Established Camping
East Sullivan
East Sullivan, near Metaline Falls, Washington, is a solid choice for campers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Colville National Forest. This campground offers a laid-back vibe with spacious sites that provide a decent amount of privacy, making it a great spot for relaxing by the fire after a day of adventure.
The area is known for its stunning lake, perfect for swimming on hot days, and visitors rave about the clean, clear water. Many campers have enjoyed kayaking and discovering secluded beaches along the shoreline, which adds a nice touch to the outdoor experience. As one happy camper put it, “The lake itself is amazing. Perfect temperature for swimming on a hot day.”
Amenities include vault toilets and onsite trash pickup, ensuring a hassle-free stay. While there are no electric hookups or showers, the campground maintains a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to truly unwind and connect with nature. Plus, the nearby day-use area features picnic tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.
For those eager to explore, East Sullivan is conveniently located near attractions like Gardner Cave and Boundary Dam. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just soaking in the views, this campground has plenty to offer for a memorable getaway.
Description
Overview
East Sullivan Campground is located at the north end of Sullivan Lake about five miles east of Metaline Falls, Washington. The campground provides a unique environment where campers can enjoy many recreational opportunities.
Recreation
The Sullivan Lake Basin provides campers with opportunities for swimming, biking, fishing, boating and hiking. Canoeing , kayaking, paddle boarding and power boating are among the water sports popular on the lake. Campers can walk directly from their campsite to a short nature trail, as well as the Lakeshore Trail, a National Scenic Trail that runs along the eastern shore of the lake. This 4.2 mile trail offers viewpoint of the lake and is a popular day-hike for all ages. Biking along local trails and roads is also popular. Common fish species include burbot and Kokanee salmon. Fishing in this deep mountain lake is most successful from a boat.
Facilities
Campsites do not have a view of the lake, but they are all a short walk away. Along the lake is a day-use area, walking trail, boat ramp, picnic tables and swimming area. The group campground is located near the boat ramp and can accommodate up to 40 people. A small airstrip adjacent to the campground is used by some campers who fly in with their small aircraft, or via a chartered plane.
Natural Features
Sullivan Lake covers 1291 acres and has a depth of 320 feet. Hall Mountain rises abruptly from the eastern shore of the lake to a height of over 6000 feet. The densely wooded nature of the campground provides privacy at each campsite, and plenty of shade for warm summer days. Wildlife such as elk, moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears can be spotted in the area. In the fall, the surrounding forests are ablaze with the yellow foliage of western larch and aspen.
Nearby Attractions
The trail to the top of nearby Hall Mountain offers great views of the lake basin and surrounding mountains. Wildflowers canb abundant on this popular trail. A 20 mile drive will take you to the Salmo-Priest Wilderness area, which offers excellent hikes and rugged mountain scenery. Sullivan Lake is about four miles southeast of Metaline Falls, a quaint town with historic buildings. Crawford State Park is located on the west side of the Pend Oreille River near the U.S.- Canada border. In the summer, a park ranger conducts under-ground tours of Gardiner Cave, the main attraction at this park. Seattle City Light offers tours of their Boundary Hydroelectric Project, on the main-stem Pend Oreille River one mile from the international border.
Location
East Sullivan is located in Washington
Directions
Campground is located 95 miles north of Spokane, Washington. From the junction of State Highway 20, follow State Highway 31 three miles north to the junction of the Sullivan Lake Road (County Road 9345). Follow the Sullivan Lake Road for 12.5 miles to the junction of Forest Road 2200 (Sullivan Creek). Turn right onto Sullivan Creek Road and follow it for 0.25 mile to the entrance of East Sullivan Campground.
Address
12391 SULLIVAN LAKE RD BOX 10
Metaline falls, WA 99153
Coordinates
48.8613889 N
117.2827778 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Detours Nearby
Lake Leo Campground
34 min away
Flodelle Creek Campground
43 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 56 min from Spokane, WA
- 2 hrs 3 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 3 hrs 39 min from Lewiston, ID
- 4 hrs 17 min from Wenatchee, WA
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
