Camping near Malo, Washington centers around the Colville National Forest, where elevations range from 1,300 to 7,000 feet across diverse terrain with mixed coniferous forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-90°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can dip below freezing. Access to many dispersed sites requires high-clearance vehicles, especially after periods of rain.
What to do
Fishing at Bonaparte Lake: Cast for rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass at Bonaparte Lake Campground, located 24 miles west of Malo. "We found Bonaparte Lake Campground through Dyrt when sites were not available at Curlew State Park. The camp host was amazingly helpful and friendly, giving us maps of things to do in the area," reports Patti C.
Wildlife viewing: Scan the skies and shorelines at Curlew Lake State Park Campground for diverse bird species. "Nice grassy areas and hookups available - lake has excellent bass fishing and bird watching," notes Scott B. The park's natural marshland attracts osprey, eagles, and waterfowl.
Hiking the wheelchair-accessible trail: Explore the ADA trail at Sherman Pass Overlook Campground, which sits at the summit of Sherman Pass. "Nice trail to go hiking out back of campground and simple walking wheelchair loop at Overlook parking lot," shares Teresa H., adding that the elevation provides "cool sleeping when hot weather persists in lower lands."
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campsites at Bonaparte Lake Campground offer ample room and separation. As Judy T. describes, "Some sites have lake frontage and are deep sites. One couple across from us had a hammock between 2 trees with a great lake view."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained amenities. "The camp host was amazingly helpful while we stayed who made sure the vault and flush toilets were clean," reports Judy T. about Bonaparte Lake Campground.
Free riverside camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Lone Ranch Park for its no-cost waterfront sites. "Undeveloped and rather unkempt, but a lovely view of the river. Quiet and free! There is a porta-potty that was clean when we visited," shares Emily B.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer. One camper noted about Bonaparte Lake: "I stayed here 2 years ago and got a reservation less than a month before we left. This year, 2021, I can't even book a site for the summer right now!"
Water conditions vary: Lake quality can change seasonally. At Winchester RV Resort & Campground, visitors appreciate the "very nice campground, bathrooms clean" according to Jodi S., but water quality in area lakes fluctuates.
Limited cell service: Prepare for connectivity gaps throughout the region. Jamie C. reports about Curlew Lake State Park: "Zero reliable cell service in the park. Had to drive back towards Republic to make a call."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Sherman Pass Overlook Campground only operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day, while Bonaparte Lake Campground runs from Memorial Day to September 30.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Tiffany's Resort offers family-friendly water activities. "Great place for families and fishermen. Resort has a variety of full service cabins and full RV hook up camp sites. Also tent sites available. Marked swim area for kids," notes Jana J.
Rental equipment: Some locations provide recreation gear on-site. At Tiffany's Resort, Jana J. mentions they have a "convenient store, where bikes, boats, kayaks and paddle boards can be rented."
Avoid peak season crowds: For quieter family trips, consider visiting before or after July-August. As one camper suggested about Bonaparte Lake, "It would make a beautiful trip in the early fall."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and configurations: At Sherman Overlook Campground, Teresa H. found that "We pull a 32' Outdoors RV trailer behind a full size 6' bed and quad cab Dodge truck. We would have fit in a few of spots and there was 8 total with tighter loop turn around at end."
Year-round options: For winter camping, consider Gold Mountain RV Park, which operates "All year" according to its listing, offering "21 sites available, each with full hook-ups."
Level parking pads: Sherman Overlook Campground features "near level parking pads" according to Teresa H., making setup easier for RVers with trailers or larger vehicles.
Traveler
