Upper Johnny Creek Campground

For Washington locals seeking a peaceful escape into nature without being too far from the charm of Leavenworth, Upper Johnny Creek Campground presents an appealing option. This rustic campground, part of the larger Johnny Creek Campground system within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, offers a genuine outdoor experience for those who appreciate tranquility and self-reliance. While it’s renowned for its quiet atmosphere, even on weekends, prospective campers should be prepared for a more basic set of amenities and a truly immersive wilderness environment.

Upper Johnny Creek Campground is an ideal spot for those who want to "get out in nature" and enjoy the sounds of the forest and creek, with the added benefit of being "close to Leavenworth for a day trip if desired!" This unique combination allows for both deep relaxation in a natural setting and convenient access to town for supplies, dining, or a change of pace. However, it's a place where preparedness is key, particularly regarding water and awareness of wildlife. This article aims to provide Washington residents with a clear, factual overview of Upper Johnny Creek Campground, detailing its location, services, features, and why it's a suitable choice for a refreshing and authentic camping adventure in their own beautiful state.

Upper Johnny Creek Campground is situated near Leavenworth, Washington, with its address generally listed as Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA. More specifically, it is located approximately 12 miles from Leavenworth, near the confluence of Johnny Creek and Icicle Creek. This positions it within the picturesque and heavily forested Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, a region celebrated for its stunning mountain vistas and abundant recreational opportunities.

Access to Upper Johnny Creek Campground is straightforward from Leavenworth. From the town, visitors will head southwest on US-2 West for about 0.8 miles, then turn left onto Icicle Road (also known as Forest Road 7600). Continue straight on Icicle Road for approximately 11.5 miles. The campground will be on your left. This road is typically well-maintained, but as it transitions to a forest service road, campers should expect gravel sections. The journey itself is scenic, winding through the forest and along the Icicle River, gradually immersing visitors in the natural surroundings.

The campground is divided into upper and lower loops. Upper Johnny Creek Campground is located "above Icicle Road," providing a slightly different feel from the lower campground which is closer to Icicle Creek. This separation contributes to its often "fairly empty" status, even on weekends, as visitors may find the lower campground to be full. The convenience of being "close to Leavenworth" (about 12 miles away) allows for easy day trips into town for supplies, a meal, or exploring its unique Bavarian-themed atmosphere, providing a perfect balance between wilderness and accessibility for Washington locals.

• Campsites: Upper Johnny Creek Campground offers a total of 65 campsites across both its upper and lower loops. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted for individual sites (though some group sites in the broader forest may be reservable). Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, with some able to fit vehicles up to 65 feet in length.

• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, providing essential comforts for outdoor cooking and gathering. Reviewers note that there is "lots of firewood to scavenge," which can be a money-saving benefit, although firewood is also available for sale from the camp host for about "$10 a bundle."

• Restrooms: Vault toilets are provided throughout the campground, offering basic but functional restroom facilities.

• Potable Water (with caveat): Potable water is available via a pump, as mentioned in reviews. However, one reviewer noted, "The pump water is yellow," adding, "However, we drank it, and I am still alive to write this review. Use that information at your discretion. Probably bringing your own water or purification tablets would be a good idea." This suggests while technically potable, some campers may prefer bringing their own water for peace of mind.

• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on site, described positively as "good as well," providing assistance and oversight to campers.

• No Network Coverage: It's important for campers to be aware that there is "no network coverage" at Upper Johnny Creek Campground. To regain cell service, visitors would "need to travel almost six miles towards the town." This reinforces its remote and unplugged nature.

• Fire Restrictions: Due to fire warnings and bans common in the region, campers might "miss the camp fire both the days." It is crucial to check current fire restrictions with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest or the camp host upon arrival, as fire bans (often Stage Two, allowing only propane stoves with on/off switches) are frequently in effect.

• Fees: There is a fee for camping, generally around $22 per night for a single unit, with an additional fee for extra vehicles (around $9-11/night). Larger trailers or combinations may incur double occupancy fees, which some reviewers found confusing or "pricey."

• Peaceful and Uncrowded Atmosphere: A significant highlight of Upper Johnny Creek Campground is its remarkable tranquility. Even "on a weekend," the campground was "fairly empty," providing a serene and quiet escape from the crowds often found in other popular Washington campgrounds. This makes it ideal for those seeking true relaxation and introspection.

• Proximity to Leavenworth: Its relatively short distance (about 12 miles) from the unique Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth is a major draw. This allows campers the flexibility to enjoy a rustic wilderness experience while having easy access to town amenities, supplies, and dining for a "day trip if desired!"

• Secluded Campsites: Many sites, such as the "site 54 (walk in tent camping)" provide a "great secluded camping experience." The spacious layout of sites ensures privacy, with neighbors often "50 yards away" and unheard, contributing to a sense of personal wilderness.

• Abundant Firewood: The opportunity for campers to "scavenge" for "lots of firewood" (when fires are permitted) is a valued feature, contributing to the rustic and self-sufficient camping experience.

• Wildlife Awareness: The reminder to "watch out for bears at night" highlights the campground's genuine integration with the natural ecosystem. While vigilance is required, the presence of wildlife signifies a healthy, vibrant environment, appealing to those who appreciate nature in its raw form.

• Dark Skies for Stargazing: With "no network coverage" for several miles, the lack of light pollution around the campground likely makes for spectacular stargazing opportunities, allowing campers to marvel at the night sky in its full glory.

• Access to Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Situated within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, the campground provides access to various outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby trails offer opportunities to explore the beautiful surrounding mountains and the confluence of Johnny and Icicle Creeks.

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA

Phone: (509) 548-2550

Mobile Phone: +1 509-548-2550

For inquiries regarding Upper Johnny Creek Campground, the provided phone numbers (509) 548-2550 and +1 509-548-2550 connect directly to the Wenatchee River Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. As Upper Johnny Creek operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its individual sites, these numbers are not for reservations. However, they are essential resources for Washington locals planning a visit. It is highly recommended to call ahead to inquire about current campground conditions, any specific alerts such as fire bans (which are common in the area and can prevent campfires), road conditions on Icicle Road, and water advisories (given the yellow appearance of the pump water mentioned in reviews). They can also provide up-to-date information regarding bear activity in the area and general forest regulations, ensuring campers are well-prepared for their rustic and peaceful retreat.

Upper Johnny Creek Campground offers a compelling and often tranquil escape for Washington locals who appreciate a rustic camping experience with the convenience of being relatively close to town. Its suitability stems from its ability to provide a true "get out in nature" experience, characterized by quietude and ample opportunity for solitude, even on busy weekends when other nearby campgrounds might be full. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to unplug and unwind amidst the beautiful forests of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

The campground's charm lies in its simplicity. While amenities are basic – vault toilets and pump water that might be "yellow" (though reportedly safe) – these factors often contribute to a less crowded environment, attracting campers who are self-reliant and truly value a wilderness setting. The availability of "lots of firewood to scavenge" further enhances this back-to-basics appeal. For Washingtonians, the potential for "secluded camping experience" on spacious sites provides a cherished sense of privacy that is increasingly rare in popular outdoor destinations.

Furthermore, the strategic location near Leavenworth allows for a perfect blend of peaceful forest camping and access to town amenities for a "day trip if desired!" This flexibility is a significant benefit for locals who want the best of both worlds. The clear reminder to "watch out for bears at night" also underscores its genuine wilderness character, appealing to those who embrace the raw reality of nature. Despite the lack of cell service, which encourages a true digital detox, Upper Johnny Creek Campground stands as an excellent choice for Washington locals eager to reconnect with nature, enjoy rustic comforts, and find serene moments in their beautiful home state.

Upper Johnny Creek Campground

Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA