Camping opportunities near Tonasket include both established campgrounds and primitive sites at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet throughout the Okanogan Highlands. The region features a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters, limiting most camping seasons to late spring through early fall. Forest Service roads provide access to numerous dispersed camping areas beyond the developed sites.
What to do
Fishing options: Bonaparte Lake Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities in a mountain setting. One visitor noted, "The campground is sited on Bonaparte Lake's southern end. It is stocked with fish and there are loons present." The lake includes a dock specifically for fishing plus a boat launch area.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for various animal species throughout the camping areas near Tonasket. At Conconully State Park Campground, one camper reported, "Great little lake, quiet town, no cell service, and tons of hiking!" The surrounding wilderness areas provide habitat for numerous bird species and mammals.
ATV riding: Several campgrounds allow direct access to off-road vehicle trails. A visitor at Conconully State Park Campground shared, "Enjoyed the play area with my son, we had a great time fishing and camp site was perfect. It's in a small town had deer going through camp. Enjoyed riding quads." Many local roads are ATV-friendly.
Swimming: During hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, several lakeside campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. A camper at Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park mentioned the "large grassy opening" with sites that are "right on the lake" providing easy water access.
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites at Blue Lake South provide direct water access and views. According to one visitor, "Most of the camping spots have a beautiful view of the lake and valley." Campers particularly appreciate these views during sunrise and sunset hours.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds feature generous spacing between campsites. At Bonaparte Lake Campground, a camper described their experience: "The sites are quite large and can definitely hold a large party. You can access the lake from most of the sites but there is also a dock there for fishing."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. One visitor to Conconully State Park Campground mentioned, "This campground is very close to the quaint little town of Conconully, which isn't a bad thing. The campsites are all very open with no shade or privacy. There are also cabins for rent."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive positive reviews. A camper at Bonaparte Lake noted, "There was an amazing camp host while we stayed who made sure the vault and flush toilets were clean." Facility quality varies significantly between established and primitive sites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many of the best places to camp near Tonasket, Washington now require advance reservations during peak season. A Bonaparte Lake visitor warned, "I stayed here 2 years ago and got a reservation less than a month before we left. This year, 2021, I cant even book a site for the summer right now!"
Limited connectivity: Cell service remains minimal throughout the region. A camper at Conconully mentioned having "no cell signal" and noted they "had to ride up to the cemetery up the road if you wanted to get cell phone service." Plan communications accordingly.
Water conditions: Forde Lake and similar sites have specific water characteristics to consider. A visitor described Forde Lake as "a dry Camp only, no water/power ect. Has a small lake or a large pond? With a beautiful view of the valley floor." Water levels in smaller lakes can fluctuate seasonally.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires traveling unpaved roads. A recent Forde Lake visitor explained, "Short trip from the town of Loomis. Only a mile or so of gravel road. The gravel road is fairly busy with plenty of dust boiling up."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Sun Cove Resort offers family-friendly water recreation options. A visitor noted, "They have boats for rent in this incredible saltwater lake and it's a wonderful place to bring kids. There is a water trampoline and a place to swim and paddle boat rentals and more."
Wildlife education: The presence of deer and other wildlife provides learning opportunities for children. According to one camper at Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park, the site offers "lots of grass to walk the dogs" along with regular wildlife sightings.
Budget considerations: Camping fees vary significantly across the region. A camper at Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park reported, "$26 for a standard site. Campground is a large grassy opening with minimal privacy each spot has a picnic table and fire ring."
Insect preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection, especially for lakeside sites. A Forde Lake visitor cautioned, "Remember lake and pond so mosquitoes are present." Insects are most active during dawn and dusk hours from June through August.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose camping locations based on your vehicle size. A visitor to Bonaparte Lake advised, "We have a 24' pop up truck camper and my sister's small SUV fit in our site 17." Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. At Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park, a camper reported, "We had 50 amp electric service and fresh water. There is a communal dump station." Confirm specific hookup details when making reservations.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring leveling equipment. A visitor described Bonaparte Lake Campground as having sites that are "kind of tight at middle area" but still providing a "good experience" overall.
