Dispersed camping near Northport, Washington centers around the Colville National Forest, a 1.1-million-acre forest spanning elevations from 1,600 to over 7,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while winter brings heavy snowfall, often restricting access to most dispersed sites from November through April. Most free camping areas require driving on unpaved forest roads with variable conditions depending on recent weather.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cooks Lake provides access for anglers seeking a quiet fishing spot. One visitor noted, "Neat little spot that worked good for a last minute place to camp. Was headed from Montana and got up there right at dark."
Swimming in natural settings: Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam features "a small swimming lagoon" according to one camper who added, "This place is absolutely charming. If you need to stop on a long journey and don't want to find a spot to dispersed camp, you can find vault toilets here as well."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas around Little Pend Orielle Campground offer chances to observe local fauna. A camper shared their experience: "We opted for a spot right by potters pond. It was very spacious and was walking distance from the dock and a toilet facility... We had a lovely view of the pond, which did make the mosquitos quite a nuisance but manageable."
Creek exploration: The small waterways throughout the region provide natural water features to enjoy. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, a camper described, "The creek is very small but powerful. You can not swim but still a great place to get wet. If you have a tube bring it and enjoy a short river ride."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The region offers numerous isolated sites away from crowds. A camper at Cooks Lake described, "We camped at Cooks Lake for two nights... There were 4-5 camp sites at the main campground, well-separated and each with a fire pit."
Free amenities: Some locations provide unexpected extras. At Campbell Park, a visitor appreciated that it was "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."
Natural water features: Camping near running water remains popular. At Sullivan Creek, one camper shared, "Nice location away from people but most all the sites are close to the dirt road and was woken up a couple of times by the sound and headlights of vehicles."
Lake views: Waterfront sites offer scenic vistas. A Cooks Lake camper described, "We decided to stay there because it felt pretty secluded... But, the early mornings on the lake were worth it. The mist rising and the vast, green mountains, right in front of you!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to most free camping near Northport often requires navigating unpaved roads. As one Cooks Lake visitor noted, "The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road. But so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites and the open Lakeview sites."
Wildlife concerns: Bears and smaller animals frequent the area. At Sullivan creek campground#2, a camper reported, "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning. Very little fallen wood for fire, lots of kindling or if you want there is lots of logs in the creek."
Variable site conditions: Terrain and facilities vary widely. A visitor to Cee Cee Ah Creek shared, "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."
Bathroom facilities: Most locations have minimal or no restroom options. At Little Pend Orielle, one camper mentioned, "There is a pit toilet (locked due to current COVID restrictions), and a fire ring at each dispersed campsite. No water, except for the creek, and not even any cell phone reception."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: With limited amenities, families should pack activities. A camper at Campbell Park noted, "This is not my typical campground. I was surprised at the location and the really cool Hydro Electric Dam... There is a fishing/swimming pond for the kids."
Pack water safety equipment: For sites near water, life jackets are essential. At Campbell Park, a visitor observed, "The campground also provides life jackets, if your child needs one!"
Consider wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. At Cooks Lake, a camper shared, "Birds everywhere, woodpeckers in the birch trees and killdeer darting down to the water. Chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many dispersed areas have limited space for larger vehicles. At Cee Cee Ah Creek, a camper noted, "Plenty of room for a few tents to go up and parking off the road."
Road clearance requirements: Forest roads can challenge RVs. At Cooks Lake, one 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."
Mud concerns: Some lakeside areas present hazards. A Cooks Lake visitor warned, "Decided to drive down to the water (that was hardly there) and found myself barely on the edge of lake bottom mud. Didn't get out till the next morning."
