About EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE
Overview East Kachess Group Campground is tucked away on the eastern shore of Kachess Lake in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Hemmed in by dense old-growth conifer forest and surrounded by high mountains, East Kachess Group Campground is secluded, making it an ideal setting for groups and families seeking recreation and relaxation. Recreation This is a prime base camp for hiking, fishing, swimming, and mountain biking in summer and early fall and several trails are a short drive from the area. Anglers will enjoy the scenic backdrop of the area while fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon from boat or shoreline. Facilities East Kachess Group Campground has one large group site, able to accommodate up to 50 people and 20 vehicles. The campground is equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings with grills and vault toilets.Natural Features Kachess Lake, adjacent to the campground, is a reservoir that stores and provides water for irrigation for south-central Washington. The area is quite scenic, supporting wildlife such as deer, porcupine, native fish and migratory birds. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live. Endangered and threatened species including the northern spotted owl and gray wolves also find havens in nearby ecosystems. Nearby Attractions Hikers may want to traverse at least a portion of the spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the world's premier National Scenic Trails. This trail showcases some of North America's most fantastic scenery as it winds its way its way from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington.
How to Get There
Take I-90 to exit 70. Turn over freeway, then left onto West Sparks Road. Follow West Sparks Road 0.5 mile and turn right onto Kachess Dam Road/ Forest Road #4818. Travel approximately 5 miles to the campground on left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 13 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
- 🌡
Layers for swings
Daily temp range is wide (47°F low → 66°F high). Pack layers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE
Heading to EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE?
No central reservation system listed for EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233997) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE?
Take I-90 to exit 70. Turn over freeway, then left onto West Sparks Road. Follow West Sparks Road 0.5 mile and turn right onto Kachess Dam Road/ Forest Road #4818. Travel approximately 5 miles to the campground on left.
How do I contact EAST KACHESS GROUP SITE?
You can reach the park at phone: 509-852-1100 or email: briandspeeg@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources