Hells Crossing Campground

3.97

92 reviews

Hwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,271 ft

Price

$22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Rocky Mountain Recreation Company site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,271 ft

Price

$22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Rocky Mountain Recreation Company site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Hells Crossing Campground

$22.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard and tent-only nonelectric sites cost $22.00 per night during the peak season from May 16 to October 4. Extra vehicle fee is $8.00.

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

661-702-1420

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What Campers Say

3.97

Mixed Reviews

Based on 92 reviews

46 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacyquietclean

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews of Hells Crossing Campground highlight its quiet and serene atmosphere, proximity to the American River, and clean facilities. However, complaints about ants, yellow jackets, and campsite sizes are common. "Clean and well organized. Well worth it!""

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Hwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA

Hells Crossing Campground

Hwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA

Driving directionsFrom Naches, take Highway 410 approximately 38 miles northwest to milepost 83.4.

The campground is located off Highway 410. However, reviewers note that this campground is not recommended for RV campers due to its tight turns and the close proximity of trees to the roads.

Nearby places

Naches (around 38 miles, approximately 45-50 minutes by car).

Nearby supplies

Reviews mention a small tavern/store/gas station 20 minutes away for basic supplies. Whistlin Jacks, located nearby on Highway 410, is also noted as a supply location.

Best Time to Camp at Hells Crossing Campground

Summer transforms Hells Crossing into a sun-drenched haven where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool mountain evenings demand cozy campfires. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into golden hues before winter's dramatic entrance blankets the landscape in deep snow. This remarkable region showcases nature's extremes: while the western Cascade Crest receives a staggering 140 inches of precipitation annually, creating the lush forests that shelter the campground, the eastern edges see a mere 10 inches, painting a landscape of dramatic contrasts across this diverse ecosystem.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season; warm days, water activities and positive summer reviews, though bugs increase in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Open into October; autumn brings forest color and quieter conditions per seasonal summary.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 16 so late spring access is limited; mild conditions but shorter season window for spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 16–Oct 4, so winter rating not applicable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 16 - October 4 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 16, 2025, through October 4, 2025.
Current Alerts: No current alerts specified.

About Hells Crossing Campground

Nestled along the banks of the rushing American River, Hells Crossing Campground offers a pristine gateway to the Cascade Range wilderness within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This charming retreat spans both sides of the river, with sites 1-10 gracing one bank and sites 11-18 dotting the other, creating an intimate connection with the waterway that defines this special place. Here, the soundtrack of flowing water mingles with rustling pine needles as you wake to misty mountain mornings. While you won't find electrical hookups or modern conveniences, you'll discover something far more valuable: spacious sites beneath towering evergreens, immaculately maintained restrooms, and direct access to world-class hiking, fishing, rafting, and swimming. Past visitors consistently praise the campground's peaceful atmosphere and cleanliness, though they advise coming prepared with insect repellent to ward off the local ant and bee populations that also call this paradise home.

Hells Crossing Campground accommodates both tent and standard nonelectric camping sites. "Hells Crossing Campground offers standard and tent-only sites."

Historical SignificanceAdventure seekers will find themselves at a crossroads of natural and cultural history at Hells Crossing. Just moments away lies the fascinating Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail, where interpretive signs unveil millions of years of geological mysteries, introduce the cave's unique wildlife inhabitants, and share stories of fire's role in shaping this landscape. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, connecting your campsite to a 2,650-mile journey that has captured imaginations and tested limits for generations of hikers. Here, you're not just camping—you're becoming part of a continuing story of outdoor exploration and discovery.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Hells Crossing into a sun-drenched haven where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool mountain evenings demand cozy campfires. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into golden hues before winter's dramatic entrance blankets the landscape in deep snow. This remarkable region showcases nature's extremes: while the western Cascade Crest receives a staggering 140 inches of precipitation annually, creating the lush forests that shelter the campground, the eastern edges see a mere 10 inches, painting a landscape of dramatic contrasts across this diverse ecosystem.

ElevationPerched within the dramatic folds of the Cascade Range, Hells Crossing occupies a sweet spot in this mountainous wonderland. While specific elevation markers remain nature's secret, visitors immediately sense the alpine character of this highland retreat, where the air feels crisper, the stars shine brighter, and every breath reminds you that you've ascended into something special.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape painted by glaciers and time itself—towering peaks crowned with ancient ice rise above a tapestry of old-growth forests where centuries-old giants stand sentinel. The American River carves its way through this pristine wilderness, offering both a stunning centerpiece and a natural playground for swimmers and rafters. As you explore eastward, watch in wonder as the dense, moss-draped forests gradually give way to sun-baked shrub-steppe country, revealing the incredible ecological diversity that makes this corner of Washington truly extraordinary. Every vista tells a story of fire and ice, water and stone, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.

Geological RegionHells Crossing sits at the heart of one of North America's most spectacular mountain ranges—Washington's mighty Cascades. This section of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest showcases the range's full dramatic spectrum: from the west, where massive glaciated peaks preside over valleys cloaked in emerald old-growth forests, to the east, where the landscape transforms into a rugged tableau of shrub-steppe wilderness sculpted by centuries of rain shadow effects. The American River threads through this geological wonderland, its waters telling the ancient story of ice ages past while carving tomorrow's canyons today.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.

Check-out

Check-out is at 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guests per site not explicitly stated.

Groups

Group sites are not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has two separate sections: sites 1-10 in the eastern section and sites 11-18 in the western section. Sites are generally spacious and well-separated.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are walk-up only; users have noted walk-up availability varies and may require checking site statuses upon arrival.

Cancellation PolicyFor cancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date, a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and also forfeit the first night’s rate, taxes, and applicable add-ons.

AccessibilityAccessibility features such as ramps and specialized facilities are not mentioned in the source materials.

Site SizeSites vary in size. Site 15 is described as very large and able to fit multiple tents. "Wonderful spot! Our site was right on the river and very private. And huge! Could’ve fit a lot of tents here.

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ by site. Site 4 and 5 are noted for their seclusion and proximity to the river. "Camp sites #4 and #5 are my favorite. Personal access along the River. Lots of privacy!

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 4 & 5 are praised for being shady, private, and offering direct river access with a slight downhill to the water. Site 15 is large enough for multiple tents and offers excellent privacy. Site 10 is highly scenic but prone to ants.

Amenities available

Potable water

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Hells Crossing Campground hosts a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and rafting. "Hells Crossing Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of recreational activities throughout the year."

HikingSeveral trails are nearby, including Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail and segments of the Pacific Crest Trail. Hikers have rated the trails highly for their natural beauty and accessibility.

FishingThe American River provides excellent fishing opportunities but specific details about types of fish are not mentioned.

SwimmingSwimming in the American River is popular. "The American River, which can be accessed from within the campground, offers a scenic backdrop for swimmers braving its cold, refreshing waters."

BoatingBoating opportunities exist, particularly for whitewater rafting on the American River and nearby rivers. "Whitewater enthusiasts may enjoy a rafting trip on the American or on one of many scenic rivers in the area."

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is likely, given the campground's location in a lush valley of old-growth forest.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsInterpretive signs along Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail explain geology, plants, animals, and fire history.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon hazards include an abundance of ants, bees, and yellow jackets. Campers frequently report ants being problematic in certain sites like site 10, where they were particularly concentrated.

Active AlertsNo current alerts specified.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed unless a fire ban is in place. Firewood must be sourced locally.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Specific quiet hours not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are not explicitly mentioned as being close, but Naches, WA (38 miles away) may have appropriate facilities.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Water FeaturesDirect access to the American River is available for swimming, fishing, and rafting.

Camp HostReviews indicate that the campground host is helpful and maintains clean restrooms. Firewood is sold for $10 per bundle at the host’s site.

Weather at Hells Crossing Campground

Reviews

4.0

92 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Hells Crossing Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Hells Crossing Campground highlight its quiet and serene atmosphere, proximity to the American River, and clean facilities. However, complaints about ants, yellow jackets, and campsite sizes are common. "Clean and well organized. Well worth it!"

Review Summaries

Based on 92 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews often praise the campground's beauty, privacy, clean restrooms, and proximity to the river. "Beautiful, quiet spots near the river. So serene. Will be back!"

Based on 92 reviews

Common Concerns

Ant infestations, yellow jackets, and issues with campsite size are mentioned frequently. "Site 10 had boatloads of ants -- so many that we ditched our reserved site and went for a walkup site over...

Based on 92 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bug spray to combat yellow jackets and ants, as well as extra blankets for cold nights. "Loved hearing the creek at night. Very sappy, cold at night bring a few blankets."

Based on 92 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are generally positive, emphasizing warm weather and water activities, though bugs are more prevalent. "Other than the carpenter ants in our campsite it was nice."

Based on 92 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Spots 8 & 9 have good shade, are very large and have a quick walk to the perfect river spot!" "The bathrooms were super clean and the sites were well kept. I like this campground because most of the...

Based on 92 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 10 is scenic but plagued by ants. "Site 10 had boatloads of ants -- so many that we ditched our reserved site and went for a walkup site over 10 miles down the road." Site 15 is spacious and...

Based on 92 reviews