Dispersed camping sites near Newport, Washington extend throughout the Colville National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences warm summer days averaging 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F. These primitive camping locations typically remain snow-free from late May through early October, with higher elevations retaining snowpack until late June in many years.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: Sullivan Creek offers accessible fishing spots for campers staying at Sullivan creek campground#2. One visitor noted, "Sullivan Creek is right there! Sullivan Lake is just a few miles to the east. With Metaline falls a few to the west, there are shops, eteries, and evan a movie theatre close by."
Swimming in mountain lakes: Cooks Lake provides summer swimming spots with warmer water temperatures than many other area lakes. A camper reported, "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!!"
Wildlife viewing: The Little Pend Orielle Campground offers excellent bird and animal watching opportunities. A reviewer stated, "We had a lovely view of the pond, which did make the mosquitos quite a nuisance but manageable. There is a family friendly fishing dock on Potters pond, and it is stocked with good sized rainbow trout the little kids had a blast fishing."
Hiking access: Multiple trails connect from camping areas, including at Beehives Lakes where a visitor described it as an "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot."
What campers like
Solitude and separation: North Fork Chewelah Creek camping areas offer privacy between sites. According to one camper, "Usually visit in April. There are a TON of dispersed camping areas within a mile of this 'campground' so if its full, it's not a big deal." Another mentioned, "We found a great spot to camp but since it was dispersed we made our own fire ring and camped in this area."
Waterfront sites: Campers at Pack River Dispersed Site appreciate the riverside locations. As one visitor stated, "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
Free camping with basic amenities: Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam provides no-cost camping with some surprising features. A camper shared, "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??"
Natural soundscape: Many campers appreciate the sounds of flowing water. One Sullivan Creek 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 camper stated, "Creek sings ya to sleep."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to rustic camping near Newport, Washington often involves unpaved routes. At Cee Cee Ah Creek, a visitor mentioned, "Nearby campsites are far enough away that you have plenty of privacy. There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days."
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack restrooms entirely. One camper at Sullivan Creek advised, "Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away."
Wildlife encounters: Bears and smaller wildlife frequently visit camping areas. A Sullivan Creek visitor reported, "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning." Another camper warned, "There were also lots of mice. Brave too, they were trying to get our food as we were eating it around the fire!"
Water sources: Most sites require bringing all drinking water. At Little Pend Orielle Campground, a visitor noted, "It's completely haul in haul out. Each campsite is supplied with a fire pit with a metal ring and a cooking grate, which came in very handy."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing with kids: Potters Pond at Little Pend Orielle offers stocked fishing suitable for children. A visitor shared, "There is a family friendly fishing dock on Potters pond, and it is stocked with good sized rainbow trout the little kids had a blast fishing."
Safe swimming areas: Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam provides controlled swimming environments. According to a camper, "This Campground is FREE, and small, but it has some really cool amenities. there is a fishing/swimming pond for the kids, free firewood, one of the sites has a cute small waterfall, IN THE SITE!!!"
Family-friendly first trips: North Fork Chewelah Creek works well for new campers. One visitor reported, "First time taking the godson camping and this was the perfect spot. The godson loved it - he even played in the freezing cold water."
Wildlife education opportunities: Bring wildlife identification guides to make the most of animal sightings. A reviewer at Sullivan Creek mentioned, "Dogs do not have to be on leash. However, this time of the year the river was cold and very fast and if your dog is not trained using a leash or tether system for safety would be beneficial."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Newport accommodate smaller rigs only. At Cooks Lake, a camper advised, "Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. At least 2 of them are good for me trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
Road clearance concerns: High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed sites. A visitor to Pack River noted, "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Turnaround space: Check site layouts before committing to narrow forest roads. At Little Pend Orielle, a camper warned, "Roads into the area are narrow gravel roads, so 'large' rigs and/or trailers may find it a challenge."
Bear boxes for food storage: Some sites provide secure storage. A North Fork Chewelah Creek camper mentioned, "The site has a bear box and a fire ring. Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away."
