Boondocking near Winthrop wa

We camped with our 36' DP a few years ago in the Methow State Wildlife Area about 6 miles north of Winthrop right off the asphalt road at Boulder Creek. BTW - Many but not all Washington WMAs (wildlife management areas) offer free dispersed camping. This time of year, there are no hunters and we had great camping luck in several nice WMAs. As a matter of fact, boondockers should always check the states WMAs wherever they are as even in the populated east, many are open off season to dispersed camping, though you may be limited to the WMA parking area. Almost all sites have pit toilets in Washington I've found.

Here is link to camping in the Methow WMA - Methow WMA access info

The Methow Valley Ranger District Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest phone number is 509-996-4003.

This will allow some research of campgrounds in the area. http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=59073&actid=29 Dispersed camping is advised by a call to the Ranger District.

Our Favorite camp sites in the Okanogan National Forest are Loup Loup, any open space off the south summit road at Loup Loup pass. and of course the state park at Conconully which of course isn't boon docking, because they have full hook ups, and a tavern with in walking distance.

Be aware most of the roads in the forest are gravel, and some are not good. If you tow a toad, park at the Red barn, and go explore.

k.jensen6 wrote:
Anyone know of areas around Winthrop wa good for boon docking in a 40'?

In a 40 ft MH... not unless you are willing to take in on gravel roads.

I'm not even going into those details unless you answer that question "yes".

But if you are looking for a USFS campground that is not very expensive, look into Klipchuck CG just 1.2 miles off of hwy 20, appx mile post 172 if I remember right. It's between Early Winters CG and Lone Fir CG. It should have a host. Water is available (ask the host real nice if you can fill at their spigot using your hose). No electric. No sewer. Great birding spot. Deer wander through the campground. Dogs need to be attended to AT ALL TIMES.

There are two sites that will fit a 40ft MH in the CG.

The rules for boondocking in the US National Forests have changed in the past years. You must check with the nearest FS headquarters to see what area is open. You can't trust that signs will be posted in restricted areas.

Maybe this phone number still works: Methow Valley Ranger District Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (509)996-4021

k.jensen6 wrote:
Anyone know of areas around Winthrop wa good for boon docking in a 40'?

Any of the camp sites north on the Chewuch Rd past the ranger station should accommodate a 40' motor home.

As far as actual boondocking, it's pretty skimpy, There are a couple nice State Forestry sites west of Twisp, on #20, about..mmm...20? miles. There is also Perigin State Park just out of Wintrhop.


Gary Haupt