Ballard Campground
Typically open May through October. First-come, first-served only; no advance reservations. Interagency Senior/Access passes receive 50% discount. Maximum stay is 14 days.
Heat Advisory issued July 21 at 10:05PM PDT until July 23 at 9:00PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
* WHAT...Hot temperatures with daytime highs in the mid 90s to low 100s Wednesday and Thursday. This will pose a moderate to major risk of heat-related illness. * WHERE...Portions of North and North Central Idaho and Central, East Central, North Central, Northeast, and Southeast Washington. * WHEN...Until 9 PM PDT Thursday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Wednesday will likely be the hottest day with widespread moderate and major HeatRisk. Limited overnight relief expected across the lower elevations Wednesday and Thursday mornings with low temperatures in the mid 60s to mid 70s.
Air Quality Alert issued July 21 at 12:16PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the following agencies: Washington Department of Ecology Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency An Air Quality Alert continues for Spokane, Ferry, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, and Stevens Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday, July 22nd at 9 AM, due to current and expected wildfire smoke from regional fires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are expected to range in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups and Unhealthy categories. In Eastern Okanogan County near active wildfires, air quality may reach Very Unhealthy to Hazardous levels. When air quality is Unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air.
Air Quality Alert issued July 20 at 12:03PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the following agencies: Washington Department of Ecology Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency An Air Quality Alert has been issued for Spokane, Ferry, Lincoln, Okanogan, Grant, Pend Oreille, and Stevens Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday, July 22nd at 9 AM, due to current and expected wildfire smoke from regional fires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are expected to range in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups and Unhealthy categories. In Eastern Okanogan County near active wildfires, air quality may reach Very Unhealthy to Hazardous levels. When air quality is Unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air.
About
Ballard Campground occupies a forested setting along the West Fork Methow River in the Methow Valley Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. At 2,500 feet elevation, the campground serves as a staging point for wilderness exploration, rock climbing, and scenic drives. Nearby trailheads provide access to Robinson Creek Trail 478 and Monument Creek Trail 484, both entering the Pasayten Wilderness, as well as the West Fork Methow Trail 480. The campground offers a rustic experience with vault toilets and picnic tables at each site. There is no potable water available, so campers must bring their own supply. Trash receptacles are not provided; all garbage must be packed out. Sites accommodate up to 2 tents or 1 RV and 1 tent, with a maximum of 2 vehicles per site. Trailers are limited to 28 feet. Ballard operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Payment can be made via QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app when cell service permits. The campground typically opens in May and remains accessible through October, though exact dates depend on snowpack and road conditions.
Directions
From Winthrop, drive 15 miles west on Highway 20, turn right onto Lost River Road, drive 7.5 miles on pavement and continue another 1.5 miles on gravel Forest Road 5400. Ballard Campground is on the left side of the road.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 28ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (509) 996-4000 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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