Mineral Springs Group
4.089 reviews27481 State Route 97, Cle Elum, WA, 98922, USA
Mineral Springs Group
$125.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites are charged at $125 per night during peak season from May 23 to September 19. Taxes and potential add-ons may be extra.
About this campground
Nestled at 2,500 feet in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Mineral Springs Group Campground serves as your gateway to a world where ancient forests meet rugged mountain peaks. This scenic haven invites adventurers to explore its diverse landscape, where towering old-growth trees frame dramatic mountain vistas and countless trails beckon explorers of all kinds.
Mineral Springs Group Campground offers a mix of camping options, including first-come-first-serve single-family sites and a large group site.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the historic Red Top Fire Lookout, a sentinel of the forest that opens its doors to visitors from July through mid-September. This preserved piece of history rewards those who make the journey with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that stretch across the Cascade wilderness, offering a glimpse into the life of early forest rangers who once watched over these pristine lands.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformation as winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a playground for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. As summer arrives, the forest awakens with wildflowers and warm sunshine, offering perfect conditions for hiking boots to hit the trails, mountain bikes to navigate forest paths, and horses to traverse scenic routes. Peak camping season runs through summer and early fall, when mild temperatures and clear skies provide ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascades where mountain air stays refreshingly crisp without the extreme conditions of higher elevations. This moderate altitude creates a comfortable climate that's perfect for camping, with cooler temperatures that provide relief from summer heat while remaining accessible throughout much of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient giants of the old-growth forest stand as silent guardians around your campsite, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Crystal-clear mountain streams wind through the landscape, their waters born from glacial peaks that pierce the sky. The crown jewel of the surrounding wilderness, Mount Stuart, dominates the horizon at 9,415 feet—Washington's second-highest non-volcanic peak—its granite faces catching the alpenglow at sunrise and sunset in a display that leaves visitors breathless.
Geological RegionThe Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest showcases nature's incredible diversity across its vast expanse. From the glaciated alpine peaks that define the Cascade Crest to the lush, moss-draped valleys of ancient forests on its western slopes, the landscape tells a story of fire and ice. As you travel east, the terrain transforms into arid shrub-steppe country, creating a remarkable ecological transition zone that supports an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly stated.
Sites SizeThe group site is large enough to accommodate up to 50 guests. Single-family sites are standard-sized.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to proximity to Highway 97, and some reviews mention loud traffic noise being noticeable throughout the day and night.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBear left toward the group camping area when entering if using large motorhomes or trailers for easier maneuverability.
Best CampsitesGroup site 001 in Loop MINE has been highlighted in user reviews for its spaciousness and suitability for large groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM (Noon)
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The group site accommodates up to 50 guests.
Groups
The reservable group site is designed to accommodate up to 50 guests, making it ideal for large gatherings. Reviews praise the spacious layout and availability of multiple picnic tables and fire pits.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains eight single-family sites and one large group site. Sites are equipped with tables, campfire rings, and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to September 19 (Peak Season). Closed or unavailable for booking outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityEight single-family sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyLate group cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Refunds require requests within 7 calendar days post-stay.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mineral Springs Group Campground offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking in the summer and early fall, while winter activities include skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Wildlife viewing and birding are also popular due to the area's rich biodiversity.
Hiking
The surrounding area provides excellent hiking opportunities, with access trails available near the campground. Nearby Red Top Mountain offers a short hike to a vista point with spectacular views of Mt. Stuart, Mt. Rainier, and the Teanaway Valley.Biking
The campground is a prime location for mountain biking, especially in the summer and early fall.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding old-growth forests and streams are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, porcupines, native fish, and migratory birds. Birding is highlighted as a popular activity.Winter Activities
In winter, visitors can engage in skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are mentioned in the materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings unless a burn ban is in effect.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as deer, porcupines, and mosquitoes are present. Nearby Highway 97 contributes to noise, which may affect the camping experience.
Active alertsA burn ban may be in effect during certain periods, as noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 19
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site, but no specific details about recycling are provided.
Proximity to water featuresClean streams are noted within the surrounding wilderness.
Common complaintsHighway noise is a recurring issue mentioned by multiple reviewers. Vault toilets have been noted as smelly, and bugs (mosquitoes and spiders) are more prevalent than average.
HostMultiple reviews praise the campground host for being attentive, kind, and helpful. One reviewer specifically mentions a host named Brad.
Campground Map
27481 State Route 97, Cle Elum, WA, 98922, USA
Driving directionsLocated on Highway 97, about 21 miles northeast of Cle Elum, Washington. The group camping area is to the left after crossing the bridge into the campground.
The campground is immediately adjacent to Highway 97, making it easy to access. Some user reviews note that the highway is loud, indicating proximity to traffic noise.Nearby places
Cle Elum (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car), Yakima (approximately 50-55 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Cle Elum, WA (21 miles away) likely offers options for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, though specific businesses are not listed. Yakima may also provide additional services.
Camper Reviews
4.1
9 reviews
Mineral Springs Group is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Mineral Springs Group Campground highlight the spacious group site, helpful camp hosts, and the variety of recreational activities. However, many reviews mention drawbacks such as the loud traffic noise due to its proximity to Highway 97 and issues with bugs.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the 'awesome' and 'helpful' camp hosts, with one review stating, 'Camp host was amazing and very easygoing.' Visitors also appreciate the spacious layout of the group site,...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Loud highway noise is the most frequently mentioned issue, as many reviews describe the traffic as 'very loud' and 'noticeable at all hours.' Some users noted the presence of spiders and mosquitoes...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors with long trailers or motorhomes are advised to bear left towards the group camping area and stop at the gate entrance before backing into the campsite to ensure easier maneuvering. It is...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are highly recommended for hiking and biking activities. Winter months provide opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. Some reviews note that the campground is more deserted...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Camp host was AWESOME... very easygoing and helpful.' (Jarod Marquis, 2023)
2. 'Mineral Springs Campground is clean, quiet for being near Blewett pass, and the public restroom 10000% the cleanest...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The group site (campsite 001, Loop: MINE) received positive feedback for its spaciousness, availability of picnic tables, and fire pits. However, noise from the adjacent highway was noted as a...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025