Tent camping options near Inchelium, Washington extend beyond the main Lake Roosevelt corridor into the surrounding Colville National Forest highlands. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,290 feet at the lake to over 5,000 feet in the nearby mountains, creating diverse camping microclimates. Several smaller forest campgrounds remain open from late spring through early fall, with most closing after the first significant snowfall in October.
What to do
Fishing at multiple elevations: Davis Lake Campground offers a serene fishing experience at a higher elevation, where motors aren't permitted. "No motor boats and about 7 sites good swimming and weak fishing," notes camper Dave M., making it ideal for peaceful angling away from the busier Lake Roosevelt sites.
Wildlife observation: Sherman Overlook Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from its higher elevation. "Nice trail to go hiking out back of campground and simple walking wheelchair loop at Overlook parking lot," according to Teresa H., who camped there with her family.
Water activities: Tent campers at Rocky Lake appreciate the quieter lake environment. Mitchell M. reports, "Nice camp ground. 5 total spots, last two are close together. Boat launch and hand water pump near lake."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief during summer heat waves. At Sherman Pass Overlook Campground, Teresa H. appreciated "Cool sleeping at this elevation when hot weather persists in lower lands."
Vault toilet maintenance: Even basic facilities receive attention in these remote locations. Scott J. from Canyon Creek Campground noted, "Vault toilets are well maintained," adding that the campground is "Quiet, beautiful, lush."
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation creates separation at many of the forest campgrounds. Emily B. describes Sherman Pass as "A great place if you're looking for a quick overnight stop with easy highway access. Water from a hand pump well and vault toilets available."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved forest roads. Davis Lake Campground requires extra time to reach, with Misty B. reporting, "The drive wasn't bad, but the last 45 mins was on a windy dirt road."
Limited water availability: Bring your own drinking water to most locations. At Rogers Bar, Terrie M. advises, "There is a vault toilet but that is it. There is no water so bring your own."
Seasonal operation: Most forest campgrounds close after Labor Day. Emily J D. notes that Lake Ellen East Campground features "11 campsites with picnic tables, fire pits, and tent pads" but operates only "Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Some lakeside campgrounds offer good shoreline for children. Rogers Bar provides "plenty of beach to explore and the water is cool & clear to play in," according to Terrie M.
Boat safety awareness: Lake Roosevelt has active motorboat traffic. As Terrie M. warns, "Be careful if in a kayak or canoe as the main channel is popular with skiers and tubers."
Teenage gatherings: Be prepared for occasional noise at more accessible campgrounds. Justice K. from Cloverleaf Campground shares, "The only downfall is that the local teens like to have big ragers there and when that happens its only USUALLY for one night then they leave but they get loud and obnoxious. I've experienced that happening 7 out of 10 times I've camped there."
Tips from RVers
Trailer accessibility: While primarily tent-focused, some campgrounds can accommodate smaller trailers. Teresa H. reports successful navigation at Sherman Overlook Campground: "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."
Site selection for privacy: Not all sites provide equal separation. Teresa H. notes about Sherman Pass Campground, "Most spots can fit trailers but some more private than other spots. Turn around loop is tight but doable with full size Dodge and 32' trailer."
Parking pad considerations: Look for relatively level sites if bringing a trailer. Sherman Overlook offers "nice private spaces with table, fire ring and near level parking pads," which can be crucial for RV comfort.
Legend
