Camping spots near Cle Elum, Washington range from primitive forest campsites to family-friendly lakeside areas. The region sits at elevations between 1,900-2,500 feet where summer temperatures typically reach the 80s during day and drop to the 40s at night. Water levels at area lakes can drop significantly by late summer, creating different shoreline conditions than early season campers experience.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: From Kachess Campground, trails lead to multiple mountain lakes. "There is plenty of mosquitoes so be prepared with your repellents... The lake is walking distance and provides plenty of space for everyone to splish and splash around although the water is quite cold but wonderful," reports Kimmy G.
River access for wading: The rocky shores at Red Mountain Campground create natural swimming areas. "The rocky river shore gave great places to swim and jump in the river when it got hot," writes Stephanie R., who enjoyed the river frontage. Jacob M. adds, "We were right next to the river. Helped drown out any cars on the highway at night."
Dirt biking and ATV trails: Several forest roads around camping areas permit off-road vehicles. "If you are a mountain biker, this spot will not disappoint with the trail system right out of camp," explains Silas about Teanaway Campground. Areas near Kachess Lake also attract riders, though with caution as "there is NO legal driving in the lake bed, even when the water is low."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Teanaway Campground offers natural separation between campsites. "Sites are separated by picnic tables and fire rings. Not much underbrush around, but the numerous pines give ample shade in the afternoon and evening," observes Daniel. Callie C. notes, "By Sunday evening 90% of the crowd had left and it was heavenly!"
Natural wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer chances to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. At Salmon La Sac, Cindy R. reports, "You will not hear the hum of freeway noise or cars swooshing by at high speed, as this camper's haven is at the end of a paved road and sits smack in the middle of the Cle Elum and Cooper rivers." Pete B. describes his night at Kachess: "In the middle of the night, we woke to animal(s) walking outside our tent. I suspect it was a deer or two."
Cell service availability: Most campers report surprisingly good connectivity at wilderness sites. At L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, one camper found "ATT and Verizon were both 3 strong bars." At Kachess Lake Lakebed, Jonathan T. confirms, "We have full bars on T-Mobile, and have no neighbors with 300 feet or so."
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears visit several campgrounds in the area. At Kachess Campground, campers report, "On our first night, a bear passed by one of our neighbor's site so make sure you clean up after yourselves and don't leave food out at night."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: L.T. Murray Wildlife Area requires full self-sufficiency. "There is nothing out here. You must bring everything you need. Food, water, TP, lights," advises Shay F. Similarly, Kachess Lake Lakebed has "NO water or trash but some vault toilets."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping can be challenging. Robert C. describes L.T. Murray Wildlife Area: "Easy access from I-90. I camped at a location 2.1 miles from the gate up the extremely bumpy gravel road." At Kachess Lake Lakebed, Laura M. cautions, "We made it fine in our 26ft class c, but the big sharp-edged rocks were concerning to drive over."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming spots for safer water play. "Lake Kachess Campground is a great modern family campground... The Lake is walking distance and provides plenty of space for everyone to splish and splash around," reports Kimmy G.
Consider timing for quieter experience: Whispering Pines RV Campground offers family amenities with moderate crowds. "Lots of play area for kids, lake looked big, same with dog park. Then I took a walk around on the path, and followed the river," notes Randy G. Nick C. emphasizes, "This campground was one of the nicest we have every been to... very clean, the spots were spacious and tons of things for the kids to do."
Check for recreational options: Many sites have more than just camping. Christopher F. describes Lake Kachess: "We had a lot of fun riding our bikes throughout the campground... We could launch our paddle board from right there." Trevor M. found variety at Lake Easton, noting "Small playground with a basketball court by the bathrooms. Lovely river walk trail follows the Yakima River."
Tips from RVers
Look for pull-through sites: Some campgrounds offer easier access for large rigs. Sydney D. at Red Mountain notes, "This location was an accident to find but great for larger vehicles that have a hard time back in to site. There are 3 spots for pull in and out."
Distance between hookups and dump stations: Many campgrounds have limited hookup options. Whispering Pines stands out with Julie F. reporting, "Lots of sites, very well laid out and easily maneuverable/accessible... The sites are level and fairly well spaced... Daily garbage pick up from your site which is nice."
