Teal Spring Campground

For Washington locals who truly appreciate the untamed beauty of their state and the joy of a free, rustic camping experience, Teal Spring Campground near Pomeroy offers an impressive and highly recommended destination. Nestled high within the picturesque Umatilla National Forest, this campground provides an authentic wilderness escape, perfect for those seeking solitude, stunning vistas, and direct access to prime outdoor activities. It’s a place where the grandeur of Washington’s natural landscapes is front and center, inviting you to unplug and immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Teal Spring stands out as a "free camp" that punches well above its weight, boasting "several campsites" and amenities that enhance the primitive experience. Visitors are consistently "very impressed" with what's offered, particularly the "absolutely amazing views" from the upper reaches of the campground into the dramatic Tucannon drainage. A unique and comforting feature is the presence of a "survival cabin available," thoughtfully "stocked with a first aid kit and firewood," offering a reassuring touch in this remote setting. Whether you’re planning a spring and summer getaway for recreation or seeking "amazing hunting" opportunities in the colder months, Teal Spring Campground is highly recommended for all outdoor enthusiasts.

While access requires some preparedness due to a "steep, deeply rutted" entrance, the reward is a truly memorable and highly scenic camping experience that encapsulates the rugged charm of Washington’s forested mountains.

Teal Spring Campground is located at NF-200, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA, situated within the Umatilla National Forest. This puts it at a higher elevation, offering remarkable panoramic views, particularly into the scenic Tucannon drainage. For Washington locals, it represents a fantastic opportunity to venture into a more remote part of the state's natural beauty, roughly an hour or so drive from the town of Pomeroy, depending on road conditions and vehicle type.

Access to Teal Spring Campground is via National Forest Road (NFR) 40, which leads to the campground entrance. It's crucial for prospective visitors to be aware of the road conditions, as highlighted by past campers. While much of the entrance road to the general area might be "great," the "first steep part of the camp entrance off NFR 40" can be "a mess" – described as "steep, deeply rutted," potentially posing a challenge for lower-clearance vehicles or those pulling trailers. One reviewer noted they "couldn’t trust that we wouldn’t break an axle" with a 14 ft teardrop camper pulled by an F-150. Therefore, a high-clearance vehicle, and ideally 4x4 capability, is highly recommended for a smoother and safer journey into the campground itself. The payoff for navigating this challenging section, however, is access to "very nice campsites" and those "fantastic views."

Due to its high-elevation, wilderness setting, cell signal is likely minimal or non-existent, providing a true opportunity to disconnect. This location makes Teal Spring an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Umatilla National Forest, offering solitude and proximity to vast wild areas for recreation, but requires visitors to come prepared for rugged forest road conditions.

• Multiple Campsites: Teal Spring Campground offers "several campsites," providing various options for setting up camp. These sites are generally well-positioned to take advantage of the scenic views.
• Pit/Vault Toilets: There are "three of all toilets all together" (likely referring to pit/vault toilets), providing basic restroom facilities for campers.
• Survival Cabin: A unique and highly valued feature, a "survival cabin" is available on-site. This cabin is "stocked with a first aid kit and firewood," offering emergency shelter and resources, particularly useful in a remote area.
• Firewood Provided (at Survival Cabin): The availability of firewood within the survival cabin is a significant convenience for campers, especially for those utilizing the cabin. Campers are still advised to bring their own firewood for personal campsites.
• No Potable Water: It is essential to note that there is no direct potable (drinking) water source at Teal Spring Campground. Campers must "pack it in" (bring) all their necessary drinking and cooking water.
• No Garbage Service: The campground operates on a "pack it in and pack it out" principle. There are no garbage bins or collection services, requiring campers to take all their trash with them when they leave.
• No Electrical Hookups: There are no electrical hookups or modern amenities like showers. This is a primitive, free camping experience.
• Free Camping: As highlighted by reviewers, Teal Spring is a "free camp," making it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
• First-Come, First-Served: Given its primitive and free nature, it is highly likely that all campsites at Teal Spring operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken.

• Free Camping: One of the most significant highlights is that Teal Spring Campground is a "free camp." This makes it an incredibly appealing option for budget-conscious Washingtonians seeking an outdoor adventure without associated fees.
• Absolutely Amazing Views: The campground is situated "on top of a ridge," offering "absolutely amazing views" into the stunning Tucannon drainage. This panoramic scenery is a major draw for photographers and nature lovers.
• Unique Survival Cabin: The presence of a "survival cabin" stocked with a "first aid kit and firewood" is a rare and highly valuable feature for a free campground. It provides an added layer of safety and comfort in a remote wilderness setting.
• Prime Recreation Opportunities: Teal Spring is highlighted as a "great place to hang out spring and summer" for general outdoor enjoyment. Furthermore, it's explicitly noted for offering "amazing hunting up here in the colder months," making it a sought-after destination for hunters.
• True Wilderness Immersion: Visitors praise the sense of deep wilderness. Despite being accessible, it provides a genuine "outdoor" experience, where you're truly surrounded by nature.
• Well-Maintained Primitive Facilities: For a free campground, the fact that there are "three of all toilets all together" (vault toilets) which are clean and available is impressive, surpassing expectations for primitive sites.
• Wildlife Potential: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews for Teal Spring, its location in the Umatilla National Forest strongly suggests ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, from deer and elk to smaller forest creatures.
• "Hike-in" Access for Best Views (Potentially): While challenging for vehicles, the notion that some sites with "fantastic view" might require a short "hike in" suggests that the most rewarding spots offer even greater seclusion and vistas for those willing to walk a little.

Address: NF-200, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA

Phone: (509) 843-1891

Mobile Phone: +1 509-843-1891

For current road conditions, fire restrictions, or any specific inquiries about Teal Spring Campground, it is best to contact the Pomeroy Ranger District, which manages this area within the Umatilla National Forest. The phone numbers provided above are likely for the ranger district office. Since Teal Spring is a free, first-come, first-served campground, direct reservations are not taken for individual sites. Always check with the Ranger District for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip, especially concerning road accessibility, as conditions can change.

For Washington locals who cherish their state's natural beauty and thrive on authentic outdoor adventures, Teal Spring Campground offers an exceptionally compelling and highly suitable destination. Its status as a "free camp" is a significant draw, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for regular escapes into the wilderness without the added cost. This aligns perfectly with the local ethos of making the most of Washington's abundant public lands.

The primary appeal for residents lies in the profound sense of wilderness it provides. Perched "on top of a ridge" with "absolutely amazing views" into the dramatic Tucannon drainage, Teal Spring delivers the breathtaking vistas and natural immersion that define the Pacific Northwest experience. For those seeking solitude and a genuine disconnect from urban life, the remote setting ensures a tranquil environment, far from the crowds often found in more developed campgrounds. The primitive nature, including the "pack it in and pack it out" policy, resonates with environmentally conscious Washingtonians who are committed to preserving their natural heritage.

While the "steep, deeply rutted" entrance road requires a high-clearance vehicle and a spirit of adventure, this very challenge acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who reach Teal Spring are truly dedicated to the wilderness experience. This adds to the feeling of having discovered a hidden gem. The presence of a "survival cabin" stocked with essentials like a first aid kit and firewood is a thoughtful and reassuring touch, providing a safety net in a remote area, which is appreciated by experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, the campground's suitability for "spring and summer" recreation, combined with its reputation for "amazing hunting" in colder months, means it offers year-round utility for a diverse range of local outdoor pursuits. Teal Spring Campground embodies the rugged charm and untamed beauty that Washingtonians seek in their outdoor adventures, making it a perfect spot for locals to truly embrace the wild heart of their home state.

Teal Spring Campground

NF-200, Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA