Colville National Forest campsites typically sit at elevations between 1,500 and 5,800 feet, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the region. Summer temperatures at higher elevation camps can be 10-15°F cooler than those along Lake Roosevelt. Forest campgrounds offer primitive camping surrounded by western larch, Douglas fir, and ponderosa pine, contrasting with the developed options along the water.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Douglas Falls Grange Park Campground provides excellent wildlife spotting with minimal effort. "Hawks, deer, super squirrels, Eagles, Chipmunks, Robins, Magpie and more!" notes Andrea R. The camp's location near a 60-foot waterfall creates diverse habitats.
Fishing access: Trout Lake Campground offers free primitive camping with lake access. "The lake is beautiful and we took our canoe out on it a couple times. We also had great hikes on the local trails. We couldn't get the fish to bite but others told us the lake is stocked," shares Andrew F.
Water activities: Kettle Falls Campground provides water recreation options with boat rentals available. "Great boat launch. House boats and boats available for rent in the summer, there is a marina store available with food and snacks as well," reports Andrea R. The marina complements the campground for comprehensive water recreation.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Kamloops Campground offers large, private camping areas that feel secluded. "How incredibly beautiful and private. There are great camp sites in the upper loop, and then there is an area to hike all your stuff in. Only about a block," explains Andrea R.
Off-season solitude: Marcus Island Campground delivers quiet camping experiences outside peak summer months. "We had a campground all to ourselves in early April. It is full of birds and waterfowl. Rocky cliff side down to the lake," states Andrea R. The campground provides a different experience based on season.
Clean facilities: North Lake RV Park & Campground maintains high standards for restrooms and general cleanliness. "This place has showers and bathrooms which were great after a day floating on the river which is just a short drive away. Great tent camping with group camping available," shares Jayme B.
What you should know
Bugs vary by season: Insect activity can be intense during warmer months. "Mosquitos were absolutely terrible. Literally swirling around us as we put up the tent," reports Cassandra C. at Kettle Falls Campground. Early spring and fall camping typically has fewer insect issues.
Water levels fluctuate: Kettle River Campground experiences significant changes in water access throughout the season. "The river was down and we were told it is drawn down in February but back up to high levels first week of July," explains Mitchell F.
Road conditions: Access to more remote forest campsites requires appropriate vehicles. "I would recommend 4x4 getting here. Great for fishing," advises Jess G. about Trout Lake Campground. Many forest service roads become impassable after rainfall or during early spring.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Look for sites with natural entertainment options. "Site #6 is especially wanted. Great mountain biking and paddleboarding area," recommends Milissa H. about Kettle River Campground.
Beach access: Evans Campground provides designated swimming areas. "River view from almost every camp site. This campground is popular with the fisherman. There is a boat launch and a dock for your boat as well. There is also a swimming area and dogs are allowed in the river just not in the marked off swimming area," shares Jennifer H.
Bring recreation equipment: Pack bikes for kids to enjoy paved campground areas. "It seems kids love to ride their bikes around the paved loops for entertainment," notes Emily J D. about Kettle Falls Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campground sites require adjustment. "Sites near entrance to loops were more unlevel," warns Dave S. about Kettle Falls Campground. Bring leveling blocks even for paved sites.
Limited hookups: Prepare for self-contained camping at most forest sites. "We stayed here with our 21' travel trailer. There are no hookups so we brought a our generator and made sure we had a full tank of water," advises Eric H. about Kettle River Campground.
Size limitations: Measure your rig before booking. "The paved parking was quite small for the 'max vehicle length' rating. This left us using every in of pavement we had," notes Eric H. about Kettle River Campground.
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