Tent camping around Tumtum, Washington spans across the Pend Oreille River valley and surrounding forested areas, typically at elevations between 1,600-2,100 feet. The camping season generally runs from May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Roosevelt: Rogers Bar provides access to clear, cool water with spacious beach areas perfect for swimming and paddling. One camper reports, "There is plenty of beach to explore and the water is cool & clear to play in! Be sure to bring a boat of some kind to enjoy water sports but be careful if in a kayak or canoe as the main channel is popular with skiers and tubers."
Wildlife viewing near Sterling Point: Camp at Sterling Point for opportunities to spot bald eagles and observe diverse wildlife. According to a regular visitor, "It is a beautiful area and reasonably isolated at night depending on whether or not there are other campers in the area." The shoreline location makes it ideal for wildlife observation during early morning hours.
Farm animal interactions: When staying at Amongst The Pines, families can arrange to meet farm animals on the property. As one camper described, "Robin was unbelievably accommodating with our situation and even introduced my daughters to all the farm animals. On top of that, the space was perfect for a couple young kids to run around and explore."
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Skookum Creek Campground offers generous spacing between tent sites. A satisfied camper noted, "Nice spots spaced quite far apart. Grassy with fire rings and tables. Sometimes people stay awhile because it's so nice." Another camper appreciated that "each site has a nice fire ring, large picnic table, and loads of elbow room."
Waterfront access: Shoreline camping at Cloverleaf Campground provides direct access to water activities. One visitor shared, "Spots are clean with fire pit and tables. Dirt trails on the water which is a beautiful little cove on lake Roosevelt." The same camper mentioned excellent opportunities for "fishing, kayaking, floating a sun island, rock hounding, and bird watching."
Cultural experiences: Camping near tribal lands offers unique cultural exposure. At Cloverleaf, campers report, "Most often in the summer you can hear the big pow wows going on across the river at night." This provides an unexpected dimension to the camping experience not available at most locations.
What you should know
Site availability constraints: Some smaller campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, campers should verify operating dates before visiting. One frustrated visitor reported, "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closes [sic]." This underscores the importance of confirming seasonal availability.
Water conditions vary by location: Lake and river conditions can impact recreational activities. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, a visitor warned, "Took our waverunners out there for the day so much seaweed couldn't launch them." Water levels and conditions change seasonally, affecting swimming and boating access.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many sites require self-sufficiency. A Rogers Bar camper advised, "There is a vault toilet but that is it. There is no water so bring your own." Similarly, at Sterling Point, campers should know "there are picnic tables and fire pits, but no bathrooms or garbage collection."
Tips for camping with families
Seek campgrounds with activity space: Choose locations with room for kids to explore safely. One parent who stayed at Amongst The Pines shared, "We stayed here on a whim for a road trip stop. It ended up being one of the best nights of the road trip... the space was perfect for a couple young kids to run around and explore."
Consider proximity to water: Waterfront sites offer built-in entertainment but require supervision. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, a family noted, "Great family place, so much to do for everyone. Especially if you love the water. The campsite is butted up to the lake, which makes it great for sunsets and sunrises."
Look for nearby attractions: Combining camping with day trips enhances the experience. An Amongst The Pines visitor recommended, "We got there early and were able to check out the nearby brewery/fruit picking spot which made for a pretty ideal road tripping night."
Tips from RVers
Prepare for limited hookups: Many best tent camping near Tumtum, Washington sites have minimal RV amenities. At Skookum Creek, campers mention the campground is "ideal for tent camping" with "gravel road" access, indicating potential challenges for larger rigs.
Understand access limitations: Access roads can present challenges. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, a camper cautioned, "The entry road is narrow, it is not paved, and meanders through private property, so slow down!" Such terrain may pose difficulties for larger recreational vehicles.
Consider generator restrictions: In campgrounds like Camp Gifford at Deer Lake, which caters primarily to tent campers, noise restrictions may limit generator use, making it important to have alternative power sources for extended stays.
