Tent campsites near Chewelah, Washington sit within the Colville National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with some higher elevation sites experiencing cooler overnight temperatures even during summer months. Most sites in this region require advance planning as cell service becomes limited on forest roads leading to campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing at Rocky Lake: Rocky Lake Campground offers access to a stocked lake with rainbow trout. According to Mitchell M., "Nice camp ground. 5 total spots, last two are close together. Boat launch and hand water pump near lake."
Wildlife viewing at Lake Thomas: The campground provides habitat for diverse wildlife during summer months. Connie S. notes, "Large range of wildlife, birds, fish, deer, moose, and we even saw bunnies!! Worth the fee Id say!"
Creek exploration: Skookum Creek Campground features a meadow area where campers can wade in shallow water. Janet R. mentions that it's "Right on Skookum Creek and very quiet. Nice spots spaced quite far apart. Grassy with fire rings and tables."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer well-spaced sites with natural screening. At Skookum Creek Campground, Henry H. appreciated that "each site has a nice fire ring, large picnic table, and loads of elbow room... Of the 11 sites, only two were occupied, and even though the other site was running a couple of generators, I had enough room that the breeze and sounds of nature drowned it out."
Serene water access: Lake Ellen East Campground provides a quieter alternative to more developed sites. Emily J D. reports, "Campsites have good separation with lots of vegetation for privacy. Access to the lake for fishing and swimming is a short walk. Wildlife viewing is great: water fowl mostly and fishing for Rainbow Trout is good."
Free camping options: Some sites in the area require no payment. Dominic C. shares about Skookum Creek: "I also don't think we paid, because we couldn't find anyone to give money to. Maybe this is because it was fall, or maybe it's actually free."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Little Twin Lakes Campground is only open "Memorial Day to Labor Day," according to Jess G., who adds it's a "Smaller camp ground, 7 sites, with boat launch, good kayaking and fishing, picnic tables and vault toilets."
Water sources: Drinking water is inconsistently available. At Rocky Lake, campers can access a "hand water pump near lake" according to Mitchell M., but many other sites require bringing your own supply.
Toilet facilities: Most sites feature vault toilets rather than flush facilities. At Canyon Creek Campground, Scott J. notes, "Vault toilets are well maintained," reflecting the standard amenities at National Forest sites in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside recreation: Nine Mile Recreation Area at Riverside State Park offers extensive water-based activities. Aaron P. shares, "Great family place, so much to do for everyone. Especially if you love the water. The campsite is butted up to the lake, which makes it great for sunsets and sunrises... You can rent kayaks, and paddle boards there."
Trail access: Some campgrounds feature nature trails suitable for children. Taesagh M. mentions at Nine Mile Recreation Area, "there's a nearby walking path through the woods that was covered in wildflowers!"
Group camping spots: When camping with multiple families, seek specific sites. Connie S. notes that at Lake Thomas Campground, "Sorta small some are but others work well for group spots! Some spots even have trails from campground to the lake!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most campgrounds in the Colville National Forest accommodate smaller RVs only. At Camp Gifford at Deer Lake, reviewers recommend tent camping rather than RVs due to limited site sizes and narrow access roads.
Water access limitations: RV sites with water hookups are scarce in the area. Emily J D. recommends Lake Ellen East for "tents and small campers" only, adding there's "No drinking water" available at the site.
Narrow access roads: Forest service roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. Jim T. warns about Nine Mile Recreation Area, "The entry road is narrow, it is not paved, and meanders through private property, so slow down!"
