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No Reservations, No Problem: A Panic-Free Guide to Camping on the Fly

Best no-reservation family campgrounds around Washington State

Lauren Braden
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Published on: August 08, 2023

No Reservations, No Problem: A Panic-Free Guide to Camping on the Fly

Owhi-campground-cooper-lake-best-last-minute-camping-families-washington
Photo:
Larry Lamsa/Flickr CC

Owhi Campground near Roslyn

Find it: Owhi Campground is located near Roslyn in the Wenatchee National Forest.

Details: This campground has 22 walk-in campsites, pit toilets and no piped water (bring your water filter). Enjoy all of the beauty of the Teanaway region without the crowds of the Salmon La Sac–area campgrounds below. Many Northwest families wish this scenic spot would remain a well-kept secret, but the word is out. The campsites are clustered together along little Cooper Lake (bring a raft or canoe for exploring). The 9-mile roundtrip hike to Pete Lake leaves from the campground. Important note: There are sometimes bear warnings for this area; plan to store your food and trash accordingly.

Plan B: Red Mountain Campground (closer to Roslyn) has 10 no-reservation sites situated alongside the Cle Elum River.

Next up: Staircase campground

Image credit: Larry Lamsa/Flickr CC

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