Camping sites near Cashmere, Washington range from basic forest campgrounds to full-service RV parks with river access. Located in the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains at approximately 800 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Campgrounds within 30 minutes of Cashmere provide access to both alpine forest environments and the drier shrub-steppe ecosystem characteristic of central Washington.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access mountain views from Eightmile Campground near Leavenworth. "Several hiking trails. Cell service is nonexistant. Shopping available in Leavenworth, roughly 5 miles," notes camper Norris K. This campground serves as a gateway to the Enchantments trail system.
Water activities: Cool off during summer heat at Lincoln Rock State Park. The park features a designated swimming area with beach access. According to Nicole N., "Clean bathrooms, easy access to the water, lots of grass and open space for kids to run and play, trees for shade and hanging hammocks... The calm water in the morning sun made for perfect paddleboarding."
Mountain biking: Explore forest service roads off Derby Canyon. "This area is very popular with mountain bikers and some dirt bikes," reports Ashley V. who stayed at dispersed sites along Derby Road. The terrain offers both technical challenges and scenic routes through the national forest.
What campers like
River access: Falling asleep to water sounds at Johnny Creek Campground. "The sites at Lower Johnny Creek aren't too close together. Short hike to the Icicle River if it's not at the back of your campsite," explains Christy A. Many sites back directly onto the Icicle River.
Family amenities: Playgrounds and open spaces at Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground. Hailey T. shares, "Amazing! Our spot faced the lake and surrounding mountains. The lake has such a nice beach!! Great swimming for adults and kiddos! There is also a playground that my niece loved."
Spacious campsites: Room to spread out in county parks. "I have never had such wide spread out spaces in any state campground. It was amazing. The spaces were level, lots of grass and enough trees to provide shade at every spot too," notes Sue G. about Wenatchee Confluence State Park. Many sites feature concrete pads with adjacent grassy areas.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Limited winter options for established campgrounds. Most facilities operate April through October. According to Laura M. who stayed at Wenatchee Confluence State Park Campground, "There isn't any water hookups any longer for winter but there are many sights that have electric and dump hookups that are still operational."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity in forest campgrounds. "Beware of bear activity," warns Kathleen D. about Eightmile Campground. Bear-proof food storage is essential at wilderness sites throughout the Wenatchee National Forest.
Sprinkler schedules: Tent placement considerations at maintained parks. As Cinco D. notes about Lincoln Rock State Park, "What makes it difficult for tent camping is there are a ton of sprinklers that turn on frequently. It is important to watch where you stake down your tent."
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Resort-style amenities at Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA. "We take our kids on fancy vacations but their favorite stop every year is the Leavenworth KOA. There are events all weekend, a shuttle into Leavenworth, movie nights and a cheap pancake breakfast," shares Amanda B.
Beach play: Sandy shorelines for water fun. "Great place to bring a bunch of friends, beautiful lake and beach and nice big camping spots!" writes Gracie W. about Lake Wenatchee State Park. The designated swimming areas feature gradual entry points suitable for younger children.
Biking opportunities: Safe paths away from traffic. Rich S. recommends Wenatchee Confluence State Park: "Large and sprawling, there are large grassy areas and walking/biking trails all over the campground and area. Bathrooms are clean." These paths provide safe recreation areas separate from roadways.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options at Wenatchee River County Park. "Good level asphalt roads and paved sites. Grounds/grass well maintained. Clean restrooms and pay 25 cents for four minutes clean showers," reports Leonard H. The park offers full hookups with 50-amp service.
Cell service limitations: Plan communications before arrival. "Wifi and cell service was bad. We use Verizon and pretty much had to go into town for service," notes Rick S. about staying at Icicle River RV Resort. Many mountain locations have limited or no connectivity.
Road conditions: Vehicle clearance considerations for dispersed camping. "Service roads did have some heavily washed out areas and rocks that higher ground clearance and AWD/4WD would be beneficial, but a 2WD car could make it to some sites," advises Ashley V. regarding Derby Road dispersed camping areas.
