Soda Springs Campground (Bumping River, WA)

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers stunning scenic views, with high, glaciated alpine peaks, valleys of old growth forest and rugged shrub-steppe country making up the diverse landscape. Elevations range from below 1,000 feet to more than 9,000 feet. Precipitation varies greatly throughout the area, ranging from approximately 140 inches along the Cascade Crest to only 10 inches along the eastern edge. Visitors to the area can expect many days of warm, sunny weather in the summer, and winters with clear skies and plenty of snow. The surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests support an abundance of wildlife, including deer, porcupine, native fish and migratory birds. Endangered and threatened species, including the Northern Bald Eagle, the Northern Spotted Owl, gray wolves and grizzly bears, also find havens in nearby ecosystems.

Recreation: Soda Springs Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of outdoor recreational activities throughout the year. The Bumping River, adjacent to the campground, offers a scenic backdrop for swimmers braving its cold, refreshing waters. Anglers may also want to cast a line into the deep pools lining the shore. Populations of rainbow, brook and steelhead trout prevail in this waterway. The nearby American Ridge Trail offers hikers, overnight backpackers and horseback riders fantastic opportunities to absorb some of the area's stunning beauty. Extending from Bumping River to the notable Pacific Crest Trail, the American Ridge Trail offers more than 26 miles of towering forests, stretches of meadows, alpine lakes and fantastic ridge line views. Trailheads for Goat Creek Trail, Nile Ridge Trail and the Richmond Mine Trail are also nearby.

Nearby: Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail is one of the most popular places in the Naches District. Visitors can walk the accessible trail along the river or explore Boulder Cave. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the geology, plants, animals and fire history of the area. Visitors may want to take some time to visit nearby Mount Rainer National Park. Considered a wonderland, the park offers a fantastic glimpse into glaciers, sub-alpine ecology and volcanic landscapes typical in the region. Nearby Goat Rocks Wilderness is a stunning adventure for those wanting to traverse higher elevations. Peaks within the area are remnants of an extinct volcano, taking the name "Goat Rocks," in honor of the numerous mountain goats traversing this isolated region. Gilbert Peak is the highest summit in this area, at an elevation of 8,184 feet.