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Hells Crossing Campground
National Forest

Hells Crossing Campground

Cle Elum, Washington
4.3 (55 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Hells Crossing Campground

Campground in Washington.

Nestled in the heart of Washington's stunning national forest landscape, Hells Crossing Campground offers RV travelers an authentic escape into the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. This remote forest setting provides the perfect base for those seeking solitude, outdoor adventure, and a genuine connection with nature away from the hustle and bustle of developed campgrounds.

The campground's location within the national forest system means you'll experience the raw appeal of Washington's wilderness. Towering evergreens create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the forest floor is carpeted with native vegetation and wildflowers depending on the season. The crisp mountain air and peaceful surroundings make this an ideal destination for RVers who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you're an early riser hoping to catch the forest waking up or someone who prefers quiet evenings around a campfire under the stars, Hells Crossing delivers that contemplative camping experience many seek.

This location appeals particularly to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The surrounding national forest lands offer extensive trail systems for exploration at various difficulty levels, making it suitable for families, serious hikers, and everyone in between. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the dramatic landscapes, seasonal changes, and wildlife that call this region home.

The campground serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the broader Washington wilderness. Day trips to scenic viewpoints, backcountry access points, and natural attractions are within reasonable driving distance. The area's elevation and forest setting mean cooler temperatures, making it particularly appealing during summer months when lower elevations become uncomfortably hot.

RVers choosing Hells Crossing are typically those who appreciate a more rustic camping experience, value proximity to hiking and outdoor activities, and want to immerse themselves in the quiet majesty of the national forest. It's perfect for those planning extended stays to thoroughly explore the region, or for travelers simply seeking a peaceful overnight stop during a broader Pacific Northwest road trip.
4.3

Rating

55

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Cle Elum is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Washington weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Cle Elum.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Cle Elum. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Hells Crossing Campground Reviews

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Shawna Jaeger

Mar 23, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Shawna Jaeger

As a campground it's not terrible. We had sites 17 & 18. They were spacious, at the end, and off the river with a place to go down to it. There were a TON of mosquitoes and ants. Bring the bug spray. Bathrooms were clean and plenty of TP. We had a bear come onto our site despite methods to get it to move along, it came right back and took a swipe at a friend trying to get to the food. No host ever... As a campground it's not terrible. We had sites 17 & 18. They were spacious, at the end, and off the river with a place to go down to it. There were a TON of mosquitoes and ants. Bring the bug spray. Bathrooms were clean and plenty of TP. We had a bear come onto our site despite methods to get it to move along, it came right back and took a swipe at a friend trying to get to the food. No host ever came checking on us after the bear encounter which kind of put us off. We liked the sites well enough but likely won't be back. Also, another note is that the sites are split up and there is no map telling you where they are which was really frustrating. One spot has sites 1-10 and the next driveway has 11-18.

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Katie Ebert

Mar 23, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Katie Ebert

Spots 8 & 9 have good shade, are very large and have a quick walk to the perfect river spot! Shallow enough to put chairs in and there is a little man-made dam that created a refreshing shallow pool. (End of July) The side of the campground with spots 1-10 has vault toilets but NO WATER SPIGOTS. You can go to the other side of the river and use the hand pump for water (it was brownish but drinkabl... Spots 8 & 9 have good shade, are very large and have a quick walk to the perfect river spot! Shallow enough to put chairs in and there is a little man-made dam that created a refreshing shallow pool. (End of July) The side of the campground with spots 1-10 has vault toilets but NO WATER SPIGOTS. You can go to the other side of the river and use the hand pump for water (it was brownish but drinkable) Spots 4 & 5 are shady and have a sort of private driveway and are right next to each other. Riverfront with a slight downhill to the water. 20 minute drive to a little tavern/store/gas in case you forget anything. Also, I see ants mentioned in other reviews. There were ants, but not anything out of the ordinary. Mosquitoes weren't an issue either.

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Melanie Cohen

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Melanie Cohen

This was a great campground. Some friends and I had one of the campsites near the river for the 4th of July. The near by campers were quiet, respectful, and friendly. The sites were well maintained and the bathrooms were clean and stocked with TP. It's across the road from Pleasant Valley and Goats Peak trails. All in all a great location and nice campground. There are large ants and ant hills in... This was a great campground. Some friends and I had one of the campsites near the river for the 4th of July. The near by campers were quiet, respectful, and friendly. The sites were well maintained and the bathrooms were clean and stocked with TP. It's across the road from Pleasant Valley and Goats Peak trails. All in all a great location and nice campground. There are large ants and ant hills in this area, but nothing that stopped us from having a nice time.

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Colson

Mar 23, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Colson

Very busy campground. Fairly hard to find an open spot. Be careful of thieves, left my backpack full of water and lunch for a few minutes to go fishing. As I was walking back, I saw a car drive away from where I left it, and it was nowhere to be found. On top of that, the fish are pretty small. Not worth it as a fishing destination, a lot of campers are keeping them for dinner.

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John Ohlson

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by John Ohlson

Great campground on American River. Quiet, small number of sites. Not RV friendly.

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