Salmon Cove Group Site
4.276 reviews10237 US HWY 12, NACHES, WA 98937, USA
Salmon Cove Group Site
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for group camping are $50 per night during the peak season from May 20 to September 30 each year. Rates are for the group standard area, which does not include hookups. No booking is available out of season.
About this campground
Nestled along the pebble-strewn banks of the rushing American River, Salmon Cove Group Campground beckons families and friends seeking the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures. This spacious group site transforms gatherings into unforgettable experiences, where days are filled with riverside fishing, exhilarating rafting expeditions, and meandering hikes through ancient forests. As evening falls, the symphony of river waters provides the soundtrack to campfire stories and starlit memories.
Salmon Cove Group Campground specializes in group camping, accommodating larger gatherings. It offers only one large group site.
Historical Significance:null
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Salmon Cove into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm days invite endless outdoor exploration and cool river dips. When winter arrives, the landscape dons a dramatic white cloak as substantial snowfall blankets the region, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude. The diverse terrain creates fascinating microclimates—while some nearby valleys remain surprisingly dry with just 10 inches of annual rainfall, the mountains capture nature's bounty in varied forms throughout the year.
ElevationElevation is not specifically mentioned for Salmon Cove Group Site.
Natural Features and SceneryThe American River serves as Salmon Cove's liquid lifeline, its crystalline waters carving through a landscape of towering old-growth sentinels and dramatic glaciated peaks. Morning mists often reveal curious deer browsing at the forest edge, while porcupines amble through the underbrush and a diverse chorus of songbirds greets each dawn. The interplay of rushing water, ancient trees, and alpine vistas creates a natural amphitheater that captivates visitors in every season.
Geological RegionSalmon Cove sits within the magnificent tapestry of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, where nature showcases its full dramatic range. From glaciated alpine peaks soaring above 9,000 feet along the Cascade Crest to valleys that dip below 1,000 feet, the forest encompasses breathtaking diversity. The western slopes nurture lush old-growth forests draped in emerald moss, while eastern regions transition to sun-baked shrub-steppe terrain, creating a geological wonderland that tells the story of ice, time, and the persistent power of water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the sources.
Sites SizeThe single group site is large enough to accommodate up to 60 people and 15 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe site is designed for group usage, likely with less emphasis on privacy compared to individual sites.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThis campground is most suitable for large groups, with ample space for multiple RVs/trailers. Bring insect repellent to manage ants.
Best CampsitesThe single group site is the only available option.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 60 people per group site.
Groups
The single group camping site accommodates up to 60 people and 15 vehicles but lacks water and sewage hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single group site accommodating up to 60 people and 15 vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 20 to September 30; no booking available out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned; reservations are required for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Cancellations within 14 days forfeit the first night’s use fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur further penalties.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Salmon Cove Group Campground provides numerous outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Popular options include hiking, fishing, rafting, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The nearby American Ridge Trail extends 26 miles and offers hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding opportunities. The American River provides a scenic backdrop with cold, refreshing waters for rafting and kayaking, as well as fishing for rainbow and brown trout.
Hiking
The American Ridge Trail, located near the campground, offers 26 miles of hiking and backpacking opportunities. It passes through forests, meadows, and alpine lakes, with scenic ridge-line views. User reviews noted the availability of trails suitable for beginners and advanced hikers.Fishing
Fishing in the American River includes rainbow and brown trout. Some user reviews warn of seasonal closures for fishing in areas upstream and downstream of the campground, typically from mid-July to mid-September.Swimming
The American River provides opportunities for swimming with its cold and refreshing waters.Boating
The American River supports rafting and kayaking activities. The cold waters provide an invigorating experience for water sports enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, porcupine, native fish, and migratory birds are common in the area. User reviews recommend bringing bug repellent and note occasional ant mounds near the campsite.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions, such as Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail, provide educational experiences with interpretive signs about geology, flora, fauna, and fire history.Winter Activities
Skiing opportunities are mentioned in the authoritative sources, suggesting winter recreation in the surrounding area.Water Sports
Water sports such as rafting and kayaking are popular activities in the cold American River waters.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Visitors are reminded to properly extinguish fires.
- Quiet hours are :null
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal presence of ants due to ant mounds. Visitors are advised to bring insect repellent.
Active alerts:null
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
Closest emergency services include the hospital and police in Naches, approximately 40 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20 to September 30 each year.
Trash and recyclingNo trash collection is provided; campers are required to pack out all trash. Some user reviews recommend utilizing trash disposal facilities at Hell's Crossing Campground, located about a mile away.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the American River, which provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the lack of toilet paper and cleaning of the vault toilet. Complaints about the campsite's fire ring and picnic tables have also been noted.
Host:null
Campground Map
10237 US HWY 12, NACHES, WA 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, Washington, follow U.S. Highway 12 west to State Route (SR) 410. Take SR 410 for approximately 40 miles to MP 83, where you will see an access road and gate for the site on the south side of the road.
The access road to Salmon Cove Group Site can be reached via State Route 410, approximately 40 miles west of Naches. The site is secured by a locked gate, and visitors are provided with the combination upon reservation confirmation.Nearby places
Naches (40 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Water is available at Hell's Crossing Campground, located approximately one mile away. Grocery and camping supplies can likely be sourced from Naches, 40 miles to the east.
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Salmon Cove Group Site is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users often appreciate the ample space and access to outdoor activities but mention concerns about cleanliness and insufficient facilities such as toilet paper and fire rings.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great hiking opportunities, restroom was clean, and multiple sites to pick from." "Wonderful group campsite with plenty of space for several large RVs/Trailers." "Lots of hiking trails nearby with...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Beware that the Forest Service is very short-staffed and may or may not clean/stock the restroom." "Site needs better tables, no TP in toilets, needs metal fire ring." "People had built fires in the...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Keep the gate locked to deter people from driving through." "Bring 'Off' repellent for ants and bugs." "Use trash facilities at Hell's Crossing Campground."
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently note the availability of outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. Winter reviews highlight skiing activities but acknowledge colder temperatures. Seasonal weather...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Ants are noticeable due to several ant mounds in the area but didn’t bother us much." "Wonderful group campsite with plenty of space… Chinook Pass is just a few miles up the road with great hiking...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 (Salmon Cove Group Site): Users praise its spaciousness but point out recurring issues like lack of TP in toilets and inadequate fire rings. Specific complaints include fire abuse and tables...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not explicitly available for this campground.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews are not explicitly available for this campground.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025