Copper King Campground
4.447 reviewsCopper King Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fee required for any site. "No Fees are required for this site."
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil river-bottom cedar forest along the banks of Thompson River, Copper King Campground offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the price tag. This intimate, free campground invites adventurers to immerse themselves in the cool shade of towering cedars, though its rustic charm and narrow approach roads make it best suited for smaller vehicles and those who appreciate a more primitive camping experience.
Copper King Campground features primitive accommodations with basic amenities. It is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceWhile Copper King Campground may not boast grand historical monuments, its untouched natural setting speaks to the timeless relationship between humans and the wilderness, offering modern visitors a chance to connect with the land as countless generations have before.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the crisp, snow-dusted mornings of late spring to the warm, golden afternoons of summer, Copper King Campground transforms with the seasons. Early season visitors in May through June should come prepared for cooler temperatures and possible freezing nights, while July and August reward campers with ideal conditions—warm days perfect for river activities and comfortable evenings around the campfire. The dramatic seasonal shifts create an ever-changing landscape that offers unique experiences throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanting world where ancient cedars create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into a gentle, green glow. The moist river-bottom environment nurtures a lush understory where ferns unfurl and moss carpets fallen logs. The Thompson River flows alongside the campground, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack while offering excellent fishing holes and secret spots where savvy foragers discover prized wild mushrooms. This verdant sanctuary feels worlds away from civilization, yet remains easily accessible to those seeking solace in nature's embrace.
Geological RegionCopper King Campground rests in a remarkable river-bottom ecosystem where the Thompson River has carved its path through the landscape, creating fertile grounds for a thriving cedar forest. This unique geological setting, where water meets ancient forest floor, has produced an extraordinarily lush microclimate. The moist, nutrient-rich soils support towering cedars and diverse plant life, creating a natural wonderland that showcases the Pacific Northwest's signature beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility for campers with disabilities is not mentioned in any authoritative source or user review.
Sites SizeSites range from small (barely off the road) to larger sites closer to the river.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are close to the road and offer limited privacy, while site 5 offers a more secluded experience near the river.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended Campsites"The best site - and the one I got - is easily the last one: site 5." Visitors are advised to choose this site for its proximity to the river and larger size.
Best CampsitesUser reviews consistently praise Site 5 as the best campsite due to its location near the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day
Stay Limit
Stay limit is not specified
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly mentioned though user reviews suggest small sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features five sites, three of which are small and barely off the road. Site 5 is larger and located near the river.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23 - November 15, 2024
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis, with no mention of specific walk-up availability patterns.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Copper King Campground provides limited activity options, including fishing in the adjacent Thompson River. User reviews also mention opportunities for mushroom picking.
Fishing
Fishing is available in the Thompson River adjacent to the campground. User reviews confirm this and highlight its appeal.Winter Activities
No winter recreation options are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not discussed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A picnic table and fire ring is available at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazards"Bring your bug repellent in June and July." Additional hazards include maneuvering difficulties for large vehicles due to a hairpin turn.
Active alerts"Water will not be available until mid June." Visitors are advised to confirm opening dates with the District office.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not mentioned specifically. Visitors are advised to contact the District at 406-826-3821 for further information.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided on trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water features"Adjacent Thompson River offers fishing opportunities." Located right next to the river, enhancing recreational activities and scenery.
Common complaints"Access for large vehicles can be challenging." User reviews mention difficulty due to the small size of three sites and the hairpin turn in the loop.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the town of Thompson Falls, travel east on state highway 200. Turn left (north) onto the paved Thompson River Road (do not take the graveled road).
The campground road is not suitable for long vehicles or trailers. "Access for large vehicles can be challenging." User reviews confirm that there is a hairpin turn making maneuvering long vehicles difficult.Nearby places
Thompson Falls (distance and travel time unspecified)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies information is not provided. However, Thompson Falls is likely the nearest town for groceries and essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
7 reviews
Copper King Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Copper King Campground as a small, peaceful place with basic amenities. Common praises include the free camping and site proximity to the Thompson River.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the quiet atmosphere, free camping, and proximity to the Thompson River. Site 5 is specifically praised for being larger and scenic. 'Beautiful campground!' and 'Nice little...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns from users include the small size of most campsites, difficulty navigating for larger vehicles, and lack of potable water. One user noted, 'The road further up was closed so I was forced to...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug repellent in June and July due to its location in a moist cedar forest. Several reviews encourage campers to respect the environment and keep sites clean. User SH...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest a pleasant experience during warmer months, with notes on bugs being prevalent in June and July. Winter usability is not discussed.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It’s a decent campground! The best site—and the one I got—is easily the last one: site 5.' 2. 'Great campground right by the Thompson River.' 3. 'Nice little campground in the woods.'
Based on 7 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is frequently mentioned as the preferred choice due to its size and proximity to the river. One user noted, 'There are 5 sites, but 3 of those are small and barely off the road. It’s a nice...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews address accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and related features are not discussed in the available materials.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025