Tent camping near Medical Lake, Washington provides access to both lake environments and forested terrain within a 30-mile radius. The region sits in the eastern Washington landscape characterized by rolling hills, ponderosa pine forests, and numerous lakes formed during the last ice age. Camping opportunities range from primitive sites with minimal facilities to more developed campgrounds with access to swimming and fishing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Twin Lakes Campground offers access to two connected lakes stocked with trout. According to one visitor, "This is a gorgeous camping area... many trucks pulling aluminum boats drive down to the boat launch that goes to the upper lake," while noting there's "a second site about 22 minutes away (coffee pot recreation site) that is more accessible friendly for larger rigs."
Swimming access: Nine Mile Recreation Area provides direct lake access. As one camper noted, "The resort is right on Long Lake, there is an area to swim, and it's a good spot for waterskiing." The campground includes additional recreation options like kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Wildlife viewing: Rock Creek BLM Campground offers nature trails with wildlife sightings. A camper reported, "There are nature trails available as well with wildlife throughout (we mainly saw birds)." Located near Escure Ranch in eastern Washington, this free camping area serves as a good base for nature observation.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: Rogers Bar Campground provides clear night skies with minimal light pollution. A visitor shared, "The areas are spacious and cleared out under the trees and there is plenty of beach to explore and the water is cool & clear to play in!" This primitive campground sits along the water, offering unobstructed sky views.
Privacy between sites: Extraordinary Camping near Coeur d'Alene provides secluded tent sites. A camper reported, "it is a very nice place to camp, since there probably won't be any people outside your own group." With only two camping sites available, this location maximizes privacy.
Waterfront access: Mica Bay Boater Park offers multiple water-based activities. One visitor described it as having "big long docks for fishing or sunbathing" and a "big bay for tubing or swimming, close enough to downtown for gas and dinner." The campground includes a grassy field for activities and playground equipment.
What you should know
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds in the region have challenging access roads. At Twin Lakes, "The road that leads down to the lake/camping area is steep and winding. I would not suggest anything over 25 foot length try to go down because you may not get back up."
Water availability: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Rock Creek BLM Campground, campers need to pack in all drinking water, as one review mentions this is a "very dry area so expect dust."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close unexpectedly or seasonally. One Nine Mile Recreation Area visitor reported, "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closes [sic]," highlighting the importance of checking current operational status before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: The Lil Red Barn provides family-friendly facilities with 11 established sites. Located within driving distance of Medical Lake, this campground offers amenities like picnic tables, toilets, and drinking water that simplify family camping experiences.
Playground access: Mica Bay offers dedicated children's recreation areas. A camper noted there are "swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit (when camp host is present), for older kids, large grass field for frisbee or football," making it suitable for multiple age groups.
Animal interactions: Amongst The Pines provides unique experiences for children. One family reported, "Robin was unbelievably accommodating with our situation and even introduced my daughters to all the farm animals. On top of that, the space was perfect for a couple young kids to run around and explore."
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: Nine Mile Recreation Area has specific constraints for larger vehicles. One camper noted, "The entry road is narrow, it is not paved, and meanders through private property, so slow down!" Another mentioned, "The RV/camper sites have full or partial hook-ups. All back in."
Alternative options: Camp Gifford at Deer Lake offers alternative accommodations beyond tent camping. Located north of Medical Lake, this campground provides cabin options for those seeking more sheltered accommodations when tent camping weather is unfavorable.
Payment methods: Some campgrounds require specific payment forms. A Nine Mile Recreation Area visitor advised, "Make sure you have cash or check when you check in unless you made a reservation on the website."
