Swauk Campground

Star4.64
20 reviews
33400 State Route 97, Cle Elum WA

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$18 - $40/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Swauk Campground
$18.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single sites are $24 per night, and double sites are $40 per night. A 50% discount is available for holders of Interagency Senior, Interagency...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
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

4.64

Top-Rated

Based on 20 reviews

16 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadehiking

Some mention

noise

"Swauk Campground is generally appreciated for its retro camping vibe and serene environment. However, it is close to the highway, leading to some noise concerns."

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Campground Map

33400 State Route 97, Cle Elum WA

Swauk Campground

33400 State Route 97, Cle Elum WA

Driving directionsFrom Cle Elum, WA, take State Rt. 903 east, which becomes State Rt. 970, to US Rt. 97. Proceed north on Rt. 97 for 20.4 miles to the campground on the right.
The campground is directly accessible via paved roads, located on US Route 97. Some user reviews note that it is conveniently located for an overnight stop.
Nearby places
Cle Elum (20.4 miles, approximately 25-30 minutes driving time)

Best Time to Camp at Swauk Campground

From mid-May through late September, Swauk welcomes visitors with delightfully warm days that gradually give way to crisp, star-filled nights. Perched at 3,100 feet, the campground enjoys a natural air conditioning effect that keeps summer temperatures comfortable, while evenings call for cozy campfires and warm layers. This elevation creates the perfect balance—warm enough for daytime adventures, cool enough for restful sleep under the stars.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open mid-May–late Sept; summer reviews generally positive though noise/cleanliness complaints persist.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through late Sept; likely pleasant early fall but limited data on peak fall conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens mid-May (late spring); limited season window for spring visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Seasonal closure: campground closed outside mid-May–late Sept.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally from mid-May to late September, corresponding to the weekend before Memorial Day through the Tuesday after Labor Day.

About Swauk Campground

Nestled in the heart of Wenatchee National Forest, Swauk Campground beckons with 19 intimate single campsites and 2 spacious double sites, where history and nature intertwine beneath towering evergreens. The crown jewel of this woodland retreat is its authentic Civilian Conservation Corps-era picnic shelter, complete with a magnificent stone fireplace that has warmed countless gatherings since the 1930s. Stone ovens scattered throughout the grounds whisper tales of simpler times, inviting modern adventurers to create their own lasting memories in this timeless setting.
Swauk Campground supports tent camping with 9 dedicated tent-only sites and a mix of single and double combined-use sites. There are no RV-specific sites or facilities such as dump stations or hookups.
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Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights maximum.

Amenities available

Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Swauk Campground offers picnicking, hiking, and opportunities for viewing scenery. A short 3/4-mile trail leads to Sculpture Rock, a notable viewpoint.
HikingHiking is available, including a short 3/4-mile trail to Sculpture Rock, known for its scenic views. Additionally, Sculpture Rock #1397 is a 2-mile trail accessible from the campground.
Wildlife viewingThe campground's natural setting amidst Ponderosa Pine and western Larch trees offers opportunities for observing wildlife and enjoying scenic views.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome user reviews mention that traffic noise from the adjacent US Route 97 can be distracting, and the lack of potable water at the site necessitates campers to bring their own.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Swauk Campground

Reviews

4.6
20 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Swauk Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Swauk Campground is generally appreciated for its retro camping vibe and serene environment. However, it is close to the highway, leading to some noise concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciated the scenic hiking trails, the refreshing creek, and the historical CCC-built picnic shelter. Many users also enjoyed the natural setting with ample shade from trees.
Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

The most frequent complaints were about the campground's proximity to the highway, which creates noise issues, and the need for more frequent bathroom maintenance.
Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, as there is no potable water on-site. Download the recreation.gov app for digital payments before arrival. Explore the trail to Sculpture Rock for great views.
Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews are generally positive during the summer months, though complaints about noise and bathroom cleanliness persist throughout the season. Visitors find it easier to secure a site in August.
Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great retro camping experience. Make sure you cross the creek and take the trail south to the lookout point!" - John Watson; "Nice campground but close to road, so a bit noisy." - Anna Beeh;...
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Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers were highlighted in the reviews.
Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

User reviews do not specifically address accessibility concerns.
Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically mention experiences with pets.
Based on 20 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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