Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest — Naches River Upper Canyon Dispersed Camp

Flat benches along the upper Naches River give overlanders a solid base camp near the eastern terminus of the Naches Trail. Ponderosa pine canopy keeps it shaded in the afternoons, and the river is right there — good for cooling rigs and washing off trail dust. Sites are informal and spread out along the river corridor on forest roads off US-12. It runs busy on summer weekends with a mix of overlanders, horse trailers, and ATV rigs, so arrive mid-week if you want elbow room. Standard 14-day stay limit applies, no fee, no developed facilities.

Access off US-12 east of Naches — look for unsigned two-tracks dropping toward the river. Road surface is mostly dirt with some rocky sections. Creek crossings nearby can be high in May-June snowmelt; plan accordingly. Cell service is spotty at best. Fire restrictions typically kick in July-August — check WDNR or OWNF current conditions before you go.

Riverside ponderosa benches at the wagon road's end.