Hells Crossing Campground

Goose Prairie, WA

4.2(56 reviews)

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About this campground

Hells Crossing Campground is located along the American River in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington's Cascade Range. Warm summer days and easy access to an abundance of recreational activities make the campground a perfect setting for individual and group camping excursions.

Hells Crossing Campground offers standard and tent-only sites. Picnic tables, vault toilets and drinking water are available; however, there are no electrical hookups. There are two sections in the campground, each with its own entrance; sites 1-10 are in the eastern section (just over the American River), while sites 11-18 are in the western section.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee is a unique National Forest, where high, glaciated alpine peaks tower along the Cascade Crest. Lush valleys of old-growth forest define its western boundary, and at its eastern edge, rugged shrub-steppe country comprises a more arid region. Elevations range from below 1,000 feet to over 9,000 feet. Precipitation varies greatly though out the area, ranging from approximately 140 inches along the Cascade Crest to only 10 inches along the eastern edge. Visitors to the area can expect many days of warm, sunny weather in the summer and plenty of snow in the winter.

Hells Crossing Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of recreational activities throughout the year. The American River, which can be accessed from within the campground, offers a scenic backdrop for swimmers braving its cold, refreshing waters. Whitewater enthusiasts may enjoy a rafting trip on the American or on one of many scenic rivers in the area.

What campers say

Hells Crossing Campground offers large, often riverfront sites with easy, short walks to shallow, swim-friendly spots. Many sites are shady and bathrooms are frequently reported as clean and stocked with toilet paper. Bring bug spray—mosquitoes and sizeable ants are commonly mentioned—and be prepared for limited on-site potable water at some loops (a hand pump is available across the river). Several visitors reported bear activity and experiences with a campground host vary, so follow bear-safety practices and secure food. The site can be busy and is not particularly RV-friendly, but it appeals to tent campers seeking close river access.

Our summary of 56 traveler reviews.