Salmon La Sac
4.41126 reviews30160 Salmon La Sac Rd
Quick Facts
2,300 ftPrice
$27 - $54/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
67 campsites
Season
Open May 23 through ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
2,300 ftPrice
$27 - $54/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
67 campsites
Season
Open May 23 through ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsSalmon La Sac
$27.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly fees range from $27 for standard non-electric sites to $54 during peak season. Extra vehicle fee is $8.00.
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$27.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider509-852-1100briandspeeg@fs.fed.us
What Campers Say
4.41
Recommended
Based on 126 reviews
91 Google reviews
Most mentioned
hikingwell-maintainedsites
Some mention
noisecrowded
"User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, spacious sites, and the variety of outdoor activities available. Cleanliness and maintenance are generally appreciated, though recurring issues with water pumps, toilet conditions, and wildlife management (e.g., bears) are noted."
Fees & Passes at Salmon La Sac
$27 - $54/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late canc...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Salmon La Sac
From May through September, this mountain sanctuary transforms into a sun-drenched playground where warm days invite endless exploration and cool evenings call for campfire gatherings. While winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow under brilliant blue skies, the campground welcomes visitors during the glorious summer months when wildflowers paint the meadows and the rivers run full.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 - September 20.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23 through September 20 for reservations. Closed October through April.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts mentioned.
About Salmon La Sac
Nestled where the pristine Cle Elum and Cooper Rivers converge, Salmon La Sac Campground offers an enchanting basecamp in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Adventure seekers flock here to cast lines into crystal-clear waters, explore winding forest trails, plunge into refreshing swimming holes, and pedal along scenic mountain paths that wind through towering evergreens.
Salmon La Sac Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. It does not offer primitive or luxury camping options.
Historical SignificanceThis treasured slice of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest carries the legacy of America's conservation movement in every trail and timber. Historic Civilian Conservation Corps craftsmanship can still be discovered throughout the area, where Depression-era workers built lasting monuments to outdoor accessibility that continue to welcome generations of nature lovers.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, this mountain sanctuary transforms into a sun-drenched playground where warm days invite endless exploration and cool evenings call for campfire gatherings. While winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow under brilliant blue skies, the campground welcomes visitors during the glorious summer months when wildflowers paint the meadows and the rivers run full.
ElevationPerched at 2,300 feet where mountain air stays refreshingly crisp even on summer days, the campground offers the perfect sweet spot between accessibility and alpine adventure. This moderate elevation delivers comfortable temperatures for active days and cool, star-filled nights without the thin air challenges of higher peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Douglas firs and Western red cedars tower overhead, creating a cathedral of green that frames glimpses of snow-capped alpine peaks. Clear mountain streams tumble over smooth river rocks, while curious deer wander through campsites at dusk. Lucky visitors might spot porcupines ambling through the underbrush or catch sight of colorful migratory birds filling the forest with their songs.
Geological RegionThe dramatic landscape of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest unfolds around you, where massive glaciers once carved deep valleys now cloaked in emerald old-growth forests. Jagged peaks pierce the sky above, while below, the transition from lush forest to rugged shrub-steppe tells the geological story of millennia, creating a diverse ecosystem that captivates both casual campers and serious naturalists.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are present. However, some water pumps are reported to be non-functional, which could pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are generally described as spacious, with some accommodating multiple tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site, with some offering excellent seclusion and others being more open. Interior sites, such as site 31, are noted to lack privacy compared to riverside sites like site 30.
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, consider sites like #20. For river access, choose sites #30, #44, or #43.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests allowed per single campsite.
Groups
No specific group camping descriptions are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 67 sites with paved roads and loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 through September 20 for reservations. Closed October through April.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability runs from June 20 through June 24, limited to 40 sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Salmon La Sac Campground provides a wealth of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The area is particularly popular in the summer and early fall but also supports winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Hiking
Hiking is a standout activity, with access to trails like the Waptus River Trail, which leads to Waptus Lake and Summit Chief Mountain. Trails vary in difficulty, offering options for both casual hikers and more experienced adventurers. "Pete Lake is a great hike," noted one reviewer, featuring ample shade and moderate elevation changes.Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction, with opportunities to catch rainbow and cutthroat trout as well as kokanee salmon. Anglers appreciate the abundance of fish in the Cle Elum and Cooper Rivers.Swimming
Swimming is highly rated in the campground's pristine rivers. A popular swimming hole with cliff-jumping opportunities is located nearby and described as having waters over 20 feet deep.Biking
The campground's paved roads make it suitable for biking, especially for families with children. Nearby trails also provide mountain biking opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding wilderness supports diverse wildlife such as deer, porcupines, native fish, and migratory birds. Visitors are encouraged to secure food due to bear activity.Winter Activities
The winter months offer activities such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling (outside the campground itself). The nearby Salmon la Sac Sno-Park provides groomed trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are popular in the rivers, as one user mentioned kayaking down the river to the lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless restricted during dry seasons. Firewood is available for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 11 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common. Guests are advised to store food in hard-sided containers. Swimming areas may have strong currents.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather at Salmon La Sac
39
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and police station are in Cle Elum, 19 miles away. Forest Service staff may be contacted at (661) 702-1420.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but users have noted issues with bears accessing dumpsters. Campers are strongly advised to secure food and trash properly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Cle Elum and Cooper Rivers, with swimming holes and fishing spots nearby.
Common complaintsComplaints include limited water spigots, crowded conditions during peak season, and noise disturbances from nearby cabins or campers.
HostHosts are described as helpful and friendly, but availability may vary.
Campground Map
30160 Salmon La Sac Rd
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, take I-90 east for nearly 80 miles. Take exit 80 toward Salmon La Sac and turn left on Bullfrog Road. Continue to the 2nd traffic circle and take the second exit onto WA-903 north. Continue onto Salmon La Sac road. The campground is on the left, just past Cayuse Campground. From Cle Elum, WA travel north on Highway 903 / Salmon la Sac Road for 19 miles. Stay left on Salmon La Sac road to the campground. The campground is on the left, just past Cayuse Campground.
Roads are paved leading up to the campground. Seasonal closures may apply from October to April.Nearby places
Ronald: 8 miles, Cle Elum: 19 miles, Roslyn: 20 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Cle Elum, 19 miles away, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
126 reviews
Salmon La Sac is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, spacious sites, and the variety of outdoor activities available. Cleanliness and maintenance are generally appreciated, though recurring issues with water pumps, toilet conditions, and wildlife management (e.g., bears) are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 126 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque riverside sites, excellent hiking opportunities, and well-maintained grounds. Families appreciate the campground's suitability for children, including...
Based on 126 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include non-functional water pumps, poorly maintained vault toilets, and issues with bears accessing trash. Some reviewers also mention lack of privacy in certain sites and noisy...
Based on 126 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a large water container due to limited functional water pumps. Secure food and trash to avoid bear encounters. Make reservations early, as riverside sites are highly sought after.
Based on 126 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons, with high occupancy rates and vibrant natural scenery. Winters offer a quieter experience with opportunities for snow-based activities.
Based on 126 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The river is so beautiful, and if you want to refresh yourself, you can jump straight in!" "The campground is very well kept, including the restrooms!" "Some water pumps were not functional, but...
Based on 126 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Riverside sites like 30 are highly recommended for their scenic views and relaxing ambiance, while interior sites such as 31 are noted for their lack of privacy. Site 42 is praised for its seclusion.
Based on 126 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are present, but broken water pumps may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.
Based on 126 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Some reviewers mention bears, emphasizing the need to monitor pet safety.
Based on 126 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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