Red Mountain Campground

Hello, Washingtonians! Are you yearning for an escape into the breathtaking landscapes that define our magnificent state? Look no further than Red Mountain Campground, a truly scenic gem nestled along Salmon La Sac Road near Ronald, Washington. As locals, we are always on the lookout for those special places where the beauty of the Pacific Northwest unfolds before our eyes, offering a blend of adventure and serenity. Red Mountain Campground is precisely one such destination, providing spectacular views and direct access to the refreshing Cle Elum River. While it’s a popular spot, its natural allure makes it a compelling choice for your next outdoor adventure. This article will provide you with a comprehensive and factual overview of Red Mountain Campground, covering its unique location, available services, and what you can expect, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a memorable trip into our beloved Washington wilderness.

Red Mountain Campground has quickly become a cherished spot for many who have discovered its charm. Its most striking feature is undoubtedly the "spectacular views" it offers, with the majestic Red Mountain serving as a pine-studded backdrop to the clear, inviting waters of the Cle Elum River. This creates a postcard-perfect setting that is hard to resist, especially on a sunny Washington day. The campground comprises a modest number of sites, typically around 10, which means it can feel quite intimate. While some sites are praised for their "wonderfully secluded" nature with easy lake/river access via small trails, others can be "very close," meaning privacy can vary, especially on busy weekends. Indeed, this campground fills up fast, particularly on Fridays in mid-July, often by 2:00 PM. So, if you're planning a weekend visit, an early arrival is crucial to secure a spot. Despite the potential for crowds, especially on weekends when day-use visitors flock to the river, the general atmosphere remains remarkably peaceful, with noise rarely being an issue. This balance of natural beauty and a vibrant, albeit sometimes busy, outdoor scene makes Red Mountain Campground a unique and appealing destination for Washington locals seeking both adventure and connection with nature.

Red Mountain Campground is strategically located on Salmon La Sac Road, Ronald, WA 98940, USA. This places it within the stunning Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, a vast expanse of wilderness in Central Washington renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities. For Washingtonians, especially those in the Puget Sound area, the drive involves a scenic journey eastward on I-90, taking Exit 80 towards Salmon La Sac, and then continuing on WA-903 North, which becomes Salmon La Sac Road. The campground itself is situated on the left side of Salmon La Sac Road, just past Cle Elum Lake and Cayuse Campground. While it’s fairly close to the main road, contributing to some car noise, this proximity also means relatively easy access compared to more remote backcountry sites. However, a key point for accessibility is the campground's entrance, which can be "extremely easy to miss" due to its placement on the right side of the road while the main road sign is on the left. It's advisable to pay close attention to signage as you approach. This location provides a gateway to numerous trails and the refreshing waters of the Cle Elum River, making it a convenient basecamp for exploring the surrounding natural wonders of the Washington Cascades.

Red Mountain Campground offers essential services and amenities, focusing on providing a comfortable yet rustic camping experience, typical of forest service campgrounds in Washington.

• Campsites: There are approximately 10 single campsites available, suitable for tents, pickups with campers, and smaller travel trailers. Larger RVs or trailers over 20 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and small parking pads.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is highly recommended to secure a spot.
• Basic Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring, often with a grate for cooking.
• Restroom Facilities: A bathroom (vault toilet) is available for campers. While some sites may require a bit of a walk to reach it, its presence is a key amenity.
• Waste Disposal: A dumpster is provided for trash disposal, which helps keep the campground clean and encourages responsible waste management.
• No Potable Water: It is important to note that drinking water is generally not available at the campground. Campers must bring their own supply.
• No Electric Hookups: There are no electric hookups for RVs or trailers.
• Fees: There is a fee per night for the first vehicle, with an additional fee for a second vehicle. Only two vehicles are allowed per site, though extra day-use parking might be available nearby.
• River Access: Many sites, especially the last one, offer easy access to the Cle Elum River via small trails, perfect for swimming and cooling off.

Campers should always check for current fire bans or restrictions, as these are common in Washington's dry seasons.

Red Mountain Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that draw Washington locals and make it a highly desirable outdoor destination.

• Spectacular Views: The most frequently praised attribute is the "spectacular views" of Red Mountain and the surrounding natural landscape, providing an incredibly scenic backdrop for camping.
• River Access: Direct and easy access to the Cle Elum River is a major highlight, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, wading, and cooling off on hot days. Some sites even have what feels like a "private beach" along the river.
• Peaceful Atmosphere (During Weekdays): While it can get crowded on weekends, the campground is noted for its amazing and quiet atmosphere during weekdays, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
• Secluded Sites: The last site, in particular, is highlighted for its wonderful seclusion, offering more privacy when the adjacent site is empty.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The presence of a bathroom and a dumpster contributes to a cleaner campground, a factor appreciated by visitors.
• First-Come, First-Served Adventure: The first-come, first-served nature adds a layer of adventure and spontaneity to securing a spot, a common aspect of many beloved Washington campgrounds.
• Abundant Natural Cover: Sites offer a "nice amount of cover" from trees, providing shade and a more immersed forest feel.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Beyond camping, the area around Salmon La Sac Road offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

These highlights collectively paint a picture of Red Mountain Campground as a stunning, albeit popular, spot for Washingtonians who prioritize natural beauty and river-based recreation.

For specific inquiries, current conditions, or to seek the most up-to-date information regarding Red Mountain Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Salmon La Sac Rd, Ronald, WA 98940, USA
Phone: (509) 852-1100
Mobile Phone: +1 509-852-1100

This phone number connects to the Cle Elum Ranger District, which manages Red Mountain Campground within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. It is highly recommended to call them directly, especially before your visit, to inquire about:

• Current availability (given its first-come, first-served basis and rapid filling on weekends).
• Any active fire bans or restrictions in the area.
• Road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons.
• Specific details about amenities like water availability.

This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping trip to Red Mountain Campground.

Red Mountain Campground is an excellent choice for Washington locals seeking a picturesque and refreshing outdoor experience. Its prime location along Salmon La Sac Road, with spectacular views of Red Mountain and direct access to the Cle Elum River, offers quintessential Pacific Northwest beauty that resonates deeply with residents. For Washingtonians, the opportunity to swim, wade, and relax by the clear river waters is a significant draw, making it perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. While the campground can get crowded on weekends, especially during mid-July, this speaks to its immense popularity among those in the know. Locals who value a vibrant outdoor scene and are willing to arrive early to secure a coveted spot will find this a worthwhile trade-off. The relative peace that still prevails despite the crowds, coupled with the convenient presence of restrooms and a dumpster, enhances the overall experience. Moreover, its blend of accessible beauty with a touch of ruggedness—being off the beaten path enough that the entrance can be missed—appeals to the adventurous spirit common among Washington residents. Whether you're a family looking for river fun or a solo camper seeking beautiful views and a chance to disconnect during the week, Red Mountain Campground offers a memorable and truly Washingtonian outdoor escape.

Red Mountain Campground

Salmon La Sac Rd, Ronald, WA 98940, USA