Best Campgrounds near Metaline Falls, WA
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.












