The Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area spans 130 miles along the Columbia River in eastern Washington, with elevations ranging from 1,208 to 1,290 feet depending on reservoir levels. Camping options include established campgrounds with varying amenities, dispersed sites on public lands, and specialized horse-friendly facilities that accommodate both equestrian travelers and their mounts.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: The area around Cloverleaf Campground offers excellent opportunities for spotting diverse wildlife. "Bald eagles, and lots of bugs... a good spot to fish, kayak, float a sun island, rock hound, bird watch, critter watch, rest, relax, and get away from people," notes Justice K. in their review.
Horseback riding: Multiple trail systems accommodate riders and their horses, with seasonal restrictions based on terrain conditions. At Osbourne Bay Campground, riders appreciate access to water trails. "There is a boat launch and vault toilet but no water or garbage. There are large cottonwood trees to shade the sites," explains Judy T.
Water recreation: The Columbia River reservoir provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and paddling from May through September. "Spots are clean with fire pit and tables. Dirt trails on the water which is a beautiful little cove on lake Roosevelt," reports a Cloverleaf Campground visitor.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many visitors appreciate the relative isolation of certain campgrounds, allowing for quiet evenings and minimal light pollution. At Iron Mountain Ranch, John W. observed, "the night sky was awesome with NO lights in any direction except the stars!"
Wildlife encounters: The region's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife viewing. "I had a great campfire and watched a mama bear and her cub on the hill beyond the cabin! Also saw deer in the driveway," reports a visitor to Iron Mountain Ranch.
Equestrian facilities: Horse owners value the dedicated equestrian camping areas that provide appropriate accommodation for both riders and mounts. Dreamswept Farm Resort receives consistent praise for its equestrian amenities. According to Rebecca S., "This place has whatever you are looking for in a campground. RV sites with full hookups for water/electric/sewer, there are outdoor or private indoor showers, it's ADA accessible."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels at Lake Roosevelt fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting boat launch access and shoreline camping. During autumn, Osbourne Bay Campground visitors note distinct advantages: "When we were there in October, their golden foliage shone in the sunlight."
Amenities vary widely: Services range from fully-equipped resorts to primitive sites with minimal facilities. Dreamswept Farm Resort provides "a great outdoor kitchen and BBQ area. There are equipment rentals that are reasonably priced as well."
Local gatherings: Cultural events in adjacent communities may affect noise levels at certain campgrounds. As one Cloverleaf visitor notes, "Most often in the summer you can hear the big pow wows going on across the river at night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shade: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August. Campgrounds with tree cover provide necessary relief from direct sun. Osbourne Bay offers sites with "large cottonwood trees to shade the sites," which proves valuable during hot weather.
Consider noise factors: Some locations experience evening activity that may affect light sleepers. At Cloverleaf Campground, one camper reports, "the local teens like to have big ragers there and when that happens it's 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."
Look for accessible facilities: Families with mobility concerns should note accessibility options at certain locations. Dreamswept Farm Resort accommodates these needs as it's "ADA accessible," making it suitable for family members with varying mobility requirements.
Tips from RVers
Water and sewer hookups: RV campers seeking full hookups should verify availability in advance, as many sites offer limited services. Dreamswept Farm Resort provides "RV sites with full hookups for water/electric/sewer," making it a reliable option for those requiring complete services.
Site size considerations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited space for larger rigs. Osbourne Bay Campground notes that "the sites are small and close together. Campsites are on either side of a gravel road leading to the boat launch."
Off-grid preparations: RVers planning stays at equestrian camping areas near Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area should prepare for potential service limitations. Several campgrounds operate with minimal or no hookups, requiring self-sufficiency for extended stays.
