Entiat — Washington State
Camping in
Entiat
Nine campgrounds along the Entiat River — from a well-equipped city park near town to remote Forest Service sites deep in the backcountry.
Full Entiat Guide →beExploring / Entiat
Overview
The Entiat Valley is one of the quieter camping destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Most campgrounds sit directly along the banks of the Entiat River inside the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, ranging from Entiat City Park on the Columbia River near town to the remote Cottonwood Campground at the end of the road, 38 miles into the backcountry.
Dispersed camping is also permitted on National Forest land throughout the valley — free, flexible, and with no reservations required. Whether you want a quick weekend escape or a basecamp for hiking and mountain biking, the Entiat Valley delivers with far fewer crowds than more famous destinations in the Cascades.
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Quick Picks
Not sure where to camp? These picks match the most common trip types in the valley.
Most Convenient
Entiat City Park — closest to town, best amenities, boat launch on the Columbia River.
Best for Families
Silver Falls Campground — steps from the Silver Falls trailhead, on the river, mid-valley feel.
Best for Hiking
Pine Flats Campground — Lower Mad River Trailhead at the doorstep, potable water, 25 miles in.
Most Remote
Cottonwood Campground — 38 miles up the valley, first-come sites, Entiat River Trailhead nearby.
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Ways to Camp
Campgrounds
Nine developed campgrounds line the Entiat Valley, most sitting on the banks of the Entiat River. From the amenity-rich Entiat City Park near town to the remote Cottonwood Campground at the end of the road, there's a wide range of options for all types of campers.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is permitted on National Forest land throughout the Entiat Valley, offering a free and flexible alternative to developed campgrounds. No designated sites, fees, or reservations — bring everything you need, pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace. Check with the Entiat Ranger District for current fire restrictions and road conditions before heading out.
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Tips for Camping
Budget time for the drive. Remote campgrounds like Cottonwood and North Fork are 38 miles up a narrow mountain road — plan at least 90 minutes from town.
Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served. Arrive early on Friday for summer weekends, or visit mid-week for easy availability.
Not all campgrounds have potable water. Fox Creek, North Fork, Three Creek, and Spruce Grove do not — bring your own or plan to filter.
Check fire restrictions before every trip. The Entiat Valley sees regular burn bans in dry summers, affecting campfires and sometimes camp stoves.
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Common Mistakes
Expecting showers. No campground in the Entiat Valley has shower facilities — vault toilets are standard. Plan accordingly or base yourself in Wenatchee or Chelan.
Skipping the road conditions check. The upper valley road can be rough after winter and may close earlier than expected in fall. Call the Entiat Ranger District before a deep-valley trip.
Underestimating summer heat at lower campgrounds. Entiat City Park and Pine Flats can get intense afternoon heat in July and August — plan morning activity and bring extra water.
Assuming popular campgrounds will have space. Silver Falls and Pine Flats fill on holiday weekends — midweek trips or deep valley spots are the best backup.
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