Dog friendly campgrounds near Peshastin offer camping options along the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000-2,500 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F in July and August, while spring and fall provide milder conditions. Most campgrounds in the Peshastin area sit within ponderosa pine forests with proximity to rivers for cooling relief.
What to do
Hiking with dogs near Colchuck Lake: Take your dog on the moderate 8-mile round trip hike from Eightmile Campground to explore stunning alpine terrain. "The Enchantments are beautiful. This hike is 8 miles round trip and I would say it was a moderate hike," says Sasha W. who stayed at a nearby campground.
Riverside relaxation: Find shallow swimming spots along Icicle Creek at Johnny Creek Campground where dogs can cool off. "The river was just below my site. It was beautiful!!" reports Missy S., while Laura H. notes, "If you're lucky or go during the off season you'll get a creek spot on the lower Johnny Creek campground."
Winter activities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Peshastin operate year-round, allowing access to winter recreation. Nicole B. from Wenatchee River County Park shares, "We did a snow camp there and LOVED it! A little pricey in the snow because of the ski trails but so much fun."
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Many campers appreciate sites directly adjacent to water. At Bridge Creek Campground, Jayda R. explains, "We ended up unhooking our tent-trailer to fit in the site...Gorgeous surroundings, the sound of the rushing water lulled us right to sleep at night."
Natural cooling options: During hot summer days, creeks provide relief from the heat. "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," mentions Christy A. about her favorite spot.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many pet-friendly sites offer wildlife observation from a safe distance. Andy S. recalls his extended stay at Leavenworth: "So many days waking up with wildlife in our space. They have quite a few well maintained trails in the area for hiking and exploring."
What you should know
High season fills quickly: Peshastin area pet-friendly campsites reach capacity rapidly during summer months. "Let me tell you, this area was so packed! We drove around for quite a while and we finally right before dark found 1 campsite open. I mean we drove through about 5 campgrounds," warns Jenelle K.
Hidden fees at some campgrounds: Several reviewers mention unexpected costs. At Johnny Creek Campground, Patricia notes: "It's confusing as many other reviewers have said. Basically if you have a truck and trailer you have to pay for double vehicle occupancy which is $18x2 = $36."
Cell service varies significantly: Connectivity depends entirely on location. At Nason Creek Campground, Laura M. reports "Good cell reception for ATT and Verizon," while at Blu-Shastin RV Park, Adam A. warns "There is no cell coverage due to the mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Some pet-friendly sites include kid-friendly amenities. At Leavenworth KOA, Nicole G. mentions, "Nice outdoor pool. Decent store. Nice playground. Has breakfast on summer weekends. Coffee shop. They blow up a bounce house for kids."
Look for campsites with evening activities: Families with dogs appreciate structured entertainment options. Amanda B. explains why her family returns to a local KOA annually: "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."
Water access is key: When traveling with both kids and dogs, water features keep everyone happy. About Lincoln Rock State Park Campground, Nicole N. shares, "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."
Tips from RVers
Consider spacing between sites: RV campers with dogs need adequate room. At the higher-rated campgrounds, Jim J. notes, "We got a decent full hookup site (67) that was backed up to the Peshastin river. Many sites have access and viewing of this small river and we really enjoyed the peaceful sounds."
Verify site dimensions before booking: Some campgrounds can't accommodate larger rigs despite advertising otherwise. David E. suggests, "For this price you would expect a MUCH better WiFi system. T-Mobile cell coverage was basically useless for data. We would stay again in a pinch if hookups needed, but if we get back this way and don't need hookups we will probably try one of the NF campgrounds up the road."
Seek out level sites: Many pet-friendly campgrounds in the mountains have challenging topography. Rick S. warns about one popular RV resort: "We parked in space 81 so we could hear the road noise from Icicle Road. Up in this area, the road is paved but lots 76-87 are gravel. Not a big deal unless it rains as those are on the lower end of a slope."