Wish Poosh Campground
3.9242 reviews15311 SALMON LA SAC ROAD
Wish Poosh Campground
$22.00 - $43.00 / 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
Booking range depends on season with daily rates varying between $22.00 and $43.00 during peak season. Additional charges include $8.00 for extra vehicles and $10.00 per bundle of firewood. Reservation fees for online bookings are $8, and for contact center reservations, $9.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Cle Elum Lake, Wish Poosh Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and waterfront adventure. At an elevation of 2,300 feet, this haven features 34 thoughtfully arranged campsites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and inviting campfire rings where stories are shared under starlit skies. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or gliding across the lake in your kayak, every day here promises a new adventure waiting to unfold.
Wish Poosh Campground caters to tent and RV camping, with first-come, first-served sites. "There are 34 sites for both tent and RV camping."
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Pacific Northwest weather at Wish Poosh, where summer days arrive with abundant sunshine and warmth that invites endless outdoor play. As seasons shift, winter transforms the landscape into a wonderland of crisp, clear skies and gentle snowfall that blankets the surrounding peaks. The region's characteristically dry air and moderate breezes create ideal camping conditions throughout the peak season, ensuring comfortable nights around the campfire and refreshing mornings that energize your next adventure.
ElevationPerched at 2,300 feet above sea level, Wish Poosh Campground offers the sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape the valley heat and enjoy refreshing mountain air, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. This moderate elevation gifts visitors with noticeably cooler temperatures on warm summer days and spectacular vantage points for soaking in the surrounding Cascade scenery, all while maintaining easy access to both lakeside activities and mountain trails.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a breathtaking tapestry of Pacific Northwest wilderness where towering old-growth forests meet dramatic alpine peaks, and the shimmering expanse of Cle Elum Lake reflects the ever-changing sky. This diverse ecosystem transitions from dense coniferous canopies to open shrub-steppe meadows, creating a rich habitat where deer graze at dawn, porcupines amble through the underbrush, and coyotes sing their twilight songs. Overhead, migratory birds paint patterns across the sky, adding their melodies to nature's symphony.
Geological RegionWish Poosh Campground rests within the majestic Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, a geological wonderland sculpted by ancient glaciers and time. Here, dramatic peaks carved by ice age glaciers tower above valleys cloaked in primeval forests, while unique shrub-steppe ecosystems tell the story of this region's diverse climate zones. This remarkable landscape showcases millions of years of geological history, from volcanic origins to glacial artistry, creating the stunning backdrop that makes every moment at Wish Poosh unforgettable.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers spacious campsites with varying degrees of privacy. Some sites are large enough to accommodate multiple tents or RVs, and access to the lake is convenient. However, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly described in the official information.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some able to accommodate up to 10 people comfortably. "Campsite number 7 can fit about 3-5 tents in it, which is pretty big for a campsite."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary between sites, with some sites being closer together and less private. "Campsites are super close together so there is very little privacy—could hear other campers' entire conversations," while others are more secluded.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site 9 due to ant infestations. Sites 2-4 recommended for families due to space and location near entrance.
Best CampsitesSite 21 for lake access; Site 7 for spacious tent setups; Site 5 for larger group accommodations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay for 14 days during one visit.
Groups
The campground includes 2-4 large campsites ideal for two-family groups, located near the entrance and accommodating up to four vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites equipped with picnic tables and grills; areas near entrance have larger sites accommodating multiple families.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason Opens May 23, 2025; Closes September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 34 sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews describe Friday mornings as a good time for walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 fee. Cancellations closer to arrival forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 late cancellation fee. No-shows forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $20 fee.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Seasonal activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling are available during winter.
Hiking
There are hiking trails within 5 miles of the campground, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), known for showcasing North America's most spectacular scenery. "Good hiking nearby," according to reviews.Fishing
"Anglers also enjoy the abundance of fishing opportunities. Please check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the most current fishing information."Swimming
Swimming is available at Cle Elum Lake and Speelyi Beach: "The lake is walking distance and provides plenty of space for everyone to splish and splash around."Biking
Mountain biking is listed as a popular activity in the area during summer and early fall.Boating
Boating is supported, with a boat launch available near the campground. "Bring your water activities gear. There is a boat launch."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of deer, porcupines, native fish, and migratory birds. Bears have also been reported, leading to warnings about food storage: "Beware of bears; they have signs everywhere."Beach activities
Speelyi Beach features a sandy waterfront ideal for swimming and kayaking. "Beautiful setting with lake access not far from campgrounds."Winter Activities
Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are available during winter months.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Cle Elum Lake and Speelyi Beach.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Strict rules during state-wide burn bans; fire patrols enforced during daylight hours but inconsistently at night.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM noise restrictions inconsistently followed.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear sightings reported; non-aggressive but require caution. Mosquitoes are abundant; repellents recommended. Coyotes and wolf sounds heard at night.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.7 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
General emergency services are not specified, but reviews mention proximity to Cle Elum (approximately 8 miles), which likely has emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 20 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, but reviews highlight issues with payment boxes being tampered with and portable restroom servicing being inconsistent: 'The payment box was not secure.'
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Cle Elum Lake; boat launch available; Speelyi Beach nearby for swimming and kayaking.
Common complaintsMain complaints from reviews include lack of water, poorly maintained porta potties, and noise disturbances. Issues with reservations being marked but unused were also noted.
HostWell-reviewed hosts; one host named Bill was praised for exceptional service.
Campground Map
15311 SALMON LA SAC ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, take I-90 East to exit 80, then take a left on Bullfrog Road, then head north on County Road 903. The campground is on the left after approximately 8 miles.
Accessible via paved roads; some user reviews complain about road quality needing improvements, but no seasonal closures or challenging terrain reported.Nearby places
Ronald: Less than 1 mile. Cle Elum: Approximately 8 miles. Ellensburg: About 30 miles.
Nearby supplies
A mini grocery store less than half a mile away offers supplies like ice and firewood. Restaurants and boat rental places are within a mile's distance.
Camper Reviews
3.9
42 reviews
Wish Poosh Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Wish Poosh Campground receives mixed reviews, averaging 3.5238 stars for campground-specific sentiment. Positive highlights include its proximity to Cle Elum Lake, spacious sites, and helpful hosts. Complaints often center on poorly maintained facilities, lack of potable water, and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful lake access, spacious campsites, friendly camp hosts, and ample recreational opportunities are frequently praised. "Beautiful campground with lots of space between sites, easy walking...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Portable toilets are often full and poorly maintained, potable water is unavailable, and privacy between sites can be limited. "The porta potties were full and pretty gnarly."
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water and repellent for mosquitoes. Early arrival is recommended to secure a spot. "Bring your boat if you have one; there is a boat launch."
Based on 42 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight warm, sunny conditions ideal for swimming and hiking. Winter reviews praise snowshoeing and snowmobiling but note the lack of functional water and restrooms. Late summer may...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wish Poosh is a lovely campground close to town; I even had cell service at least some of the time." "Saw a few kids stealing money from the payment box." "Camp host was lovely, he came to find us...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
"Campsite number 7 can fit about 3-5 tents in it." "Campsite 005 is large and can easily hold 10 people comfortably." "Site 21 offers easy access to the lake."
Based on 42 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in reviews, but spacious sites and proximity to the lake may be beneficial for some users.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Random dogs with no owner in sight would run into our campsite, stressing out our dog who was leashed." Pets are allowed but must be leashed, per campground rules.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025