Sawmill Flat Campground
4.6162 reviewsHwy 410, NACHES, WA, 98937, USA
Sawmill Flat Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates for all site types are $24.00. Fees do not include taxes or additional charges.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Naches River, Sawmill Flat Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Washington's Northern Cascade Range. Whether you're seeking a peaceful family getaway or a solo adventure in nature, this riverside retreat offers the perfect basecamp. Choose from standard sites for your RV, secluded tent-only spots beneath towering evergreens, or convenient walk-up sites for spontaneous adventures. While embracing the wilderness experience with vault toilets and hand-pump water stations, you'll find everything you need for an authentic outdoor escape.
Sawmill Flat Campground offers standard sites, tent-only sites, and walk-up sites. No group camping or cabin lodging options are available.
Historical SignificanceThe rushing waters of the Naches River have witnessed centuries of human journeys. Long before modern highways carved through these mountains, Native American tribes followed this natural corridor between the eastern and western slopes of the Cascades, trading goods and sharing stories. Later, determined settlers traced these same paths, their wagons creaking along the riverbank where campers now pitch their tents—a testament to this valley's enduring role as a gateway through the mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Sawmill Flat brings nature's perfect balance—crisp mornings around 46°F that warm to comfortable afternoons near 64°F, with gentle breezes rustling through the pines. These dry, pleasant conditions make peak season ideal for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As autumn fades to winter, the campground transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, where adventurous souls can experience the profound quiet of a Cascade winter, though temperatures drop significantly and access may require extra preparation.
ElevationPerched at 3,039 feet in the heart of the Northern Cascades, Sawmill Flat offers that perfect mountain elevation where the air feels refreshingly thin but not breathless. Here, you're high enough to escape the summer heat of the lowlands, yet still surrounded by lush forest rather than barren alpine terrain—a sweet spot where mountain meadows meet towering conifers.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a landscape that seems painted by nature's finest artist. Emerald valleys cradle the campground while snow-capped alpine giants pierce the sky above, their glaciated peaks catching the first light of dawn. The Naches River serves as your constant companion, its melodic flow providing nature's soundtrack as it tumbles over smooth river rocks. This gateway to pristine wilderness showcases the Cascades at their finest—where dense forests give way to dramatic vistas and every trail promises discovery.
Geological RegionSawmill Flat sits at nature's dramatic intersection, where the Northern Cascade Range reveals its ancient story. Massive glaciers once carved these valleys, leaving behind the soaring peaks and deep river canyons that define the landscape today. Here, the lush, moisture-rich forests of the western slopes begin their gradual transition to the drier shrub-steppe country of Eastern Washington—a geological crossroads where alpine grandeur meets the rugged beauty of rain shadow terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options were not specifically detailed in authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeReviews suggest the campsites are spacious and can accommodate large tents. For instance, 'Campsites are spacious and private,' and 'Site 13 was huge!!!'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site as mentioned in reviews. Some sites are spacious and secluded, while others are near the road or closely clustered, such as site 23 being described as 'small and not private.'
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and river views, choose sites along the river (e.g., sites 8, 10, 13). Avoid roadside sites if you prefer quieter settings.
Best CampsitesSite 8 (riverfront), Site 13 (large and shaded), Site 10 (spacious riverside).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 1 vehicle and 1 towed vehicle per site
- additional vehicles subject to fees.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned or supported based on authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 25 sites, some located near the river and others closer to Highway 410.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 4 during reservable peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityMostly reservable sites; limited walk-up availability during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (day before or of arrival) forfeit first night's fee plus service fee. No-shows assessed $20 fee and lose first-night cost.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a diverse array of summer and winter activities. 'In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and mountain biking in summer and early fall, the area provides excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.' Popular trails include Frost Mountain Lookout Trail and Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail, enhancing the appeal for hikers and backpackers.
Hiking
Hiking is highly praised as a top activity at this campground. The Frost Mountain Lookout Trail is a fan favorite. The Pacific Crest Trail is also accessible nearby, showcasing stunning scenic views. User reviews highlight hikes across the road and nature trails such as 'a nice 1/4 mile nature trail across the road.'Fishing
Fishing is a significant activity at the campground due to its proximity to the Naches River, described as 'perfect for rafting, fishing, but not good for tubing or swimming activities.'Biking
Mountain biking is listed as a recreational activity in authoritative sources. User reviews also mention biking along the Little Naches River.Wildlife viewing
The campground has occasional wildlife sightings. For example, 'Someone saw a bear during our stay,' and elks have been mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing as per authoritative sources.Water Sports
Water activities such as river rafting are popular in the area. The nearby American River offers thrilling whitewater experiences in fall.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are prohibited during burn bans; firewood is available for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are Enforced noise restrictions during late night and early morning hours.
Hazards
General hazardsFast-flowing and cold river water unsuitable for swimming, occasional bear sightings, and proximity to Highway 410 creates road noise.
Active alertsSeasonal burn bans frequently occur. Emergency evacuations may happen due to wildfires.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 include hospitals in Yakima (~25 miles away), police stations in Naches (~15 miles away), and ranger stations within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 4
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present. Recycling or additional details regarding waste disposal logistics were not covered in either authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Naches River, offering scenic vistas and activities like fishing and rafting.
Common complaintsRoad noise from Highway 410, limited privacy for some campsites, bear sightings requiring secure food storage, and occasional overcrowding during peak season.
HostHosts are consistently described as friendly and helpful, providing assistance with site changes and local information.
Campground Map
Hwy 410, NACHES, WA, 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Spokane, Washington, take I-90 west toward Seattle. Continue for 170 miles, then take exit 110 to merge onto I-82 east. After nearly 32 miles, take exit 31A-31B to merge onto US-12 west and follow for about 25 miles. Turn left onto Nile Road, then left onto WA-410 west. The campground will be on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, primarily through major highways like I-90 and I-82. Turn-offs onto Nile Road and WA-410 west are required.Nearby places
Yakima (~25 miles, ~35 minutes)
Naches (~15 miles, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Naches (~15 miles away) for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel stops. Additional amenities are available in Yakima (~25 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
62 reviews
Sawmill Flat Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews frequently highlight the campground's scenic riverside setting, clean facilities, helpful hosts, and spacious campsites. Critiques focus on proximity to noisy roads for certain sites and occasional lapses in site reservation accuracy.
Review Summaries
Based on 62 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praise the cleanliness, spacious sites, access to the river, and friendly camp hosts. For example, 'The camp host Scooter and Marilyn were so nice and really just kept to themselves,'...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback mentions road noise, lack of privacy for specific sites, and occasional issues with site reservations. One review stated, 'However, this time we did NOT get a site by the river and...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include reserving riverside sites for the best experience and keeping food securely stored due to wildlife presence. A reviewer noted, 'Definitely schedule a stop at one of the viewpoints of...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer stays are preferred due to clear skies and pleasant weather, as well as access to summer activities like hiking and fishing. Winter visits emphasize skiing and snowshoeing. However, burn bans...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Peaceful. Quiet. River next to campground. Reasonable price.' 2. 'We loved it !! Super fun and amazing place to go with family! Especially during the summer!' 3. 'Camp sites are far enough away...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8 is often praised as one of the best riverside spots, while site 23 is described as small and less private. Site 10 is noted for excellent riverside access. Site 13 is mentioned multiple times...
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Accessibility Features
No direct reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 62 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the campground, as observed in reviews mentioning pets enjoying the spacious campsites.
Based on 62 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025