Kettle Falls Campground
3.97160 reviews1368 Kettle Park Rd.
Kettle Falls Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
Standard nightly rate for all reservations is $30. Additional fees include a $10 one-time dump station fee, $10 weekly boat launch permit, and $60 annual boat launch permit.
About this campground
Nestled in the northern reaches of Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Kettle Falls Campground invites adventurers to discover a pristine forested sanctuary where history and nature converge. With 74 thoughtfully positioned sites scattered beneath towering pines, this year-round destination serves as your gateway to world-class boating, legendary fishing, and captivating historical sites. Whether you're casting a line for trophy walleye or exploring centuries-old trading posts, every visit begins with securing your spot through the reservation-only system that ensures a peaceful retreat for all who venture here.
The campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and group reservations, but lacks amenities such as full hookups.
Historical SignificanceThese lands echo with stories spanning millennia, from the footsteps of American Indian tribes who first called this region home to the bustling fur traders who navigated these waters centuries ago. Today's visitors can walk in their footsteps at the nearby St. Paul's Mission, where weathered walls whisper tales of frontier life, or explore the remnants of Fort Colville, where the convergence of cultures shaped the American Northwest we know today.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Kettle Falls in dramatically different strokes. Summer transforms the lake into a swimmer's paradise, with sun-warmed waters beckoning visitors to dive into refreshing adventures. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in golden hues while crisp air signals prime fishing conditions. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a serene wonderland for hardy souls—though be prepared for turned-off water systems and the raw beauty of extreme conditions that test true outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationPerched high above the shimmering expanse of Lake Roosevelt, the campground's forested terraces offer commanding views that stretch to distant mountains. This elevated sanctuary provides the perfect vantage point for watching morning mist rise from the water or evening alpenglow paint the surrounding peaks in rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient forests embrace each campsite, their towering canopies filtering sunlight into a gentle green glow while framing spectacular views of Lake Roosevelt's glacial-blue waters below. This living landscape hosts an impressive cast of wildlife—majestic moose emerge from morning shadows, elk bugle across valleys, and bald eagles soar overhead. Below the surface, the lake teems with prized game fish including feisty walleye, acrobatic bass, shimmering rainbow trout, powerful salmon, and prehistoric sturgeon that can grow larger than canoes.
Geological RegionKettle Falls Campground crowns the dramatic landscape of Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, where the mighty Columbia River has been transformed into a 130-mile ribbon of deep blue stretching behind Grand Coulee Dam. This geological masterpiece showcases nature's artistry through forested ridges that plunge toward the water in rocky cascades, while glacial meltwater from distant peaks feeds this vast reservoir. The terrain tells a story written over millennia—from ancient glaciers that carved these valleys to the modern engineering marvel that created one of the Pacific Northwest's most stunning water recreation destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include interpretive trails, accessible picnic areas, grills, and fish cleaning stations. The campground layout allows for easy navigation for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with pull-through options available. However, many users report that parking pads are too short for larger trailers or RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited, as sites are close together with minimal underbrush. Some reviews mention feeling crowded.
Total Campsites74 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites are preferred for better views and quieter experiences. Sites in Loop 3 tend to be larger and less crowded.
Best CampsitesSites along the lake, such as #63 in Loop 3, are highly recommended for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available from 12:00 PM onward.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per visit and 60 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are not specifically defined.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with sites that vary in size and spacing. Loops include waterfront and forested sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from March 15 to December 31. Water faucets and flush toilets are operational May 1 through September 30, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis is a reservation-only campground; walk-up availability is not permitted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made through recreation.gov. Late cancellations (within 1 day of arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's campsite fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is well-suited for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, with a focus on water-based activities. However, swimming access is limited due to rocky descents.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby. Reviews describe trails as scenic, crossing bridges and suitable for bird watching. Some sections may dry out in late summer.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species such as walleye, sturgeon, and bass. Sturgeon fishing is available during a limited season.Biking
Suitable for biking with trails in and around the campground. No specialized biking terrain is mentioned.Boating
Boating is a popular activity with a multi-lane boat launch available. Weekly and annual permits are required and can be purchased online.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes bald eagles, moose, elk, and deer. Bird watching is particularly popular, with sightings of ospreys and geese.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground is near St. Paul's Mission and other historical sites managed by the National Park Service, offering opportunities for cultural and educational exploration.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited but camping is open year-round. Some reviews mention snow and the need for shovels.Water Sports
Water sports include boating and fishing, but access for kayaking and paddleboarding is not specifically highlighted.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted year-round in designated fire rings unless fire danger ratings reach critical levels.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep rocky descents to the water, wildlife such as moose and elk, and seasonal mosquito prevalence.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 9%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5 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
Closest emergency services are in the town of Kettle Falls, which is approximately 3 miles away. Emergency options include hospitals, police stations, and other facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 - September 30 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, although no specific recycling program is mentioned in authoritative sources or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly adjacent to Lake Roosevelt with steep rocky descents to the water.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from generators and nearby industrial operations, limited privacy between sites, and steep descents to the water.
HostHosts are available but reported as inconsistent in terms of visibility and responsiveness.
Campground Map
1368 Kettle Park Rd.
Driving directionsThe campground is 87 miles north of Spokane, Washington. Take U.S. Highway 395 north to the town of Kettle Falls, turn south on Boise Road at Barney's Bridge and travel three miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. The route includes U.S. Highway 395, followed by Boise Road, which is also paved. There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Spokane, WA (87 miles), Colville, WA (9 miles), Kettle Falls, WA (3 miles)
Nearby supplies
The town of Kettle Falls, 3 miles away, offers grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel stations, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.0
160 reviews
Kettle Falls Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kettle Falls Campground present mixed sentiments. While many praise the scenic views, cleanliness, and quiet atmosphere, issues such as overcrowding, noisy generators, limited swimming access, and seasonal maintenance problems are commonly noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 160 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews mention clean bathrooms, beautiful views of Lake Roosevelt, spacious sites, friendly hosts, and good cell reception. Some users appreciated the year-round camping and proximity to...
Based on 160 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noisy generators, lack of privacy, overcrowding, limited swimming areas, and issues with campsite size for larger RVs. Some users also criticized the campground's seasonal...
Based on 160 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include choosing sites along the lake for better views, bringing bug spray for mosquitoes, and confirming amenities during off-season stays. Some users recommend avoiding sites near vault...
Based on 160 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive reviews are more frequent during off-season stays, citing quiet and well-maintained facilities. Summer reviews often mention overcrowding and mosquitoes.
Based on 160 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful views, nice clean bathrooms, HORRIBLE mosquito problem" - Kellyn S. "Clean, quiet, plenty of camp sites and lots of room between sites" - Carla H. "Beautiful lake view with trees, clean...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 010 is frequently mentioned for its proximity to the water but criticized for short parking pads. Site 063 offers good views but limited privacy. Sites near vault toilets like Site 040 are often...
Based on 160 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are generally well-reviewed, although steep descents to the lake may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 160 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained, as noted by several reviews. Some users reported issues with unleashed dogs causing disturbances.
Based on 160 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025