Camp at Cooper Lake

The Owhi Campground on Cooper Lake is tucked away in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest near Salmon La Sac.  It sits at 2,788 feet and has views of Chikamin Peak (6960') and Lemah Mountain (7480'). The lake is quiet, very photogenic, and easily accessible.  

The campground is on the north side of the lake has 22 walk-in tent-only campsites and basic facilities.  The campsites are close to the water and have great views.  Several campsites have small beaches that are great for fishing or parking kayaks.  It's first come first served, so get there early for the best spots.  Just up the road from the campground is a boat launch for kayaks and canoes.  Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Cooper Lake.

Across the lake from the boat launch on the SW shoreline there are a couple of boat-in dispersed campsites.  They are fairly well-established and usually unoccupied.  

If the Owhi Campground is full there is plenty of dispersed camping on the road back to Salmon la Sac.  The campground is generally open from Memorial Day weekend through November, and Cooper Lake is accessible year round.  

Photographers

As you drive toward the campground you will cross a bridge over the Cooper River.  When the water is calm you can get incredible reflection photos here. From the bridge you can also follow a scenic trail down the river.  The area has very little light pollution at night so there are excellent opportunities for star photography as well.

Getting There

From Cle Elum follow State Highway 903 north for about 17 miles.  Turn left onto Cooper River Road (NF-46) and follow signs for Cooper Lake.  About 5.4 miles up Cooper River Road you will turn right and follow signs to Owhi Campground.