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Camping near Metaline Falls, WA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Camping options around Metaline Falls in northeastern Washington range from established Forest Service campgrounds to dispersed sites in the Colville National Forest. Sullivan Lake serves as a focal point for several developed campgrounds, including East Sullivan, West Sullivan, and Noisy Creek, all offering tent and RV sites with basic amenities. Other notable camping areas include Boundary Dam Campground and Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam, which provides free camping with vault toilets and picnic tables in a riverside setting.

    Road access to most camping areas remains good during the primary season from mid-May through late August when Sullivan Lake and surrounding campgrounds operate at full capacity. Many developed campgrounds provide drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, with fees typically around $20 per night for single sites. Reservations are highly recommended during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Winter brings significant snowfall, limiting access to many areas. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "Make sure you book in advance most the time it's full. Make sure you check out Gardner caves and Boundary Dam not too far away."

    The waterfront campgrounds along Sullivan Lake receive consistently positive reviews for their clear water and scenic mountain views. East Sullivan and West Sullivan campgrounds provide lake access with tent and RV sites nestled among trees, offering reasonable privacy between campsites. Visitors particularly value the swimming opportunities and hiking trails, including the lakeshore trail accessible from several campgrounds. While Sullivan Lake camping areas can become crowded during peak summer weekends, less-visited options like Campbell Park provide quieter alternatives. A review noted that Sullivan Lake has "Amazing views. The water is clear. The mountains are beyond gorgeous." Camping areas throughout the region serve as convenient bases for exploring nearby attractions, including Gardner Cave at Crawford State Park, Boundary Dam, and the international border with Canada.

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    Best Campgrounds near Metaline Falls (151)

      1. Boundary Dam Campground

      4.8(9)9mi from Metaline FallsRVs, Tents

      "It is a small campground right next to the Boundary Dam and thanks to Seattle City Power is absolutely FREE! It just went through a major overhaul so everything is new and well maintained. "

      "Campground Review: https://www.seattle.gov/light/Boundary/recreation.asp

      Usually I would stay away from campgrounds like Boundry Dam Campground, also known as Forebay Recreation Area."

      2. Crescent Lake Campground

      4.8(8)9mi from Metaline FallsTents

      "***All reviews below this and above this are for Crescent lake in the Olympic National Park (also beautiful), Not this Crescent lake in the Colville National Forest, which the map indicates."

      "This is for Crescent Lake in the NE corner of washington, not the one in the olympics(which is also a wonderful campground)."

      3. Edgewater Campground

      4.2(6)7mi from Metaline Falls19 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "We found lake access to be semi-difficult besides a single boat ramp but the nearby Sullivan lake has a great day use beach area"

      "This campground is close to many attractions and has great fishing! The parking areas are really long and most have a great view of the lake."

      from $31 - $62 / night

      Check Availability

      4. Sullivan Lake Campground

      4.0(5)4mi from Metaline FallsRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Expect to walk several hundred feet to the water. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table with space for 2 cars. Most will fit and RV."

      "Lake is right there. It's super warm water very clear water. Hint there is a rope swing on the left and side of the lake. Camp hosts are wicked as."

      5. Sullivan creek campground#2

      4.3(7)10mi from Metaline Falls

      "I found this awesome little campground on my way to Sullivan Lake from Metaline Falls. It is just off the main road, next to Sullivan Creek."

      "All camping is Free on Sullivan Creek Rd)

      The site is near the river (multiple paths for easy access), has a bear box, and a fire ring."

      6. East Sullivan

      4.3(4)4mi from Metaline Falls46 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Campsite 36 in the Pine loop is just a short walk away from a lovely lake beach that has fire pits and picnic tables."

      "The lake itself is amazing. Perfect temperature for swimming on a hot day, clean as glass, rocky/sandy bottom and no weeds."

      from $31 - $120 / night

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      7. Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam

      4.5(4)6mi from Metaline Falls

      "I was surprised at the location and the really cool Hydro Electric Dam!"

      "Close to 6 camping spots we saw, and in early April, there is nobody here but us to enjoy it. If you don't mind the chilly breeze, the spot by the creek close to the vault toilet is superb."

      8. Noisy Creek

      3.8(4)7mi from Metaline Falls20 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Sullivan lake has amazing views. The water is clear. The mountains are beyond gorgeous. About 15 mins from metaline falls is a cave that you can take free guided tours."

      "The trail along the lake offers beautiful views of the lake but had a fire in recent years so a few spots are a bit more exposed to the sun. "

      from $31 - $120 / night

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      9. Sullivan Creek Campgrounds

      4.7(3)9mi from Metaline FallsRVs, Tents

      "Close to the road and creek. Large site that can accommodate two small travel trailers (up to 20 ft) and multiple tenting areas. Large bear box, and fire ring."

      "It’s right next to the river and about 150 yards from the road. At the site: Fire Ring, and a bear box."

      10. Mountain Refuge Ranch

      5.0(1)1mi from Metaline Falls3 sitesTents

      from $60 - $100 / night

      Check Availability

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    Recent Reviews near Metaline Falls, WA

    327 Reviews of 151 Metaline Falls Campgrounds


    • A
      Jul. 15, 2026

      Luby Bay Campground

      Watch out for Cindy one of the Hosts!

      I was invited to spend a day camping with my girlfriend's family, who had rented their campsite for a week. I really liked the campground itself. The property was beautiful, the beach was great, and we had a wonderful time with family and friends. If I were rating the campground based only on the location and amenities, it would be much higher.

      Unfortunately, what stood out most during my visit was our experience with the campground host, Cindy.

      Throughout the day, I personally observed several interactions that I felt were unnecessarily confrontational. My girlfriend smiled and greeted Cindy, but Cindy appeared visibly irritated by the interaction. I also witnessed Cindy yell at children who were running the opposite direction on what was a one-way road intended for vehicles. While I understand that rules exist for safety, the way she addressed them came across as unnecessarily harsh.

      Shortly after my girlfriend's parents arrived, Cindy confronted them because their boat was parked at their campsite while they were still unloading and setting up their tent. They had only been there about 30 minutes. I also witnessed disagreements between Cindy and other campers over campground rules. Several families we knew, all of whom had paid to camp there, had similar negative interactions with her during the week.

      One interaction that especially stood out to me was when Cindy continued explaining an issue to a member of another family's group who has severe mental disabilities instead of directing the conversation to the responsible adults. I found that interaction particularly uncomfortable to watch.

      From what I observed, Cindy regularly drove around the campground looking for violations and seemed quick to confront campers over even minor issues, including someone feeding their dog at their campsite. During one of these encounters, I noticed she had a stack of notices, paper, and markers on her golf cart, seemingly ready to issue warnings.

      In my opinion, Cindy's management style created unnecessary tension throughout the campground. She came across as overly authoritative and frequently spoke to campers in a way that I felt was disrespectful. She reminded me of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz because she constantly seemed to be searching for the next problem rather than helping campers enjoy their stay.

      The campground itself is beautiful, and I truly enjoyed the location, beach, and time with family. My only complaint is the host. I hope management addresses the way guests are treated because the campground deserves better hospitality than what I experienced during my visit.

    • Skyler N.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 12, 2026

      Sullivan creek campground#2

      Peaceful and secluded.

      The sites were mostly full when we got there mid day Saturday but they’re well maintained, private, some are next to the river, and the area is beautiful.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 10, 2026

      Brush Lake Campground

      Quiet tranquility, without hookups

      The campground is on shore of swampy southern segment...an ~6 mile rt hike trail goes north to larger lake séen in photos. Signs warn if bears, so dog and I skipped hike this time. we started at site 3 moving to site to 6 for more cover...would recommend to all

    • T
      Jul. 5, 2026

      At the Lac Dispersed

      Decent spot

      It’s a bit back from the road which is nice. Seems to be 2 camp spots separated by logs. We didn’t see access to water, but we didn’t stay to explore. Great views of the lake.

    • Ronald S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 1, 2026

      Browns Lake Campground

      Great quiet forest service campground

      This was a favorite camping spot when I was a boy but I've only been going there for the past 3 years now. There was a storm and a fire in recent years, so the tree coverage is a lot less dense than it was as I remember it from the 1980s and 90s. Still, the lake is there and is as great as ever. Campground was renovated with redone sites, bear resistant food storage options on most sites. 

      When the sun shines in the summer, it's really beating down on you there but otherwise the weather is pleasant by June. 

      Enough of an OG that I recall a water pump there way back when, it's my understanding it's been gone for over 20 years now. You will have to bring in your own water. 

      There is 1 bar of t-mobile coverage, intermittant. I did have a Starlink which was fairly reliable for internet despite trees hampering satellite reception.

    • Rob B.
      Jun. 29, 2026

      Big Meadow Lake Campground

      Nice lake, off the beaten path

      Good size lake, although quite shallow--good for fishing, apparently. There are 2 areas for camping separated by the lake's dam. Half a dozen right on the lake and the rest are a little further from the shoreline. Clean vault toilets. I didn't see potable water or trash receptacles. Host was friendly and said the camping is free for the time being but will eventually be pay. 16 day limit.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 29, 2026

      priest lake dispersed camping

      Good spot close to river

      Was a bit challenging to find at first but once we found the right turn off it was simple. It was a bit loud because of the highway but if you follow the path down, there is more spots away from the road. Plenty of space in between sites if you want to be more secluded. The first site has 3 closer together for bigger groups.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 24, 2026

      Nordman Campground

      Just an open field with a pit toilet

      Not a great campground, it's just an open field in the middle of nowhere with a pit toilet. No lake access or anything. No services or tables or fire pits.


    Guide to Metaline Falls

    Camping spots near Metaline Falls, Washington center around the Pend Oreille River and Colville National Forest at elevations between 2,100-2,600 feet. The region receives significant snowfall from November through March, limiting access to many campsites during winter months. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, with cooler 45-55°F nights even during peak season.

    What to do

    Visit PeeWee Falls: This waterfall is accessible by boat from Boundary Dam Campground, located just a short paddle away. "PeeWee falls is only a 5 minute paddle from the campground, if that! Highly recommended!" writes Megan W. The falls can only be reached by water from the campground's boat launch.

    Explore Gardner Caves: Located near Crescent Lake Campground, these limestone caves offer free guided tours. "A short drive away is the Gardner Caves which offers free guided tours if you have a discovery pass," notes Douglas S. Tours run Thursday through Monday at 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:00pm.

    Take advantage of dam tours: Free Boundary Dam tours provide a unique look at hydroelectric power generation. "There is also FREE Dam tours Thursday-Monday. They are offered at 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:00pm," shares Andrea R. The dam tour goes through a limestone cave and offers historical context about the area.

    What campers like

    Free camping options: Unlike many recreation areas, several free campgrounds exist in the region. At Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam, campers appreciate the value. "A very lovely free campground provided courtesy of the hydroelectric company. Around 10 sites with free firewood, washrooms, drinking water and a small lagoon for swimming. Did I mention it's free??" reports Ryan C.

    Clear lake waters: Sullivan Lake West Campground offers exceptionally clear water for swimming and fishing. "Hands down favorite place," states Paiton L. The lake maintains good water quality throughout summer with relatively warm temperatures for the region.

    Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good spacing between campsites. At East Sullivan, "The established campgrounds at East Sullivan and West Sullivan are typical well-maintained Forest Service campgrounds... there is plenty of space between sites (though you can still expect to hear your neighbors)," notes Shella B.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during summer. "Make sure you book in advance most the time it's full," advises Myresa J. about Sullivan Lake campgrounds. Weekends from mid-June through August typically require reservations 2-3 weeks in advance.

    Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in the area around Sullivan creek campground. "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning," mentions Jeanna A. Bear boxes are provided at most sites, with Marcus K. noting, "The site has a bear box, and a fire ring."

    Road access considerations: Not all camping areas have easy access. "The road in is narrow and has a bit of down hill slope," cautions Andrea R. about Crescent Lake Campground in the Colville National Forest. Some forest service roads remain unpaved and may become rutted after rainfall.

    Tips for camping with families

    Swimming options: Edgewater Campground provides river access with a boat launch suitable for children. "Great campground with river access and boat launch," says Eddy R. The relatively calm waters of the Pend Oreille River offer safer swimming than creek areas.

    Best sites for shade: Look for well-shaded sites during hot summer days. "The sites are spacious and well separated. Each includes a fire pit, picnic table and tent pad," reports Douglas S. Sites 1-10 at Sullivan Lake campgrounds typically offer the most afternoon shade.

    Day-use amenities: Many campgrounds provide picnic areas for families. "Each site has a fire ring and picnic table with space for 2 cars," notes Callie B. Boundary Dam Campground offers additional facilities like a fishing dock and extensive day use areas near the water.

    Tips from RVers

    Size limitations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Noisy Creek, one camper noted: "Great site to connect with the lake, but didn't enjoy the tent spots available. Ground was hard and mostly prepared for RVs." Most sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet, but larger rigs may struggle at all but Boundary Dam and Edgewater campgrounds.

    Hookup availability: No campgrounds in the immediate area offer full hookups. "The sites are extra large and can take just about any RV size you have. The roads in are nice and paved as well," reports Andrea R. about Edgewater, though she notes there are "no hookups."

    Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "Sites 1-4 which are very close together and tent only sites. The RV sites are also close together," observes Andrea R. about Boundary Dam Campground. RVers should bring leveling blocks as most sites weren't originally designed for recreational vehicles.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What amenities are available at Ledbetter Cove and Boundary Dam campgrounds?

    Boundary Dam Campground (also known as Forebay Recreation Area) offers impressive amenities, especially considering it's completely free, courtesy of Seattle City Power. The campground recently underwent renovations, so facilities are new and well-maintained. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. The campground provides vault toilets, trash service, and potable water. Historical significance adds to the appeal, as parts of the movie "The Postman" were filmed here. While specific information about Ledbetter Cove isn't available in current reviews, the nearby East Sullivan campground offers large, shaded sites with easy access to a lake beach with fire pits and picnic tables.

    What RV accommodations are available in Metaline Falls?

    RV accommodations near Metaline Falls include several options for different preferences. Mistequa Casino Hotel RV Park offers spacious sites with plenty of room between units, conveniently located next to the casino and an international car museum. For those willing to drive a bit further, Colville Fairgrounds RV Park provides basic RV facilities within reach of Colville's charming downtown area. Sullivan Lake West Campground can accommodate larger rigs and offers water and toilet facilities. Many RVers also enjoy Boundary Dam Campground, which underwent recent renovations. Most sites in the area are seasonal, typically open from late spring through early fall, with limited winter accessibility.

    Where are the best campgrounds near Metaline Falls, WA?

    The Metaline Falls area offers several excellent camping options. Sullivan Lake Campground is just 15 minutes from Metaline Falls with stunning mountain views and crystal-clear water for swimming. Another top choice is Noisy Creek, featuring gorgeous lake views and proximity to cave tours. Adventurous campers can explore Sullivan Creek Campground #2, a dispersed camping area just off the main road with fire rings but no amenities. For those seeking a more developed experience, East Sullivan and Crescent Lake campgrounds in the Colville National Forest offer scenic settings with access to recreational activities.