About Palmer Mountain
Palmer Mountain Management Area comprises more than 6,500 acres of public land and is managed by the BLM. It is a great place for hiking, backpacking, dispersed camping, horseback riding, hunting, mountain biking, and fishing at tiny Washburn Lake. The autumn is especially picturesque when the many stands of aspen trees create a brilliant yellow and orange background. Visitors are sure to find a favorite spot to enjoy the quiet, scenic views of the Okanogan hillsides, aspen tree groves, grasslands, and the serene waters of Washburn Lake.Know Before You GoOpen season: Palmer Mountain Recreation Site is open YEAR ROUND, but the main access road is closed by snow in winter.3 primitive campsites with fire rings; first come first serve.No restrooms available.No drinking water available.Pack out all trash.Please keep pets on a leash and dispose all pet waster in trash receptacles.Cell phone coverage may be limited.Point of InterestPalmer Mountain is alive with color during spring and early summer, when many varieties of wildflowers bloom. At the higher elevations, wildflower season extends well into June and July when highland meadows seem carpeted with colorful blooms.
How to Get There
From Tonasket, Washington: Travel State Highway 97 to the Loomis Oroville Highway and continue west towards Loomis. After approximately 12 miles, turn right on the Washburn Lake Road. Follow the gravel road to the parking area above Washburn Lake and to other public lands administered by BLM.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Palmer Mountain
Heading to Palmer Mountain? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Palmer Mountain?
No central reservation system listed for Palmer Mountain. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/262748) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Palmer Mountain?
From Tonasket, Washington: Travel State Highway 97 to the Loomis Oroville Highway and continue west towards Loomis. After approximately 12 miles, turn right on the Washburn Lake Road. Follow the gravel road to the parking area above Washburn Lake and to other public lands administered by BLM.
How do I contact Palmer Mountain?
You can reach the park at phone: 509-536-1200 or email: BLM_OR_WN_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
