Icewater Creek Campground
4.639 reviews13941 West Taneum Road, Thorp WA
Icewater Creek Campground
$18.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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 $24 per night, payable via cash or digital methods. Digital payment is exclusively through the recreation.gov mobile app, which must be downloaded prior to arriving. Additional vehicle fee is $11 per vehicle. 50% discount on single sites is available with Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access passes (discounts do not apply to double or group sites).
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Icewater Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 14 thoughtfully placed campsites. This seasonal gem winds through a verdant riparian corridor along the banks of Taneum Creek, where each site offers its own unique balance of seclusion and connection to the surrounding wilderness. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it rewards visitors with an authentic forest experience where the sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves provide the evening entertainment.
This campground provides a blend of tent and combined-use sites, primarily catering to primitive campers and those with RVs looking for a more rustic experience. Group sites are not explicitly mentioned, and there are no glamping or cabin facilities.
Weather and SeasonsThe microclimate along Taneum Creek creates a refreshing natural air conditioning effect, keeping temperatures roughly 10 degrees cooler than the surrounding areas—a welcome respite during warm summer days. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, while late spring and early summer emerge as the sweet spot for camping, offering crystal-clear skies, pleasantly moderate temperatures, and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. The creek's cooling influence means even hot summer days remain comfortable, though evenings often call for an extra layer around the campfire.
ElevationPerched at 2,800 feet above sea level, the campground sits in that perfect elevation sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp and refreshing. This altitude blessing means cooler temperatures that provide natural relief from valley heat, though savvy campers know to pack that extra fleece for those delightfully chilly mountain mornings when mist rises from the creek.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering Douglas firs, aromatic cedars, and graceful maples that create a multi-layered canopy overhead. The star of the show is Taneum Creek itself, whose melodic waters provide a constant soundtrack to your stay. Many coveted sites back directly onto the creek, where you'll drift off to sleep with the soothing symphony of rushing water, even when the dense vegetation keeps the creek itself playfully hidden from view. This lush riparian ecosystem creates pockets of emerald tranquility where moss-covered logs and fern-filled understory transport you into a Pacific Northwest fairy tale.
Geological RegionIcewater Creek Campground rests within a stunning riparian ecosystem carved by centuries of Taneum Creek's patient work through the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This verdant pocket showcases the region's signature Pacific Northwest character, where massive Douglas firs stand sentinel alongside fragrant cedars and deciduous maples that paint the canyon in brilliant golds come autumn. The interplay between water, stone, and forest creates a dynamic landscape that feels both ancient and vibrantly alive.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is available regarding specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe sites can vary in size, with some described as small and others as spacious.
Sites PrivacyThe lush riparian environment and a mix of Douglas fir, cedar, and maples provide ample privacy between sites. However, another reviewer noted that 'campgrounds are not very secluded.'
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and creek-side views, choose site 16. Sites closest to the creek offer tranquil views but can be colder.
Best CampsitesSite 16 is praised by users for its proximity to the creek and privacy among trees.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground winds down from the road to Taneum Creek, offering privacy between sites due to lush vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open seasonally, from the weekend before Memorial Day to the Tuesday after Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve. User reviews emphasize early arrival to secure spots.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Icewater Creek Campground primarily offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and motorcycle trails. The campground serves as a hub for outdoor recreation, with direct access to the North Fork Taneum Trail (#1377), a 15.7-mile trail suitable for dirt biking, horseback riding, and hiking. A beginner's motorcycle loop originates from the campground as well.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire policies are not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews report challenging road conditions with 'rim-bending potholes.' Additionally, creek-side areas can be colder, which may affect tent campers.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services are in Cle Elum, including hospitals and police stations. A ranger is noted to be on-site, per user reviews.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season information not explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, leaving their availability unknown.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Taneum Creek, with several sites backing up to the water.
Common complaintsRoad conditions to the campground are frequently criticized in user reviews. Potholes and rough terrain are mentioned, impacting vehicle access.
HostUser reviews mention a ranger being on-site.
Campground Map
13941 West Taneum Road, Thorp WA
Driving directionsTake I-90 Exit 93 Elk Heights/Taneum Creek go north about 1/4 mile to Thorp Prairie Road. Turn right and go about 3.5 miles to East Taneum Rd. Turn right and cross over I-90 to West Taneum Road/Forest Service Road 33. Turn right travel 8.5 miles for 8.5 miles. Campground is on the left.
The roads leading to Icewater Creek Campground are reportedly in rough shape, with user reviews noting 'several rim-bending potholes' making the drive challenging. The final stretch consists of gravel roads.Nearby places
Cle Elum, WA (approximately 9.3 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Cle Elum, WA, approximately 9.3 miles away, where groceries and camping essentials can be found.
Camper Reviews
4.6
9 reviews
Icewater Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Icewater Creek Campground receives mixed reviews. Users appreciate its quiet and clean environment, natural beauty, and accessibility to trails but raise concerns about small campsite sizes, limited amenities, and rough access roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's quiet and clean atmosphere, the lush riparian environment, and access to hiking and dirt bike trails. One review notes, 'Great access to recreation,' while another...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users find the access road challenging due to potholes, while others criticize the small campsite sizes and lack of water and cell service. 'No water, no cell service. Primitive at its best,'...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, as there is no potable water on-site. Be prepared for cold temperatures near the creek and rough roads leading to the campground. A user advised watching...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During warmer months, the campground is well-used and appreciated for its trail access. The creek can make some sites colder, and the lack of cell service appeals to those seeking solitude but may...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Icewater Creek is a nice quiet and clean camping area.' 2. 'No water, no cell service. Primitive at its best.' 3. 'This newly renovated park is a terrific place to spend a weekend in the woods....
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 16 is particularly recommended for its location by the creek and in the trees. However, tight turnarounds make it less suited for large RVs.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025