Tumwater Group Site

About

Tumwater Group Site sits in a scenic location along Highway 2 in Tumwater Canyon within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, approximately 11 miles west of Leavenworth. The site occupies an alluvial fan at the confluence of Chiwaukum Creek and the Wenatchee River, surrounded by forested slopes and offering access to year-round recreation opportunities in the area. The group site was designed to accommodate large gatherings of up to 70 people and 40 vehicles, featuring a covered shelter with a wood stove and fireplace, picnic tables, campfire rings, a basketball court, and electric hookups. The campground provided flush toilets and potable water when operational. The Tumwater Canyon area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities in the Wenatchee River and tributary streams, world-class rock climbing, and access to winter sports including skiing and snowmobiling. In September 2014, following the Chiwaukum Fire, the campground was closed to the public based on recommendations from Forest Service hydrologists and the Burned Area Emergency Response Team. The fire severely impacted vegetation in the upper watersheds of Chiwaukum, Hatchery, and Thompson Creeks, leaving the area prone to debris flows and flooding that directly threaten the campground's alluvial fan location. The closure remains in effect under Forest Order 06-17-07-16-902 until hazard trees are removed and all safety concerns are mitigated.

Directions

From Leavenworth, take US Highway 2 west for approximately 10 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway in Tumwater Canyon. From the west, take Highway 2 east through Monroe and over Stevens Pass; the campground is approximately 20 miles east of Stevens Pass on the left side of the highway.