Wish Poosh Campground

Looking for a "lovely" "camping near me" experience in the scenic Cle Elum area of Washington State? Wish Poosh Campground, located off Salmon La Sac Rd, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA, offers a pleasant, treed setting within easy reach of town and a nearby lake. You can contact them at (509) 649-3744 or +1 509-649-3744 for any inquiries, although it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so direct reservations may not be available.

Based on recent visitor feedback, Wish Poosh Campground boasts a convenient location close to town, offering a balance between natural immersion and accessibility to amenities. Notably, some visitors have reported having cell service at least intermittently within the campground, which can be a significant advantage for those who need to stay connected. The overall atmosphere is described as pleasant and treed, providing shade and a sense of being surrounded by nature. The campsites are generally well-spaced, allowing for a degree of privacy between camping parties.

While the regular bathrooms were reported to be closed at the time of one visitor's stay, well-maintained porta potties were available as an alternative. However, another visitor in 2020 noted that the porta potties (referred to as "honey buckets") were getting quite full during their stay and needed servicing, suggesting that the condition of these facilities can vary depending on usage and maintenance schedules. It's advisable to be prepared for potentially rustic restroom facilities.

A significant feature of Wish Poosh Campground is its location in bear country. Visitors have reported seeing warnings about bears in the campground, with some even stapled to tables at certain sites. One camper in 2020 encountered a bear passing by a neighboring campsite. While this particular bear was described as not aggressive and seemingly friendly, it underscores the importance of taking necessary precautions, such as properly cleaning up after meals and not leaving food out, especially at night. The presence of a bear cage with a trap indicates that the campground management is aware of and actively addressing the bear activity in the area. However, one visitor only observed deer, highlighting that bear sightings are not guaranteed but require vigilance.

Water availability at Wish Poosh Campground appears to be limited. While a few faucets are mentioned, they were reportedly covered with black plastic bags for a period, suggesting they may not be functional or reliably available. One visitor in 2020 explicitly stated that there was no water available at the campground. Therefore, it is crucial for campers to bring their own supply of drinking water and water for cooking and cleaning.

Despite some of the rustic amenities, Wish Poosh Campground shines in terms of its management and natural setting. Visitors have consistently praised the camp host as "lovely" and accommodating. One anecdote highlights the host going out of their way to find campers who had accidentally overpaid and returning the surplus, demonstrating honesty and excellent customer service. This positive interaction with the staff contributes significantly to the overall positive experience reported by visitors.

The layout of the campground is also noteworthy. One visitor mentioned that there are no obvious lane access within the treed areas, except when going down to the boat launch. This suggests a more natural and less structured arrangement of campsites, contributing to the sense of being immersed in the forest. The spacing between sites is generally good, enhancing privacy compared to more tightly packed campgrounds. One particularly large campsite, number 7, was noted to be able to accommodate 3-5 tents, making it ideal for larger groups.

A significant amenity for lake enthusiasts is the easy walking distance to the lake. This proximity provides ample opportunities for swimming, splashing, and enjoying the water, although one visitor noted that the water can be quite cold. The campground also features a day-use area, perfect for picnicking and other recreational activities. For those interested in boating or water activities, there is a boat launch area. Notably, near the boat launch, there is an area where visitors can borrow life vests, a thoughtful and potentially life-saving amenity that underscores a commitment to water safety.

Wish Poosh Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. One visitor who arrived on a Friday morning reported plenty of spots to choose from, but the campground filled up by nightfall, indicating its popularity, especially on weekends. There are also a few (approximately 2-4) two-family campsites located near the entrance of the campground. These larger sites can accommodate around four vehicles, making them ideal for groups or multiple families camping together.

For those needing to replenish supplies, a mini grocery store is conveniently located less than half a mile from the campground, offering essentials such as ice and firewood. However, campers should be aware of any burn bans that may be in effect. Finally, it's worth noting that cell phone reception within the campground itself is generally poor, with one visitor reporting no reception except out on the lake. This can be a plus for those wanting a true digital detox but something to be aware of for those who need to stay connected.

In conclusion, Wish Poosh Campground near Cle Elum, WA, offers a lovely, treed camping experience with spacious sites and a friendly camp host. Its proximity to a lake with a boat launch and available life vests adds to its appeal for water enthusiasts. While the regular bathrooms may be closed, well-maintained porta potties are usually available. Campers should be prepared for the presence of bears and take appropriate safety measures. Water availability may be limited, so bringing your own supply is essential. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and can get busy, especially on weekends. With its convenient location near town and a mini grocery store, Wish Poosh provides a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the Cle Elum area, keeping in mind the potential for limited cell service within the campground itself.

Wish Poosh Campground

Salmon La Sac Rd, Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA