Best Dispersed Camping near Metaline, WA
Primitive dispersed camping sites can be found throughout the Colville National Forest near Metaline, Washington, with several free options along creeks and near lakes. Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam previously offered camping but now allows day use only according to recent reviews. Sullivan Creek provides over 30 free dispersed sites spanning several miles along the creek, with some sites featuring bear boxes and fire rings. Other dispersed camping opportunities include North Fork Chewelah Creek, Cee Cee Ah Creek, and the Little Pend Orielle Wildlife Refuge area, all featuring primitive sites with no reservation requirements.
Many access roads in this region are unpaved gravel or dirt routes requiring careful navigation and potentially high-clearance vehicles. Sullivan Creek Road, for example, has dispersed sites accessed via dirt roads that may challenge larger vehicles or trailers. Most sites lack amenities beyond the occasional vault toilet, fire ring, or bear box. Campers should prepare to be completely self-sufficient, bringing all necessary water, supplies, and waste disposal options. Several reviewers mention the area has no cell phone reception, and most camping follows the standard 14-day limit common on public lands. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system.
The dispersed camping areas near Metaline provide opportunities for creek-side camping and access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Sullivan Creek has become a popular destination with sites directly adjacent to the water. As one camper noted, "The river is about 35 yards from the site and the dirt road is about 20 yards from the main camping area." Another review mentioned, "There are several quality spots. We opted for a spot right by potters pond. It was very spacious and was walking distance from the dock and a toilet facility." Wildlife sightings include bears, so proper food storage is essential, with one reviewer pointing out that "the bear box they provide keeps the mice from getting to it at night."
