Bonaparte Lake Campground

For Washingtonians seeking a serene, spacious, and amenity-rich camping experience nestled in the picturesque Okanogan Highlands, Bonaparte Lake Campground stands as a perennial favorite. This U.S. Forest Service (USFS) campground offers a delightful blend of rustic charm and essential comforts, all set against the stunning backdrop of Bonaparte Lake and the surrounding mixed conifer forest. If you're a local resident eager to cast a line, paddle on calm waters, or simply unwind in a quiet, natural setting with the convenience of some modern facilities nearby, Bonaparte Lake Campground is a destination that consistently earns high praise.

Washington state is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from the Puget Sound to the rugged Cascades and the arid eastern plains. The Okanogan region, with its sunny disposition and abundant lakes, provides a unique and inviting environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Bonaparte Lake Campground leverages this natural beauty, offering well-maintained sites and access to a beautiful lake that caters to a variety of recreational pursuits. Its combination of natural tranquility with thoughtful amenities, including even a "comfort station" with flush toilets, sets it apart from more primitive options. This article will guide you through the specifics of what makes Bonaparte Lake Campground a cherished "go-to" spot for local Washingtonians, covering its accessible location, the diverse services it provides, its distinct features, and how to get in touch for your next memorable outdoor adventure.

Bonaparte Lake Campground is nestled on the southern edge of Bonaparte Lake, east of Tonasket, Washington, within the Colville National Forest. Its address is 615 Bonaparte Lake Rd, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA. For residents across Washington, particularly those in Eastern Washington, the drive is a manageable and scenic one. From Tonasket, you take State Route 20 East for approximately 24 miles, then turn left onto the Bonaparte Recreation Area turnoff (Okanogan County Road 4953). Continue on Okanogan County Road #4953 for about 6 miles (where it becomes Forest Service Road #32) until you reach the campground entrance on the left.

While the campground is located at an elevation of 3,600 feet, making it a pleasant escape during warmer months, the access roads are generally well-maintained. Reviewers note that while the weather can be unpredictable, the sites themselves are designed to accommodate RVs, with asphalt paving on many, though maximum vehicle length is typically around 32 feet. The relative ease of access combined with the serene lake setting makes Bonaparte Lake Campground a popular choice for those seeking a mountain-lake experience without an overly strenuous journey.

• Spacious Campsites: The campground offers a variety of spacious sites, including 27 individual campsites, with a mix of single, double, and triple sites, and 1 group site. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire pit (with a grill grate), and designated tent/RV spots. Some sites also feature tent pads.
• Water Spouts Throughout: Potable water spouts are conveniently located throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to drinking water.
• Flush Toilets and Vault Toilets: In addition to standard vault toilets, Bonaparte Lake Campground boasts a "comfort station" with running water and flushable toilets, a significant upgrade from many forest service campgrounds.
• Boat Launch and Docks: The campground provides a boat launch, making it easy for campers to get their watercraft onto the lake. There is also an accessible fishing dock and an additional swimming dock, enhancing lake recreation. Many lakeside sites have areas where you can pull your boat up directly.
• Garbage Dumpsters: Convenient garbage disposal is available via dumpsters, helping to keep the campground clean.
• Grey Water Disposal: While there isn't a full RV dump station, there is a dedicated place to empty grey water, a useful amenity for RV campers.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: Most spaces operate on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips. However, sites in the South loop can be reserved through Recreation.gov, which is highly recommended during peak season.
• Seasonal Camp Host: A seasonal camp host is present on-site, offering assistance, information, and contributing to the overall positive camping experience.

• Excellent Fishing: Bonaparte Lake is a renowned fishing destination. Anglers can enjoy boat fishing for various trout species (rainbow, brook, cutthroat, tiger trout, and occasional lake trout) and even smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for winter ice fishing.
• Accessible Docks: The presence of an accessible fishing dock and a swimming dock greatly enhances lake access for all visitors, making it easy to enjoy the water.
• Proximity to Bonaparte Resort: The adjacent Bonaparte Lake Resort offers a "small store," a "restaurant," and "available showers for a fee." This proximity provides convenient access to additional amenities, including delicious "Smoked Prime Rib on Saturday nights" at the restaurant.
• Quiet and Clean Environment: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for being "spacious, clean and quiet." The diligent maintenance and the natural setting contribute to a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, making it a true escape.
• Stunning Natural Surroundings: The campground is set in a beautiful mixed ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forest at the base of Bonaparte Mountain. The lake itself is a scenic gem, at an elevation of 3,600 feet, and is home to waterfowl species like the rare northern loon. Mule deer, elk, moose, and even black bears can be sighted in the area.
• Hiking Opportunities: Numerous trails surround the lake. The Pipsissewa Trail to Pipsissewa Point (2 miles from the campground) offers great views overlooking the lake. Continuing onto the South Side trail #308 for five miles takes you to the Bonaparte Mountain Fire Lookout.
• Kayaking, Canoeing, and Swimming: Beyond fishing, the lake is perfect for non-motorized boating like kayaking and canoeing, and the designated swim beach and floating swimming dock provide excellent opportunities for a refreshing dip. (Note: No wake zone for boating - 8 mph maximum.)

Address: 615 Bonaparte Lake Rd, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA

Phone: (509) 486-2186 (This is the contact number for the Tonasket Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-486-2186

For current conditions, specific site availability, fees (currently $20/single site, $40/double, $125/group site), and to make reservations for the South loop, it is highly recommended to visit Recreation.gov or contact the Tonasket Ranger District directly. The campground typically operates from mid-May to mid-October. Remember to check for fire restrictions and current Washington state fishing license requirements.

Bonaparte Lake Campground is an exceptional choice for Washingtonians seeking a versatile and highly enjoyable outdoor escape. Its location in the tranquil Okanogan Highlands, combined with relatively easy access from various parts of the state, makes it a convenient and desirable destination. For locals who prioritize a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable amenities, Bonaparte Lake Campground truly shines.

The campground’s strong reputation for being "spacious, clean and quiet," coupled with the convenience of flush toilets and readily available water, significantly enhances the camping experience. The allure of Bonaparte Lake itself, with its "excellent fishing," dedicated docks, and suitability for various water activities, provides endless entertainment. Furthermore, the close proximity to Bonaparte Resort and its amenities, including a restaurant and store, offers a unique blend of wilderness immersion and convenient access to a few creature comforts. Whether you're a family looking for a memorable summer vacation, an angler seeking your next big catch, or simply a nature lover desiring a peaceful retreat, Bonaparte Lake Campground is a "go to" destination that promises a relaxing and rewarding adventure right here in our beautiful Washington state.

Bonaparte Lake Campground

615 Bonaparte Lake Rd, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA