Chewuch Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Okanogan National Forest manages Chewuch Campground along the Chewuch River north of Winthrop, where sites are spread across open terrain shaded by large Ponderosa pines. The campground runs from mid-May through October 31st and accommodates RVs up to 35 feet, though tent sites positioned closest to the river tend to draw the most interest. Nearby, Falls Creek Campground fills quickly on busy weekends, making Chewuch a reasonable backup when the corridor gets crowded.

River access is the defining feature here. The Chewuch runs clear, and several sites have direct trail access to the water's edge. Fishing is sometimes available, though seasonal restrictions apply and have been enforced in recent years, so anglers should check current regulations before planning around it. Reviewers consistently note the campground stays relatively quiet and uncrowded compared to others along the route. Pit toilets are distributed throughout and have received positive marks for cleanliness. Water spigots are on-site.

Amenities are standard for a Forest Service campground: drinking water, pit toilets, picnic tables, and trash service. No hookups are available. A camp host is sometimes present, though coverage varies. Late summer visitors should be aware that wildfire smoke can move into the area during dry stretches, occasionally affecting air quality and triggering fire restrictions that override the campground's normal campfire allowance. Jessica C. notes it can be "super smoky this time of year from surrounding forest fires." Chewuch works best for campers who want straightforward river access without a lot of amenities beyond the basics.

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsChewuch Campground is located in Washington near Mazama

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

In Winthrop, WA, at intersection of State Rt. 20 with Pearrygin Lake State Park sign (no street sign), follow sign to state park. Continue straight, passing the state park and go 15 miles to campground on right.

Coordinates

48.67784517 N
120.13409282 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews5 Camper Reviews - Chewuch Campground

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

20%
60%
20%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the quiet, tree-filled setting with crystal clear river access and clean facilities. The campground offers well-maintained sites with good privacy, though experiences can vary by individual expectations.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2022

Mosquito city

Wasn’t totally thrilled with our stay here. Just a basic site near a river. Nothing special.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Dec. 5, 2020

Typical NFS campground

This is your typical Forest Service campground. It has pit toilets throughout (that were clean enough) the campground as well as water spigots. No hookups but the setting is great with big trees Tent campers get the better sites near the river. We didn't see a camp host (the host site was empty) but I believe one from another campground comes by to check on things.

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2020

Just what we were looking for!

Camped at Chewuch a couple nights after dropping our daughter off at college. We were pleasantly surprised to reach this near empty campground after finding Falls Creek CG and every “dispersed” site along the way full up. We pulled into Chewuch and found a wonderfully secluded (on all sides) site (#10) that was perfect for our Rooftop Tent rig. Beautifully treed with large Ponderosas and a very nice view of a mountain peak from the dining/sitting area. We even had our own private trail to the river - just a perfect spot! Very nice and knowledgeable CG hosts (7 years here). Exceptionally clean restrooms. While here be sure to visit Falls Creek Falls and the Old West town of Winthrop.

  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Craig , September 11, 2020
  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Craig , September 11, 2020
  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Craig , September 11, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 12, 2017

I love Winthrop

The Chewuch river is crystal clear. We love staying out here. Quiet campground with easy access to the river. Usually you can fish here but this year there was a strict no fishing rule. We still enjoyed the stay. Hot and dry. Super smoky this time of year from surrounding forest fires. No fires allowed this time of year either!

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Jessica C., September 12, 2017
  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Jessica C., September 12, 2017
  • Review photo of Chewuch Campground by Jessica C., September 12, 2017
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Chewuch Campground?

Chewuch Campground offers basic Forest Service amenities including clean pit toilets and water spigots throughout the grounds. There are no hookups for RVs, making it more suitable for tent camping or self-contained vehicles. The campground features secluded sites with natural separation, some of which are particularly nice for tent campers near the river. While there is typically a camp host site, it may not always be occupied. Campfire rings are available at sites, though fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.

Can you camp along the Chewuch River near the campground?

Yes, camping along the Chewuch River is one of the highlights of this campground. The tent camping sites near the river are considered the more desirable locations, offering easy access to the crystal clear water. These riverside sites provide a peaceful setting with the sound of flowing water and natural beauty. The river is easily accessible from the campground, making it convenient for fishing (when permitted), wading, or simply enjoying the riverside scenery.

What nearby accommodations are available if Chewuch Campground is full?

If Chewuch Campground is full, several alternatives exist in the area. Falls Creek Campground is nearby, though it can also fill up quickly during peak season. There are dispersed camping options along the roads in the surrounding forest areas, though these can become crowded as well. The town of Winthrop, being close by, offers additional accommodations including other campgrounds, RV parks, motels, and vacation rentals. For those seeking similar Forest Service campgrounds with river access, exploring further up the forest roads may yield available sites.

Where is Chewuch Campground located near Winthrop, WA?

Chewuch Campground is located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest along the crystal clear Chewuch River, just north of Winthrop, Washington. This Forest Service campground is situated in a forested setting with tall trees providing ample shade. It offers a peaceful retreat in the Methow Valley region and serves as a good base for exploring the surrounding wilderness areas. The campground is accessible by car, though you may encounter some smoke during fire season in the surrounding area.