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Okanogan-Wenatchee/Eightmile
Overview
Eightmile Campground serves as a serene gateway to the alpine wonders of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Situated along the scenic Icicle Creek Road, this facility offers a rustic camping experience that prioritizes proximity to nature over modern luxuries. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, it provides a quiet retreat for those looking to escape the bustle of town while remaining within reach of Leavenworth’s unique charm. The site is particularly famous for its towering trees and the refreshing atmosphere provided by the nearby flowing water.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled deep within the Icicle Canyon, the campground is surrounded by towering granite peaks and dense evergreen forests. The rushing waters of Icicle Creek provide a constant, soothing soundtrack for visitors throughout their stay. Located just eight miles southwest of the Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth, the park offers a perfect balance between secluded wilderness and accessible local amenities. The dramatic landscape is a hallmark of the Cascade Range, offering stunning views that shift beautifully with the changing light of the day.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional forest service site, Eightmile Campground focuses on essential facilities rather than resort-style perks. The park features spacious campsites designed to accommodate various rig sizes, though no hookups are provided. Guests have access to the following features:
- Potable water sourced from hand-operated pumps
- Well-maintained vault toilets situated throughout the loops
- Individual picnic tables and heavy-duty fire rings
The sites are well-shaded by mature ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, providing natural cooling during the summer months. It is important to note that cell service is often unavailable here, encouraging a complete digital detox.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The campground is a primary basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Eightmile Lake Trailhead located just across the road from the entrance. This popular path leads adventurers into the heart of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Rock climbers frequent the nearby granite walls, while anglers can test their luck in the cold waters of Icicle Creek. A short drive brings visitors to the Stuart Lake Trailhead, the primary starting point for the world-renowned Enchantments. Additionally, the shops and seasonal festivals of Leavenworth provide plenty of off-trail entertainment.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for adventurous RVers who prefer a dry camping style in exchange for unparalleled access to the outdoors. Because there are no hookups, it suits self-contained rigs and travelers who enjoy a quiet, minimalist environment. It is a top choice for avid hikers and climbers who want to be first on the trails in the morning. If you value natural beauty and fresh mountain air over swimming pools and high-speed Wi-Fi, this forest retreat is a perfect match for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jason Williams
Decided to do this hike because the amount of cars at the Stuart Lake Trailhead for Colchuck was insane! I didn’t get an early start on the hike so I figured it would be packed but I thought the rain would keep some people away. The trail to Eightmile was a bit muddy in some spots but nothing too crazy. All of the yellow leaves falling on the trail is gorgeous! Once you hit little Eightmile you have about a half mile to go after that. The wind mixed in with the rain at the lake was pretty exciting and cold. Overall great hike and probably a few less hundred people to pass on the trail instead of Colchuck!
David Olson
Nice trailhead to a less visited part of the Enchantments. The hike up to Eightmile lake is fairly easy but for a more remote experience, I definitely suggest Caroline lake. Spent two nights at Caroline and one at Eightmile, both were fantastic. While at Caroline, I hiked up to Windy Pass, which was absolutely beautiful.
Alina Reed
We just stayed here for the first time this weekend and it was fantastic. We showed up without a reservation on a Thursday afternoon and Ted sent us to a beutuful campsite that was fortunately still open. We were right on the river with a fantastic view of the mountain. The bathrooms were clean, and everyone was friendly. We stayed for three days and wish we could have stayed longer.
Carol Smith
Where to start... This campground is better suited for tents, not RVs or camper vans. Many of the sites are small and lack privacy, especially those in the west end. We reserved on line and there was no notice that sites 30 and 31 share the vehicle space! Since we were in a van, we felt like we were in an ordinary parking lot and not camping. Two strange vehicles parked immediately next two us the whole time. There were some other shared parking sites too. Ok for tent camping because you can tent away from the parking area, but not ok for vehicles. In addition, people kept walking through our site ( and other sites). One day, my hubby wasn't feeling well, so we took a nap only to be woken by our dog growling because a man and women were peering into the side window of our van! WTH! Numerous people walked through through our site even though the end was a restoration area clearly marked to stay off of, but people walked through it anyway. And, then there were the young men playing football in our site. Oh, and the dogs not on leashes. One knocked me over when it jumped on me from the bushes as I was heading to the restroom at night. The only good thing was that the vault toilet was the cleanest ever vault toilet. No odors!! Kudos to the guy who cleans it!
Paula Lanoue
Beautiful park with wilderness access and very near Leavenworth. Only drawback was water pump was solar powered thus limiting water availability. Do not expect to fill your Jerry jugs much less camper reservoir.