Nice Campground

4.56

74 reviews

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Featured in:Primitive Camping Washington

Quick Facts

2,700 ft

Price

$15 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

"The campground is c...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,700 ft

Price

$15 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

"The campground is c...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Nice Campground

$15.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Site: $40/night paid digitally only through the recreation.gov mobile app. Single Site: $15/night with a 50% discount for passes like...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$40.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 74 reviews

69 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulspaciouslocationwater

Some mention

mosquitoes

"User reviews generally highlight the campground's peaceful and scenic setting, with its location along Eightmile Creek and its proximity to a waterfall hike being recurring positive themes. Campers appreciate the spacious and wooded campsites but note the lack of potable water and modern amenities."

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Campground Map

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Nice Campground

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Driving directionsFrom Winthrop, travel 8 miles north on West Chewuch Road (county road 1213) to Eight Mile Road (forest service road 5130). On paved Eight Mile Road #5130 drive 3 miles northwest along Eightmile Creek to Nice Campground on the left.

"From user review by Margit MOB: 'Discover Pass required and closed 3 miles out during winter and only accessible by snow mobile.'" Roads are paved but may have seasonal closures. Directions are straightforward, and both official documentation and user reviews corroborate the accessibility challenges during winter.

Nearby places

Winthrop (approximately 8 miles, travel time varies with road conditions)

Nearby supplies

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Best Time to Camp at Nice Campground

Experience four distinct seasons at Nice Campground, each offering its own magic. Summer brings golden days with temperatures hovering around a perfect 80°F, ideal for creek-side relaxation and stargazing under clear mountain skies. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though deep snow and freezing temperatures make it a season for the most adventurous souls. Spring awakens the campground with rushing snowmelt and wildflower blooms, while autumn paints the recovering landscape in warm hues of gold and amber. Seasoned visitors recommend spring and fall as the sweet spots, when moderate temperatures combine with spectacular seasonal transitions.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer praised (golden days ~80°F) for creek-side relaxation; mosquitoes noted as drawback.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall listed as a peak season and reviewers praise the scenery, though fewer specifics than summer.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 23% in WA

Spring highlighted for beauty and wildflowers; reviewers list spring as a peak season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Winter access limited to snowmobiles; snow closures and current wildfire closure reduce use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Spring, Summer, and Fall as per user review by Margit MOB.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: "The campground is currently closed due to wildfire damage as per authoritative source."
Current Alerts: "The campground is temporarily closed due to wildfire damage," as verified in authoritative content.

About Nice Campground

Nestled along the gentle curves of Eightmile Creek, Nice Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's resilience. This tranquil retreat, perfect for small groups seeking authentic wilderness experiences, tells a story of renewal following the 2021 Cub Creek fire. Where towering pines once stood, sun-drenched meadows now flourish with vibrant wildflowers and fresh growth, creating an unexpectedly bright and airy camping experience. Visitors discover spacious, primitive sites that invite you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rhythms of the creek and the whisper of regenerating forests.

Nice Campground caters primarily to primitive and tent camping. Group sites are also available for small groups.

Historical SignificanceSet within the storied Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Nice Campground sits at the intersection of natural history and ecological renewal. This land has witnessed centuries of change, from ancient forests to indigenous pathways, and now serves as a living classroom in fire ecology. The 2021 Cub Creek fire, while devastating, has opened a new chapter in the forest's story, offering visitors a front-row seat to nature's remarkable ability to heal and transform. Each visit reveals new growth and recovery milestones in this dynamic landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Nice Campground, each offering its own magic. Summer brings golden days with temperatures hovering around a perfect 80°F, ideal for creek-side relaxation and stargazing under clear mountain skies. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though deep snow and freezing temperatures make it a season for the most adventurous souls. Spring awakens the campground with rushing snowmelt and wildflower blooms, while autumn paints the recovering landscape in warm hues of gold and amber. Seasoned visitors recommend spring and fall as the sweet spots, when moderate temperatures combine with spectacular seasonal transitions.

ElevationPerched at 2,700 feet above sea level, Nice Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp without being thin. This elevation blessing means summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on the warmest days, perfect for afternoon naps in the shade or evening campfires that chase away the mountain chill. Winter visitors should come prepared for the elevation's full effect, as snow blankets the campground and temperatures plunge well below freezing, creating a pristine but challenging winter wonderland.

Natural Features and SceneryThe soul of Nice Campground flows through Eightmile Creek, whose waters have carved a scenic corridor that defines the camping experience. Waterfront sites let you fall asleep to the creek's soothing melody, while morning brings the splash of wildlife visitors to the nearby beaver pond. Though the 2021 fire opened the canopy, creating sun-soaked spaces where shade once ruled, determined pockets of trees survived, and enthusiastic young growth promises future shade. Visitors like Beth Williams rave about the 'lovely river running through,' where the interplay of water, recovering vegetation, and open skies creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.

Geological RegionNice Campground showcases the dramatic geology of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, where Eightmile Creek has patiently carved its path through ancient volcanic and sedimentary formations. The 2021 Cub Creek fire revealed the underlying landscape in striking detail, exposing rock formations previously hidden by dense forest. Today, visitors witness a fascinating study in ecological succession as native shrubs and grasses reclaim the mineral-rich soils, their vibrant green growth contrasting beautifully with weathered stone and the flowing waters of the creek. This dynamic environment offers a unique glimpse into the powerful forces that continue to shape the Pacific Northwest.

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Check-in

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Stay Limit

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Guests Allowed Per Site

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Groups

The group site rate is $40 per night, and digital payment is required through recreation.gov. No specific details on the maximum number of people or vehicles for the group site were provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe layout includes spacious campsites spread out in a wooded area, as noted by Beth Williams.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made only through recreation.gov mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilityNull

Cancellation PolicyNull

AccessibilityUser reviews indicate that the vault toilets are wheelchair accessible. No additional information on other accessibility features was provided.

Site SizeSeveral user reviews emphasize that the campsites are spacious.

PrivacyThe campsites are described as spread out and wooded, providing a fair amount of privacy, though the campground overall is small.

Recommended SitesUser reviews suggest riverfront sites for views and proximity to water.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is located near recreational opportunities such as day hikes and a waterfall. Proximity to Eightmile Creek allows for activities like fishing, though fishing in the nearby river may be restricted based on Washington State regulations.

HikingHiking opportunities include a short, easy hike to a nearby waterfall, which is accessible across the street from the campground's first entrance. The trailhead features a small sign that can be easily missed. Reviews describe the hike as suitable for all skill levels, with a paved option available.

FishingFishing is mentioned in user reviews, though one camper noted that fishing in the river was not permitted during their visit. Always check Washington State fishing regulations for restrictions.

SwimmingThe campground's proximity to an adjoining creek makes it possible for campers to swim or cool off in the water. One user review mentions using the river for cooling down and filtering water.

Wildlife viewingThe campground’s natural surroundings and proximity to Eightmile Creek provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, though no specific species were mentioned.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews note potential flash flooding during heavy rain and post-wildfire conditions. "Margit MOB states: 'Flash flooding can happen if heavy rain hits.'" Mosquitoes and lack of potable water are additional concerns.

Active Alerts"The campground is temporarily closed due to wildfire damage," as verified in authoritative content.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Nice Campground

Reviews

4.6

74 reviews

Top-Rated

Nice Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally highlight the campground's peaceful and scenic setting, with its location along Eightmile Creek and its proximity to a waterfall hike being recurring positive themes. Campers appreciate the spacious and wooded campsites but note the lack of potable water and modern amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 74 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the campground's natural beauty, its location near a creek and waterfall, the spacious campsites, and the peaceful environment. Many reviewers also...

Based on 74 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of potable water, the absence of trash receptacles, and the presence of mosquitoes during certain seasons. Some reviewers noted that the vault toilets could be...

Based on 74 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water due to the lack of potable water and being prepared for mosquitoes. One reviewer suggests downloading the recreation.gov app ahead of time for group site...

Based on 74 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is described as beautiful in spring, summer, and fall, though the presence of mosquitoes can detract from the experience. Winter access is limited to snowmobiles due to snow closures.

Based on 74 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This was a great spot to camp. It was really close to a beautiful hike to a waterfall.' – Heather Saulsbury 2. 'I have stayed here many times. Super basic but it serves the purpose well.' – Jason...

Based on 74 reviews