Dispersed tent camping near Peshastin, Washington offers options ranging from riverside sites to mountain-accessible locations in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with surrounding peaks reaching 8,000+ feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between day and night. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during the day but drop to 50°F at night, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access multiple skill levels of rides from FS Road 7601, where the terrain varies from moderate to challenging. "Originally we were set up on a small pull off on the side of the road, but then we took a walk and saw a small road shooting off the side with 3 large spots with fire pits. So beautiful and pretty quiet besides the cars during the day," notes one FS Road 7601 visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: Launch directly onto Lake Wenatchee from campsites at Glacier View Campground. "We had a great 2-night stay. Arrived Sunday afternoon to the last of the weekenders packing up, then had the place to ourselves," reports a camper. The calm water areas are suitable for beginners and families.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Access the Enchantments trail system for day hikes or overnight backpacking. A camper at Colchuck Lake states, "Beautiful 4 mile hike up (8 round trip) to the lake. There was a weird smell coming from the river, so maybe don't drink from it haha. Bring plenty of your own water, also BUG SPRAY."
What campers like
Easy river access: Many campers praise the proximity to water at dispersed sites. "Absolutely stunning! We went to the left side past the Porta potty's along the off-road trail very bumpy, but absolutely worth it. We camped right along the river, and there was even a little access point for kayaks and canoes and calm water for the kids," says an FS Road 7601 visitor.
Secluded mountain camping: For those willing to drive rougher roads, Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping offers impressive vistas. "This would get 5 stars if it weren't for the terribly bumpy and long road up to the main site. My Toyota Highlander made it up, but I was a little nervous. It seemed like there was only one large spot at the top/end of road," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There are multiple pull off spots along this road, each with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. I camped at two different pull offs. Didn't worry too much about not finding a vacant spot," reports a camper at FS Road 7601.
What you should know
Mosquito preparedness: Bug activity varies dramatically by season and location. A visitor to Goose Creek Campground warns, "We came out and stayed here over Memorial day weekend and the bugs were so bad we only made it one night! The campsites are nice, there are a bunch of nice ones down by the river in the lower loop, and the upper loop has nice secluded, heavily treed ones on a creek."
Fire restrictions: Always check current fire regulations before camping. "There are no fires allowed," notes a visitor to Snow Lake Zone, which applies to many areas during peak summer months.
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping access roads deteriorate throughout the season. "Within the almost 4 million acres of the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, lie countless locations for dispersed camping. This area of the southeast corner of the NF has very little traffic compared to others, we saw only one ATV for the whole time we were there," says a Chumstick Mountain camper.
Tips for camping with families
Sandy shorelines: Look for sites with gentle water access for children. At Icicle Group Campground, "Flat, sandy soil, good for tents, lots of room. Three picnic tables, steel fire pit, bear proof trash cans, 2 clean porta potties are well stocked. Right by the river(it's loud, so that might be a con for some)."
Weather preparedness: Pack for 30-40 degree temperature swings. "I used my 15 degree sleeping bag end of July (I'm a cold sleeper and the temps were about 30)," notes a Snow Lake Zone camper.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage techniques. "This is bear/cougar country - bring protection. Lots of good hiking trails and rock climbing spots nearby," advises an Icicle Group Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most dispersed camping near Peshastin lacks facilities for RVs. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, "If you can get a site on the beach here it's worth the alarms you have to set on your phone to get them! The sites are smallish and a little weird shaped but you get direct access to the water. The water sites you park at the top and carry your things down to the site so be prepared for that."
Dust management: The sandy soil common to the area creates dust issues for RV campers. "Sandy soil blows around pretty bad if it's windy. Gets in EVERYTHING," warns an Icicle Group Campground visitor.
Campground timing: Arrive midweek for better site selection. "Campground caters to atv riders with trails and large sites with extra parking," notes a Goose Creek Campground visitor, indicating the weekend popularity among motorized recreation users.
