Best Tent Camping near Metaline Falls, WA
Several primitive tent campgrounds dot the forested landscapes surrounding Metaline Falls in northeastern Washington, with Crescent Lake Campground offering three free tent sites in the Colville National Forest. Sullivan Creek Campgrounds, also free, provides walk-in sites situated along a scenic stream with both smaller and larger camping areas suitable for tent setups.
Tent sites in the area generally feature natural, ungraded surfaces with limited development. Most primitive tent campgrounds include fire rings and some feature bear boxes, though amenities vary significantly between locations. One camper noted that Sullivan Creek's Site #8 is "one of the larger sites at Sullivan Creek. It's right next to the river and about 150 yards from the road." Most tent campgrounds in this region operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservation systems in place. Seasonal considerations affect tent camping options, as several sites are only accessible from Memorial Day through Labor Day due to snow at higher elevations.
Areas near Metaline Falls provide tent campers with considerable solitude and natural surroundings compared to more developed camping areas. The terrain offers excellent hiking opportunities with numerous trails accessing surrounding wilderness. Mill Pond Campground features recently updated facilities with paved roads and gravel pads for tent setups, while maintaining a rustic character. A visitor commented that "All facilities are extremely nice. The only downside is that all the sites are a short ways off the stream that flows past." Primitive tent sites at Crescent Lake provide deeper seclusion with thick pine forest surroundings. For backcountry enthusiasts, multiple walk-in tent sites exist along Sullivan Creek, though access can be challenging in wet conditions or during seasonal water crossings. Tent campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters, as bears are active in the region, with some campgrounds providing bear-proof storage boxes.
