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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND

South Cle Elum, Washington · Yakima County · Campground

Overview American Forks Campground is located about 40 miles west of Naches, Washington, near the American River and Bumping River in the East Cascade mountains.Recreation The campground provides ready access to Bumping Lake, where boating and fishing are popular. Hiking and horseback riding trails extend into the Will…

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About AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND

Overview American Forks Campground is located about 40 miles west of Naches, Washington, near the American River and Bumping River in the East Cascade mountains.Recreation The campground provides ready access to Bumping Lake, where boating and fishing are popular. Hiking and horseback riding trails extend into the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas, and off-road vehicle and snowmobile access draws visitors to the Little Naches drainage. In winter, snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing are popular in the American River area. A trip along the scenic Mather Parkway is a fantastic outing. The American River, adjacent to the campground, offers a scenic backdrop for anglers. Its cold, clear waters sustain populations of rainbow and brown trout. Whitewater enthusiasts may enjoy a paddle on the river or one of the many other tributaries draining into the Cascade region.Facilities The campground has 8 reservable sites and 4 first-come, first-served sites available between Memorial Day and the end of September. There is no water available at the campground, however, vault toilets are provided. Natural Features The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is defined by its diverse landscapes, boasting high glaciated alpine peaks, lush valleys of old growth forest, and rugged shrub-steppe country. The American Forks Campground is nestled in an old-growth forest of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and a cedar under story with grassy areas, ferns, and mosses. With the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas nearby, the location is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, porcupine, native fish, and migratory birds. Endangered and threatened species, including the northern spotted owl, gray wolves, and grizzly bears also find havens in local ecosystems. Summer temperatures are generally sunny and warm with little precipitation, and winters boast mostly clear skies, but plenty of snow. Nearby Attractions Hikers may want to traverse a portion of the spectacu

How to Get There

From Naches, travel west on US Highway 12 for 4.4 miles. Continue straight onto State Route (SR) 410 W for 27.5 miles. Turn left onto Bumping River Rd / Forest Road 1800. Turn left on Bumping River Road, cross the bridge over the American River, then turn left onto the American Forks Campground Road. From Enumclaw, depart SR 164/Griffin Ave toward Wells St. After ½ mile turn left onto SR 410/Roosevelt Ave. Follow SR 410 approximately 66 miles east to the intersection with Bumping River Road (FR 1800). Turn right on Bumping River Road, cross the bridge over the American River, then turn left onto the American Forks Campground Road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND

Heading to AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND? 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 AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND?

No central reservation system listed for AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251884) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND?

From Naches, travel west on US Highway 12 for 4.4 miles. Continue straight onto State Route (SR) 410 W for 27.5 miles. Turn left onto Bumping River Rd / Forest Road 1800. Turn left on Bumping River Road, cross the bridge over the American River, then turn left onto the American Forks Campground Road. From Enumclaw, depart SR 164/Griffin Ave toward Wells St. After ½ mile turn left onto SR 410/Roose…

How do I contact AMERICAN FORKS CAMPGROUND?

You can reach the park at phone: (509) 653-1401.