Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park

On a deserted Tuesday night in early May 2016, we chose a site right on the banks of the rushing Twenty-Five Mile Creek. The only other camper was the host in this old-school, remote campground about 23 miles from the resort town of Chelan. Evidence of last summer's devastating wildfires could be seen all along the way where contractors were busy rebuilding scorched summer homes.

Creekside can be noisy, but even with high winds and rain all night, we listened to the eerie sound of rocks tumble downstream all through the night. During the dry summer months, the creek may not be as active.

Sites in the rest of the park are pretty close together. The dock area is right in front of the campground. Camp store was closed, as well as the entrance booth. Everything appeared to be well-maintained.

No internet service at all, but a quick 5 minute drive back toward Chelan can solve that.

The next day, we hiked 9 + strenuous miles up to Pot Peak (the trailhead is about 15 minutes away from the campground). Washington's trail designers are much more aggressive than the neighboring states, and seem to want to just get it over with in the straightest line available. Switchbacks are not high on their list of priorities! Great views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

25-Mile Creek State Park, Chelan Co., Washington. Last week I said I'd give you an alternative to the all too popular Lake Chelan S.P. This (25-Mile Creek S.P.) is located just 4 miles north, but is very different. One, large RVs can come here and get some actual SHADE. But mostly, from here you can catch the Lake of the Lake Ferry to such locations as the premier resort town of Stehekin, the trail to Domke Lake, or various boat-in campgrounds such as Lucern, Prince Creek, Weaver Point or, my personal favorite, Manly Wham (and no, it WAS NOT named after George Michael). For more info, click on http://campeverycountywa.com/chelan-county.html