Pleasant Valley Campground

For Washington residents seeking a genuine connection with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pleasant Valley Campground in Naches, WA, offers a compelling and authentic outdoor experience. Nestled within the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground provides a tranquil setting right next to the American River, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate primitive camping amidst stunning natural beauty. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the shade of ancient trees set the scene for a truly relaxing and immersive escape.

Pleasant Valley Campground is highly regarded by its visitors for its picturesque environment and spacious, private campsites. Campers consistently praise the "nice spot right next to the river" and the "beautiful" surrounding area. Many highlight the generous spacing between sites, giving a "secluded" feel. One camper particularly noted site #3 as "the biggest and most private." The presence of "several small trails to get down to the river," with slow-moving sections perfect for swimming or wading, adds to the appeal. While there are warnings about Thatcher ants, campers have found practical ways to manage them, stating they "were never bit and seemed to become one with the ants." The availability of a well pump for drinking water and the well-shaded sites are also significant positives. Though it offers a primitive experience with no electric or sewer hookups, this campground is clearly a favorite for those who value quiet, natural camping and are prepared for a self-sufficient stay in the heart of Washington's wilderness.

Pleasant Valley Campground is strategically located on WA-410, near Naches, WA 98937, USA, deep within the scenic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This position places it in the heart of Washington's majestic Cascade Mountains, offering both a sense of remoteness and relatively straightforward access via a well-known state highway.

WA-410, also known as the Chinook Pass Highway, is a major scenic route that traverses the Cascade Range, connecting eastern and western Washington. This makes the campground a feasible drive for residents from various parts of the state, particularly those looking for an escape into the mountains from the Yakima Valley or Puget Sound region. While it's a mountain highway, WA-410 is generally well-maintained, though conditions can vary seasonally, especially closer to winter or during heavy rain. The campground itself is situated directly adjacent to the American River, offering immediate access to its pristine waters. It's important to note that cell service is typically limited or nonexistent in this remote forest area, which for many, is part of the appeal of disconnecting. The address near Naches means that basic supplies can be acquired in the town before heading into the deeper forest, providing a balance of seclusion and preparedness.

Pleasant Valley Campground is a primitive campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. As such, it offers essential services for a rustic camping experience, encouraging visitors to be largely self-sufficient.

• Campsites: The campground offers about a dozen (16 single) standard campsites, accommodating both tent camping and RVs (up to 32 feet max length). Sites are well-spaced and often provide ample privacy.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at individual campsites. Campers must be prepared to be self-contained for utilities.
• Potable Water: A hand-pump well is available for drinking water only. Campers should bring plenty of their own water for dishwashing, cleaning, and other uses.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets (outhouses) are provided. Campers are advised to bring their own toilet paper as a precaution.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings with grates are present at each site for campfires, subject to local burn bans. Campers should bring their own firewood.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection is available, but campers are always encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out what they pack in.
• Reservations: Sites can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. A fee is charged per night.
• Accessible Sites: There are reportedly 2 accessible sites out of the 16 available.
• Size Restrictions: RVs are limited to a maximum length of 32 feet.
• Single Site Fees: Fees for single sites typically include one vehicle and one legally towed vehicle.

Pleasant Valley Campground is characterized by several key features and highlights that make it an attractive destination for campers seeking a natural and tranquil outdoor experience in Washington.

• Riverside Location on American River: A significant highlight is its prime location directly adjacent to the American River. This offers "nice spots right next to the river," providing opportunities for fishing (rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout), wading, and enjoying the peaceful sounds of flowing water. There are "several small trails to get down to the river."
• Secluded and Spacious Sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing between sites, leading to a "very quiet and enjoyable" atmosphere and a feeling of seclusion and privacy. Many sites are "well-shaded," which is "VERY nice" during warmer months.
• Access to Hiking Trails: The campground offers trailhead access directly from the site, with a noted "amazing waterfall hike just down the road." It's also near popular trails like Crow Lake, Swamp Lake, Cougar Valley, Union Creek, and the famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail is also a nearby attraction.
• Primitive Camping Experience: For those who appreciate a more rustic and self-sufficient camping trip, the lack of hookups is a feature, allowing for a deeper immersion in the natural environment away from modern amenities.
• Natural Beauty of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: The campground is set within a breathtaking forest environment, characterized by high, glaciated alpine peaks, lush valleys, and diverse ecosystems. This provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
• Civilian Conservation Corps Shelter: The presence of a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) shelter adds a historical element to the campground.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding national forest is home to various wildlife, offering opportunities for observation.
• Well Water: The availability of a well pump for drinking water is a convenient feature for primitive camping, though additional water should be brought for other uses.
• Compact Gravel Pathways: The gravel pathways within the campground are noted as "compacted well enough for bike riding," providing easy internal navigation.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Pleasant Valley Campground, prospective guests should direct their communication to the managing authority, the U.S. Forest Service, or use the national reservation system.

Address: WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, USA (This indicates its location along the highway). The campground is specifically located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Phone for Reservations: 1-877-444-6777 (Toll-Free, for Recreation.gov reservations)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-338-7869 (This number is listed, but for general information about the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Naches Ranger District, their office is 509-653-1401). It is best to use the Recreation.gov number for booking.

Website for Reservations: Recreation.gov (search for Pleasant Valley Campground, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest)

For residents across Washington, Pleasant Valley Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination, particularly for those who cherish a more authentic, primitive, and serene outdoor experience. Its location on WA-410 in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest means it's a manageable drive from both sides of the Cascades, providing a relatively accessible wilderness escape without requiring extensive travel to truly remote areas. This convenience allows Washingtonians to easily plan weekend trips or longer stays to disconnect and recharge.

The campground's appeal lies in its simplicity and natural beauty. The spacious, well-shaded sites offer a rare sense of privacy that is often lacking in more developed campgrounds, allowing campers to truly relax and enjoy the quiet sounds of the forest. The direct access to the American River for swimming, wading, and trout fishing is a significant draw, providing immediate recreational opportunities right at your campsite. For those who love to explore on foot, the proximity to a beautiful waterfall hike and various other trails, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, makes it an ideal basecamp for daily adventures into the surrounding wilderness.

While it's a primitive campground without modern hookups, this is precisely its charm for many locals. It encourages a self-reliant approach to camping, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. The availability of a hand-pump well for drinking water is a practical convenience, and the ability to mitigate minor issues like ants with simple preparation speaks to the resilient spirit of true outdoors enthusiasts. For Washingtonians who own a Discover Pass and are looking to immerse themselves in the state's stunning mountain and river landscapes, Pleasant Valley Campground offers a genuine and memorable camping experience that epitomizes the spirit of Pacific Northwest adventure.

Pleasant Valley Campground

WA-410, Naches, WA 98937, USA