Windy Point Campground
4.1852 reviewsHighway 12, Naches, WA, 98937, USA
Windy Point 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
The nightly rate for standard non-electric sites is $22 during peak season from May 16 to October 4. Fees include site reservation charges but do not reflect discounts or taxes.
About this campground
Nestled along the rushing waters of the Tieton River, Windy Point Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect balance of comfort and wilderness. This versatile getaway in the heart of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts with essential amenities including fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, and clean vault toilets. While visitor experiences vary—some praising its scenic beauty and others noting room for improvement—the campground's riverside location and breathtaking mountain vistas create an undeniable allure for those seeking authentic Pacific Northwest camping.
Windy Point Campground accommodates tent and RV camping. Some sites provide direct riverfront access while others face the highway. Group camping and cabin lodging are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of history with a visit to nearby Jumpoff Lookout, where generations of fire watchers once scanned the horizon, protecting these ancient forests. Your camping adventure sits along the legendary Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, a 66-mile journey through time that weaves together Native American heritage, pioneer tales, and fascinating geological stories carved into the very rocks beneath your feet.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Windy Point, where each season paints a different masterpiece. Summer days unfold under brilliant blue skies, though true to its name, refreshing winds occasionally sweep through the canyon. As winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, cross-country skiers and snowshoers discover a pristine playground. Savvy visitors time their trips for spring and early summer, when snowmelt swells the nearby waterfalls into thundering cascades that echo through the valley.
ElevationCradled in a picturesque valley where the Tieton River has carved its path through centuries of rock, Windy Point offers a unique perspective on the Cascades' dramatic elevation changes. While the campground itself rests comfortably in the river valley, the surrounding peaks soar skyward, creating a natural amphitheater that captures both morning mist and evening alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature showcases its artistic prowess. Gnarled oak trees twist skyward in sculptural forms, while towering basalt cliffs frame the horizon like ancient sentinels. The Tieton River serves as your aquatic playground—launch a kayak into its currents, float leisurely on a tube, or cast a line for native trout. Hiking trails beckon from the campground, leading intrepid explorers through cathedral-like old-growth forests to alpine viewpoints where the entire Cascade Range unfolds in panoramic splendor.
Geological RegionWindy Point sits within the spectacular Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, a crown jewel of the Northern Cascade Range where nature's extremes collide in dramatic fashion. This geological wonderland spans from sun-baked shrub-steppe barely 1,000 feet above sea level to ice-sculpted peaks piercing the sky at over 9,000 feet. Ancient glaciers have carved deep valleys now cloaked in emerald old-growth forests, while volcanic forces have left their mark in the form of dramatic basalt formations—creating a landscape that tells the story of millions of years in every vista.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited accessibility features are described. Users with disabilities may find the dirt terrain challenging, and no mention of ADA accommodations is provided.
Sites SizeCampground sites offer varying sizes—some are described as very large, accommodating multiple tents, RVs, or trailers, while others are reportedly too small to fit a single tent comfortably.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy; riverfront sites offer more seclusion compared to those closer to the highway, which are described as open and exposed.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 13-15 due to proximity to the highway. Preferred sites include 4, 9, and 10 for better views, shade, and river access.
Best CampsitesSites 4, 9, and 10 are highly rated for their riverside locations and scenic views. Site 9 offers waterfall access and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites accommodate 1 vehicle and 1 legally towed vehicle, with additional vehicles allowed for an extra fee.
Groups
No designated group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRiverside sites (e.g., 4, 9, 10) offer scenic views and more privacy. Sites near the highway, such as 13-15, are more exposed and noisy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16, 2025. Closed for reservations October 4, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground does not explicitly mention walk-up availability, as most sites are reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations or no-shows forfeit the first night's use fee and incur additional penalties. Refunds are available within 7 days of the reservation end date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Windy Point offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Summer recreation includes hiking, fishing, river rafting, and mountain biking. Winter activities include snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. The Tieton River nearby provides opportunities for whitewater paddling, and the area is noted for its stunning wildlife and geological features.
Hiking
Spectacular trails such as Frost Mountain Lookout, Keenan Meadows, and Grey Rock Trail are accessible nearby. Trails offer varying levels of difficulty and feature scenic overlooks.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Tieton River and nearby lagoons, providing opportunities for anglers to enjoy serene settings.Swimming
While swimming holes in the Tieton River are noted, caution is advised due to swift currents. Shallow areas are suitable for children.Biking
Mountain biking is popular, with accessible trails nearby providing moderate terrains suitable for enthusiasts.Boating
River activities, including kayaking, rafting, and tubing, are highly popular, especially in summer months. Wet suits are recommended due to cold water temperatures.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for animal activity, including mountain goats and otters. Twisted oak trees and geological rock formations enhance the natural setting.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. Rock climbing opportunities may exist nearby, though official sources lack specifics.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as rafting, kayaking, and tubing are highly popular, particularly during summer.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Firewood can be purchased on-site for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned, but reviews note that the campground is generally quiet except for highway noise.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews mention hornet and wasp activity near campsites, particularly during summer. High winds and dry conditions are also noted. Campsites closer to the highway experience noise pollution.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 hospital and police station are in Yakima, WA, approximately 35 miles away. Naches has local emergency services closer but less equipped.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 4 (peak season); October 5 - June 4 (off-season, no booking available).
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within short walking distance of campsites. However, some reviewers have noted trash left behind by previous visitors, including items as egregious as dirty diapers.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Tieton River, which provides opportunities for water recreation and scenic views. Some sites have direct river access.
Common complaintsMain complaints include proximity to the highway leading to noise, small or uneven campsites, poor restroom conditions, and hornet/wasp presence. Some reviewers mention a lack of privacy.
HostHosts are highly praised for friendliness and maintaining clean facilities. A camp host is stationed at site 14.
Campground Map
Highway 12, Naches, WA, 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, Washington, take Route 12 west for 4.4 miles to the intersection with State Route 410. Turn left at the intersection, staying on Route 12. Travel 8 miles to campground on the left.
The campground is located along Highway 12, providing good accessibility. However, user reviews note that some campsites are close to the highway, leading to road noise. No seasonal closures or specific terrain challenges mentioned.Nearby places
Naches, WA (approximately 8 miles, 15-minute drive)
Yakima, WA (approximately 35 miles, 40-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Naches, WA (8 miles away). Larger stores and more options can be found in Yakima, WA (35 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.2
52 reviews
Windy Point Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its scenic riverfront views, friendly camp hosts, and clean facilities. However, negative reviews highlight issues such as road noise, small campsite sizes, dirt terrain, and proximity to vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the riverfront sites, clean vault toilets, and convenient access to recreational activities such as hiking and river rafting. Friendly and accommodating camp hosts are often praised.
Based on 52 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include small campsite sizes, proximity to noisy highways, dirt terrain causing mess, and poorly maintained facilities such as bent fire pit grates. Vault toilets are sometimes...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Reserve riverfront sites for better privacy and views," "Bring your own water due to yellow discoloration," "Avoid sites near the highway for reduced noise," "Prepare for wind and bring tie-downs...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is favored for activities like rafting and hiking, while winter appeals to snow sports enthusiasts. Spring may feature cleaner trails and lesser crowds.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The best campsites are down on the river." - Malachi Nyhuis; "Stay away from sites 13-15." - Lazarpage; "Vault bathrooms were clean and stocked." - Cassandra C.; "Our tent smelled like a sewer for...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 4, 6, 9, and 10 are consistently described as ideal, offering riverfront views and larger spaces. Sites 13-15 are discouraged due to highway proximity and lack of privacy.
Based on 52 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit user reviews address accessibility features, though some note challenges due to the dirt terrain and open layout of campsites.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews detail experiences with pet-friendly features.
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025