RV parks in Colville National Forest range from lakeside resorts to small town fairgrounds across an area spanning over 1.1 million acres of forest. Summer temperatures in this northeastern Washington region typically reach 80-85°F during daytime hours, dropping significantly at night due to elevations between 1,600-7,300 feet. Cell coverage varies substantially throughout the region, with stronger signals near towns and limited connectivity in valleys.
What to do
Water recreation on smaller lakes: Jump Off Joe Lake Resort provides access to a small, warm lake perfect for fishing and swimming. "The lake is small and warm. There is great fishing. The spots are a bit close together unless you have a large group," explains Diane O. at Jump Off Joe Lake Resort and RV Park.
Golfing and local exploration: Several RV parks provide convenient access to recreational facilities. "The golf course is beautiful and the area has backroads to all kinds of little towns with good burger joints. Kayaking very close," notes a reviewer who works at RV Park At Chewelah Golf & Country Club.
Summer lake activities: North Lake RV Park offers multi-day water recreation options. One visitor mentioned, "This place is great. Super rustic, tons of things for kids to get into, water was clean, power was solid. Heads up, your cell coverage will be spotty here. (Bring a book)," according to Craig S.
What campers like
Family amenities: Many campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for groups. "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. Sites have a lot of room, table, fire pit, garbage can and easy walk to rest of campground," says Jayme B. about North Lake RV Park & Campground.
Access to local communities: The region's campgrounds provide convenient bases for exploring nearby towns. "There is plenty of shade. The spots are a bit close together unless you have a large group. It's only an hour away and we loved it," adds Diane O. about their family experience at Jump Off Joe Lake.
Flexible camping options: Several parks accommodate different types of stays. "I'd highly recommend this camp," writes Andrew F. about Upper Columbia RV Park and Campground, adding, "The owner Ralph is very affable and helped us get to our site the first night as well as drove my car back for me from the canoe launch site."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks in the area operate with limited seasonal availability. "This is peaceful, especially during mid week," notes a staff member at Chewelah Golf & Country Club RV Park, which operates from April 1 to October 31.
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge beyond base rates. "This was a beautiful place, but they charge extra for the 2 dogs and then the extra kid to since our family is 2 adults and 3 kids and 2 dogs. Camp sites are priced on a 4-person base," reports Brenda S. about Jump Off Joe Lake Resort.
Road noise considerations: Location impacts noise levels at certain campgrounds. Meghan B. notes about Chewelah Golf & Country Club: "This spot was on track for 5-stars until the road noise from logging trucks became an issue starting at 3AM."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and bees can affect camping comfort at certain locations and times. "Be aware of bees during the day and mosquitoes at night," advises Mike K. when describing their experience at North Lake.
Swimming accessibility: Some sites provide dedicated swimming areas for children. "We spent 3 nights here last week with our family and everyone had a great time... There is plenty of shade," says Diane O. about Jump Off Joe Lake Resort and RV Park.
Multi-generational appeal: Certain campgrounds maintain long-standing appeal. "Love JOJ, I have been coming here since I was 5 or so, beautiful location, fishing, camping; cabins, tents or RV. Swimming with floating dock, and playground area," shares Jae H.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Parks vary significantly in how close sites are positioned. "They are very reasonably priced and is very dog friendly. There are several places to walk the dogs on leash and off within either walking distance or a short drive to the Colville national forest," explains Mary F. about RV Park At Chewelah Golf & Country Club.
Site width considerations: Columbia Point Resort offers sites accommodating specific RV lengths. "Very nice campground, bathrooms clean," notes Jodi S. about a similar property in the region, while Thomas adds about Columbia Point Resort: "They were so friendly. Nice spots, wide, easy to back in (30ft). Free fresh eggs from their chicken, fresh onions from the garden and more."
Weather patterns: Summer electrical storms can occur in the region. "A thunder and lightning storm 1 night to keep it interesting. Hosts were great and I know they have plenty of rules but we didn't feel like we were being watched the whole time," reports Mike K.
