West Sullivan Campground is perched along the north shore of Sullivan Lake near the town of Metaline Falls, Washington in Colville National Forest. The campground provides a unique environment where campers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The densely wooded terrain provides privacy at each site and plenty of shade for warm summer days. A small grassy airstrip adjacent to the campground allows campers to fly in by chartering a plane or bringing their own small aircraft.

 

Prices:

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$29 per night

$10 for day use

$52 day use season pass for Colville & Idaho Panhandle National Forests

$55 day use pavilion

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Reservations: Available at recreation.gov. Reservations can be made 6 months prior to the first day of your camping stay.

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Natural Features: Presently, the Colville National Forest has 1.1 million acres in northeastern Washington and includes the Kettle River, Selkirk mountain ranges, and the upper reaches of the Columbia River. The forest boasts exciting wildlife such as grizzly and black bears, cougars, bald eagles and the last remaining herd of caribou in the United States. West Sullivan Campground sits at 2,200 feet on the shore of Sullivan Lake. The lake spans 1,291 acres with a depth of 320 feet. The region's abundance of aspen and maples create vibrant fall colors and springtime splendor.

 

Recreation: The lake offers opportunities for sailing, power boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and water skiing. Boat ramps are located on the north and south ends of the lake in East Sullivan and Noisy Creek Campgrounds, and a sand swim beach is located at East Sullivan. Anglers can fish for burbot (lingcod) and kokanee salmon in Sullivan Lake. Several nearby streams offer additional spots to cast a line. Hikers enjoy the 4.2-mile Lakeshore Trail, which is a designated National Scenic Trail on the east side of Sullivan Lake. The nearby Salmo-Priest Wilderness offers multiple day outings with many excellent hikes and picturesque scenery. Mountain bikers can enjoy several surrounding Forest Service roads and trails.

 

Facilities: All sites at West Sullivan are accessible and the parking aprons are gravel and grass. Campsites do not have electric hookups, but each one comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Drinking water, accessible vault toilets, animal resistant food storage boxes and garbage service are provided.

 

Nearby Attractions: The Mill Pond Historic Site, located 2 miles north of the campground, details the early history of Metaline Falls through a series of interpretive signs. A historic cabin is located along the interpretive trail which travels over the Mill Pond Spillway. A scenic drive along the International Selkirk Loop offers numerous scenic attractions. Several forest road systems in the immediate vicinity offer great views of the Selkirk Mountains.

 

Open Dates: Opens Friday before Memorial Day. Closes day after Labor Day at noon. For the most up-to-date season dates, please visit recreation.gov.

 

Directions: From Spokane, take Highway 31 north towards Ione (about 95 miles). About 1 mile south of Ione, turn onto Sullivan Lake Road (County Road 9345). Travel 13 miles to the north end of Sullivan Lake. Campground is located across from the Ranger Station.  See map below.

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See more campgrounds managed by Scenic Canyons in the Colville National Forest.

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For more information, visit the Forest Service website.