Edgewater Campground

For Washingtonians seeking a serene and truly immersive outdoor experience, Edgewater Campground in Ione, WA, offers an idyllic retreat. Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Pend Oreille River within the vast Colville National Forest, this campground provides a perfect blend of peaceful solitude and engaging outdoor activities. It's a destination where the sounds of nature gently replace the urban hum, inviting visitors to unwind and reconnect with the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a family on their first adventure, or an angler seeking the perfect catch, Edgewater Campground presents a welcoming and picturesque setting.

Edgewater Campground is distinguished by its dedication to providing a comfortable and safe environment for its guests. Many visitors laud the peaceful atmosphere, describing it as a truly safe haven, particularly for those embarking on solo trips or with young children. The campground's commitment to safety is further evidenced by the provision of bear-safe food storage, a thoughtful amenity that adds an extra layer of peace of mind when camping in a natural habitat where wildlife thrives. This focus on guest well-being, combined with the inherent beauty of the location, makes Edgewater Campground a standout option for those looking to explore the natural wonders of northeastern Washington.

The campsites themselves are designed to maximize the camping experience. Many sites are noted for their spaciousness, offering ample room for tents and RVs, and a sense of privacy amidst the natural surroundings of cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir trees. The presence of numerous flat spots for tents is a significant advantage for traditional campers, ensuring an easy and comfortable setup. The Pend Oreille River, a central feature of the campground, provides a serene backdrop and numerous recreational opportunities. Its gentle flow, coupled with specific areas featuring sandy beaches and shallow waters, makes it particularly suitable for children to splash and play safely, while deeper sections offer excellent fishing prospects where jumping fish can often be observed.

While Edgewater Campground offers a rustic charm, it maintains a high standard of cleanliness, especially concerning essential facilities like the pit toilets, which are frequently described as "really clean." This attention to cleanliness, even in a more primitive setting, enhances the overall guest experience. The proximity to the small town of Ione also offers convenience, providing access to essential supplies and local eateries, including a food court known for its excellent ice cream. The iconic red bridge in Ione adds a touch of local character to the area, inviting exploration beyond the campground boundaries.

It is worth noting that while many sites are spacious, a few, like campsites 5 and 7, might be tighter for larger RVs or multiple tents. Additionally, while river access is abundant, some spots may have steeper trails or thicker aquatic vegetation. However, for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience with the opportunity to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, the allure of amazing starry nights and sublime natural beauty at Edgewater Campground far outweighs these minor considerations. This comprehensive overview aims to equip you with all the details needed to confidently plan your next memorable camping adventure in Washington's enchanting Colville National Forest.

Location and Accessibility

Edgewater Campground is nestled in a beautiful and somewhat secluded part of northeastern Washington, specifically at NF-1130, Ione, WA 99139, USA. Its location within the Colville National Forest, directly on the banks of the Pend Oreille River, positions it as an ideal destination for those seeking a true wilderness experience. While it offers a sense of remoteness, the campground is approximately 90 miles north of Spokane, making it a feasible drive for many Washington residents.

To reach Edgewater Campground from Ione, WA, visitors typically turn left onto Elizabeth Ave/Sullivan Lake Rd, continue for about 0.4 miles, then turn left onto Box Canyon Exd for 0.5 miles. Continuing onto Cox Canyon Rd for 1.5 miles, a final left turn onto NF-1130 for 0.4 miles leads directly to the campground entrance. For those arriving from points further afield, after crossing the Ione Bridge eastbound over the Pend Oreille River, you should look for the Edgewater Campground sign and immediately turn left onto County Road 3669 (Box Canyon), proceeding two miles to the campground entrance. It's advisable to check current road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons, as access roads within national forests can vary.

The campground's location on the Pend Oreille River is a major draw, offering easy access to the water for various activities. While specific swimming areas might vary in accessibility or density of aquatic plants, there are generally areas suitable for wading and splashing, especially for children. The surrounding Colville National Forest provides a stunning backdrop of cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir trees, along with views of the Selkirk Mountains. This natural setting ensures a peaceful atmosphere, although limited to no cellular service can be expected, which many visitors appreciate as an opportunity to truly disconnect.

Despite its seemingly remote feel, the small town of Ione is conveniently close, providing access to essential supplies, a food court, and local charm. This balance between wilderness immersion and nearby conveniences makes Edgewater Campground an accessible yet authentically rustic option for Washington locals. The ability to easily reach this beautiful natural haven, coupled with the opportunity to explore the local community, enhances the overall appeal of this northeastern Washington gem.

Services Offered

• Spacious campsites: Accommodating both tents and RVs, with many flat spots for tents.
• Bear-safe food storage: Enhancing safety and peace of mind for campers.
• Clean pit toilets: Well-maintained restroom facilities.
• Drinking water: Potable water available on-site.
• Trash collection: Facilities for waste disposal.
• Campground host: An on-site host is available for inquiries and assistance.
• Firewood for sale: Conveniently available for campfires.
• Picnic tables and fire pits: Available at each campsite.
• Boat launch: Nearby access for boating on the Pend Oreille River.

Features / Highlights

• Peaceful and safe environment: Ideal for solo campers and families.
• Direct river access: Proximity to the Pend Oreille River for recreation.
• Sandy beach area: A lovely spot suitable for young children to splash and play in shallow water.
• Excellent fishing: Opportunities to watch and catch jumping fish in the river.
• Stunning natural beauty: Surrounded by cedar, hemlock, Douglas fir, and views of the Selkirk Mountains.
• Privacy between sites: Many sites offer a good degree of seclusion.
• Proximity to Ione: A small town offering essential amenities like a food court with ice cream.
• Starry nights: An ideal location for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
• Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Contact Information

Address: NF-1130, Ione, WA 99139, USA

Phone: (509) 446-7500

Mobile Phone: +1 509-446-7500

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Washington state, Edgewater Campground in Ione offers a unique and highly suitable destination for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Its location within the pristine Colville National Forest, coupled with its direct adjacency to the Pend Oreille River, provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in nature without venturing too far from home. This campground is particularly well-suited for locals who value tranquility, safety, and a genuine outdoor experience.

The appeal for Washingtonians lies in its blend of rustic charm and essential amenities. The spacious and often private campsites, many with flat spots perfect for tents, cater to traditional campers while also accommodating RVs. The thoughtful inclusion of bear-safe food storage demonstrates a commitment to guest safety, a crucial aspect when enjoying wilderness areas. Families will find the peaceful and safe atmosphere, combined with the gentle, sandy beach areas along the river, to be ideal for children to play and explore. Anglers will appreciate the excellent fishing opportunities right from the riverbanks.

While Edgewater Campground provides a chance to disconnect from digital life, with limited cellular service, it doesn't entirely isolate visitors. The nearby town of Ione, though small, offers convenient access to necessities and a local charm, including delightful treats like ice cream. This balance means that locals can truly escape into nature without feeling completely cut off from basic comforts. The sublime natural beauty, from the towering trees to the clear starry nights, offers a refreshing contrast to urban life and a chance to experience the raw splendor of Washington's landscape.

Although some sites may be tighter for larger setups or river access might require a short walk down a trail, these minor considerations are often overshadowed by the overwhelming positives: the peaceful ambiance, clean facilities (including surprisingly well-maintained pit toilets), and the sheer beauty of the surroundings. For those in Washington seeking a genuine, family-friendly camping adventure where nature is the main attraction, Edgewater Campground is a highly recommended choice, promising memorable moments and a profound connection with the state's magnificent natural heritage. It's a place many locals will undoubtedly return to year after year.

Edgewater Campground

NF-1130, Ione, WA 99139, USA