Dispersed camping options abound near Tonasket, Washington, situated in the northeastern Okanogan Highlands where elevations range from 900 to 2,000 feet. This semi-arid region receives approximately 13 inches of rainfall annually, creating a landscape dominated by ponderosa pine and sagebrush. Winter temperatures commonly drop below freezing while summer days frequently exceed 90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Blue Lake offers catch-and-release barbless hook fishing with mountain views. "Blue lake has much to offer. Fishing, hiking, camping to name a few. Fishing is barbless only," notes Robert T. about Blue Lake South.
Wildlife viewing: Observe native species in their natural habitat throughout the Tonasket area. "Great little lake, quiet town, no cell service, and tons of hiking!" reports Shaina H. about her stay at Conconully State Park Campground.
ATVing: Conconully permits ATV use throughout the town, extending recreational opportunities beyond camping areas. "Enjoyed riding quads," mentions Sara M., while another camper notes, "All the locals rode their ATVs/ORVs around town like cars. The site we scored was able to accommodate 6 riders."
What campers like
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access for swimming and boating. At Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park, "One row of sites are right on the lake," according to Caden C.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. Scout G. reports that at Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park, "Bathrooms and showers for campers are clean (the public ones closer to the lake are much less clean, showers there are closed)."
Fishing from docks: Bonaparte Lake offers dedicated fishing infrastructure. "There is a dock where you can fish plus a boat launch. A swimming area is also available," explains Judy T. about Bonaparte Lake Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many Tonasket area campgrounds lack reliable connectivity. At Bonaparte Lake, one camper advises turning off your phone "to avoid pinging Canadian service towers," while another notes Conconully has "no cell service."
Early reservations required: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "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!" warns a visitor to Bonaparte Lake Campground.
Variable site quality: Campground experiences differ significantly based on specific site selection. At Forde Lake, a visitor explains, "Four of the sites looked able to handle our 27 ft trailer. A few are slide in camper sized."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Tonasket feature swimming areas suitable for families. "This campground is absolutely worth paying for... 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," shares Paige P. about Sun Cove Resort.
Budget considerations: Campground fees vary significantly across the region. One visitor notes, "The fee is $12 or $6 with Senior Pass" at Bonaparte Lake, while another reports, "Paid $26 for a dry spot" at Osoyoos Lake.
Insects: Lake proximity means mosquito preparation is essential. A camper at Forde Lake warns, "Remember lake and pond so mosquitoes are present."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer limited larger sites. At Shady Pines Resort, a visitor confirms it's "An absolutely fantastic little campground for all sizes, from tents to big RVs!"
Hookup availability: Hookup options vary significantly between established campgrounds and dispersed areas. Lynn G. notes Osoyoos Lake Veterans Memorial Park provides "50 amp electric service and fresh water. There is a communal dump station."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may challenge larger rigs. At Forde Lake, a visitor reports, "Short trip from the town of Loomis. Only a mile or so of gravel road," making it accessible for mid-sized trailers.