Halfway Flat Campground
4.4414 reviews10237 US HWY 12, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Halfway Flat Campground
$10.00 - $18.00 / 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
Standard nonelectric campsites are priced between $10 and $18 depending on the season. Additional vehicle fees are $5 per vehicle, payable on-site.
About this campground
Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the Naches River, Halfway Flat Campground offers an intimate retreat into the Pacific Northwest wilderness. This charming eight-site campground strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and seclusion, welcoming adventurers with modern amenities like vault toilets and fresh drinking water while maintaining the authentic feel of camping beneath towering old-growth giants. Whether you've secured a reservation or arrived for a spontaneous walk-up adventure, you'll find yourself immersed in one of the Cascade Range's most enchanting riverside settings.
Halfway Flat Campground offers primitive camping with no utilities. It is suitable for tents and small RVs but lacks modern amenities like hookups or developed infrastructure.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories at Halfway Flat, where ancient geological wonders meet legendary hiking trails. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail has carried dreamers and adventurers along its winding path for generations, while Boulder Cave stands as a testament to millions of years of natural artistry. These surrounding landmarks transform your camping experience into an educational journey, where every trail reveals lessons in geology, botany, and the delicate ecosystems that have thrived here long before the first human footsteps.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Cascades at Halfway Flat. Summer arrives with golden sunshine filtering through the canopy, creating perfect conditions for riverside relaxation and forest exploration. As autumn paints the landscape in brilliant hues, temperatures dance between crisp mornings and warm afternoons. Winter transforms the campground into a pristine wonderland, with snow blanketing the forest floor and temperatures dipping below freezing—ideal for those seeking solitude and winter camping adventures. Spring brings renewal and unpredictable weather, offering everything from misty mornings to unexpectedly warm afternoons.
ElevationPositioned at a comfortable elevation that offers the best of mountain camping without extreme altitude challenges, Halfway Flat provides an ideal basecamp for exploring the vertical diversity of the Cascade Range.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of ancient Douglas firs, western hemlocks, and majestic cedars that have stood sentinel for centuries. The forest floor comes alive with a emerald tapestry of ferns and cushiony moss, while sun-dappled meadows invite quiet contemplation. This verdant sanctuary serves as a gateway to the wild wonders of the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas, where lucky visitors might glimpse grazing elk at dawn, watch porcupines amble through the underbrush, or spot migratory birds painting patterns across the sky. The gentle murmur of the Naches River provides a constant soundtrack to this Pacific Northwest paradise.
Geological RegionHalfway Flat Campground sits proudly on the eastern slopes of the mighty Cascade Range within the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This remarkable location showcases nature's versatility—from glacially carved alpine peaks that pierce the sky to verdant valleys carved by ancient rivers, and the unique transition zones where lush forest meets shrub-steppe ecosystems. Here, the geological story of the Cascades unfolds before your eyes, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and some accessible campsites are noted, but detailed information on overall accessibility features is not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious. Sarah Wright wrote, 'Big sites with space between you and your neighbor.' Other reviews confirm this.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer good privacy due to space and shade provided by the old-growth trees. Kimberly Vickery stated, 'Only 8 sites, with good shade and space between.'
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverfront sites for scenic views but be aware of potential highway noise or limited privacy. Weekdays are quieter compared to weekends.
Best CampsitesSite 008 is noted for its proximity to the river, although users have mentioned the wind and highway visibility as drawbacks.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites accommodate 1 vehicle and 1 legally towed vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced apart, providing privacy. Five are reservable, while three are walk-up. Some sites are near the river but separated by a campground road.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day for reservations; mid-September onwards, all sites are first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov mobile app, website, and phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityThree of the eight campsites are available on a walk-up basis year-round. After mid-September, all campsites become first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee is applied for cancellations prior to the arrival date, along with forfeited reservation fees. Late cancellations subtract the first night's recreation use fee. Scan & Pay payments are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Halfway Flat Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle use. These activities cater to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts and leverage the unique natural surroundings.
Hiking
Numerous trails extend into the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail is a major attraction. Boulder Cave Trail is also popular, with interpretive signs providing information on the local geology, plants, and wildlife.Fishing
The Naches River, located adjacent to the campground, is ideal for fishing. It sustains populations of rainbow and brown trout. A reviewer confirmed, 'The campground setting provides ready access to the Naches River, where fishing is popular.'Biking
Nearby trails support mountain biking, though specific details are limited.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding old-growth forest and proximity to wilderness areas make it suitable for observing deer, elk, porcupines, native fish, and migratory birds. Endangered species like the Northern Spotted Owl and gray wolves also inhabit the area.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Boulder Cave Trail offers educational signage detailing the area's geology, plants, and history.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling and off-road vehicle use in the Little Naches drainage.Water Sports
Whitewater paddling opportunities exist in the Naches River, but specific details are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings, but firewood should be locally sourced to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include fast-moving river currents unsuitable for swimming, as well as wildlife such as gray wolves and bears. Campers should follow standard safety protocols for wildlife interactions and river use.
Active alertsNo current advisories or closures are mentioned.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are located in the town of Naches, approximately 30 miles away, which includes medical facilities and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20th through September 9th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, with large garbage cans provided. A reviewer noted that these facilities are not always respected by visitors, stating, 'It's sad when people come up and throw their trash down.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the Naches River, offering fishing and whitewater activities. Nearby, there are accessible trails along the river and opportunities to explore Boulder Cave.
Common complaintsNoise from off-road vehicles during weekends, lack of toilet paper in vault toilets, and proximity to the highway causing noise pollution are among user complaints.
HostHosts are available seasonally, typically starting around Memorial Day weekend, offering assistance and maintenance services.
Campground Map
10237 US HWY 12, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, Washington, follow Highway 410 for approximately 30 miles west to Forest Road 1709. Turn left on Forest Road 1709, cross the bridge then turn left on Forest Road 1704 follow the road approximately 1 mile. Campground is located on the left. From Enumclaw, depart WA-164/Griffin Ave toward Wells St. After ½ mile turn left onto WA-410/Roosevelt Ave. Follow WA-410 approximately 63 miles east to the intersection with Forest Road 1709. Turn right on Forest Road 1704 follow the road approximately 1 mile. Campground is located on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads for most of the route; however, the last mile or so consists of gravel roads. Forest Road 1704 may require caution during snowy or rainy conditions.Nearby places
Naches (30 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Enumclaw (63 miles, approximately 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping gear can be obtained in Naches, approximately 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Halfway Flat Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and tranquility of Halfway Flat Campground, as well as its proximity to the river and outdoor activities. Common sentiments include the spaciousness of sites and cleanliness of facilities. Some concerns are noted regarding noise from off-road vehicles and proximity to the highway.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious and shaded campsites, proximity to the river, clean vault toilets, and friendly camp hosts. The natural beauty of the old-growth forest and the variety of outdoor...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from off-road vehicles, lack of cell service, and issues with bathroom maintenance. Some reviewers mentioned that sites are not directly on the river due to the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a water filter or bottled water as some found the hand-pumped water questionable ('The water I pumped from the well was tan'). Arriving during weekdays is suggested to...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with visitors appreciating warm weather and access to fishing and hiking. However, weekends can be noisy due to off-road vehicle use. Fall and winter provide...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Only 8 sites, with good shade and space between.' - Kimberly Vickery
2. 'The bathrooms (long drops) were the cleanest I've ever seen at a primitive campsite.' - Charles T.
3. 'It's sad when...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5: Listed as riverfront but separated by the campground road.
Site 8: Mixed reviews regarding the wind and proximity to the road.
Site 6: Noted for being quiet and scenic.
Site 4: Highly praised...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are noted, but a lack of detailed accessibility features is mentioned. Lost campers reported challenges due to minimal signage and no cell coverage.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific pet-related complaints or praises were noted in reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025