Hells Crossing Campground
4.1640 reviewsHwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Hells Crossing Campground
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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 and tent-only nonelectric sites cost $22.00 per night during the peak season from May 16 to October 4. Extra vehicle fee is $8.00.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the rushing American River, Hells Crossing Campground offers a pristine gateway to the Cascade Range wilderness within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This charming retreat spans both sides of the river, with sites 1-10 gracing one bank and sites 11-18 dotting the other, creating an intimate connection with the waterway that defines this special place. Here, the soundtrack of flowing water mingles with rustling pine needles as you wake to misty mountain mornings. While you won't find electrical hookups or modern conveniences, you'll discover something far more valuable: spacious sites beneath towering evergreens, immaculately maintained restrooms, and direct access to world-class hiking, fishing, rafting, and swimming. Past visitors consistently praise the campground's peaceful atmosphere and cleanliness, though they advise coming prepared with insect repellent to ward off the local ant and bee populations that also call this paradise home.
Hells Crossing Campground accommodates both tent and standard nonelectric camping sites. "Hells Crossing Campground offers standard and tent-only sites."
Historical SignificanceAdventure seekers will find themselves at a crossroads of natural and cultural history at Hells Crossing. Just moments away lies the fascinating Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail, where interpretive signs unveil millions of years of geological mysteries, introduce the cave's unique wildlife inhabitants, and share stories of fire's role in shaping this landscape. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, connecting your campsite to a 2,650-mile journey that has captured imaginations and tested limits for generations of hikers. Here, you're not just camping—you're becoming part of a continuing story of outdoor exploration and discovery.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Hells Crossing into a sun-drenched haven where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool mountain evenings demand cozy campfires. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into golden hues before winter's dramatic entrance blankets the landscape in deep snow. This remarkable region showcases nature's extremes: while the western Cascade Crest receives a staggering 140 inches of precipitation annually, creating the lush forests that shelter the campground, the eastern edges see a mere 10 inches, painting a landscape of dramatic contrasts across this diverse ecosystem.
ElevationPerched within the dramatic folds of the Cascade Range, Hells Crossing occupies a sweet spot in this mountainous wonderland. While specific elevation markers remain nature's secret, visitors immediately sense the alpine character of this highland retreat, where the air feels crisper, the stars shine brighter, and every breath reminds you that you've ascended into something special.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape painted by glaciers and time itself—towering peaks crowned with ancient ice rise above a tapestry of old-growth forests where centuries-old giants stand sentinel. The American River carves its way through this pristine wilderness, offering both a stunning centerpiece and a natural playground for swimmers and rafters. As you explore eastward, watch in wonder as the dense, moss-draped forests gradually give way to sun-baked shrub-steppe country, revealing the incredible ecological diversity that makes this corner of Washington truly extraordinary. Every vista tells a story of fire and ice, water and stone, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionHells Crossing sits at the heart of one of North America's most spectacular mountain ranges—Washington's mighty Cascades. This section of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest showcases the range's full dramatic spectrum: from the west, where massive glaciated peaks preside over valleys cloaked in emerald old-growth forests, to the east, where the landscape transforms into a rugged tableau of shrub-steppe wilderness sculpted by centuries of rain shadow effects. The American River threads through this geological wonderland, its waters telling the ancient story of ice ages past while carving tomorrow's canyons today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features such as ramps and specialized facilities are not mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Site 15 is described as very large and able to fit multiple tents. "Wonderful spot! Our site was right on the river and very private. And huge! Could’ve fit a lot of tents here."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ by site. Site 4 and 5 are noted for their seclusion and proximity to the river. "Camp sites #4 and #5 are my favorite. Personal access along the River. Lots of privacy!"
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 4 & 5 are praised for being shady, private, and offering direct river access with a slight downhill to the water. Site 15 is large enough for multiple tents and offers excellent privacy. Site 10 is highly scenic but prone to ants.
Best CampsitesReviewers often recommend sites 4, 5, 8, 15, and 10 due to their size, shade, privacy, or proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two separate sections: sites 1-10 in the eastern section and sites 11-18 in the western section. Sites are generally spacious and well-separated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16, 2025, through October 4, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are walk-up only; users have noted walk-up availability varies and may require checking site statuses upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyFor cancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date, a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and also forfeit the first night’s rate, taxes, and applicable add-ons.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hells Crossing Campground hosts a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and rafting. "Hells Crossing Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of recreational activities throughout the year."
Hiking
Several trails are nearby, including Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail and segments of the Pacific Crest Trail. Hikers have rated the trails highly for their natural beauty and accessibility.Fishing
The American River provides excellent fishing opportunities but specific details about types of fish are not mentioned.Swimming
Swimming in the American River is popular. "The American River, which can be accessed from within the campground, offers a scenic backdrop for swimmers braving its cold, refreshing waters."Boating
Boating opportunities exist, particularly for whitewater rafting on the American River and nearby rivers. "Whitewater enthusiasts may enjoy a rafting trip on the American or on one of many scenic rivers in the area."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is likely, given the campground's location in a lush valley of old-growth forest.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive signs along Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail explain geology, plants, animals, and fire history.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing nearby, as the area experiences significant snowfall.Water Sports
Water sports include rafting and swimming in the American River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless a fire ban is in place. Firewood must be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are Specific quiet hours not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include an abundance of ants, bees, and yellow jackets. Campers frequently report ants being problematic in certain sites like site 10, where they were particularly concentrated.
Active alertsNo current alerts specified.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 as being close, but Naches, WA (38 miles away) may have appropriate facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 4 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the American River is available for swimming, fishing, and rafting.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include ant infestations, bees/yellow jackets around food, noisy neighbors, and challenges with site maps and reservations.
HostReviews indicate that the campground host is helpful and maintains clean restrooms. Firewood is sold for $10 per bundle at the host’s site.
Campground Map
Hwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, take Highway 410 approximately 38 miles northwest to milepost 83.4.
The campground is located off Highway 410. However, reviewers note that this campground is not recommended for RV campers due to its tight turns and the close proximity of trees to the roads.Nearby places
Naches (around 38 miles, approximately 45-50 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Reviews mention a small tavern/store/gas station 20 minutes away for basic supplies. Whistlin Jacks, located nearby on Highway 410, is also noted as a supply location.
Camper Reviews
4.2
40 reviews
Hells Crossing Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Hells Crossing Campground highlight its quiet and serene atmosphere, proximity to the American River, and clean facilities. However, complaints about ants, yellow jackets, and campsite sizes are common. "Clean and well organized. Well worth it!"
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews often praise the campground's beauty, privacy, clean restrooms, and proximity to the river. "Beautiful, quiet spots near the river. So serene. Will be back!"
Based on 40 reviewsCommon Concerns
Ant infestations, yellow jackets, and issues with campsite size are mentioned frequently. "Site 10 had boatloads of ants -- so many that we ditched our reserved site and went for a walkup site over...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray to combat yellow jackets and ants, as well as extra blankets for cold nights. "Loved hearing the creek at night. Very sappy, cold at night bring a few blankets."
Based on 40 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are generally positive, emphasizing warm weather and water activities, though bugs are more prevalent. "Other than the carpenter ants in our campsite it was nice."
Based on 40 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Spots 8 & 9 have good shade, are very large and have a quick walk to the perfect river spot!" "The bathrooms were super clean and the sites were well kept. I like this campground because most of the...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is scenic but plagued by ants. "Site 10 had boatloads of ants -- so many that we ditched our reserved site and went for a walkup site over 10 miles down the road." Site 15 is spacious and...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-specific reviews are not provided.
Based on 40 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-specific reviews are not provided.
Based on 40 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025