East Sullivan Campground
4.6317 reviewsNone
East Sullivan Campground
$29.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single Site: $29/night; Double Site: $58/night; Group Site: $110/night. Discounts available with specific passes for single sites only. Reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled at the northern shores of Sullivan Lake, East Sullivan Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine mountain setting and endless recreational opportunities. This peaceful retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV travelers to explore its network of hiking trails, take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear lake waters, or launch their boats for a day of aquatic adventure. While the campsites are tucked thoughtfully among the trees rather than directly on the waterfront, the short walk to the lake adds to the sense of discovery and exploration that defines this mountain escape.
East Sullivan Campground is versatile and caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping. The campground features three loops: Fir, Cedar, and Pine.
Historical SignificanceWhile East Sullivan Campground stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of America's public lands, its story is one of natural preservation rather than recorded human history. This untouched quality allows visitors to create their own stories and traditions in this timeless mountain setting.
Weather and SeasonsEast Sullivan transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days with temperatures climbing into the comfortable 80s—perfect for swimming and lakeside relaxation. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in golden hues, creating ideal conditions for peaceful camping amid nature's spectacular show. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, transforming the area into a quiet wonderland, though access becomes challenging and the campground may close. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering another excellent window for camping adventures as nature comes alive.
ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet above sea level, East Sullivan Campground offers the perfect mountain atmosphere without the challenges of extreme altitude. This sweet spot elevation provides cooler temperatures than the valleys below while maintaining comfortable conditions for most visitors. The surrounding peaks tower above, creating a dramatic amphitheater of mountain scenery that frames every camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of towering cedars and Douglas firs creates an enchanting canopy above East Sullivan Campground, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This diverse coniferous ecosystem, protected within the vast Colville National Forest, provides habitat for wildlife and endless opportunities for nature observation. The interplay of ancient trees, mountain vistas, and the sparkling waters of Sullivan Lake creates a scene of timeless Pacific Northwest beauty.
Geological RegionEast Sullivan Campground rests within the magnificent Colville National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and pristine mountain lakes. Sullivan Lake itself fills a glacially carved basin, surrounded by the mixed coniferous forests that define this corner of northeastern Washington. The mountainous terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity, glacial carving, and erosion have created one of the Pacific Northwest's most scenic camping destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available.
Sites SizeSites range from standard to double-wide campsites, with some pull-through options in the Cedar Loop.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Many are secluded in a stand of mixed conifers, while some campers noted a lack of privacy between certain sites.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe Pine Loop is near the swim beach and offers numerous double-wide campsites. Cedar Loop has pull-through sites designated as double sites, while Fir Loop is closest to the boat ramp.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not mentioned as the best campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site are not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate larger parties and are available by reservation only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has three loops (Fir, Cedar, and Pine). Fir loop is closest to the boat ramp; Pine loop is near the swim beach and offers double-wide campsites; Cedar loop has pull-through sites designated as double sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 17 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is unclear. Reservations are encouraged, and reservation fees may apply.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly stated.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
East Sullivan Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities that include lake activities, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Water sports such as motorized and non-motorized boating are popular.
Hiking
Day hikes are available, including the Lakeshore Trail #504, a 4.2-mile trail that is for foot traffic only and offers scenic views along Sullivan Lake.Fishing
Fishing is allowed with a Washington state fishing license. Fish species include burbot (ling cod) and Kokanee salmon.Swimming
A designated swimming area with a narrow gravel beach is available. Campers have described the lake as pristine and enjoyable for swimming.Biking
Road cycling and mountain biking are supported, with scenic routes in the nearby area.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating is available. Powerboats are limited to a speed of 35 mph on Sullivan Lake. A boat ramp is provided for access.Wildlife viewing
The wooded and lake-adjacent setting creates opportunities to observe wildlife. Campers frequently mention encounters with local fauna.Beach activities
The gravel beach at the swim area is suitable for sunbathing and other leisure activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities include sledding and tubing. Ice fishing is also available during colder months.Water Sports
Popular water sports include waterskiing, as well as sailing and kayaking. Kayaking is highly recommended by several reviewers for its scenic appeal.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only within developed fire rings.
- Quiet hours are specified between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in bear country; strict food storage practices are required to avoid safety risks.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Metaline Falls provides the closest emergency services. It is unclear whether there are direct emergency facilities such as hospitals or ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season likely aligns with the summer months, but exact date ranges are not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and wild-attractant food must be properly stored to comply with bear safety regulations.
Proximity to water featuresSullivan Lake is nearby, but none of the campsites are directly on the lake or offer water views.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention generator noise and lack of privacy between campsites. Some also complain about crowded conditions in public areas such as the beach.
HostHosts are described as friendly and welcoming according to user reviews.
Campground Map
None
Driving directionsLocated 95 miles north of Spokane, near the town of Metaline Falls. From the junction of State Highway 20, follow State Highway 31 north for 3 miles to the junction of the Sullivan Lake Road (County Road 9345). Follow Sullivan Lake Road for 12.9 miles to Forest Road 22 (Sullivan Creek). Turn right (east) and drive 0.25 mile to campground entrance. From Metaline Falls, WA: Head northeast on Grandview St toward International Selkirk Loop N/Lehigh Ave for 49 feet. Turn right onto WA-31 N/International Selkirk Loop N/Lehigh Ave for 2.1 miles. Turn right onto Sullivan Lake Rd for 5.1 miles.
Roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. Seasonal closure restrictions may apply as the campground is open from May 17 to September 30.Nearby places
Spokane: 95 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies may be available in Metaline Falls, which is the closest town to the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
17 reviews
East Sullivan Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users highlight the serene, wooded environment and recreational activities as major draws of East Sullivan Campground. Complaints often cite noise from generators and issues with site privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its natural beauty, spacious sites, clean restrooms, and proximity to a pristine lake with excellent swimming and kayaking opportunities. Hosts are noted as attentive...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from generators, lack of privacy between some sites, and occasional bad odors from vault toilets are common issues raised by reviewers. The public beach can be crowded, and the ranger station...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing enough water as potable water is unavailable. Booking in advance is necessary during peak seasons. Since this is bear country, campers should ensure proper food storage....
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time, offering warm weather and optimal conditions for water activities. However, the campground can become busy. Winter activities like ice fishing and sledding provide...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Serene setting with mature forest. Plenty of room between sites." - Donna Molvik. "WAY too many generators this year." - Maggie Dieter. "The swimming area is perfect, and the lake is small, so it...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Fir Loop is the largest and closest to the boat ramp, while Pine Loop is near the swim beach and features shorter parking aprons. Cedar Loop includes pull-through double sites.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available, making the campground more inclusive for visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Reviews do not mention specific pet-related facilities, but the natural setting is noted as pet-friendly.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025