Malo sits at an elevation of 1,600 feet in northeastern Washington's Ferry County, just 6 miles south of the Canadian border. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot, dry summers reaching 90°F and cold winters with temperatures dropping below freezing. The region's campgrounds typically operate from late May through September, with several offering year-round accommodations during milder weather periods.
What to do
Hiking Strawberry Mountain: From Bonaparte Lake Campground, visitors can access panoramic hiking trails. "Hike Strawberry Mountain if you have the time its beautiful views - but turn your phone off to avoid pinging Canadian service towers," advises Marie L.
Ghost town exploration: The area contains numerous abandoned mining settlements. "We took a loop to find old ghost towns and remnants in the area plus other loops," writes Patti C. about day trips from Bonaparte Lake.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes around Malo offer excellent fishing conditions. "Curlew Lake is known for its fishing, also boating, waterskiing, kayaking, etc," explains Jana J. from Tiffany's Resort.
Birdwatching: The region hosts diverse bird species, particularly near water. Highland Glenn Ranch offers "lovely quiet spot, surrounded by birds and frog and other critters," according to Rose H.
What campers like
Easy water access: Many Malo-area campgrounds provide direct lake or river frontage. At Lone Ranch Park, campers appreciate "a lovely view of the river. Quiet and free!" as Emily B. notes.
Mountain temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds offer relief during hot weather. "Cool sleeping at this elevation when hot weather persists in lower lands," writes Teresa H. about Sherman Overlook Campground.
Large, private sites: Campgrounds in the area often feature spacious sites. At Bonaparte Lake, Patti C. found "the table/fire ring area was generous and private, with space for our dog to be on a 25 ft lead. In fact, the whole site was very private with the campers to the right of us at least 50 feet away."
Natural beauty: The varied landscape combines mountains, forests, and water. "The lake and surrounding area is gorgeous," notes Marie L. about Bonaparte Lake, adding "many lakes, hiking trails, fishing, wildlife viewing -- it really has it all."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Algae blooms can affect swimming in late summer. "The lake had a pretty significant bloom of algae and a lot of mill weed at this time, but it was still a great visit," reports Nathan H. about Curlew Lake in August.
Limited cell coverage: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Malo have minimal or no connectivity. "Zero reliable cell service in the park. Had to drive back towards Republic to make a call," warns Jamie C.
Restroom facilities vary: Know what to expect regarding bathrooms. "In our loop we only had pit toilets. In the non-reservation loop there was one restroom with flush toilets and then other pit toilets. No showers available," explains Patti C. from Bonaparte Lake Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires vigilance with pets. Highland Glenn Ranch offers campers "mountains and canyons around you. Amazing views of the terrain. Thrilling thunder and lightning storm passed through on our trip giving a cool experience."
Tips for camping with families
Bring water recreation gear: Many campsites provide swimming and boating access. "Resort has a variety of full service cabins and full RV hook up camp sites. Also tent sites available. Showers and laundry on site, along with convenient store, where bikes, boats, kayaks and paddle boards can be rented. Marked swim area for kids," describes Jana J. about Tiffany's Resort.
Choose sites away from boat traffic: Some lake areas can be noisy. "During the day there is a lot of activity on the water, including speedboats," warns Nathan H.
Consider cabin options for cooler seasons: Snow Peak Cabin allows pets both inside and outside. "The cabin is cozy and well stocked with cots, chairs, pots and pans, firewood, and solar lights! All you really need to pack in besides the basic necessities are your sleeping bag, ski apres, and a good water filter," explains Anna T.
Plan for supply runs: Stock up on necessities before arrival. "Decent-sized IGA for groceries, convenience stores, and a few restaurants in Republic nearby," notes Nathan H.
Tips from RVers
Loop turnarounds can be tight: Larger rigs need careful navigation at some dog friendly campgrounds near Malo. "We would have fit in a few of spots and there was 8 total with tighter loop turn around at end," explains Teresa H. about Sherman Overlook Campground with her "32' Outdoors RV trailer behind a full size 6' bed and quad cab Dodge truck."
Check campground water availability: Some locations have limited services. "Water was off due to Covid and was no trash dumpster but did have outhouses," noted Teresa H. at Sherman Overlook.
Site selection matters: Some sites accommodate larger setups better than others. "Most spots can fit trailers but some more private than other spots," advises Teresa H.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to roadways. "Was some road noise when the few cars around here passed us since CG is beside road at summit of Pass but was still nice private spaces with table, fire ring and near level parking pads," notes Teresa H.
