Ames Creek

Ames Creek is a scenic, beginner-friendly gravel route winding through the dense canopy of Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a relaxed drive with excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Spanning approximately 4.1 miles, this gently rolling corridor climbs from an elevation of 1,124 feet to 1,473 feet, presenting a mild 528 feet of elevation gain that standard passenger cars, SxSs, and four-wheel-drive vehicles can easily navigate. The path mostly follows the peaceful flow of Ames Creek, branching off Forest Road 25 and serving as an accessible connector route within the forest's extensive trail system. While the driving is straightforward with a technical rating of 1, drivers should keep an eye out for occasional potholes that can sneak up quickly, particularly on the faster stretches. Along the route, travelers will find several inviting primitive dispersed campsites, including one spacious clearing perfectly suited for larger groups looking to set up a base camp. Because the road is not winter-maintained, the best seasons to visit are late spring through autumn when the route is free of snow and the surrounding forest is lush. This area offers a great starting point for exploring the wider Cispus Valley and nearby highlights like Bluff Mountain, providing a seamless escape into the Pacific Northwest wilderness. Whether you are shaking down a new overland rig, airing out an SxS, or simply looking for a quiet place to camp for the weekend, this route delivers a classic forest service road experience with minimal technical difficulty.