-clearance vehicle to reach this hidden gem.

It’s important to note that Owhi is a walk-in, tent-only campground, which contributes to its quiet and unspoiled atmosphere. You'll need to walk your gear down to your campsite from the parking area, which includes navigating a small hill. While this requires a bit of effort, the reward of a pristine, lakeside campsite is well worth it. The campground's elevation is around 2800 feet, offering crisp mountain air. Its location at Cooper Lake means stunning views are ever-present, and the surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest provides a vast natural playground for further exploration. This balance of reasonable accessibility and a truly primitive, lake-focused experience makes Owhi an ideal destination for Washington residents seeking an authentic and serene outdoor adventure.

Owhi Campground offers a focused set of services designed to support a primitive, tent-only camping experience, prioritizing natural immersion over extensive amenities.

• Tent-Only Campsites: The campground features 22 walk-in, tent-only campsites. These sites vary, with some being nicely tucked away for more seclusion and others being more open and closer to the water, allowing campers to choose based on preference.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Individual campsites at Owhi Campground are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning campers need to physically arrive to claim a site. While Recreation.gov indicates it's primarily first-come, first-served, it's always wise to check for any updates, especially for group sites which may require reservations.

• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets are provided for camper convenience.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that Owhi Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.

• No Campfires/Open Flames: As of current alerts (e.g., July 2, 2025, for Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest), there is a Stage Two Fire Ban, meaning no campfires or open flame cooking with wood, charcoal, or wood pellets are allowed. Propane gas stoves with an on/off switch are typically permitted. Campers must verify current fire restrictions before their visit.

• No Picnic Tables: Unlike many campgrounds, Owhi Campground does not have picnic tables at its sites, reinforcing its primitive nature. Campers should plan accordingly for food preparation and dining surfaces.

• Primitive Boat Launch: A primitive boat launch is available for non-motorized boats, allowing easy access to Cooper Lake for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.

• Trash Pickup: While primitive, Owhi Campground does offer trash pickup, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.

• Pet Friendly: The campground is generally pet-friendly, though specific leash rules and waste disposal requirements will apply.

Given the limited amenities, campers visiting Owhi should be well-prepared and self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Owhi Campground boasts an array of features and highlights that make it a truly cherished destination for outdoor lovers in Washington State.

• Spectacular Lakeside Location: The absolute highlight is its position directly on Cooper Lake. Campers have the opportunity to secure sites right by the water, offering stunning, unobstructed views of the calm, clear lake and the surrounding mountains.

• Perfect for Water Activities: Cooper Lake’s tranquil and clear waters are ideal for non-motorized boating activities. Paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing are popular pastimes, allowing for direct engagement with the beautiful lake environment.

• Serene and Quiet Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently praise Owhi for its peaceful ambiance. Campers report respectful behavior after dark, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet retreat from noise and crowds.

• Digital Detox Opportunity: A significant highlight for many is the complete lack of cell service. This allows for a true disconnection from technology and a deeper immersion in nature, fostering a genuine sense of escape.

• Stunning Mountain and Forest Scenery: The campground is enveloped by the majestic mountains and dense forests of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, providing a breathtaking natural backdrop for every moment of your stay.

• Variety of Campsite Settings: Despite being walk-in only, there are more campsites than one might expect, offering a mix of secluded, tucked-away spots and more open areas closer to the water, catering to different preferences.

• Challenging but Rewarding Access: The requirement to walk gear from the car down a small hill, coupled with a "rough" but "doable" access road, means campers earn their spot. This effort is consistently described as "so worth it" for the beauty that awaits.

• Bear Country Awareness: The need to pack up all food and scented items due to being in bear country highlights the authentic wilderness experience and encourages responsible camping practices.

• Owhi Campground Trail: The Owhi Campground Trail (1327) winds through the campground and along the shore of Cooper Lake, eventually connecting to the Pete Lake Trailhead, offering additional hiking opportunities.

While the lack of potable water and campfire restrictions require careful planning, the overwhelming sentiment is that Owhi Campground delivers an unforgettable, genuinely beautiful, and tranquil outdoor experience.

For those ready to experience the serene beauty of Owhi Campground, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA (Owhi Campground is specifically located on Cooper Lake, within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.)

• Phone: (509) 852-1100

• Mobile Phone: +1 509-852-1100

This phone number is generally associated with the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which oversees Owhi Campground. It is highly recommended to call this number for any direct inquiries regarding current conditions, specific rules, fire restrictions, or road status before planning your trip.

Important considerations for your visit:

• Reservations: As a first-come, first-served campground, individual sites cannot typically be reserved in advance through platforms like Recreation.gov. You must physically arrive at the campground to claim a site. However, always check the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website or Recreation.gov for any updates, especially for potential group sites or changes in policy.

• Operating Season: Owhi Campground is typically only accessible once the snow has melted, usually from early June through early October. It's crucial to verify the opening and closing dates for the specific year of your visit.

• Passes/Permits: A Northwest Forest Pass or other applicable interagency passes may be required for parking or camping fees. Check with the Forest Service for details.

• No Cell Service: Be prepared for no cellular service at the campground. Download any necessary maps or information beforehand.

Always consult official Forest Service websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

For locals in Washington State, Owhi Campground represents an absolutely ideal and truly cherished escape into the heart of the Cascades. Its suitability for residents stems from several key factors that cater perfectly to the Washingtonian outdoor spirit. Foremost is its stunning location on Cooper Lake, offering clear, calm waters that are an absolute dream for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing – quintessential Washington activities. The opportunity to grab a site "right by the water" is a unique selling point that provides an immediate, immersive connection to the natural environment.

Furthermore, Owhi’s commitment to a primitive, walk-in, tent-only experience ensures a level of peace and quiet that is increasingly hard to find in popular outdoor destinations. For locals seeking a genuine break from urban noise and crowds, the respectful atmosphere and the lack of cell service are not limitations, but rather significant highlights, enabling a true digital detox and a deeper connection with nature. This aligns perfectly with the desire of many Washingtonians to unplug and recharge in the wilderness.

While the short walk from the car to the campsite and the "rough" access road might require a bit of effort, the consistent feedback from campers is that the stunning beauty of the lake and mountains makes every bit of that effort "so worth it." It’s an authentic wilderness experience, complete with bear awareness, that fosters self-reliance and a profound appreciation for the natural world. In essence, Owhi Campground isn't just a place to sleep; it’s a beloved sanctuary that offers an accessible yet deeply immersive opportunity for Washington locals to embrace the state's iconic natural beauty, engage in cherished outdoor activities, and find unparalleled tranquility right in their own spectacular backyard.

Owhi Campground

Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA