Early Winters Campground

This is a USFS campground located in the Okanagan National Forest along highway 20 or the North Cascades Highway. This is the problem as road noise can be a problem during the summer months. It is one of the last to close when the snow season arrives as it is in a lower location than Klipchuck or Lone Fir further west along the highway.

We have camped here several times the most recent being October 26, 2020 when there was several inches of crusty snow. We stayed in site #2 which was the closest to the vault toilet. We were next to the creek and could hear it all night which was very soothing. We had the entire campground to ourselves and the traffic was light due to snow.

The campground has large pine trees, a standard wooden picnic table and fire pit. Camping was free as the iron ranger had a garbage bag covering it. Campground fee is usually $8.

I traveled the Cascade Loop and along the way found many campgrounds which I absolutely loved. Amongst those I found amenities varied as did price points. 

Early Winters Campground appealed to my budget saving desires when I wanted to find something which was not completely removed and offered some basic amenities. Camping here was only $12 per night which was very budget friendly. 

The sites were decently sized but seemed a but less secluded than some locations I had visited along the way. Mostly tent campers were here when I visited, I feel this is in large part due to the smaller pull in areas. 

Fees can be paid at a honor box located at the entrance of the campground near the restrooms. Additionally, something to note is those who have the Senior Access pass are eligible for a 50% discount when their pass is displayed clearly on their dash. There is no water at this campground so keep that in mind when planning a visit. 

The basic campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. They are surrounded by trees and many low laying shrubs which makes for great windbreak on a blustery day. 

The biggest benefit I could see to staying at this location was the proximity to the trails which run through the area. Just a short walk from your campsite you can find the Methow Trails which is known primarily for its cross country ski access points but is also great for hiking during the warmer months. In some areas you can also do mountain biking on the trails, however there are signs posted as to where this is or is not approved. 

TIPS: 

• If you are wanting to stay here there is no reservation system, keep this in mind during peak season and arrive early to secure your camping location. 
• If you are a person who travels with your horses you will not be able to stay at this location. Horses are prohibited. 
• Bring everything you will need to this campground as there are not any services at the site. This includes firewood, come prepared!!

Would not be my first choice if other campgrounds aren't full. This side of the pass gets less rain and snow so it is more popular with hunters. At the time we visited it was full of hunting campers. Right off of hwy 20 with very little tree cover or privacy, some road noise. Campground is on both sides of the hwy.