Eightmile Campground
4.53197 reviews4905 Icicle Road, Leavenworth, Washington, 98826
Eightmile Campground
$27.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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
Peak season nightly rates range from $27 for standard non-electric and tent-only sites to $54 for double sites. Additional charges include $10 for extra vehicles, and late cancellation penalties apply. No discounts on extra vehicles with interagency passes.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Eightmile Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its peaceful setting along the crystalline waters of Icicle Creek. Here, towering pines and majestic firs create a natural cathedral overhead, sheltering 41 single-family campsites and 4 spacious double-family sites. Each spot comes thoughtfully equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings, where countless stories have been shared under starlit skies and the aromatic smoke of campfires has mingled with the fresh mountain air.
Eightmile Campground is a primarily rustic camping area catering to tent and RV campers, with some group sites available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the nearby Stevens Pass Historic District, where echoes of determined railroad workers and hopeful miners still resonate through the mountain corridors. This land tells stories of human ambition carved into wilderness, where pick axes once rang against stone and steam engines conquered seemingly impossible grades. The surrounding Alpine Lakes Wilderness stands as a testament to conservation vision, federally protected to preserve its pristine beauty and rich ecological tapestry for generations of adventurers to come.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather at Eightmile, where warm summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool evenings call for cozy campfire gatherings. As autumn paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons, temperatures begin their gentle descent, creating perfect conditions for hiking without the summer crowds. Spring arrives with a whisper of wildflowers and crisp mornings, though snow may still dust the higher elevations well into the season, reminding visitors of winter's lingering embrace.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 4,000 feet above sea level, Eightmile Campground serves as your gateway to even loftier adventures. From this elevated basecamp, ambitious hikers can access high-altitude trails that climb toward the sky, where the air grows thin and views expand to encompass entire mountain ranges. This elevation offers the perfect balance—high enough to escape summer's heat yet accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, where jagged peaks pierce the sky and pristine valleys cradle groves of old-growth giants. The nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness unfolds like nature's masterpiece, showcasing an astounding 700 glacier-carved lakes and ponds that sparkle like sapphires set in granite. From dense evergreen forests to rugged shrub-steppe meadows, the diverse ecosystems surrounding Eightmile create an ever-changing canvas of colors, textures, and wildlife habitats that captivate photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionEightmile Campground sits within the spectacular Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, a geological wonderland where elevations dramatically sweep from below 1,000 feet in river valleys to towering peaks exceeding 9,000 feet. This remarkable landscape tells the story of ice ages past, where massive glaciers carved deep valleys and sculpted the dramatic alpine terrain visible today. The crown jewel of the region, the 362,789-acre Alpine Lakes Wilderness, earned Congressional protection in 1976, recognizing its extraordinary geological features—from ancient metamorphic rocks to relatively young volcanic formations, all hosting pristine alpine lakes and verdant old-growth forests that have stood sentinel for centuries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include vault toilets and hand-pump water stations. However, some sites may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites reportedly range from decently sized to large, with several accommodating multiple tents and vehicles. One user mentioned, 'Campsite #5 had room for four small tents, and the parking area fit three cars back to back.'
Sites PrivacySites generally offer good privacy due to dense tree coverage. However, some sites near roads or restrooms may lack seclusion. For example, campsite 18 was described as having poor privacy due to proximity to host sites.
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites closer to the river, like #30-34, provide superior views and soothing water sounds. Avoid sites near the road for quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesCampsites #30-34 are highly recommended for their proximity to water. Site #2B offers significant privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per stay is allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Most single campsites accommodate 2 vehicles and multiple tents
- specifics vary.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes standard single-family sites, double-family sites, and one group site. Sites are spread out with some offering more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-May to early October. First-come-first-serve access from June 21-25 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable June 21 to June 25 annually, with a significant portion of sites kept for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night’s use fee and tax. No-shows incur a $20 service fee, forfeiting the first night’s fee. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days after the reservation ends.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Eightmile Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing, and river access. Visitors often praise the nearby Fourth of July Trail, Icicle Creek, and access to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Hiking
The campground has access to numerous hiking trails. The Fourth of July Trail is highlighted as a challenging and rewarding hike with expansive views of the Stuart Mountain Range and Icicle Valley. One reviewer noted, 'The trail quickly climbs in elevation, out of the trees into more open, arid landscapes.'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.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby, including at Toketie Lake, which is known for populations of rainbow and cutthroat trout. One reviewer mentioned, 'Anglers may want to cast a line into the deep pools at nearby Toketie Lake.'Biking
The campground area has several trails suitable for biking, though specific details on trail difficulty or length are not available.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including bears. Multiple users reported bear sightings and offered advice on proper food storage.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and ice climbing are available in the broader Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.Water Sports
The campground's proximity to Icicle Creek allows for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, but no specific facilities are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted outside of high fire-risk seasons. Fire bans may apply during summer.
- Quiet hours are respected by most campers and enforced by hosts. Complaints about noise are rare.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is frequently reported. Campers must store food securely and maintain caution near wildlife.
Active alertsSeasonal restrictions include fire bans during high summer heat. Water pumps may fail due to solar power limitations.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in provided materials; null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 4 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but users did not mention recycling. Some reviewers noted that dumpsters were well-maintained and emptied regularly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Icicle Creek with river access at multiple sites. Nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness offers secluded fishing lakes.
Common complaintsLimited privacy in some sites. Issues with water availability due to solar pump failures. Bear encounters can disrupt camping.
HostHosts are praised for cleanliness and helpfulness. Some campers recount exceptional assistance resolving site issues.
Campground Map
4905 Icicle Road, Leavenworth, Washington, 98826
Driving directionsFrom the west, take Highway 2 east through Monroe and over Steven's Pass. Turn right on Icicle River Road and follow for approximately 8 miles. The campground will be on the left. From the east, take Highway 2 west through Leavenworth. Turn left on Icicle River Road and follow road approximately 8 miles to the campground on the left.
Accessible via Icicle River Road, a paved route. No seasonal closures mentioned. Warnings for steep terrain or tight turns are absent, suggesting ease of navigation.Nearby places
Leavenworth (approximately 8 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Leavenworth (approximately 8 miles away), featuring grocery stores and camping supply outlets.
Camper Reviews
4.5
197 reviews
Eightmile Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Eightmile Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with common praises for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and helpful hosts. Negative comments often center around water availability issues and occasional lack of privacy at some sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 197 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities; helpful and friendly camp hosts; spacious and private campsites; proximity to hiking and recreational activities; beautiful natural scenery.
Based on 197 reviewsCommon Concerns
Water availability issues (solar-powered pumps not always reliable); some sites lack privacy due to proximity to roads or restrooms; occasional noise from nearby roads.
Based on 197 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as hand pumps may not always work; arrive early for first-come, first-served sites; sites 30-34 are closest to the river and highly recommended.
Based on 197 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are the most popular due to favorable weather and accessibility to river activities. Winter months see fewer visitors due to snow and colder conditions.
Based on 197 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The vault toilets were the cleanest ever vault toilet.' - User review from September 2021. 'No showers in campground, just take a cold bath in the river and relax!' - Reviewer from July 2023.
Based on 197 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 34 is frequently praised for its proximity to the river, while site 18 is criticized for poor privacy and being near host facilities. Site 30-34 are highly recommended for river access.
Based on 197 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features for campers with disabilities but mention clean facilities and well-maintained grounds.
Based on 197 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and users have shared positive experiences camping with dogs. However, bear activity emphasizes the need for proper food storage to avoid wildlife encounters.
Based on 197 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025