Glamping options near Kettle Valley, Washington span from lakeside retreats to forest hideaways in the northeastern corner of the state. The region sits within the Colville National Forest at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Yurt and cabin accommodations typically require advance reservations during peak season from late May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ellen Campground provides dedicated fishing access with a dock on the secluded lake. According to Aaron M., it's a "good secluded campground. Dock to fish on. Not a ski lake." Many visitors bring kayaks to explore the water.
Wildlife viewing: The dense forests and lakes around Edgewater Campground host diverse wildlife. Andrea R. notes, "This section of the Colville, there is so much to see and do! This campground is close to many attractions and has great fishing!" Bald eagles, deer, and even bears are commonly spotted.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Lake Ellen Campground, Andrew F. shares that "This is one of my son's and my happy spots! We love hiking around the lake and the campsites are affordable and beautiful."
Hiking trails: Sherman Pass Overlook Campground sits at the summit of Sherman Pass with immediate access to hiking paths. Emily B. mentions there's "a nice ADA trail at site" making some outdoor exploration accessible to all visitors.
What campers like
Lake access: Multiple campers mention the quality of lakes near Kettle Valley for both fishing and swimming. At Hartman's Log Cabin Resort, Maurice G. reports, "The lake is clean and full of fish!! Bald eagles, Loons, turtles, even Moose & Bears!"
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Edgewater Campground, Eddy R. says the sites "feel like a private campground trees in between each site and lots of privacy."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites provide relief during hot summer months. Teresa H. notes that Sherman Overlook Campground offers "Cool sleeping at this elevation when hot weather persists in lower lands."
Affordable options: Despite the amenities, many camping options remain reasonably priced. Andrew F. mentions Lake Ellen sites are "affordable and beautiful" with both east and west side camping options available.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping and yurt camping options in Kettle Valley require advance booking. Gold Mountain RV Park offers Ti-Pi accommodations with full hookups across their 21 sites.
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Sherman Pass Overlook Campground is only open from "Memorial Day to Labor Day" according to official listings.
Limited services: While some sites offer water, most have minimal amenities. Scott P. notes that Lake Ellen "is a more rustic campground with only a few water pumps available and no other services besides a toilet."
Insect activity: Be prepared for mosquitos, especially in early summer. At Edgewater Campground, Alicia H. warns of "Tons of bugs & mosquitos" despite the privacy and space of individual sites.
Fishing permits: Special permits may be required at certain locations. At Hartman's Log Cabin Resort, Maurice G. advises "An Indian reservation fishing license is required here, but not a Washington State License."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Beaver Lodge Resort offers excellent swimming opportunities for children. Aaron M. describes it as the "Perfect lake to swim in that is connected to a larger ski lake with a channel so there is not heavy boat traffic."
Kid-friendly hiking: Sherman Pass Overlook Campground features accessible trails suitable for families with children. Teresa H. mentions there's a "nice trail to go hiking out back of campground and simple walking wheelchair loop at Overlook parking lot."
Wildlife education: The abundant wildlife presents learning opportunities. At Lake Ellen, Andrew explains "eagles and osprey can be seen diving into the lake to catch fish of their own" creating natural wildlife viewing moments for children.
Food storage: Bear activity requires proper food handling. Douglas S. points out that Edgewater provides "bear boxes" at each site to keep food secure from wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds accommodate RVs but with limitations. At Beaver Lodge Resort, John L. notes "The spot we had for a 29' was a little tight but there was enough room between the RVs" and warns that "the hookups were not in good spots."
Tight turns: Some campgrounds have difficult access points. Teresa H. cautions that Sherman Overlook has a "tighter loop turn around at end" despite fitting her "32' Outdoors RV trailer behind a full size 6' bed and quad cab Dodge truck."
Hookup locations: Plan for adequate hoses and cords. John L. explains, "The electric was at the front and shared, only one 30 and one 50, and the water/sewer was at the back end. We needed a 50' hose to reach."
Level sites: Not all yurt camping areas in Kettle Valley have perfectly level RV pads. Douglas S. mentions that despite Edgewater's website claiming "all sites are accessible for any RV," he "noticed a couple that might be difficult for large RV's."
