Swauk Campground
4.637 reviews33400 State Route 97, Cle Elum WA
Swauk Campground
$18.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Single sites are $24 per night, and double sites are $40 per night. A 50% discount is available for holders of Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access Passes. Payment can be made via the recreation.gov mobile app.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Wenatchee National Forest, Swauk Campground beckons with 19 intimate single campsites and 2 spacious double sites, where history and nature intertwine beneath towering evergreens. The crown jewel of this woodland retreat is its authentic Civilian Conservation Corps-era picnic shelter, complete with a magnificent stone fireplace that has warmed countless gatherings since the 1930s. Stone ovens scattered throughout the grounds whisper tales of simpler times, inviting modern adventurers to create their own lasting memories in this timeless setting.
Swauk Campground supports tent camping with 9 dedicated tent-only sites and a mix of single and double combined-use sites. There are no RV-specific sites or facilities such as dump stations or hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Swauk, where the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every hand-laid stone. The campground's centerpiece picnic shelter stands as a testament to Depression-era craftsmanship, its massive stone fireplace and rustic ovens still serving campers just as they did generations ago. These architectural treasures transform a simple camping trip into a journey through American history, where every meal cooked and story shared connects you to the young men who built these lasting monuments to outdoor recreation.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through late September, Swauk welcomes visitors with delightfully warm days that gradually give way to crisp, star-filled nights. Perched at 3,100 feet, the campground enjoys a natural air conditioning effect that keeps summer temperatures comfortable, while evenings call for cozy campfires and warm layers. This elevation creates the perfect balance—warm enough for daytime adventures, cool enough for restful sleep under the stars.
ElevationAt 3,100 feet above sea level, Swauk Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills where mountain air meets forest tranquility. This elevation gifts campers with refreshingly cool evenings that provide welcome relief from summer heat, while days remain pleasantly warm for hiking and exploring. The altitude creates an ideal microclimate where morning mist dances through the trees and afternoon breezes carry the scent of pine and fir.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of Douglas fir, white fir, Ponderosa pine, and western larch creates a natural sanctuary where sunlight filters through branches to dapple the forest floor. The melodic murmur of Swauk Creek provides nature's soundtrack, its clear waters tumbling over smooth stones just steps from your campsite. While the understory remains naturally sparse, allowing easy exploration, the towering canopy overhead creates intimate, shaded retreats perfect for escaping the everyday world. This is camping as it should be—simple, serene, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the forest.
Geological RegionSwauk Campground rests in a remarkable grove where massive Ponderosa pines and golden western larches reign supreme within the greater Wenatchee National Forest ecosystem. Carved by ancient forces and nourished by Swauk Creek's perpetual flow, this pocket of wilderness showcases the diverse beauty of the eastern Cascades. Here, the geological story unfolds in layers—from the creek-carved valley floor to the volcanic soils that feed these magnificent conifers, creating a landscape that feels both timeless and alive with possibility.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is limited information about accessibility features. Wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available.
Sites SizeThe campground includes 19 single sites and 2 double sites. Parking aprons are paved.
Sites PrivacyVegetation provides limited privacy between campsites, as noted in the authoritative description.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights maximum.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this location.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of one loop and two tent-only spurs for easy navigation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from mid-May to late September, corresponding to the weekend before Memorial Day through the Tuesday after Labor Day.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are not available; sites are first-come, first-served throughout the open season.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Swauk Campground offers picnicking, hiking, and opportunities for viewing scenery. A short 3/4-mile trail leads to Sculpture Rock, a notable viewpoint.
Hiking
Hiking is available, including a short 3/4-mile trail to Sculpture Rock, known for its scenic views. Additionally, Sculpture Rock #1397 is a 2-mile trail accessible from the campground.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting amidst Ponderosa Pine and western Larch trees offers opportunities for observing wildlife and enjoying scenic views.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the area experiences snow and freezing temperatures, which could impact access.Water Sports
Not applicable, as there are no water bodies supporting water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention that traffic noise from the adjacent US Route 97 can be distracting, and the lack of potable water at the site necessitates campers to bring their own.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Trash and recyclingNo specific details available about trash and recycling facilities at this campground.
Proximity to water featuresSwauk Creek flows beside the campground, offering a tranquil water feature. There is also a creek crossing trail to reach the lookout point.
Common complaintsThe campground's proximity to US Route 97 is frequently mentioned as leading to noticeable traffic noise. Limited restroom facilities are also a recurring concern among user reviews.
Campground Map
33400 State Route 97, Cle Elum WA
Driving directionsFrom Cle Elum, WA, take State Rt. 903 east, which becomes State Rt. 970, to US Rt. 97. Proceed north on Rt. 97 for 20.4 miles to the campground on the right.
The campground is directly accessible via paved roads, located on US Route 97. Some user reviews note that it is conveniently located for an overnight stop.Nearby places
Cle Elum (20.4 miles, approximately 25-30 minutes driving time)
Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Swauk Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Swauk Campground is generally appreciated for its retro camping vibe and serene environment. However, it is close to the highway, leading to some noise concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the scenic hiking trails, the refreshing creek, and the historical CCC-built picnic shelter. Many users also enjoyed the natural setting with ample shade from trees.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most frequent complaints were about the campground's proximity to the highway, which creates noise issues, and the need for more frequent bathroom maintenance.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as there is no potable water on-site. Download the recreation.gov app for digital payments before arrival. Explore the trail to Sculpture Rock for great views.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews are generally positive during the summer months, though complaints about noise and bathroom cleanliness persist throughout the season. Visitors find it easier to secure a site in August.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great retro camping experience. Make sure you cross the creek and take the trail south to the lookout point!" - John Watson; "Nice campground but close to road, so a bit noisy." - Anna Beeh;...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were highlighted in the reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
User reviews do not specifically address accessibility concerns.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention experiences with pets.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025