Rex Trail Campground

For residents of Washington State, the Methow Valley is a beloved destination, offering a unique blend of high desert landscapes, stunning mountain views, and the charm of western-themed towns like Winthrop. Nestled within this beautiful region is Rex Trail Campground, a key part of the expansive Pearrygin Lake State Park. This campground provides an ideal setting for Washingtonians seeking a diverse outdoor experience, from relaxing by the lake to embarking on scenic hikes, all within a well-maintained and family-friendly environment. It’s a place where adventures are easily accessible, and the natural beauty of the Okanogan-Wenatchee area truly shines, making it a perfect getaway for locals looking to explore their own backyard.

This article is designed to be a comprehensive and engaging guide for Washington locals considering a trip to Rex Trail Campground. We will delve into its precise location and excellent accessibility, detail the wide array of services and amenities it provides, and highlight the key features that make it a compelling choice for campers of all types. We’ll also cover essential contact information and, finally, articulate why Rex Trail Campground is particularly well-suited for those of us living in Washington who are eager to embrace the abundant recreational opportunities our state has to offer, from watersports to tranquil walks. Our aim is to provide factual, helpful information in a friendly, professional tone, subtly promoting the distinct appeal of this cherished state park campground.

Rex Trail Campground is located within Pearrygin Lake State Park at 625 Bear Creek Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA. This prime location places it just two miles (3.2 km) east of the charming town of Winthrop, in Okanogan County. The park covers an impressive 1,186 acres, almost entirely surrounding Pearrygin Lake, providing 11,000 feet of beautiful shoreline.

For Washington locals, accessing Rex Trail Campground is very convenient. The park has a new consolidated entrance at 625 Bear Creek Road, replacing the old east and west entrances, which simplifies arrival. The roads leading to Pearrygin Lake State Park are well-maintained and suitable for all types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers of various sizes. This easy accessibility makes it a popular choice for families and those with larger camping setups, reducing the stress often associated with navigating to more remote locations. Parking is readily available at individual campsites, and the campground offers both pull-through and back-in sites, many with ample space. The proximity to Winthrop means that campers have easy access to local amenities, shops, and restaurants if needed, blending the convenience of town with the tranquility of a lakeside retreat. This blend of accessibility and natural beauty makes Rex Trail Campground an attractive option for a wide range of Washingtonians looking for an enjoyable and hassle-free camping experience.

Rex Trail Campground, as part of Pearrygin Lake State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors. These services cater to various camping preferences, from tenters to RV enthusiasts:

• Diverse Campsites: The park boasts 163 campsites, including 77 sites for RVs with full or partial hookups. There are separate East and West Campgrounds, offering privacy and shade from trees like ash, maple, and Douglas fir. Tent sites are also available, many with great views of Pearrygin Lake.

• Full and Partial Hookups: Many RV sites offer full hookups (electric, water, sewer) or partial hookups (electric and water), accommodating a wide range of RVs, including big rigs (though some sites have length restrictions).

• Dump Stations: A convenient dump station is located near the entrance of both the East and West Campgrounds for RV waste disposal.

• Potable Water: Fresh water drinking stations are available throughout the campgrounds.

• Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained flush toilets and showers are provided, often located in bathhouses near swimming beaches, ensuring a comfortable experience.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires (note: check for burn bans, which are common in Washington, especially in summer).

• General Store: An onsite General Store offers essentials like firewood, ice, snacks, drinks, and fishing supplies, adding a layer of convenience.

• Wagon Wheel Kitchen: During peak seasons (Mother's Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend), an onsite kitchen offers all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast and other items, providing a convenient dining option.

• Boat Launch and Docks: With 11,000 feet of shoreline, the park offers boat launches with docks, opening up extensive water recreation.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed on leash, making it a great option for campers who want to bring their furry companions.

• Generator Hours: Generators are allowed during specific hours (typically 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.).

The features and highlights of Rex Trail Campground, and Pearrygin Lake State Park as a whole, are what truly make it a premier destination for Washington locals:

• Pearrygin Lake Access and Water Sports: The primary draw is the beautiful Pearrygin Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming at designated beaches, boating, water skiing, jet skiing (with specific hours), kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the spring-fed lake. There's ample shoreline for launching non-motorized crafts.

• Rex Derr Trail: The campground provides direct access to the 3.1-mile Rex Derr Trail, named after a former State Parks director. This multi-use trail offers stunning views of the lake, surrounding Cascade Mountains, and the historic Graves Homestead. It's a year-round gem, groomed in winter for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat-biking, and perfect for hiking and biking in warmer months.

• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Reviews frequently highlight its suitability for families, noting it as a "wonderful family camping" spot with "lots of things to do hiking, swimming, boating." The presence of clean facilities, play areas (though not explicitly detailed, generally found in state parks), and diverse activities cater to all ages.

• Scenic Beauty Across Seasons: Pearrygin Lake State Park is described as a "park for all seasons." From the spring's sunny shrub-steppe landscape to vibrant fall colors and winter snow activities, the views are constantly changing and beautiful.

• Proximity to Winthrop: Being just a couple of miles from Winthrop, a charming old western-themed town, campers have easy access to unique shops, restaurants, and local events, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their trip.

• Variety of Recreation: Beyond water activities and the Rex Derr Trail, the park offers extensive opportunities for mountain biking (including the 7-mile Pearrygin Lake Loop Trail), horseshoe pits, and volleyball, ensuring there's always something to do.

• Well-Maintained and Clean: Consistent customer reviews praise the cleanliness of the bathrooms, showers, and overall park grounds, reflecting high standards of maintenance by Washington State Parks staff.

For information and reservations at Rex Trail Campground (Pearrygin Lake State Park), you can use the following details:

Address: 625 Bear Creek Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA

Phone: While a direct campground phone number isn't typically listed for specific sections within a large state park, you would contact Washington State Parks directly for Pearrygin Lake State Park reservations and information. The general phone number for Washington State Parks reservations is often available on their official website. You can also contact the park directly.

Pearrygin Lake State Park Office Phone: (509) 996-2370 (This number is for the park office, where staff can assist with questions about the campground).

It is highly recommended that Washington locals check the official Washington State Parks website for Pearrygin Lake State Park (parks.wa.gov) for the most current information regarding:

• Reservation availability (reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season).

• Current burn bans or fire restrictions.

• Seasonal closures or operational changes (e.g., winter camping closures).

• Specific details on amenities, activities, and rules.

• Information on the Discover Pass, which is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks.

Planning ahead through these official channels will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Rex Trail Campground, as part of Pearrygin Lake State Park, is an outstanding choice for Washington locals seeking a multifaceted outdoor experience close to home. Its convenient location near Winthrop, coupled with excellent accessibility, makes it a hassle-free destination for families and individuals alike. The abundance of amenities, including full hookups for RVs, clean flush toilets and showers, and even an on-site store, provides a comfortable camping experience that balances natural immersion with modern conveniences.

What truly makes it suitable for Washingtonians is the sheer variety of activities available right at their fingertips: from swimming, boating, and fishing on the beautiful Pearrygin Lake to hiking or biking the scenic Rex Derr Trail, and even enjoying winter activities like snowshoeing. The park’s commitment to cleanliness and its family-friendly atmosphere, as echoed in numerous positive reviews, further solidify its appeal. For those who call Washington home, Rex Trail Campground offers a vibrant, accessible, and endlessly enjoyable opportunity to connect with the state’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich recreational offerings, making it a perfect spot for weekend getaways or extended vacations.