Ballard Campground
04 reviews.
Ballard Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single site fee is $10 per night. Additional vehicle costs $5 per night, with a limit of two vehicles per site. Payment is digital-only through the recreation.gov mobile app. 50% discount for holders of Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access passes.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Ballard Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience where the melodic West Fork Methow River serves as your constant companion. This rustic forest haven beckons adventurers seeking solitude and serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the legendary Pasayten Wilderness. Three premier trails begin their journey here—Robinson Creek Trail #478, Monument Creek Trail #484, and West Fork Methow Trail #480—each promising their own unique adventure into one of Washington's most pristine backcountry areas. For those seeking scenic drives, the spectacular Harts Pass road winds skyward from nearby, while rock climbers will find challenging routes in the mysterious Lost River area.
Ballard Campground caters to a range of camping styles, focusing on traditional setups. It is suitable for tent and RV camping, with restrictions on RV size and site capacity.
Historical SignificanceThis area holds stories untold, waiting to be discovered by those who venture into its depths.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Ballard Campground with its own distinctive palette. Summer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for trail exploration, while the dry conditions create ideal camping weather. As autumn approaches, crisp air and occasional rain showers transform the forest into a tapestry of changing colors. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and brings freezing temperatures that create a peaceful, frozen wonderland. Spring emerges with gentle rains that awaken the forest, bringing wildflowers and rushing snowmelt to the river.
ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet above sea level, Ballard Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clear. This elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures that offer welcome relief during summer months, while the surrounding peaks create a dramatic amphitheater of mountain scenery that changes with every shift of light and weather.
Natural Features and SceneryThe West Fork Methow River creates a natural soundtrack as it tumbles past the campground, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering evergreens that form a protective canopy overhead. This lush forest sanctuary provides both shade and serenity, while serving as a living gateway to the vast Pasayten Wilderness beyond. Morning mists often drift through the trees, creating an ethereal atmosphere that reminds visitors they've entered a special corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Geological RegionBallard Campground sits at the confluence of river and wilderness in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Here, the West Fork Methow River has carved its path through ancient bedrock, creating a valley corridor that leads directly into the rugged Pasayten Wilderness. This dramatic landscape tells the story of millennia of geological forces, from glacial carving to volcanic activity, all combining to create one of the most spectacular wilderness gateways in the North Cascades region.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for superior views and ambiance.
Best CampsitesSites near the river are highly recommended based on user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
.
Check-out
.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is limited to an unspecified number of nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 2 tents or 1 RV and 1 tent per site. Two vehicles per site allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season typically spans May to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via the recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLikely limited as the campground strongly emphasizes the need for reservations via recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified explicitly but could be subject to recreation.gov's standard campground rules.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ballard Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural areas. Popular activities include hiking, scenic drives, and rock climbing.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several hiking trails, including Robinson Creek Trail #478, Monument Creek Trail #484, and the West Fork Methow Trail #480, which lead into the Pasayten Wilderness. The trails vary in difficulty and offer opportunities for day hikes.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not specified; likely subject to standard regulations regarding fire safety in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
- Quiet hours are .
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme weather variations (freezing winters, thunderstorms during transitional seasons), and being in a remote wilderness area. Wildlife encounters may require precautions.
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mazama Store (for basic supplies, located nearby as per user reviews). Hospitals and police stations are in Winthrop or other towns beyond the 15-mile distance.
Good to know
Peak season dates.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are not provided. Campers are required to pack out their own trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the West Fork Methow River. Sites by the river are appreciated for their scenic beauty.
Common complaintsSome user feedback identifies issues such as the lack of potable water and trash receptacles.
Host.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Winthrop, drive 15 miles west on Highway 20, turn right onto Lost River Road, drive 7.5 miles on pavement and continue another 1.5 miles on gravel forest road 5400 to Ballard Campground on the left side of the road.
Accessible via a combination of paved and gravel roads. Seasonal conditions may affect accessibility, particularly during winter months when snowfall is significant.Nearby places
Winthrop (15 miles, approx. 25 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Mazama Store (located nearby, as praised in user reviews, for convenience and quality of items). Nearest fuel and larger grocery stores are likely in Winthrop (15 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Ballard Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Ballard Campground as a quiet, scenic, and well-maintained camping spot. Many campers appreciated the proximity to the river and the cleanliness of the facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights from reviews include the scenic riverfront location, clean and well-maintained bathrooms, and the campground's tranquil atmosphere. One reviewer described it as 'a great camping...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
There are no specific complaints noted in the provided reviews. However, the lack of potable water and trash receptacles could be a downside for some campers.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend being prepared to bring your own water and pack out all trash. The nearby Mazama store is noted as a convenient option for meals and supplies.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great rustic camping with a decent number of lots and pit toilets.' - Logan Shelagowski, 2019. 2. 'Camped right by the river which was wonderful. The restrooms were in good shape and the Mazama...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025