Camping spots near Inchelium, Washington cluster around several lakes within the Colville Indian Reservation, where elevations range from 1,300 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cold winters that limit camping season at most sites to April through October. Most campgrounds require Colville Tribal permits for fishing, which can be purchased separately from Washington state licenses.
What to do
Fishing for diverse species: Multiple lakefront campgrounds offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Hunters Campground, visitors appreciate the convenient fish cleaning station with "running water to clean your fish" and can "catch Walleye and Rainbows" according to reviewer Debbie S. Lake Ellen provides another fishing destination where "eagles and osprey can be seen diving into the lake to catch fish of their own," notes Andrew F.
Kayaking on calm waters: Several lakes in the area provide protected waters ideal for paddling. Lake Ellen Campground offers "good fishing/kayaking" according to Aaron M. Twin Lakes near Inchelium provides protected coves that paddlers find particularly appealing during morning hours before motorboat traffic increases.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the camping season. At Hartman's Log Cabin Resort, campers report seeing "Bald eagles, Loons, turtles, even Moose & Bears!" The quieter campgrounds provide the best wildlife viewing, especially during early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Water access defines many campers' experiences in the area. At Cloverleaf Campground, campers enjoy "dirt trails on the water which is a beautiful little cove on lake Roosevelt." Lake Ellen West Campground provides a fishing pier that Andrea R. describes as "cute," with roadside areas that "appear to be a beach area" with existing fire pits.
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive consistent praise. Kettle Falls Campground earns points for being "very clean and quiet" with "new tables, fire grates on all the pits" according to Andrea R. Another reviewer notes that "bathrooms were very clean" and "the campground itself is very clean."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good site separation. At Lake Ellen East Campground, "campsites have good separation with lots of vegetation for privacy" as noted by Emily J.D., who recommends it for those wanting "a low key, quiet place to camp."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require travel on rough roads. Access to Cloverleaf Campground involves dirt roads with potholes. Similarly, Kettle Falls Campground has "decently paved" roads within the campground itself, but approach roads can be challenging during wet weather.
Reservations systems differ: Booking policies vary widely between campgrounds. Emily J.D. notes that Lake Ellen East Campground operates on a "FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE" basis, while Lake Ellen West Campground reportedly had "nobody" when Andrea R. visited "on the first day of the season."
Seasonal closures affect amenities: Services vary throughout the camping season. At Kettle Falls Campground, Andrea R. notes that "in the off season there was no accessible water" and while "there are bathrooms for summer, but vaults in off season," the campground costs "$9 a night in off season. $18 in the regular season."
Tips for camping with families
Beachfront options: Several campgrounds provide swimming areas suitable for children. At Rainbow Beach Resort, Andrew F. notes "they also have a swimming area" that works well for families. Hunters Campground features a "swim beach for everyone" according to Debbie S.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in early summer. Bren M. advises that at Kettle Falls Campground, "there is a lot of mosquitoes but it's not a problem if you bring a lot of bug spray." Cassandra C. reports that "mosquitos were absolutely terrible" on their first night, "literally swirling around us as we put up the tent."
Family-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer recreational options beyond swimming. Henry H., who took "three young kids" to Kettle Falls Campground, mentions that "kids love to ride their bikes around the paved loops for entertainment" and enjoyed the sunset views over the mountains and lake.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have space constraints for larger rigs. Jack notes that at Kettle Falls Campground, "the sites are small so parking a big rig will be a hassle." Dave S. adds that "sites are all paved & most are small yet many RVs are huge (& people bring boats & large trucks) making driving thru loops hard on weekends."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited but available at select locations. Tony N. reports that at Hartman's Log Cabin Resort, "full hook ups" are available but spaces can be "a little packed" though "the fishing was worth it." For those requiring electrical connections, advanced planning is essential during peak season.
Generator noise considerations: Engine noise can impact camping experience during busy periods. Dave S. warns that at Kettle Falls Campground, "there were many generators at all times and since it's a loop it can sound like you are surrounded by generators at busy times," particularly on weekends.
