Lake Easton State Park is a wonderful destination for winter camping enthusiasts. Located in the Cascade Mountain foothills, the park offers a variety of recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Lake Easton State Park has everything you need to have a memorable winter camping experience.
With 24,000 feet of freshwater access on the shores of Lake Easton, the park is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. In addition, the park offers hiking trails, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails for visitors to explore during the winter months. The park also has a warming hut that is open to the public all day and for emergencies 24/7, making it a safe and comfortable place to warm up after a day of outdoor activities.
Key Takeaways
- Lake Easton State Park is a great destination for winter camping with a variety of recreational activities and amenities.
- The park offers 24,000 feet of freshwater access on the shores of Lake Easton, hiking trails, and snowmobiling trails.
- The park also has a warming hut that is open to the public all day and for emergencies 24/7.
Campground Features Overview
| Bathrooms | Yes. Heated in Winter! Also includes showers. The bathrooms were very clean. |
| Cell Service | AT&T 5G |
| Playground | Yes |
| Potable Water | Yes. Available near the entrance to the day-use area right after the boat launch area. |
| Picnic Tables | Available in day-use area |
| Fire Pits or BBQ | raised BBQs available near picnic tables in the day-use area. |
Overview of Lake Easton State Park Winter Camping
If you’re looking for a winter camping destination, Lake Easton State Park might be just what you need. Located in the Cascade Mountain foothills, this forested park offers 24,000 feet of freshwater access on the shores of Lake Easton. But what else does this park have to offer?
Location and Accessibility
Lake Easton State Park is located just off of I-90, making it a convenient location for many visitors. The park is situated about 70 miles east of Seattle and 17 miles west of Cle Elum. This location makes it easily accessible for those looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer winter vacation.
Park Features and Amenities
Lake Easton State Park has a variety of features and amenities to make your winter camping trip comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the highlights:
- Forested setting: The park is nestled in a forested area, providing a beautiful backdrop for your winter camping trip.
- Mountain views: The Cascade Mountains provide stunning views from the park, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Freshwater access: With 24,000 feet of freshwater access on Lake Easton, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, including ice fishing, ice skating, and snowmobiling.
- Campsites: The park has 135 campsites available for winter camping, with amenities like fire pits, restrooms, and drinking water.
- Hiking trails: During the winter, visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
- Snowmobiling trails: For those looking for a more adventurous winter activity, the park has snowmobiling trails to enjoy.
- Amenities: Lake Easton State Park offers a range of amenities, including accessible campsites and restrooms, automated pay stations, and more.
Overall, Lake Easton State Park is a great winter camping destination for those looking for a convenient location, beautiful scenery, and a range of winter activities to enjoy.
Winter Camping Essentials
Winter camping can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s important to be prepared for the cold temperatures and potential hazards. In this section, we’ll cover the essential items you’ll need to make your winter camping trip at Lake Easton State Park a success.
Preparing for the Cold
Before heading out on your winter camping trip, it’s important to prepare for the cold temperatures. Make sure you have warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing to your activity level and the temperature.
It’s also important to stay hydrated and well-fed during your winter camping trip. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks, such as nuts and dried fruit, to keep your body fueled and warm.
Winter Camping Gear
When it comes to winter camping gear, there are a few essential items you’ll need to stay warm and comfortable. These include:
Safety Measures
Winter camping can be hazardous, so it’s important to take the necessary safety measures to protect yourself and your fellow campers. These include:
- Building a fire in a designated fire ring: This will help prevent accidental wildfires and keep you warm.
- Storing food properly: Keep your food in airtight containers and store it away from your tent to prevent attracting wildlife.
- Bringing an ice axe and crampons: If you plan to do any winter hiking or mountaineering, these items can help provide traction on icy terrain.
- Checking the weather forecast: Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions.
By following these winter camping essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and safe camping trip at Lake Easton State Park.
Recreational Activities
Sno-Park Permits are required for Lake Easton. In addition, you must also have the groomed trails permit as this park is also one of several parks with active grooming by Washington State Parks during the winter season (and when there’s enough snow!)
When it comes to recreational activities in Lake Easton State Park during winter, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you are an adventure seeker or just want to spend a relaxing time in nature, the park has something for everyone.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Lake Easton State Park has a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. The park has over 8 miles of hiking trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike. You can also explore the park’s biking trails, which are great for all skill levels. The trails range from easy to moderate and provide a great way to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Snow Sports
If you are a fan of snow sports, Lake Easton State Park is the perfect destination for you. The park is located in the Kachess and Stampede Pass areas, which are known for their excellent snowmobiling trails. You can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the park’s trails. The park offers rentals for snowshoes and cross-country skis, so you don’t have to bring your own equipment.
Wildlife Viewing
Lake Easton State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and a variety of birds. During the winter months, the park is a great place for wildlife viewing. You can take a leisurely stroll on the park’s trails and keep an eye out for wildlife. The park also has several wildlife viewing areas where you can observe animals in their natural habitat, if you’re lucky enough of course!.
Lake Easton State Park offers a variety of recreational activities during winter. From hiking and biking to snow sports and wildlife viewing, there is something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to the park for an unforgettable winter adventure!
Campsite Information
The Pay station is located just outside the HEATED bathrooms in the Day-use area of the park. The board includes a lot of very useful information, including the relevant fees you need to pay.
If you’re planning a winter camping trip to Lake Easton State Park, it’s important to know what types of campsites are available, what amenities they offer, and how to make reservations.
Types of Campsites
Lake Easton State Park offers a variety of campsites to suit your needs. There are standard campsites for tents and RV units, full-hookup sites for RVs, and walk-in/tent-only group camps for larger groups.
Campsite Amenities
All campsites at Lake Easton State Park have access to parking, restrooms, and showers. Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the campground, and showers are available for a fee.
Making Reservations
Reservations aren’t needed in the Winter as camping is only available in the day-use area. Those tent camping or with a camper van (like we prefer!) can use the main parking lot near the bathrooms.
There is also another parking lot for the boat launch that has larger spaces for those with RVs or trailers. Just remember, even if you’re not using the trails, you will still need to pay. This includes the $12 off-season camping fee PLUS a $25 day pass (that includes the groomed trail and Sno-Park Permit) OR you will need to have a Sno-Park season pass WITH the groomed trails permit.
To make a reservation at Lake Easton State Park when the season opens in March, you can use the Washington State Parks online reservation system or call the park directly. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance, and it’s recommended to book early, especially during peak season.
Lake Easton State Park offers a great winter camping experience with a variety of campsites and amenities to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a standard tent site or a full-hookup RV site, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your winter adventure.
Park Services
HEATED BATHROOMS!!!Who DOESN’T love heated bathrooms in the winter?!?
When it comes to winter camping at Lake Easton State Park, it’s important to know what services are available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are some of the park services you can expect to find:
Ranger Services
The park rangers at Lake Easton State Park are friendly and knowledgeable. They are always available to answer any questions you may have about the park or the surrounding area. If you’re new to winter camping, they can provide helpful tips and advice to make your stay more enjoyable. They also patrol the park regularly to ensure everyone is following the rules and regulations.
Maintenance and Cleanliness
The heated (YES, HEATED!!!) restrooms and bathrooms at Lake Easton State Park are well-maintained and kept clean. There are also dump stations available for RVs (But this is not the case during Winter Camping). The park staff seemed to take pride in keeping the park clean and tidy, and it was greatly appreciated during our stay!
Lake Easton State Park provides excellent services for winter camping. With friendly rangers and well-maintained facilities, you can focus on enjoying the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
Activities and Amenities
Kids playground at Lake Easton State Park covered in snow. The playground is located in the day-use area and is conveniently located close to the Winter camping area.
When it comes to winter camping at Lake Easton State Park, there are plenty of activities and amenities to keep you and your family entertained during your stay. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the water or relax on the shore, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.
Water Activities
If you enjoy water activities, Lake Easton State Park is the perfect place for you. With 24,000 feet of freshwater access on the shores of Lake Easton, you can swim, fish, or take your boat out on the water to explore the surrounding areas. The park has two boat launches and a watercraft launch, making it easy to get your boat in and out of the water.
Picnicking and Relaxation
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, Lake Easton State Park has plenty of picnic tables and areas for you to enjoy a meal with your family. You can also relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or take a walk along the dock and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Children’s Play Areas
For families with children, Lake Easton State Park has a playground and plenty of space for kids to run and play. There are also shallow reservoirs for children to splash around in, and stumps for them to climb on and explore.
Overall, Lake Easton State Park is a great place to enjoy winter camping and all the activities and amenities it has to offer. With freshwater access, water activities, picnicking and relaxation, and children’s play areas, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.
Local Attractions and Accessibility
Our friend for our trip. He guarded our Camper van during the night.
If you’re planning a winter camping trip to Lake Easton State Park, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore. Here are some of the top attractions and how to get there:
Nearby Trails and Parks
Lake Easton State Park is located in the Cascade Mountain foothills, which means there are plenty of trails and parks nearby to explore. One popular trail is the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, which is a 285-mile long trail that runs from the Palouse region to the Cascade Mountains. The trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders and offers stunning views of the Yakima River and the surrounding glacial valleys.
Another nearby park worth exploring is the Cle Elum River Campground, which is located just a short drive from Lake Easton State Park. The campground offers plenty of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
Accessibility from Nearby Cities
If you’re coming from Seattle, Lake Easton State Park is just a two-hour drive away. Simply head east on I-90 and take exit 70. From there, it’s just a short drive to the park.
If you’re coming from the east, the park is easily accessible from Cle Elum, which is just a 20-minute drive away. Simply head west on I-90 and take exit 71.
Overall, Lake Easton State Park is a great destination for winter camping. With plenty of nearby attractions and easy accessibility from nearby cities, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the beauty of the Washington Cascade Range.
Visitor Experience
If you are planning to visit Lake Easton State Park during the winter months, you are in for a treat. The park offers a variety of winter activities that are sure to keep you entertained during your stay. In this section, we will cover the visitor experience at Lake Easton State Park, including reviews and recommendations and the best times to visit.
Reviews and Recommendations
Lake Easton State Park is a popular destination for winter camping and outdoor activities. Visitors have praised the day-use area, which offers a variety of amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. The scenery at the park is also breathtaking, with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Lake Easton.
If you are planning to camp at Lake Easton State Park during the winter months, it is recommended that you come prepared for cold weather. The park can get quite chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. Make sure you bring warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, and a reliable tent to keep you warm and dry.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Easton State Park for winter camping is between December and February, when the park is covered in snow. During this time, visitors can enjoy a variety of snowy winter sports opportunities, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The park offers groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing, as well as a designated sledding hill.
If you are looking for a quieter experience, it is recommended that you visit the park during the weekdays, as weekends can get quite busy. The park is open year-round, but it is important to note that the day-use area is closed during the winter months, so visitors will need to come prepared with their own food and supplies.
Lake Easton State Park is a great destination for winter camping and outdoor activities. With stunning scenery, a variety of winter sports, and plenty of amenities, it is no wonder why so many visitors flock to the park each year.
Park Rules and Regulations
When planning a winter camping trip to Lake Easton State Park, it’s important to be aware of the park’s rules and regulations. This section will cover some of the most important rules to keep in mind during your stay.
Campfire and Burn Ban Information
During the winter months, burn bans may be in effect at Lake Easton State Park. It’s important to check the park’s website or call ahead to find out if a burn ban is currently in place. If a burn ban is in effect, you will not be allowed to have a campfire or use charcoal grills in the park. However, propane grills are still allowed during a burn ban.
If a burn ban is not in effect, you are allowed to have a campfire or use charcoal grills in designated areas. Please be sure to follow all campfire regulations, including keeping fires in designated fire pits and fully extinguishing fires before leaving them unattended.
Wildlife and Environmental Protection
Lake Easton State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bears. It’s important to follow all park regulations regarding wildlife protection, including properly storing food and garbage to avoid attracting animals. Never feed wildlife, and always give animals plenty of space.
In addition to wildlife protection, it’s important to follow all park regulations regarding environmental protection. This includes properly disposing of waste and not disturbing natural habitats. Remember to always pack out what you pack in, and leave the park better than you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make winter camping reservations at Lake Easton State Park?
You can make your winter camping reservations at Lake Easton State Park by visiting the official Washington State Parks website. You can also call the park office directly to make your reservation. It is recommended that you make your reservation in advance to ensure availability during the winter season.
Is Lake Easton State Park open for camping during the winter season?
Yes, Lake Easton State Park is open for camping year-round. However, some amenities may be closed during the winter season due to weather conditions. It is recommended that you check with the park office before your trip to ensure that all amenities are available.
Where can I find a map of the campsites at Lake Easton State Park?
You can find a map of the campsites at Lake Easton State Park on the official Washington State Parks website. The map will show you the location of each campsite, as well as the amenities that are available at each site.
Can I see photos of the campsites before booking my winter camping trip to Lake Easton State Park?
Yes, you can see photos of the campsites at Lake Easton State Park on the official Washington State Parks website. The photos will give you an idea of what to expect when you arrive at the park.
What are the directions to Lake Easton State Park for my upcoming winter camping adventure?
Lake Easton State Park is located in the Cascade Mountain foothills, just off of Interstate 90. From Seattle, take I-90 east to exit 70. Turn left at the stop sign and cross over the freeway. Turn right at the next stop sign and follow the signs to the park entrance.
Are there any special regulations or tips for winter camping at Lake Easton State Park?
Yes, there are some special regulations and tips for winter camping at Lake Easton State Park. It is recommended that you bring warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, and a tent that is designed for cold weather. You should also be prepared for snow and ice on the ground. Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings, and you should never leave a fire unattended. Finally, be sure to follow all park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter camping experience.
Explore Lake Easton State Park winter camping: your guide to the best spots, activities, and tips for a warm and safe camping trip