Handy Springs Campground

Star0
4 reviews

Quick Facts

6,500 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest site

Official Website
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Handy Springs Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

2 Google reviews

"User reviews mostly focus on the remote location and primitive nature of the campground. One user review highlights the incorrect location listed in Google Maps prior to 2017 and provides insights into its true location approximately 18-20 miles west of Lake Chelan."

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Campground Map

Handy Springs Campground

47.9789, -120.4123

Driving directionsFrom Chelan, travel south on Highway 97A for 3 miles. Turn right onto Southshore Road and go approximately 20 miles to Shady Pass Road #5900. Turn left up the Shady Pass Road, go approximately 18 miles. Handy Springs Campground is on the left.
The campground is located 18-20 miles up in the mountains on primitive roads west of Lake Chelan. User reviews confirm challenging road conditions, noting "primitive roads" that may require careful navigation.

Best Time to Camp at Handy Springs Campground

Summer transforms Handy Springs into a high-altitude paradise, where crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above and gentle mountain breezes keep temperatures refreshingly comfortable. As autumn approaches, the landscape erupts in golden hues before winter's dramatic arrival. When snow blankets the peaks – often for weeks at a time – the campground becomes an inaccessible wonderland, with freezing temperatures and significant snowfall creating a pristine but formidable alpine environment that demands respect and proper timing for your visit.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer described as 'high-altitude paradise' with clear skies and comfortable breezes.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Autumn mentioned briefly; elevation suggests scenic colors but earlier snow risk.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.5 / 5

Spring likely affected by snowmelt and road conditions; limited seasonal info available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Likely heavy snow at 6,500 ft and primitive access may make winter use impractical.

Planning Tips

    About Handy Springs Campground

    Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Handy Springs Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This tent-only sanctuary sits majestically at 6,500 feet, where primitive roads wind through untouched landscapes to deliver you to a world far removed from modern distractions. Here, simplicity reigns supreme – with limited amenities that encourage a genuine connection with nature and a return to the fundamentals of outdoor living.
    Handy Springs Campground provides only one tent-only site. No additional options such as RV, group, cabin, or glamping are available.
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    Activities you can enjoy

    Due to its remote location and primitive nature, the campground primarily supports tent camping. Activities such as hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits were not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
    Winter Activities
    Water Sports
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include the lack of potable water, primitive road access, and seasonal weather challenges such as snow. Wildlife encounters may also be possible due to the remote location.
    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

    Weather at Handy Springs Campground

    Reviews

    0.0
    4 reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Handy Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews mostly focus on the remote location and primitive nature of the campground. One user review highlights the incorrect location listed in Google Maps prior to 2017 and provides insights into its true location approximately 18-20 miles west of Lake Chelan.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 4 reviews

    What Campers Love

    The remote and primitive nature of the campground may appeal to campers looking for solitude or a more rugged experience.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Common Concerns

    User reviews suggest that the campground's primitive roads and outdated mapping information might be difficult for some to navigate. The lack of amenities such as potable water was also noted.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Future campers should prepare adequately for a primitive camping experience, including bringing their own water and supplies. Familiarity with the surrounding area and roads is advisable.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    No detailed seasonal trends were provided. However, the primitive nature and elevation of the campground suggest that weather conditions could substantially impact usability.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    1. "Handy Springs Campground is ACTUALLY about 18 or 20 miles up in the mountains on primitive roads west of Lake Chelan from Twenty-five Mile Creek." - Timothy O. 2. "My three-star review is ONLY a...
    Show more
    Based on 4 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    No reviews specific to particular campsites were provided, as the campground contains only one tent-only site.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    No reviews or information addressing accessibility features were provided.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    No reviews or information addressing pet policies were provided.
    Based on 4 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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