Are you looking for a great camping destination in Washington State? Then, you should definitely check out Lake Kachess. This picturesque lake located in the Snoqualmie Pass region offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning natural scenery, excellent camping facilities, and a wide range of outdoor activities, Lake Kachess is an ideal place to relax, unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Camping Facilities at Lake Kachess
Lake Kachess offers several camping facilities that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. There are three campgrounds in the area:
Kachess Campground
This is the largest campground in the area and offers 91 campsites. It is located on the eastern shore of Lake Kachess and is ideal for families with kids. The campground offers several amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and drinking water. It also has a boat launch, making it a perfect spot for boating enthusiasts.
Crystal Springs Campground
This campground offers 45 campsites and is located on the western shore of the lake. It offers several amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and drinking water. The campground is also pet-friendly, making it an ideal place to bring your furry friends along.
East Kachess Group Site
Come and experience the tranquility of nature while making unforgettable memories with your loved ones! The East Kachess Group Site is a beautiful campsite located on the east side of Kachess Lake, nestled in the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington State. This spacious campground provides plenty of room for large groups to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The site offers easy access to the lake and various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. With picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water available on site, the East Kachess Group Site is the perfect spot for family reunions, corporate retreats, or any other group gatherings.
Amenities available at Lake Kachess
Kachess Lake Campground offers a range of amenities for visitors. There are 150 sites available for both tent and RV camping, with one designated group site that can accommodate up to 50 guests. Out of these, 106 single-family sites and the group site can be reserved in advance, while the rest are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Each site has picnic tables, campfire rings, grills, and vault toilets. Drinking water is also available, but there are no electric hookups.
In addition to camping, there are several recreational amenities available. Visitors can use the one motorized boat launch and one non-motorized boat launch to enjoy water activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and paddling. There is also a designated swimming and picnic area for visitors.
Kachess Lake Campground is also an ideal base camp for hiking and backpacking. There are various access trails from the region that allow tourists to design their own excursions, whether they are day hikes or overnight trips. The Kachess Lake Trail is a small circle that runs alongside the lake and is suitable for hikers of all abilities.
Anglers can enjoy fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon from boats or shorelines. Knowing that all fishing in Box Canyon Creek is prohibited from the mouth for two miles up to the falls is crucial. Visitors should check the current WDFW fishing regulations for additional restrictions.
How much does it cost to camp at Kachess Lake?
The cost of camping at Kachess Lake varies depending on the type of camping you want to do. Tent camping is usually the cheapest option, followed by RV camping. There are also a few campgrounds that offer cabins for rent.
Here are some average costs for camping at Kachess Lake:
– Tent camping: $15-20 per night
– RV camping: $30-50 per night
– Cabin rental: $100-200 per night
What should I bring to Lake Kachess?
Lake Kachess is a beautiful and secluded camping spot in Washington State.
When packing for your trip, be sure to bring:
– A tent
– Sleeping bags
– Camping chairs
– A cooler
– Food and drinks
– A fishing rod (if you’re planning to fish)
– Bug spray
– Sunscreen
– A first aid kit
– A map of the area
Activities available at Lake Kachess
There are several activities open to visitors. Lake Kachess offers camping cabins, available year-round except on winter weekends. Fishing is allowed at the lake, and a fishing pier can accommodate fishermen of all skill levels. Anglers may also want to bring their boat, as Lake Kachess is large enough to accommodate a variety of watercraft. In addition, three miles of hiking trails wind through the woods and around the lake.
Best times to visit Lake Kachess
The best time to visit Lake Kachess is during the summer months, typically from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak season, so campgrounds and facilities may be crowded.
Spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is generally mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, some facilities may be closed during these seasons, so checking before you go is important.
Winter can be a beautiful time to visit Lake Kachess, with snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes creating a winter wonderland. However, the area can be difficult to access due to snow, and many facilities may be closed, so it’s not recommended for inexperienced winter travelers.
Rules and regulations at Lake Kachess Campground
Please follow these guidelines for your safety and enjoyment:
-Campsites must be occupied by the same number of people who signed in at the front office. If you find an unoccupied campsite, please share it with the person who arrives next.
-No alcohol consumption outside campsites and hard liquor is restricted to registered campers.
-Pack out all trash from campsites.
-Please do not build fires outside of designated fire rings. Use only dead and down wood for campfires, no live trees or shrubs.
-Do not feed wildlife!
-Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
FAQs
How do I get to Lake Kachess?
Lake Kachess is located in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state, approximately two hours east of Seattle. The best way to get to Lake Kachess is by car. The lake is accessible from both the north and south via Highway 97.
Can you swim in Lake Kachess?
You might wonder if you can swim in Lake Kachess, and the answer is yes! The water is crystal clear, and there are no currents or waves. However, the lake is fed by snow melt, making it very cold in the summer. Many people go camping at Lake Kachess just for that reason.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Kachess Campground?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Lake Kachess campground, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. This is for the safety of your dog, other campers, and wildlife.
Is there cell service at Lake Kachess?
Yes, there is cell service at the lake. Cell phone service is spotty and unreliable in the area, but there are a few places where you can get reception at Lake Kachess. There are two cell towers on the hillside above the lake and a few near the shoreline.