Ferry Lake Campground

For Washington residents seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of nature, Ferry Lake Campground presents an ideal destination. Tucked away within the beautiful Colville National Forest near Republic, this charming U.S. Forest Service campground offers a peaceful lakeside setting that’s perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with the great outdoors. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest and the gentle lapping of the lake replace the everyday clamor, inviting campers to relax, fish, and simply enjoy the serene beauty of northeastern Washington. Its quiet atmosphere, enhanced by a ban on internal combustion engines on the lake, ensures a truly peaceful experience for visitors.

Ferry Lake Campground is a relatively small, intimate campground featuring 9 campsites. It's situated directly by Ferry Lake, a picturesque body of water known for its clear, calm surface. The campsites are generally shaded by a mix of coniferous trees, providing a cool and comfortable environment, especially during warmer months. While reviews indicate that sites can be "close together" and a "public trail running past each site" might be present, the overall ambiance remains peaceful, and many visitors find it to be a relaxing spot. The lake itself is a major draw, offering a quiet sanctuary where you can hear ducks and loons calling across the water, a testament to the peaceful environment maintained by the prohibition of motorized boats. However, like many lakeside locations in the Pacific Northwest, campers should be prepared for mosquitoes, which can be quite prevalent, especially during peak seasons. Despite this, the overwhelming sentiment is one of tranquility and natural beauty.

Ferry Lake Campground is located near Republic, WA 99166, USA, within the sprawling Colville National Forest. To reach this serene spot from Republic, you'll take Highway 21 south for approximately 7 miles. From there, turn right onto Forest Road 53 (Scatter Creek) and continue for about 6 miles. A right turn onto Forest Road 5330 will take you about 0.5 miles, followed by another right turn onto Forest Road 5330-100 for about 0.75 miles. The campground will be on your left. This route is generally accessible for most vehicles, including smaller motorhomes and trailers, but it's important to note that large RVs are not recommended due to limited turnaround space at the end of the campground road. The roads are typically dirt and gravel, which are well-maintained during the open season (spring through autumn). As with any forest road, it's always wise to check current conditions with the U.S. Forest Service before your trip, especially after periods of heavy rain. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, making the drive itself a part of the enjoyable experience.

Ferry Lake Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, provides essential services to ensure a comfortable stay while maintaining its rustic charm.

• Campsites: There are 9 single-family campsites, each equipped with a parking spur, picnic table, and a fire ring with a grate for campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides clean and accessible vault toilets, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met.
• Bear-Proof Containers: Bear-proof trash containers are available on-site, a crucial feature in bear country, helping campers safely store food and dispose of waste.
• No Potable Water: It is important for visitors to note that there is no drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own water or be prepared to filter and treat water from the lake.
• Boat Launch: A public boat launch is conveniently located at the end of the campground, providing easy access to Ferry Lake for non-motorized watercraft.
• Fee-Based Camping: There is a fee for camping per single site, with an additional fee for extra vehicles. These fees help maintain the campground facilities.

Ferry Lake Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for Washington's outdoor enthusiasts.

• Non-Motorized Lake Experience: A significant highlight is the prohibition of internal combustion engines on Ferry Lake. This creates an exceptionally quiet and peaceful environment, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature.
• Excellent Rainbow Trout Fishing: The lake is regularly stocked with catchable-sized rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. Late spring to early summer is often considered the best time for fishing, and two-pole fishing is allowed (with a valid Washington state fishing license). It's also important to note the prohibition of lead weights or jigs smaller than 1.5 inches to protect nesting loons.
• Scenic and Shaded Campsites: Most campsites are well-shaded by trees, offering a cool respite from the sun and enhancing the natural ambiance. Many sites also provide a view of the lake.
• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The serene environment and surrounding wetlands make Ferry Lake an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially for common loons which are known to nest here annually. Opportunities for viewing other local wildlife are also present.
• Proximity to Other Lakes: Ferry Lake is part of the Scatter Creek drainage area, which includes other small lakes like Swan Lake, Fish Lake, and Long Lake within a few miles. This offers opportunities for day trips and exploring different fishing or recreational spots.
• Access to Trails: The area around the campground provides opportunities for hiking and bicycling on various forest roads and trails, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding Colville National Forest.
• Bear Management: The presence of bear-proof containers underscores the importance of proper food storage, indicating an active wild ecosystem that adds to the authentic outdoor experience.

For more information, current conditions, or to confirm details about Ferry Lake Campground, you can contact the managing U.S. Forest Service office:

Address: Republic Ranger District, 650 E Delaware, Republic WA 99166, USA

Phone: (509) 775-7400 or +1 509-775-7400

This contact information will connect you directly with the local Forest Service staff who can provide the most up-to-date details on road accessibility, fire restrictions, and any other pertinent information for your visit.

Ferry Lake Campground is perfectly suited for Washington locals who seek a peaceful, authentic, and engaging outdoor experience without the crowds of more developed parks. Its location within the Colville National Forest, a beautiful and less-traveled part of our state, offers a true escape. For those who enjoy non-motorized water activities, the calm waters of Ferry Lake are a dream, and the consistent stocking of rainbow trout makes it a rewarding destination for anglers of all ages. While campers should be prepared for a rustic experience, including bringing their own water and managing insects, these are small considerations for the profound sense of tranquility and natural beauty offered here. It’s a place to unplug, observe wildlife, and create lasting memories by the lakeside, embodying the serene and wild spirit that many Washingtonians cherish in their outdoor pursuits. Ferry Lake Campground stands as a testament to the hidden gems available to us in the Pacific Northwest, offering an ideal setting for a rejuvenating and memorable camping trip.

Ferry Lake Campground

Republic, WA 99166, USA