Site: Cat Creek Chimney (recgovnpsdata)

Cat Creek Chimney, officially known as Cat Creek Campground, offers a quintessential rustic camping experience within the vast expanse of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington State. Operating under the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, this site caters specifically to campers who appreciate a more primitive setting, without extensive modern amenities, focusing instead on immersion in nature and access to diverse outdoor recreation. The mention of "(recgovnpsdata)" indicates its presence within federal recreation databases, managed by agencies like the USDA Forest Service, underscoring its public access and management as a designated camping area.

The environment of Cat Creek Chimney Campground is characterized by its location in a high-elevation stand of Lodgepole Pine and Silver Fir. Situated near the Mt. Adams Wilderness, it provides a serene and shaded setting. The campground itself is rustic, with 5 campsites nestled in a wooded area, offering a good degree of shade and some privacy for campers. It is located near both Cat Creek and the Cispus River, suggesting opportunities for water-based activities or simply enjoying the sounds of flowing water. The broader Gifford Pinchot National Forest is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from dense forests to volcanic peaks, and features elevations that influence temperatures, with variations from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer. This makes for a dynamic environment where visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions. The natural setting means visitors can expect to encounter various wildlife and typical forest conditions, enhancing the authentic outdoor experience. The campground's remote nature, accessed via Forest Road 21, provides a sense of escape from populated areas, offering quietude and a chance to truly disconnect. It is approximately 6 miles from Randle, Washington, by way of specific forest roads, indicating a drive through forested terrain to reach the destination.

Services at Cat Creek Chimney Campground are intentionally basic, aligning with its rustic classification within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category. This is a first-come, first-served campground, meaning reservations are not accepted, and visitors must physically arrive to claim a site. Payment can often be made on-site, sometimes through a QR code system via the Recreation.gov mobile app, although campers are advised to download the app beforehand due to potential limited or no cellular service in remote areas. A key amenity provided is a vault toilet, offering a fundamental restroom facility. However, potable water is NOT available at the campground, making it essential for campers to bring their own supply for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Garbage removal is typically not provided during the off-season, requiring campers to practice "Leave No Trace" principles and pack out all their trash. During the main operating season (typically May to September), concessionaire services may be present for garbage removal and bathroom maintenance. Fire restrictions are common in national forests, and campers should always check for current fire information, although portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuel are generally allowed. This emphasis on self-sufficiency and minimal services contributes to the authentic outdoor experience offered by the campground.

The features of Cat Creek Chimney Campground are designed for those seeking a primitive camping adventure. It offers 5 individual campsites, providing an intimate camping atmosphere. Each campsite is suitable for tent camping and also accommodates smaller RVs, with a maximum vehicle length often restricted to 18 feet. While not explicitly detailed for every site, typical rustic campground features often include a cleared area for tents or small RVs, and a fire ring. The campground's strategic location provides direct access to nearby multi-use trails, making it particularly popular with Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) riders. This feature is a significant draw for a specific segment of the camping community. Other recreational opportunities in the vicinity include hiking, with trails leading into the northern parts of the Mt. Adams Wilderness, and fishing in the nearby Cispus River. The shaded, wooded setting offers natural cooling in warmer months. The campground operates under a 14-day stay limit, ensuring availability for a wider range of visitors. Pets are generally allowed, but campers should adhere to leash laws and proper waste disposal. The presence of a historic "chimney" structure, likely from a former Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, adds a unique historical feature to the site, providing a point of interest for visitors.

Promotional information for Cat Creek Chimney Campground often highlights its appeal as a "rustic" and "secluded" destination within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. It is marketed as an ideal base for exploring the Mt. Adams Wilderness and for engaging in OHV riding on adjacent multi-use trails. The fees are typically affordable, with single sites costing around $20 per night and double sites around $30, often with discounts for holders of Interagency Senior or Access passes. The "first-come, first-served" policy is a key piece of information, promoting flexibility for spontaneous trips but also advising early arrival, especially during peak season. The operating season, typically from May to September, is clearly communicated. Proximity to towns like Randle and Packwood in Washington is mentioned for resupply needs. The emphasis is on the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The lack of amenities like potable water is often explicitly stated, serving as a reminder for visitors to be prepared and self-sufficient. Promotional materials from the Forest Service or recreation sites often include directions, contact information for ranger districts (e.g., Cowlitz Valley Ranger District at 360-497-1100), and links to mobile apps for payment, all designed to facilitate a smooth, if basic, camping experience. The campground's appeal lies in its simplicity and direct access to wilderness recreation, making it attractive to those who prioritize nature over extensive facilities.