Glamping near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers elevated outdoor experiences across diverse terrain that ranges from 1,000 to over 9,000 feet in elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night. Most glamping accommodations remain accessible from late April through October, with some higher elevation sites closing after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Riverside recreation: At Eightmile Campground, the Icicle River creates natural swimming and fishing areas. "This creek is what beautiful mountain dreams are made of! Been here a few times and loved it! Close to Leavenworth and so far away at the same time," notes one visitor.
Winter activities: Many glamping sites provide year-round access to snow sports. Swauk Campground transforms in winter months for cross-country skiing. "Crossing through the dry and rugged terrain of the eastern most portion of Washington, the pleasant surprise of the forest campground of Swauk could not have come at a better time," reports a winter visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. "Velvet buck was eating next to our class c the next morning," describes one camper at Eightmile Campground. Bear activity is common at several locations, requiring proper food storage.
What campers like
River access: The region's waterways provide cooling relief during summer months. At Wish Poosh Campground, "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."
Family programming: Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA organizes regular family activities. "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," reports one parent.
Trail connectivity: Many glamping locations provide direct access to trail systems. At Middle Fork Campground, visitors appreciate the proximity to popular hiking destinations: "We stayed there to be close to the mailbox trail head. There were so many berries around the camp and we could literally sit in camp and pick blue berries."
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several glamping locations. At Lake Easton State Park Campground, "Nice state campground, well kept, beautiful lake if you can get one of the lakeside spots. We had site #11, and the road noise was just too too loud for me. Definitely try to get a spot away from the road."
Limited facilities: Basic glamping sites may lack running water or shower facilities. "There is no water and the toilet is a honey bucket. This campground needs some extra maintenance because the porta potties needed to be serviced as it was getting quite full during our stay," reports a Wish Poosh Campground visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Spring visits may encounter snow at higher elevations while summer temperatures can reach 90°F. Most glamping sites operate from May through September, though some remain open year-round with limited winter services.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wenatchee River County Park provides family-friendly amenities alongside glamping options. "Nice sites, some shaded. Tents and yurts available for camping and RV sites for your RV," notes one visitor, highlighting the varied accommodation types available to families.
Weekend activities: Some glamping locations offer structured children's programming. At Leavenworth-Pine Village KOA, "Hours of pool/hot tub are narrow," so plan accordingly for peak usage times, typically 10am-8pm during summer months.
Berry picking: Seasonal berry picking provides family-friendly activity near glamping sites. "We could literally sit in camp and pick blue berries," shares a visitor at Middle Fork Campground, where huckleberries and blueberries ripen from mid-July through August.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many glamping locations offer varying levels of hookups. At Wenatchee River County Park, "Full hook ups, right on the Wenatchee River with easy access and a few sand beaches. Great place for paddle boarding or just floating in the cool water."
Site specifics: Request sites away from high-traffic areas for more peaceful glamping. "The campground is well-spaced between each site allowing for privacy. Our campsite was pretty big for a glamping site," reports a visitor about site separation at Whispering Pines RV Campground.
Seasonal pricing: Some locations offer significant off-season discounts. "Campground is only open April through October. The showers here were hot and clean and $0.25 for 4 min, payable with quarters," notes a visitor at Wenatchee River County Park describing the practical amenities available.