Wish Poosh Campground

For Washington locals yearning for a refreshing escape to a tranquil lakeside setting with ample space and a genuine connection to nature, Wish Poosh Campground near Cle Elum, WA, offers a fantastic opportunity. Situated on the southeastern shore of Cle Elum Lake within the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this campground provides a scenic backdrop for a variety of outdoor adventures, from fishing and boating to simply unwinding amidst the trees.

Wish Poosh is known for its well-spaced campsites, providing a desirable level of privacy that many campers seek. As one satisfied visitor noted, "The campground’s pleasantly treed, with no obvious lane access unless you go down to the boat launch area, and the sites weren’t too close together." This feeling of seclusion, even when the campground is full on a weekend, is a significant draw for Washingtonians looking to truly relax and disconnect.

While the campground offers a rustic experience, including reliance on porta potties and the need to bring your own water, its natural beauty and access to Cle Elum Lake more than compensate. It's a place where you're immersed in the forest, with wildlife (including deer and occasional bears) as your neighbors, and the opportunity to enjoy water activities just a short walk away. The presence of a helpful camp host, as highlighted in reviews, further enhances the positive experience, offering a warm welcome and practical assistance.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Wish Poosh Campground for Washington residents. We will delve into its specific location and accessibility, detail the services and amenities offered (and those that are limited), highlight its most appealing features and points of interest, and provide essential contact information. Ultimately, we'll discuss why this particular campground is well-suited for locals seeking a memorable and authentic outdoor escape in the heart of Washington's Central Cascades.

If you're ready to embrace a true forest camping adventure with lake access and a good dose of peace, Wish Poosh Campground awaits your visit.

Location and Accessibility

Wish Poosh Campground is strategically located on Salmon La Sac Rd, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA. This places it directly on the southeastern shore of Cle Elum Lake, within the picturesque Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Its elevation of approximately 2,300 feet provides a comfortable summer climate and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Access to Wish Poosh Campground is generally straightforward. From the town of Cle Elum, visitors would head north on Highway 903 (Salmon La Sac Road) directly to the campground. The road is typically paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for a wide range of vehicles, including RVs and trailers, although large RVs should be mindful of site sizes. The campground is relatively "close to town" (Cle Elum or Ronald) for quick supply runs, with a "mini grocery store" located less than half a mile away for essentials like ice and firewood.

Driving times from major Washington population centers are manageable for weekend trips:

• From Seattle: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic over Snoqualmie Pass.
• From Yakima: Around 1.5 to 2 hours, traveling via US-97 and then connecting to the Cle Elum area.
• From Spokane: Roughly 3.5 to 4 hours, primarily via I-90 West.

While the campground is accessible, it's important to note that cell service can be spotty or non-existent in this area, particularly within the campground itself, though one reviewer did mention having "cell service at least some of the time" which might vary by carrier or specific spot. It's always wise to download maps or have physical navigation tools readily available. The proximity to Cle Elum Lake and various forest roads also allows for easy exploration of the surrounding natural landscape.

Services Offered

Wish Poosh Campground provides a range of basic services designed for a rustic yet accommodating camping experience within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. While some amenities may be limited, the campground offers essentials to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers 34 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Sites are well-spaced, allowing for privacy, and typically include a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. Some sites, like campsite #7, are quite large and can accommodate multiple tents, making them suitable for groups or larger families. There are also "two-family campsites" ideal for groups, located near the campground entrance.
• Restroom Facilities: While the "regular bathrooms are closed" and the "drinking water system and flush toilets are out of order" as per recent reviews and official sources, well-maintained porta potties (also referred to as "honey buckets" or portable toilets) are consistently provided. Campers should be prepared for this and bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Maintenance levels can vary, so preparedness is key.
• Limited Water Access: As noted by several reviewers, there is generally "no water" or "no potable water" available directly at the campsites. While some "faucets" might exist, they were often covered or non-functional. Campers must bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and washing. Water from Cle Elum Lake or nearby streams would require filtration or purification.
• Boat Launch: A key amenity is the convenient boat launch area. This allows for easy access to Cle Elum Lake for various water activities. There is an area near the boat launch where campers can borrow life vests, a thoughtful touch.
• No Hookups: Wish Poosh Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It is a dry camping experience, requiring self-sufficiency for power and waste.
• On-Site Camp Host: The presence of a "lovely" and "friendly" camp host is frequently highlighted in reviews. Hosts are available to assist campers, provide information, and manage the campground. One review praised the host for finding them to return an accidental overpayment, showcasing excellent customer service.
• Bear Precautions: Given that the campground is in bear country, "warnings about bears being seen" are common, and guests should practice proper food storage in bear-resistant containers or vehicles. A "bear cage with a trap" might also be present, indicating active wildlife management.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: While some sources mention reservations, several reviews indicate that sites can be available on a first-come, first-served basis, especially on Friday mornings. However, the campground can fill up quickly by nightfall on weekends. It's best to check current reservation policies with the Forest Service.

Features / Highlights

Wish Poosh Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a popular choice for Washington locals:

• Cle Elum Lake Access: The primary highlight is its direct access to Cle Elum Lake. This large lake provides extensive opportunities for boating (including motorboats), kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The water, while "quite cold," is described as "wonderful" and offers "plenty of space for everyone to splish and splash around."
• Boat Launch and Day Use Area: The convenient boat launch makes it easy for visitors to get on the water. A day-use area is also available for picnicking and lakeside relaxation for those not camping.
• Privacy and Spacing: The "well-spaced" and "pleasantly treed" campsites provide a good degree of privacy, allowing campers to feel secluded even when the campground is busy. Many sites are surrounded by mixed conifer forest, offering shade and natural beauty.
• Wildlife Sightings: Being in a natural forest environment, deer sightings are common, and campers should be "bear aware" due to occasional bear activity. This adds an element of wildness to the experience.
• Proximity to Trails: The campground is a great base for exploring the surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Numerous hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails are nearby, including access to the spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) within 5 miles.
• Shoulder Season Appeal: As one reviewer noted, it's a "great location for shoulder season," suggesting it can be enjoyable in late spring or early fall when crowds might be smaller and temperatures milder.
• Nearby Town Amenities: The close proximity to Ronald and Cle Elum means easy access to a "mini grocery store" for essential supplies, gas, and potentially restaurants or other services, providing a convenient balance between wilderness and comfort.

Contact Information

Wish Poosh Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's best to contact the relevant Ranger District.

Address: Salmon La Sac Rd, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA

Phone:

• (509) 852-1100
• Mobile Phone: +1 509-852-1100

This phone number typically connects you to the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which oversees Wish Poosh Campground.

Website: For current conditions, fire restrictions, reservation policies, and any alerts or closures, visit the official U.S. Forest Service website (fs.usda.gov). Search for "Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest" and then navigate to "Camping & Cabins" or "Recreation" to find specific details for Wish Poosh Campground or contact information for the Cle Elum Ranger District.

It is always highly recommended to call or check the website before your trip to confirm the status of water availability, restroom facilities, and any active bear warnings or burn bans.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Wish Poosh Campground is an excellent choice for Washington locals seeking a genuinely well-rounded yet rustic outdoor experience, particularly those who love lakes and forest recreation. Its combination of natural beauty, convenient location, and thoughtful (though basic) amenities makes it highly suitable for various types of local campers.

For Washingtonians, the campground's setting on Cle Elum Lake is a major draw. The lake offers vast opportunities for water sports, from fishing to kayaking and paddleboarding, providing a perfect escape during warm summer days. The accessible boat launch further enhances this appeal, making it easy for locals to bring their watercraft and enjoy the expansive waters.

The generous spacing and pleasant tree cover of the campsites ensure a level of privacy that is often hard to find in more densely packed campgrounds. This allows families and groups (especially with the two-family sites) to truly relax and feel immersed in nature without feeling overcrowded. The presence of a helpful camp host, as praised by numerous visitors, adds a layer of comfort and security, making the rustic experience more manageable.

While the lack of potable water and reliance on porta potties requires preparedness, these elements contribute to the raw, authentic camping feel that many Washington locals appreciate. It's a place where you can disconnect from everyday conveniences and reconnect with the simple pleasures of outdoor life, all while being relatively close to towns for emergency supplies. The potential for wildlife sightings, including deer and bears, reminds visitors they are truly in a wild environment, adding to the adventure.

In essence, Wish Poosh Campground offers a cherished opportunity for Washington locals to embrace the beauty of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and Cle Elum Lake. It’s an ideal destination for those who seek peaceful camping, abundant water activities, and a welcoming, yet wild, outdoor escape within their home state.