Owhi Campground
4.2619 reviewsOwhi Campground
$14.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
Fees are $22 per night for a single site (cash or digital), and $11 for an additional vehicle. Payments can be made through the recreation.gov mobile app. A 50% discount is offered for Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access pass holders. Fees are generally collected from early June to early October, and potentially during Memorial Day Weekend if weather permits.
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About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine east shore of Cooper Lake, Owhi Campground beckons those seeking an authentic Pacific Northwest wilderness experience. This hidden gem in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest preserves the romance of old-fashioned tent camping, where 21 thoughtfully spaced walk-in sites nestle beneath a cathedral of Douglas fir and ancient conifers. Here, nature provides the architecture—thick understory shrubs create natural privacy screens between campsites, while the forest canopy filters sunlight into a gentle, dappled glow. Though weekend adventurers have discovered this tranquil retreat, the rustic charm and absence of RV access help maintain its peaceful, back-to-nature atmosphere that makes visitors feel worlds away from civilization.
Owhi Campground is a tent-only, primitive campground with no RV or modern lodging accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Owhi transforms into a mountain sanctuary where summer's heat gives way to refreshingly crisp conditions. Daytime temperatures hover comfortably between the mid-40s and mid-70s Fahrenheit, creating perfect conditions for hiking and lake activities. Early season visitors in June are rewarded with particularly magical mornings—cool, mist-kissed dawns that gradually warm as sunlight pierces the forest canopy. Seasoned campers know to pack layers, as mountain evenings bring a delightful chill that makes gathering around the campfire all the more inviting.
ElevationPerched at 2,800 feet above sea level, Owhi Campground offers a natural air-conditioning system courtesy of its mountain elevation. This strategic height provides welcome relief from valley heat, where temperatures drop just enough to ensure comfortable sleeping under the stars and energizing morning hikes along the lakeshore.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Douglas firs stretch skyward like natural skyscrapers, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Below, a tapestry of vine maple and native shrubs paints the understory in varying shades of green, creating intimate outdoor rooms for each campsite. But the true jewel is Cooper Lake itself—its crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding peaks in perfect detail, creating the kind of idyllic alpine scene that photographers dream about. Morning mists dance across the water's surface, while afternoon sun transforms the lake into a sparkling sapphire, framed by mountain ridges that seem to touch the sky.
Geological RegionOwhi Campground claims its place within the vast tapestry of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, where millions of acres of protected wilderness showcase the raw beauty of the Cascade Range. Positioned strategically on Cooper Lake's eastern shoreline, the campground serves as a gateway to this remarkable ecosystem where ancient Douglas firs and their coniferous companions have stood sentinel for generations, creating a living monument to the enduring power of the Pacific Northwest's wild places.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not well-documented for this campground. Based on the information, the steep hike into some sites may present challenges for campers with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, with some large enough to accommodate multiple tents. 'A lot of sites are big enough for multiple tents,' according to a user review.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer fair to good privacy, with vine maple and shrubs providing some separation. However, multiple reviews mention that the main trail passes through or right next to many sites, impacting privacy.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early in the week to secure a site, especially if you want one near the water. Some sites are more secluded, while others are larger and suitable for multiple tents.
Best CampsitesBased on user reviews, sites closer to the water are often preferred for their views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific data on maximum guests per site found.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground's 21 sites are spread along a trail that traverses the east shore of Cooper Lake. Parking is located above the campsites, and access involves walking down to the sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 through September 25.
Reservation PlatformsNone, as reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-in, non-reservable basis. Sites can fill up quickly on weekends, as per user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy provided as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Owhi Campground offers a range of outdoor activities centered around the serene Cooper Lake and the surrounding forest. These include non-motorized boating, fishing, and hiking.
Hiking
The Cooper Lake Trail #1311, suitable for both foot and horse traffic, is available at the campground. The trail is approximately 1 mile long.Fishing
Cooper Lake offers opportunities to fish for Rainbow and Cutthroat trout. However, several reviewers noted that fishing along the campground's shoreline can be challenging due to busy water activity and shallow edges.Boating
Cooper Lake permits non-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking. A user review highlights the lake as 'great for kayak, canoe, or paddleboarding,' and notes the clear, calm waters.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not supported as the campground is closed during the colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular here, as the lake is calm and free of motorized boats.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific details provided, but general forest service fire regulations likely apply.
- Quiet hours are No official quiet hours mentioned, but user reviews suggest that noise from other campers can be an issue.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires safe food storage practices. The steep trails leading to some campsites may pose a challenge for individuals with limited mobility.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.6 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
Good to know
Peak season datesEarly June to late October, depending on weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the sources. Campers are advised to practice Leave No Trace principles, especially given the area’s remote and natural setting.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the east shore of Cooper Lake, the campground offers easy access to the lake for non-motorized boating and water activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from inconsiderate campers, lack of privacy due to trails passing through campsites, and overcrowding during weekends and holidays.
HostNo permanent host information available. User reviews mention limited forest service presence, primarily for fee collection.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Cle Elum, take State Highway 903 north 16 miles then turn left on Forest Road 46 / Cooper River Road. Travel about 5.3 miles, and turn right on Road 4616 and continue about one half mile to the campground which is to the left on spur road 113.
Approximately 21.6 miles from Cle Elum, including gravel and unpaved roads. Expect a slightly rough ride for about 0.8 miles on Forest Road 4616.Nearby places
Cle Elum: 21.6 miles (approximately 40 minutes). Roslyn: 16 miles (about 30 minutes).
Camper Reviews
4.3
19 reviews
Owhi Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Owhi Campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, serene location, and proximity to Cooper Lake. However, the lack of privacy, limited facilities, and occasional overcrowding detract from the experience for some campers. Many reviewers recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently commend the campground's stunning location, clear lake water, and peaceful ambiance. 'Such a beautiful campground, idyllic spot,' one user stated. Others praised the opportunity...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Recurring complaints include noise from other campers, lack of privacy due to the trail running through campsites, and dirty vault toilets. 'The pit toilets may have piss/poo next to it,' one...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend arriving early in the week, especially Monday or Tuesday, to secure a good site, as weekends are often crowded. Bringing your own potable water and being prepared to hike gear to your...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Owhi Campground is busiest on weekends, particularly during the summer months. Weekdays are quieter, with fewer campers. The area gets crowded during holidays, and wildfire smoke has occasionally...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The lake water is completely clear, you can see right through to the bottom.' 2. 'Prepare to use your muscles to haul your stuff in, but totally worth it!!' 3. 'I love this campground so much—if...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight that campsites closer to the lake are desirable but are also more likely to have foot traffic passing through. Larger sites can accommodate multiple tents.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the steep trails may make it challenging for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews regarding pets are available.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025