Metaline, Washington camping areas extend through the Colville National Forest at elevations between 2,000-6,000 feet, creating varied camping experiences from riverside to mountain lake settings. The region typically sees warm, dry summers with temperatures reaching 80-90°F during July and August, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for cooler nights dropping to 40-50°F. Most camping spots near Metaline receive limited annual rainfall but summer thunderstorms can develop quickly.
What to do
Kayaking to waterfalls: Access Peewee Falls via Boundary Dam Campground, which provides a boat launch point just minutes from this hidden cascade. "Peewee falls is only a 5 minute paddle from the campground, if that! Highly recommended!" notes Megan W. The waterfall is only accessible by water, though future trail access is under development.
Cave exploration: Visit Gardner Caves at Crawford State Park, located 20 minutes from most Metaline camping areas. Tours run at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:00pm with a required Discover Pass for entry. "From the cave there is a 1/4 mile hike to Canada Border!" shares Andrea R. about the area near Campbell Park.
Hiking through meadows: The trail around Big Meadow Lake Campground takes you through alpine meadows to viewpoints overlooking the region. "Trail around the camp ground that takes you threw the meadow and to a look out area which was pretty cool. The trail continues on to an old shelter that is also accessible by car," describes Jess G.
What campers like
Free camping options: Several sites near Metaline offer no-fee camping, a rarity for well-maintained facilities. "Absolutely beautiful! Access to so many different attractions...all free!!!" reports Lisa H. about Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam. The park also provides unique amenities including "free firewood, one of the sites has a cute small waterfall, IN THE SITE!!!"
Clear, clean water: Sullivan Lake remains a highlight for water quality and swimming conditions. "Sullivan lake has amazing views. The water is clear. The mountains are beyond gorgeous," notes Myresa J. about Noisy Creek. Suitable for swimming during summer months when water temperatures rise.
Private sites with natural screening: Many East Sullivan campsites feature good separation between sites. "The sites are spacious and well separated. Each includes a fire pit, picnic table and tent pad," explains Douglas S. about Edgewater Campground, adding that "with the beauty and maintenance comes a price" of $20 for single sites and $40 for doubles.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: The camping season generally runs mid-May through August for most established campgrounds. Weather patterns can extend or shorten this window. "During our stay it got very cold and we needed to use our heater," notes Marcus K. about Sullivan Creek Campground.
Wildlife considerations: The area has active wildlife including bears. "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning," reports Jeanna A. Most campgrounds provide bear boxes, particularly important at Sullivan Creek where "there were also lots of mice. Brave too, they were trying to get our food as we were eating it around the fire!"
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds like East Sullivan require advance booking, while others operate on first-come, first-served basis. "Make sure you book in advance most the time it's full," advises Myresa J. For no-reservation campgrounds, arriving by Thursday or Friday morning during summer is recommended to secure spots.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Noisy Creek on Sullivan Lake offers child-friendly water access. "The water is refreshing and clean to play in (although cold)," explains Terrie M. Some sites even provide "life jackets, if your child needs one!" at Campbell Park's swimming pond.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer fishing access for family outings. "Love this place been going here since I was a kid. Fishing on this lake in a little boat will always be special to me," shares Kendra C. about Big Meadow Lake. The lake also features an "accessible fishing dock" for easier access.
Weekday visits: Weekend crowds can significantly impact the family camping experience, especially at waterfront sites. "Definitely recommend staying during the week. Weekend traffic is intense," advises Alex D. about Boundary Dam. Sites fill quickly, particularly during July and early August.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds near Metaline have limitations for larger RVs. "The RV sites are also close together," notes Becky about Boundary Dam. Look for campgrounds specifying "big-rig friendly" in their amenities list.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds in the area lack electrical and water hookups. "There are no hookups for the RV's," explains Douglas S. about Boundary Dam, though the campground does provide water spigots near sites. East Sullivan offers similar facilities with water available but no direct hookups.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require careful positioning for larger vehicles. "The website claims that all sites are accessible for any RV but I noticed a couple that might be difficult for large RV's," cautions Douglas S. about Edgewater Campground. Be prepared with leveling blocks at most locations.
