Fort Spokane Campground

For Washingtonians seeking a perfect blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty, Fort Spokane Campground on Lake Roosevelt stands out as an exceptional destination. This highly-rated National Park Service campground offers a consistently relaxing and enjoyable experience, drawing visitors back year after year. Whether you're an avid angler, a history buff, a boating enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful and well-maintained spot to unwind with family and pets, Fort Spokane Campground provides an inviting and memorable escape in Eastern Washington.

This article is specifically crafted for local users across Washington, providing a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Fort Spokane Campground. We will explore its unique location and accessibility, detail the comprehensive services it offers, and highlight the distinctive features that make it a cherished spot for diverse outdoor activities. Get ready to discover why Fort Spokane Campground is a beloved local treasure on the shores of Lake Roosevelt.

Fort Spokane Campground is situated on an Unnamed Road near Davenport, WA 99122, USA, placing it directly on the shoreline of the magnificent Lake Roosevelt. This strategic location is at the confluence of the Spokane River and the Columbia River (which forms Lake Roosevelt), providing a rich natural and historical backdrop. It is nestled within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area and managed by the National Park Service.

Accessibility to Fort Spokane Campground is generally straightforward for Washington residents. From Spokane, it's approximately an hour and ten minutes drive west. The campground is accessible via Highway 25, leading to a scenic drive through Eastern Washington's varied landscapes. The location offers a balanced mix of being "remote" enough for peace and quiet, yet close enough to amenities. A convenience store and gas station are nearby, allowing campers to easily replenish basic goods. The campground is open year-round, which is a significant advantage for those seeking off-season adventures, though potable water services are shut off during winter. The combination of easy road access, proximity to essential services, and its stunning lakeside position makes Fort Spokane Campground a highly convenient and attractive option for locals across the state looking for a quality camping experience without venturing into overly rugged terrain.

Fort Spokane Campground provides a well-equipped and comfortable camping experience, blending rustic charm with essential amenities for a pleasant stay.

• Campsites: The campground features 68 individual campsites, including both tent-only sites and spacious sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 50 feet in length. Each campsite comes with a parking space, a picnic table, and a fire pit with a grate. Some sites offer shade, while others are more open.

• Reservations: All campsites are reservation-only, with no first-come, first-served sites available. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov, which is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.

• Flush Toilets: Flush toilets are available, typically from mid-May 1st to September 30th, weather permitting. This is a significant convenience for campers.

• Potable Water: Water faucets providing potable drinking water are turned on seasonally (mid-May 1st to September 30th). During the winter, water is shut off, so campers must bring their own.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available within the park for RVs, though there might be a one-time fee per reservation. No electricity, water, or sewer hookups are provided at individual sites, so RVs should be prepared for dry camping.

• Boat Launch: A year-round boat launch (at 1247' elevation) is available, providing direct access to Lake Roosevelt for boating and fishing.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be restrained at all times and are not permitted in buildings or on certain trails.

• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM, during which generator use is also restricted, ensuring a peaceful environment.

• Fire Rings: Fires are permitted in the provided fire rings year-round, except when fire danger ratings reach a critical level. Campers are advised to obtain firewood near their destination to prevent the spread of pests.

Fort Spokane Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for diverse interests, balancing outdoor recreation with historical immersion.

• Stunning Lakeside Scenery: The campground lies on the water amidst Ponderosa pines and shrubs, offering beautiful scenery and views of Lake Roosevelt. The lake's comfortable summer temperatures make it inviting for swimming and water sports.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Roosevelt is abundant with walleye, bass, rainbow trout, and salmon, making Fort Spokane a popular place for fishing throughout the year. The shoreline along Fort Spokane typically does not freeze in winter, allowing for year-round fishing access.

• Rich Historical Significance: Directly across the street from the campground are the grounds of the historic Fort Spokane. The former guardhouse has been converted into a visitor center and museum (open seasonally, typically Memorial Day to Labor Day), offering interpretive programs and exhibits about the fort's military history and the Indian boarding school. An interpretive trail around the grounds is open year-round for self-guided tours. This unique historical component adds a significant educational and cultural dimension to a camping trip.

• Abundant Wildlife and Birding: Fort Spokane boasts some of the best bird habitats in the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, with Hawk Creek nearby being a prime viewing spot. Birders can often see Peregrine falcons, Blue herons, finches, Bald eagles, osprey, and even the occasional Golden eagle. The wider area is home to moose, elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.

• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors consistently praise the campground for being "clean and spacious," with well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms and sites. The site host is noted for ensuring rules are followed, contributing to a pleasant experience.

• Relaxing and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Reviewers describe the experience as "always fun and relaxing," with a generally quiet park, especially at night. The spacious sites offer privacy between neighbors, and the welcoming environment makes it suitable for families and returning visitors.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Fort Spokane Campground, here is the relevant contact information:

Address: Unnamed Road, Davenport, WA 99122, USA (This is the physical location of the campground)

For general park information about Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (which manages Fort Spokane Campground):

• Park Information Line: (509) 754-7800

• Main Office Phone: (509) 754-7889

For reservations, which are required for all sites at Fort Spokane Campground:

• Recreation.gov Website: Visit recreation.gov and search for "Fort Spokane Campground."

• Recreation.gov Phone (for booking assistance): (877) 444-6777

It is strongly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for peak season visits, as the campground is popular. Cell service can be limited in the area, so it's wise to download your confirmation and any necessary maps before arrival. Always check the official National Park Service website for Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (nps.gov/laro) for the most current information on seasonal facility operations (like water availability), fire restrictions, and any alerts before planning your trip.

Fort Spokane Campground is an ideal destination for Washington locals seeking a well-rounded and deeply satisfying outdoor experience. Its prime location on Lake Roosevelt offers abundant opportunities for water-based recreation, from excellent year-round fishing to enjoyable boating and swimming, making it perfect for families and water enthusiasts. For those in Eastern Washington, it provides a convenient and cherished escape.

What truly distinguishes Fort Spokane for locals is its unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The ability to camp by a stunning lake and then easily explore a historic fort and visitor center adds a significant educational and cultural dimension to a camping trip. The consistent praise for its cleanliness, friendly site hosts, and peaceful atmosphere makes it a reliable choice for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're looking to cast a line, explore the past, or simply unwind amidst beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, Fort Spokane Campground stands out as a highly recommended and continually revisited local gem in Washington's vast recreational landscape.

Fort Spokane Campground

Unnamed Road, Davenport, WA 99122, USA