Camping sites near Kettle Valley, Washington range from primitive forestland spots to established campgrounds along Lake Roosevelt. The area sits at elevations between 1,300-2,000 feet, experiencing hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F in July and August. Winter camping can be challenging with snowfall typically beginning in late November and lasting through March.
What to do
Swimming in clear waters: At Kettle Falls Campground, the water is remarkably transparent. "This campsite is very well priced and the water is very clear to swim in (somewhat cold). My only complaint is that there is a lot of mosquitoes but it's not a problem if you bring a lot of bug spray," notes Bren M.
Mountain biking: The terrain around Kettle River Campground offers excellent riding opportunities. "Nice location geographically. Site #6 is especially wanted. Great mountain biking and paddleboarding area," shares Milissa H.
Historical exploration: Several campgrounds feature walking tours of local ruins. "There used to be a town where the lake is. There is a great walking tour with signs," explains Andrea R. about Kettle Falls Campground.
Canoeing on smaller lakes: Smaller bodies of water like Trout Lake provide alternatives to Lake Roosevelt. "The lake is beautiful and we took our canoe out on it a couple times. We also had great hikes on the local trails," writes Andrew F.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous sites at Douglas Falls Grange Park. "The sites are roomy and pretty darn spaced out so we couldn't hear the neighbor we had for a night," remarks Tiffany A.
Off-season tranquility: Fall through spring offers quieter camping experiences. "We had a campground all to ourselves in early April. It is full of birds and waterfowl. Rocky cliff side down to the lake. In April the water levels are low for flood control," shares Andrea R. about Marcus Island Campground.
Boat access: Many campgrounds offer boat launches and docks. "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," notes Andrea R. about Kettle Falls.
Waterfall proximity: Douglas Falls provides a scenic backdrop for campers. "The very small hike to the falls was only steps away from our site, and one of the sites you could even see the falls!" explains Tiffany A.
What you should know
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in early summer. "First night in, mosquitos were absolutely terrible. Literally swirling around us as we put up the tent," warns Cassandra C. about her stay at Kettle Falls Campground.
Water level fluctuations: Lake Roosevelt's water levels change dramatically through 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. from Kettle River Campground.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "I would recommend 4x4 getting here. Great for fishing," notes Jess G. about Trout Lake Campground.
Variable noise levels: Quietness depends on season and day of week. "During day in week its quiet & emptier, & fills & louder till 10pm. Weekends very busy!" shares Dave S. about Kettle Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly campgrounds: North Lake RV Park & Campground offers amenities families appreciate. "This place is great. Super rustic, tons of things for kids to get into, water was clean, power was solid," says Craig S.
Site selection for children: Consider proximity to water access. "Solid campground... The view was fantastic, and once the kids were settled in bed I thoroughly enjoyed a book while the sun set over the mountains and lake... water access, considering that it is on the lake, was less than ideal, especially with small kids," advises Henry H.
Playground options: Some campgrounds have recreational fields. "There is a huge field with a backstop for baseball/softball, a covered picnic area, Horseshoes, hiking trails," mentions Andrea R. about Douglas Falls.
Wildlife viewing with kids: The area offers opportunities to spot various animals. "Saw eagles and deer right from our site," shares Tiffany A. about Douglas Falls Grange Park.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing realities: Large RVs may face challenges at some campgrounds. "The sites are small so parking a big rig will be a hassle," warns Jack about Kettle Falls.
Hookup availability: North Lake Roosevelt Resort offers full-service sites. "The resort is very well maintained with fantastic amenities and any kind of site you might prefer (water view, tree view, sunny, shaded)," notes Rachel A.
Generator noise considerations: Some campgrounds can be noisy with generators. "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," shares Dave S.
Pull-through options: At Kettle River, some sites accommodate larger rigs. "We squeezed our 30 foot trailer and truck into pull through site 11," reports Mitchell F., adding that the campground has "a clean and stocked vault toilet on site."
