Tree Phones Campground

For Washingtonians seeking a serene escape into the mountains without venturing too far from civilization, Tree Phones Campground near Yakima presents an ideal solution. This often-overlooked gem offers a genuine high-elevation camping experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the forest. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to unwind, enjoy a campfire, and truly disconnect from the daily grind. Many who visit praise its peaceful atmosphere and the feeling of being deep in the wilderness, even though it's surprisingly accessible from urban centers like Yakima. The campground provides a rustic yet comfortable setting, making it suitable for both a quick evening getaway or a longer, more contemplative stay. Its charm lies in its simplicity and its direct connection to the natural landscape, offering a refreshing contrast to more crowded recreational areas. Here, the sounds of the wind through the trees and the crackling of a campfire are your main companions, promising a truly relaxing and authentic outdoor adventure.

Tree Phones Campground is located in the vicinity of Yakima, WA 98903, USA. While a precise street address might suggest a bustling urban location, this campground is actually situated high up in the mountains, offering a genuine forest and mountain experience. Its proximity to Yakima makes it incredibly accessible for residents across central and eastern Washington, allowing for spontaneous trips or planned excursions without extensive travel time. Visitors note that it's "just a short drive from Yakima," which is a significant advantage for locals looking for a quick outdoor fix. To access the campground, a Discover Pass is required. For those unfamiliar, a Discover Pass is a motor vehicle permit issued by the State of Washington that grants access to millions of acres of state recreation lands, including state parks, wildlife areas, and DNR lands. It's an essential item for anyone planning to recreate on Washington's state-managed lands. While the road leading to the campground is described by some as not being the "greatest" for large trailers, it is generally passable for most vehicles, ensuring that this mountain retreat remains within reach. The feeling of being "just far enough away that you are in the forest and mountains but still close enough to feel local" perfectly encapsulates its prime location and accessibility for Washington residents.

• Campsites with Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, providing the basic necessities for cooking and enjoying a campfire in a designated area.
• Vault Toilets: The campground offers vault toilets, which are primitive but maintained, providing essential restroom facilities for campers.
• No Drinking Water or Hookups: It is important for visitors to note that Tree Phones Campground does not provide drinking water or RV hookups. Campers should come prepared with their own water supply.
• First-Come, First-Serve (Seasonal): While reservations may be available during peak seasons (May 1 to September 30), the campground often operates on a first-come, first-serve basis during other times (October 1 to April 30), requiring flexibility for campers.
• Discover Pass Required: As a state-managed recreational site, a valid Washington State Discover Pass must be displayed on your vehicle for access to the campground. This pass supports the maintenance of Washington's outdoor spaces.
• Limited Cell Phone Coverage: Due to its high mountain location, cell phone coverage can be limited in many areas around the campground, offering a genuine opportunity to disconnect.

• High Mountain Setting: The most significant highlight of Tree Phones Campground is its elevation, placing it "high up in the mountains." This offers cooler temperatures, fresh air, and a distinct alpine forest ambiance compared to lower-elevation campgrounds.
• Quiet and Uncrowded Atmosphere: Reviews consistently mention that the campground is "never super crowded" and offers a "great place to relax." Many visitors have experienced having the place almost entirely to themselves, particularly on weekdays, allowing for true solitude.
• Proximity to Forests and Mountains: The campground is deeply embedded within the forest and mountain landscape, providing immediate access to nature. This immersion is perfect for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience.
• Opportunity for Campfires: For many, Tree Phones Campground is a go-to spot specifically "to go have a campfire for the evening." The presence of fire rings at each site supports this quintessential camping activity.
• Accessibility to Hiking and OHV Trails: While not explicitly detailed, its location in the Ahtanum State Forest suggests access to various trails for hiking, and some reviews mention the ability to "ride your OHV right out of camp and up the roads for some great views," catering to different types of outdoor enthusiasts.
• Peaceful Night's Sleep: If a river or creek runs along the campground (as suggested by a review that might be for a different "Tree Phone" location), the natural sounds could contribute to a very peaceful night's sleep. (Note: Public data specifically for Tree Phones Campground near Yakima does not confirm a river running through it, but the general peacefulness is consistent.)
• Beautiful Surroundings: The natural beauty of being "in the forest and mountains" provides a scenic backdrop for camping, enhancing the overall experience.

Address: Yakima, WA 98903, USA

Phone: No direct public phone for Tree Phones Campground is typically listed, as it's often a more primitive site managed by state or federal agencies. For general inquiries about state recreational lands or Discover Pass information, residents can contact the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission or the Department of Natural Resources.

Mobile Phone: +1 360-640-1274 (The provided phone number appears to be for a different campground, "Last Chance Camp Equine Rest Stop." For Tree Phones Campground, contact information is generally through relevant state land management agencies or their online portals. No direct, specific phone number for Tree Phones Campground itself is readily available in public data.)

Tree Phones Campground offers a compelling proposition for Washington residents looking for an authentic and accessible outdoor escape. Its primary appeal lies in its location: high in the mountains yet remarkably close to Yakima. This makes it an ideal spot for spontaneous weekend trips or even just an evening campfire after a long week, allowing locals to quickly tap into the restorative power of nature without extensive travel. The uncrowded nature of the campground, especially on weekdays, means that those seeking solitude and a genuine wilderness experience will find it here. While it operates on a more rustic model with no drinking water or hookups, this encourages a back-to-basics camping style that many Washingtonians appreciate for its simplicity and connection to the environment. The requirement of a Discover Pass, a common permit for accessing Washington's state-managed outdoor recreation lands, is a familiar aspect for local outdoor enthusiasts, integrating seamlessly into existing recreational habits. For those who own an OHV, the potential for direct access to trails from the campground adds another layer of appeal. Ultimately, Tree Phones Campground provides a perfect balance of mountain serenity and local convenience, offering Washington residents a truly immersive and peaceful retreat right in their backyard.

Tree Phones Campground

Yakima, WA 98903, USA