East Sullivan Campground

For us Washingtonians, there’s nothing quite like escaping to a lakeside retreat where the water sparkles under the summer sun and the towering trees of the forest offer a cool, shady embrace. East Sullivan Campground, nestled on the north shore of picturesque Sullivan Lake near Metaline Falls, is one such gem in the Colville National Forest. It’s a place that buzzes with the energy of families and outdoor enthusiasts, all drawn to its "very beautiful area" and the promise of endless lakeside fun.

East Sullivan Campground is known for its "clean nice campground" and a lively, family-oriented atmosphere. While it might not be the spot for extreme solitude, as one reviewer noted, "Do not come here if you are looking for a small, quiet campground. It is not loud but lots of families." This vibrancy is part of its charm, with "people are nice and quiet after hours," ensuring a pleasant night's rest. Despite the number of sites, thoughtful spacing means "they don't see crazy close," providing a good balance of community and personal space. The consistent praise for the "nice camp hosts" also speaks volumes about the welcoming and well-managed environment you can expect.

The true highlight of East Sullivan Campground is its direct access to Sullivan Lake. The "swimming area is perfect," and the lake itself is often described as "small so it gets warmer in the summer," making it ideal for a comfortable dip on a hot day. Beyond swimming, the lake is a playground for boating, fishing, and paddling. A truly unique feature that sets East Sullivan apart is the adjacent free state airport, a "cool grass strip with aircraft campsites." While "you do get some aircraft coming and going, and it's loud when they land/takeoff," this novelty adds an exciting dimension for those who appreciate aviation, and it doesn't disrupt the peace constantly. It's a place where you can relax by the water, explore the surrounding trails, and even witness small planes arriving, creating a truly memorable Washington camping experience.

East Sullivan Campground is located at the north end of Sullivan Lake, approximately five miles east of Metaline Falls, WA 99153, USA. This puts it deep within the scenic Colville National Forest in Northeast Washington, a region characterized by its majestic mountain views, clear lakes, and dense, old-growth forests. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, surrounded by a densely wooded terrain that offers privacy and shade.

For Washington locals, accessing East Sullivan Campground typically involves a picturesque drive. From Spokane, the campground is about 95 miles north, translating to a drive of roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. This makes it a very convenient destination for a weekend getaway for those in the Spokane area. For those traveling from Western Washington, such as Seattle or Tacoma, the journey will be more substantial, typically around 5 to 6 hours, making it ideal for a longer vacation.

To reach the campground from Spokane, you would generally take Highway 31 North through Metaline Falls. About 1 mile north of Metaline Falls, you turn onto Sullivan Lake Road (County Road 9345). Follow Sullivan Lake Road for approximately 6.5 miles to the junction with Forest Road 22 (or Sullivan Creek Road). Turn onto Forest Road 22 and follow it for about 0.2 to 0.25 miles to the campground entrance. The roads leading to and within the campground are generally well-maintained, accommodating a range of vehicles including RVs and trailers (up to 55 feet in some sites). The journey itself is part of the experience, winding through beautiful forest landscapes, preparing you for the tranquility that awaits.

• Campsites: East Sullivan Campground features 39 campsites, including 36 standard non-electric sites across three loops (FIR, CEDAR, PINE), several walk-in sites for more seclusion, and one group campsite (accommodating up to 40 guests near the boat ramp). Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 25 to 55 feet, depending on the site). Each site typically includes a picnic table, fire ring, and a tent pad.
• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are available. While a review mentioned they were "in desperate need of being pumped/emptied" at one point, general sentiment suggests they are usually "clean" and "well-maintained."
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water during their stay.
• Trash Bins: Trash collection services are provided, with animal-resistant food storage boxes also available to protect food from wildlife.
• Camp Hosts: The campground has "nice camp hosts" who contribute to the cleanliness and overall positive atmosphere.
• Boat Launch & Day-Use Area: There is a dedicated day-use area along the lake with a boat ramp, picnic tables, and a designated swimming area, all within a short walk from the campsites.
• Firewood: Firewood may be available for sale from the camp host, subject to availability. Campers are advised not to move firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• No Hookups: It's important to note that East Sullivan Campground generally does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual campsites, offering a more traditional forest camping experience. Generators are permitted during specific hours (e.g., 6 am to 10 pm).
• Reservations: Most sites are reservable up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov, and the group site can be reserved up to one year in advance. This is crucial as the campground "does fill up" during peak season.

• Sullivan Lake Access: The primary highlight is direct access to Sullivan Lake. This 1,291-acre, 320-foot-deep lake offers "perfect temperature for swimming on a hot day," with "clean as glass, rocky/sandy bottom and no weeds."
• Water Sports Galore: The lake is popular for a wide range of water activities including swimming, fishing (burbot and Kokanee salmon), sailing, power boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and water skiing. Kayaks and paddleboards can be rented on-site.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With "lots of families" and generally "nice and quiet after hours," it's an ideal environment for family camping. The designated swimming area is a big plus.
• Hiking Opportunities: Access to the 4.2-mile Lakeshore Trail, a designated National Scenic Trail along the eastern side of Sullivan Lake, offering "beautiful views." A "short nature trail" is also accessible from the campground.
• Unique Airstrip Camping: Adjacent to the campground is a "free state airport," a "cool grass strip with aircraft campsites." While some aircraft noise occurs during takeoffs/landings, it's a unique draw for aviation enthusiasts.
• Densely Wooded & Private Sites: The "densely wooded terrain provides privacy at each site, and plenty of shade for warm summer days." While sites don't have direct lake views, they are a short walk away.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Colville National Forest is home to elk, moose, white-tailed deer, and even black bears, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
• Proximity to Attractions: The campground is a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions such as Metaline Falls, Crawford State Park (with Gardiner Cave tours), the Boundary Hydroelectric Project, and the Salmo-Priest Wilderness for more rugged hiking.

Address: Metaline Falls, WA 99153, USA (This refers to East Sullivan Campground at Sullivan Lake Road, within the Colville National Forest.)

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the Recreation.gov national reservation line, the primary method for making advance reservations for many US Forest Service campgrounds, including East Sullivan.)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Same as above)

For specific inquiries regarding current conditions, operating seasons, or local information not covered by the reservation system, it is recommended to contact the Colville National Forest, Sullivan Lake Ranger District. Their direct phone number is typically (509) 446-7500. You can also find valuable information and alerts on the official Colville National Forest website.

For us Washingtonians, East Sullivan Campground offers an unparalleled combination of recreational opportunities and a genuine escape into the natural beauty of our state's northeast. Its prime location on Sullivan Lake, nestled within the Colville National Forest, provides a quintessential lakeside camping experience that's both vibrant and relaxing. For locals, especially families, this campground is highly suitable due to its family-friendly atmosphere, clear lake waters perfect for swimming and water sports, and ample space for enjoying the outdoors without feeling overly crowded.

The accessibility from Spokane makes it an ideal weekend getaway, while its rich array of activities—from power boating and fishing on the lake to hiking the Lakeshore Trail—ensures there's something for everyone. The unique feature of the adjacent small aircraft airstrip adds an intriguing element, allowing a glimpse into a different facet of outdoor recreation. While acknowledging that vault toilets may occasionally have issues, the overall positive feedback on cleanliness and the presence of "nice camp hosts" reinforces that the campground is well-managed and provides a comfortable environment.

Moreover, the ability to reserve sites up to six months in advance is a significant advantage for Washington residents planning their summer adventures, especially since the campground "does fill up." This ensures that you can secure your spot at what is truly a "very beautiful area." East Sullivan Campground encapsulates the spirit of outdoor Washington, offering an active yet peaceful retreat where memories are made on the water and under the towering pines. It's a place where the diverse natural beauty of our state shines, beckoning us to return, perhaps even "every 4th."

East Sullivan Campground

Metaline Falls, WA 99153, USA