Peterson Prairie Campground - Gifford Pinchot NF, Washington

Peterson Prairie Campground is located within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southern Washington just 8 miles outside the small town of Trout Lake.  It is a popular campground for huckleberry pickers during the season and is one of the most developed and well-maintained campgrounds in the general area.  With many nearby attractions including Ice Cave and the Indian Heaven Wilderness,  Peterson Prairie Campground works well as a sort of base camp for nearby recreation.

Peterson Prairie Campground has 31 campsites including a massive group site for larger gatherings.  The road through the campground is paved which helps keep the dust down and many of the sites are well suited for RVs and recreational trailers.  There are no flushing toilets here, however, campers will find plenty of outhouses scattered about the campground and potable water is also available.

The campground sites along the banks of Lost Creek Ditch which during the early season may have running water through it however it will dry out as fall approaches.  Peterson Prairie campground is situated at the end of highway 141 so road noise is not as much of a concern due to the fact the drivers are forced to slow down as they come to a major intersection with forest roads.  Many of the campsites are spaced out nicely and privacy is good due to the dense forest growth in the area.

This campground allows for reservations and during popular months you can expect it to fill to capacity.  To ensure you snag a spot be sure to make a reservation online prior to heading out.

Pros

• Developed Campground with many services we come to expect
• Potable water
• Excellent location in good proximity to surrounding recreational opportunities

Cons

• No flushing Toilets

Nearby Activities and Attractions

• Natural Bridges – This lava tube that collapsed over 12,000 years ago left behind two natural bridges and several caves that are fun for the whole family to explore.  Less than 5 minutes from the campground.
• Guler Ice Caves – Explore a lave tube that forms ice in it year round.  A stairway leading down provides easy access and is less than 5 minutes from the campground
• Goose Lake – Enjoy fishing, swimming or paddle boarding on this mountain lake.
• Forlorn Lakes – A series of beautiful mountain lakes the whole family can explore.