The Colville National Forest area surrounding Ione, Washington sits at elevations between 2,000-6,000 feet with a climate characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Most camping sites near Ione, Washington remain open from late May through September, with some locations experiencing early closures due to mountain snow conditions. The forest encompasses numerous lakes and rivers offering varied camping experiences from primitive to developed sites.
What to do
Kayaking to waterfalls: Boundary Dam Campground provides direct access to Peewee Falls, accessible by a short paddle. "Peewee falls is about a 10 minute kayak from the beach," notes visitor Alex D. at Boundary Dam Campground.
Cave exploration: Gardner Caves at Crawford State Park offers guided tours at specific times throughout the day. "From the cave it's a small hike to Canada," mentions visitor Myresa J. about trips from East Sullivan.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Leo Campground provides a quieter fishing experience. "Nice, small, fishing lake in Colville National Forest. Best part, there is no day use at this site, so the whole campground has a private feel," reports Andrea R.
What campers like
Waterfront accessibility: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at Lake Gillette Campground. "The lake was clear, beautiful and warm! We spend hours floating around enjoying the views," shares Ginger M. at Lake Gillette Campground.
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds like Edgewater offer good separation between camping spots. "Each site is large with trees between so you do have a lot of privacy," notes Scott P. at Edgewater Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite being vault toilets, many campgrounds maintain high standards. "The vault toilets were maintained twice a day all days we were there," reports a camper at Lake Gillette. Another visitor at Noisy Creek noted they have "the cleanest pit toilets I have ever seen (seriously!)"
What you should know
Limited services: Most campgrounds near Ione offer basic amenities only. "This is a more rustic campground with only a few water pumps available and no other services besides a toilet," explains Scott P. about Edgewater Campground.
Bear precautions required: Bear-proof storage is necessary throughout the region. "Bear boxes fire rings and picnic tables are all provided at most every site," notes Andrea R. about camping facilities.
Weather considerations: The region can experience significant seasonal variations. "The water is refreshing and clean to play in (although cold)," mentions Terrie M. at Noisy Creek, reflecting the mountain lake temperatures even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several lakes offer dedicated swimming areas for children. At Lake Gillette, one visitor noted, "The lake is only about a two minute walk from any site. Great swimming spot and nice shaded beach with grass."
Safety equipment: Some facilities provide water safety gear. At Campbell Park, Andrea R. observed, "The campground also provides life jackets, if your child needs one!"
Educational opportunities: Dam tours can interest school-age children. "FREE Dam tours Thursday-Monday... at 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:00pm," mentions a visitor at Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam, adding "Its a Hydro Electric Dam and it goes through a Limestone cave!"
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should research site sizes before arrival. "The sites are spacious and well separated. Each includes a fire pit, picnic table and tent pad. The website claims that all sites are accessible for any RV but I noticed a couple that might be difficult for large RV's," cautions Douglas S.
Hookup limitations: Most forest service campgrounds lack standard RV amenities. "The parking areas are really long and most have a great view of the lake... The sites are extra large and can take just about any RV size you have... and no hookups," explains Andrea R.
Supply planning: With limited services, RVers should arrive prepared. "They have a little trading post that you can have dinner or buy small things. No service but well needed to get away and enjoy the outdoors," advises Victoria E. at Beaver Lodge Resort.
