Kamloops Island Campground
4.1325 reviewsNorthport Flat Creek Rd., Kettle Falls, WA 99141
Kamloops Island Campground
$11.50 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Peak season (May-September) fee is $23 per night. Off-peak season (October-April) fee is half-priced at $11.50 per night. All reservations must be made through Recreation.gov. No walk-up or first-come-first-served sites are available.
About this campground
Tucked away where the Kettle River meets the mighty Columbia, Kamloops Island Campground feels like nature's secret hideaway. This intimate riverside retreat features 17 thoughtfully placed campsites, from secluded walk-in tent spots beneath towering pines to RV-friendly sites with easy access. Here, the gentle murmur of two converging rivers creates a natural soundtrack for your outdoor adventure, while ancient forests provide welcome shade and world-class fishing waters beckon just steps from your campsite.
Kamloops Island Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping. It is a reservation-only facility with no first-come, first-serve sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and explore the rich heritage of the Upper Columbia region. Just 4.5 miles south, the historic St. Paul's Mission stands as a testament to the area's frontier past. History enthusiasts can trace the footsteps of fur traders at the nearby Fort Colville and Hudson Bay Company Post sites, where the stories of Native Americans, explorers, and settlers intertwine. For a perfect afternoon drive, follow the scenic Sherman Drive loop, where interpretive signs and viewpoints reveal layers of local history against a backdrop of stunning river valley vistas.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Pacific Northwest seasons at Kamloops Island. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures climbing into the inviting 90s by day before cooling to a comfortable 50 degrees for perfect sleeping weather. Winter brings a magical transformation as snow blankets the pines, creating a serene wonderland for hardy cold-weather campers. Spring and fall offer their own rewards—wildflower blooms and autumn colors respectively—though visitors should pack layers for these transitional seasons when mountain weather can shift from sunshine to showers in moments.
ElevationNestled in the Columbia River valley, the campground sits at a comfortable riverside elevation where mountain air meets river breeze.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a Pacific Northwest paradise where towering ponderosa pines and stately Douglas firs create a natural cathedral overhead. This riverside sanctuary serves as a wildlife corridor where lucky visitors might glimpse majestic moose browsing at dawn, elk moving through morning mist, or deer tiptoeing to the water's edge at dusk. Overhead, bald eagles patrol the confluence, while below, the glacier-fed waters arriving from the distant Canadian Rockies teem with prized game fish—from feisty bass and native trout to mighty salmon and prehistoric sturgeon. Each season paints the landscape anew, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden tapestry.
Geological RegionPerched at the dramatic confluence where the Kettle River surrenders to the Columbia, Kamloops Island occupies a unique geological crossroads within the vast Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. The campground's landscape tells an ancient story written in stone and water—dense forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cloak the hillsides, while seasonal water levels reveal hidden ravines and dramatic rock formations carved by millennia of flowing water. This dynamic environment, where mountain forests meet river valleys, creates a constantly changing tableau that rewards repeat visitors with new discoveries each time the water rises and falls.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsite 1 is designated as an ADA site with a maximum vehicle length of 28 feet. Campground roads are paved, but footpaths may not be wheelchair accessible. Access to the courtesy dock is via a steep hill and is not wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are varied in size. Larger RVs can be accommodated, and tent sites are available, including walk-in sites on a hillside.
Sites PrivacySome users commented that the campsites are relatively close together, which may impact privacy.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites closer to the parking lot to avoid steep inclines in the walk-in area. Campsite 3 is noted for privacy, while campsite 13 benefits from its scenic location.
Best CampsitesCampsites 3, 7, and 13 are often highlighted for privacy, views, or accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Max total of 60 nights per year within Lake Roosevelt NRA.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 people and 2 vehicles per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are divided into two loops, with Loop 1 accommodating RVs and tents, and Loop 2 offering walk-in tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, the campground is not plowed during winter and water is unavailable during low lake levels.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; all sites must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made through Recreation.gov. A $10 fee applies, and the first night's fee is forfeited for late cancellations (day before or day of arrival). For one-night reservations, the entire fee is forfeited.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities include fishing, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing. The campground is particularly popular among anglers and families.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant with species such as walleye, bass, rainbow trout, salmon, and sturgeon. Sturgeon fishing is allowed during a short season.Swimming
Swimming is considered pleasant in summer, as water temperatures remain comfortable. There is no specific swimming area, and water access is steep and challenging.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, though there is no boat launch. A courtesy dock is available for use.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes moose, elk, deer, and bald eagles. The area is also home to dozens of fish species.Winter Activities
The campground is not plowed in winter, and facilities may be difficult to access due to snow.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are possible, though access to the water is steep and challenging, often via paths through campsites.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings, except during fire bans or critical fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep terrain limits lake access, and campers should be cautious of wildlife. No potable water is available.
Active alertsPartial fire restrictions implemented as of June 13, 2025, prohibiting fires in park-managed lands and exposed lakebeds.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 9%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Kettle Falls, including police and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but reviews indicate occasional overflow and improper waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresSituated at the mouth of the Kettle River, the campground offers views of the Columbia and Kettle Rivers but limited direct access due to steep terrain.
Common complaintsLack of potable water, highway noise, proximity of campsites, and steep terrain for water access. Occasional reports of noisy neighbors, overflowing dumpsters, and unregulated activity.
HostNo on-site host is available. Visitors report the need for better site regulation.
Campground Map
Northport Flat Creek Rd., Kettle Falls, WA 99141
Driving directionsKamloops Island Campground is 79 miles north of Spokane as you travel on Hwy 395. Continue north on Hwy 395 through the town of Kettle Falls. Continue across the bridge taking you to the west side of the Columbia River/Lake Roosevelt NRA. After crossing the bridge travel north another 7 miles, turn right onto Northport Flat Creek Road. In 0.2 miles Kamloops Island will be on your left just as you cross the Kettle River.
Accessible year-round via paved roads, but no winter plowing. Access from Hwy 395 and Northport Flat Creek Road is straightforward, though the campground is relatively remote.Nearby places
Kettle Falls (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Spokane (79 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), Davenport (88 miles, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping gear, can be found in Kettle Falls, about 7 miles south of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.1
25 reviews
Kamloops Island Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciate the scenic beauty, ample shade, and relative quiet of the campground. Common complaints include lack of potable water, close proximity of campsites, steep access to water, and occasional noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's natural beauty, shade, and well-maintained vault toilets. Many appreciated the wildlife and serene environment.
Based on 25 reviewsCommon Concerns
Criticisms include lack of potable water, noise from the highway, steep access to the lake, and occasional disturbances from other campers or external factors (e.g., barking dogs, parties).
Based on 25 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and avoid relying on cell service for critical communication. Consider visiting during the off-season for quieter experiences.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are noted for pleasant weather and lower camper density. Summer reviews highlight increased bugs and occasional noise complaints. Winter visits are not common due to unplowed...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Solid little campground. Really a beautiful site, not too many spots so it’s not too crowded." - Ernest F.
"Spacious campground but bring your own water as there is not a pump any longer." - Heidi...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsites 3 and 7 were mentioned for their privacy and scenic views, respectively. Campsite 9 had issues with broken glass and disturbances.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campsite 1 is ADA-accessible, but steep terrain may limit other accessibility options.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and must be restrained at all times. Some reviewers noted occasional disturbances from barking dogs.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025