Cashmere sits at 780 feet elevation in the Wenatchee Valley, surrounded by the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains. The area's semi-arid climate creates warm, dry summer conditions with temperatures ranging from 85-95°F between June and August. Forest Service roads become accessible by late April, though higher elevation campgrounds near Cashmere may remain snow-covered until mid-May.
What to do
Paddle the Columbia River: Lincoln Rock State Park Campground offers boat launches for kayaking or motorboats with "miles of water to explore. And fishing galore!" according to Ilene P., who visits regularly. The park has swimming areas for cooling off after water activities.
Mountain biking on Derby Road: National Forest dispersed camping areas provide direct access to popular mountain biking trails. Sara S. notes these are "dispersed spots near town and great MTB trails" with "multiple sites along the road" on Derby Road NF7400, though she cautions to "look for signs as there are some pullouts marked 'no camping.'"
Hiking to alpine lakes: Eightmile Campground serves as a convenient base for accessing multiple trailheads. Located about 5 miles from Leavenworth, it offers proximity to popular hikes. One camper mentioned, "Been here a few times and loved it! Close to Leavenworth and so far away at the same time. Beautiful hiking!"
What campers like
Riverfront access: Many campsites at Johnny Creek Campground back directly onto Icicle Creek. Kristi S. appreciated that "our campsite was away from the road along the river. It had a fire pit, picnic table and a few spots to put up our tent." Another reviewer noted site #15 "felt pretty private and you could hear and see Icicle Creek about 30 feet below the site."
Well-maintained facilities: Wenatchee Confluence State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep. Rich S. described it as having "concrete sites with tent pads, and some are nicely shaded. Host and staff are friendly, too." Another camper commented on the "large and sprawling" grounds with "large grassy areas and walking/biking trails all over the campground."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Icicle River RV Resort, one reviewer mentioned "loved seeing black bears across the river," while at Eightmile Campground, a camper reported waking up to find a "velvet buck was eating next to our class c the next morning."
What you should know
Limited availability: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, Kevin K. warns, "Make sure you reserve a site online. If you just show up last minute you may be Sol." Similarly, at Johnny Creek, campers report having to "drive through about 5 campgrounds" before finding "the very last open spot."
Mosquito preparation: Insect activity varies by location and season. At Lake Wenatchee, multiple reviewers specifically mention bringing bug repellent "because the mosquitoes are bad." One recent camper stated simply: "Be prepared for mosquitoes. But other than that very clean nice campsite."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. At Blu-Shastin RV Park, a reviewer noted "No cell service with T-Mobile. WiFi at the clubhouse." Similarly, at Eightmile Campground, campers report "cell service is nonexistent," while dispersed camping areas on Derby Road have "Verizon phone service was ok, T-Mobile was spotty at best."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA offers structured activities for children. Amanda B. shared, "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." Another family appreciated that "they blow up a bounce house for kids."
Biking-friendly campgrounds: Wenatchee Confluence State Park provides "plenty of space for the kids to bike around the campground" according to one reviewer. Another parent noted it's a "great place for kids to ride bikes with plenty of paved pathways between the campground and day use area."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. Lincoln Rock State Park features "ball fields, tennis and basketball courts," while Wenatchee Confluence has "a very nice play structure" in its day use area, accessible via a short walk from the campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Wenatchee River County Park, Leonard H. appreciated the "good level asphalt roads and paved sites" that make setup easier. Another RVer recommended arriving early for better site options: "We stayed in a back-in, PHU site by the volleyball court. Full price for this site is $40, no additional taxes or fees."
Seasonal considerations: Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground offers different experiences throughout the year. One camper mentioned, "We did a snow camp there and LOVED it!" though noted it was "a little pricey in the snow because of the ski trails."
Pet friendly options: For those seeking pet friendly camping near Cashmere, Washington, Johnny Creek Campground provides "mature trees" and well-maintained sites that work well for pets. At Lincoln Rock State Park, reviews mention "lush green" areas suitable for dog walking, though without the dedicated dog run found at Wenatchee River County Park.
Traveler
