Pleasant Valley Campground
4.3934 reviewsHwy 410, Naches, WA, 98937, USA
Pleasant Valley 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 nonelectric campsite fees are $22 per night during peak season, which lasts from May 16 to October 4. Fees do not include taxes, reservation service fees, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Pleasant Valley Campground lives up to its name as a peaceful sanctuary where the melodic rush of the American River provides nature's soundtrack. This intimate campground welcomes both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers seeking an escape from crowds, offering just the right balance of accessibility and seclusion amid towering evergreens and pristine wilderness.
Pleasant Valley Campground offers standard nonelectric sites suitable for tent and small-to-medium-sized RV camping. Group sites and luxury camping options like cabins or yurts are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic forces and centuries of natural history. The nearby Goat Rocks Wilderness preserves the dramatic remnants of an extinct volcano, while serving as a sanctuary for the region's namesake mountain goats. Discover the area's fascinating story along the Boulder Cave Trail, where interpretive signs reveal tales of geological wonders, wildlife adaptations, and the regenerative power of fire in shaping these forests.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Pacific Northwest seasons at Pleasant Valley. Summer days unfold with warm sunshine filtering through the forest canopy, perfect for riverside relaxation and trail exploration. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, creating a hushed, crystalline world that often renders nearby routes impassable. Spring awakens the forest with gentle rains and wildflower blooms, while autumn paints the understory in gold and copper hues as temperatures cool and morning mists rise from the river.
ElevationWhile the exact elevation creates a perfect microclimate for diverse forest ecosystems, visitors will notice the refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures that characterize this Cascade foothills location.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient forests meet rushing waters beneath the watchful gaze of the Northern Cascades. Towering old-growth giants create a cathedral-like canopy above your campsite, while the American River carves its timeless path through the valley below. Watch for ruby-throated hummingbirds darting between wildflowers, playful chipmunks scampering across fallen logs, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of sure-footed mountain goats navigating distant cliffsides. In autumn, witness the primal spectacle of salmon returning to spawn in their ancestral waters.
Geological RegionPleasant Valley Campground sits at the crossroads of dramatic geological diversity within the Northern Cascade Range. Here, the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest showcases nature's contrasts: glacially-carved alpine peaks pierce the sky along the Cascade Crest, while verdant valleys cradle old-growth forests on the western slopes. To the east, the landscape transitions to rugged shrub-steppe country, creating a remarkable tapestry of ecosystems that supports an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life within a single national forest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes gravel pathways compacted enough for bike riding, but further accessibility details were not mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally small to medium-sized, and larger RVs over 30 feet may have difficulty maneuvering in the campground.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites offer significant privacy, with good spacing between sites. "All the campsites are spread apart so you have privacy," noted one camper.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near the river for better views and cooler temperatures during summer; avoid sites with visible ant mounds.
Best CampsitesCampsite #3 is noted for its size and privacy. Campsite #10 offers proximity to the river with scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single site allows up to 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 layoutThe campground features gravel pathways and compacted sites spread apart for privacy. Most sites are shaded by old-growth trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 16 to October 4. Closed outside those dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not explicitly detailed, but reservations are heavily emphasized.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee and an additional $10. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and lose the first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts offering hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. "Pleasant Valley Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of other outdoor recreational activities throughout the year," according to the official description.
Hiking
Several trails, including Crow Lake, Swamp Lake, Cougar Valley, and Union Creek Trails, have trailheads near the campground. Additionally, the Pacific Crest Trail is accessible, providing opportunities for both casual and experienced hikers.Fishing
Fishing is available in the adjacent American River, which is home to rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. Late summer is a great time to watch salmon spawning.Swimming
Swimming in the American River is possible, although the water is cold and refreshing. Campers noted that the river's slow-moving sections allow for swimming and wading.Biking
While the campground does not have dedicated biking trails, the compacted gravel paths are suitable for casual biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are common, including hummingbirds, chipmunks, and occasionally mountain goats in higher elevations.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing in the nearby areas, as the campground is surrounded by snow-covered landscapes during the winter months.Water Sports
Opportunities for rafting on the American River are available for whitewater enthusiasts.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed except during high fire danger periods. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThatcher ants are prevalent and can pose risks to campers, especially tent campers. Mosquitoes can also be an issue during warmer months. Biting ants have been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsWarnings about Thatcher ants are actively communicated to incoming campers.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.4 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
The nearest emergency services are located in Naches, WA, approximately 42 miles away, which include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 4 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned in the available data.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the American River, which supports trout fishing and seasonal salmon spawning.
Common complaintsThe most common complaints include infestations of Thatcher ants at campsites and occasional noise from generators running past quiet hours.
HostHosts are not stationed permanently but visit occasionally from nearby campgrounds.
Campground Map
Hwy 410, Naches, WA, 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, take Highway 410 northwest approximately 42 miles to milepost 80.2.
The campground is accessible by Highway 410, a paved road, but the proximity to the road is enough to block traffic noise. Roads within the campground are gravel and compacted, suitable for bikes and small to medium-sized RVs (up to 30 feet). Larger RVs may face difficulties.Nearby places
Naches, WA (42 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping equipment, and fuel can be obtained in Naches, WA, about 42 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
34 reviews
Pleasant Valley Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, campers appreciated the beautiful and quiet setting of Pleasant Valley Campground, but some noted challenges like Thatcher ants and the lack of modern amenities. The proximity to outdoor activities and the river was frequently mentioned as a highlight.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the scenic location, well-shaded and private campsites, clean vault toilets, and access to the American River. "Very scenic and quiet," noted John E. Several campers also...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The presence of Thatcher ants was the most common complaint. "The infestation was so severe that there was no where to place a tent without disturbing several ant hills," said Anya D. Other...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ant spray to manage Thatcher ants. Carry extra water for non-drinking purposes as a hand pump is the sole water source. Avoid bringing large RVs as maneuvering in the campground may be...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with many reviews highlighting warm weather, lush greenery, and activities like swimming and fishing. However, mosquitoes and ants are more prevalent during this...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We had campsite number 3 and it was the biggest and most private that we saw." - Megan Starkel. "If you time it right (late summer) you can watch salmon spawning in the adjacent river." - Edward D....
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3: Spacious and private, Site #10: Excellent river access but major ant issues noted, Site #8: Large enough for two cars and two tents. Site #16: Consistently rated highly for its location and...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility details are limited. Gravel pathways may be suitable for some mobility aids, but no specific features for campers with disabilities were noted.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pets were available, but there are no indications that pets are prohibited.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025