Washington / Chelan County / Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Schaefer Creek

Closed — Closed for winter. Typically operates May through September, though the 2025 season ended early on July 18 due to a forest order closing all Chiwawa Road campgrounds.

Notify on Availability Reserve

Flood Warning issued March 17 at 9:34PM PDT until March 22 at 11:00PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA

March 17th, 9:34 PM — March 22nd, 11:00 PM

Light to periodically moderate rain is expected for the lower Stehekin Valley this week along with melting snow as temperatures warm into the 40s and 50s. Flows in rivers will increase quickly and reach critical levels. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues for the lower Stehekin Valley. * WHERE...A portion of North Central Washington, including the following county, Chelan. * WHEN...Until 1100 PM PDT Sunday. * IMPACTS...When the Stehekin River gauge hits 19.3 feet, water breaches the river bank. At 20 feet, water inundates some properties and overtops the temporary corduroy bridge. Company Creek Road begins to flood in places at the northern end and Battalion Creek culverts are beginning to be overtopped. At 20.5 feet, water begins to damage Wood Road. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 924 PM PDT, the Stehekin River is at 19.9 feet. River levels will continue to rise through the week with an expected crest of 22.9 feet on Saturday. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

About

Schaefer Creek Campground is located along the Chiwawa River in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, approximately 21 miles from Lake Wenatchee. This small, valley-floor campground offers 10 single sites in a lightly-used setting surrounded by forest. River access is available directly at the campground for fishing and water recreation. The campground is accessible via Chiwawa River Road/Forest Road 6200 and is restricted to vehicles and trailers up to 30 feet maximum. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only, with no advance reservations accepted. Payment can be made on-site by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. An extra vehicle fee of $10 per night applies. Campers should come prepared as no potable water is available at the campground. Vault toilets are provided. The remote location means cellular service may be limited or unavailable, so download the Recreation.gov app before arrival if planning to use the scan-and-pay feature.

Directions

From Leavenworth, head southwest on US-2 West for 15 miles. Turn right onto WA-207 North and go 4.4 miles. Go right on Chiwawa Loop Road and stay right at the intersection. Take the second left onto Chiwawa River Road/Forest Road 6200 and follow it for about 15 miles.