Jones Bay Campground

For Washington locals seeking a tranquil escape into nature, Jones Bay Campground in Electric City offers a compelling destination. Nestled along the shores of the expansive Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, this campground provides a rustic yet clean and welcoming environment for those who appreciate the simpler joys of outdoor living. It's a place where the stunning natural beauty of Eastern Washington, characterized by its unique desert steppe landscape, meets the vast, inviting waters of Lake Roosevelt. Jones Bay Campground is particularly appealing for campers looking for a quieter, less developed experience while still having access to excellent water-based recreation and remarkable views. This article will guide Washington residents through what makes Jones Bay Campground a notable choice for their next adventure, highlighting its serene atmosphere, essential amenities, and the unique features that set it apart.

Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply someone yearning to unwind amidst beautiful scenery with clean facilities, Jones Bay Campground caters to a desire for peaceful relaxation and active outdoor pursuits. We’ll delve into its accessibility, the specific services it offers, its distinctive features, and ultimately, why it's a suitable and highly recommended spot for locals across Washington state to experience the charm of Electric City and the grandeur of Lake Roosevelt. Prepare to discover a campground that promises a refreshing break from the everyday.

Jones Bay Campground is conveniently located at 55000-55126 Coulee Blvd, Electric City, WA 99123, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of Lake Roosevelt, a vast, 130-mile long reservoir formed by the Columbia River behind the iconic Grand Coulee Dam. Electric City is nestled in the heart of Washington's Grand Coulee region, renowned for its dramatic landscapes shaped by ancient ice age floods.

For Washington locals, accessing Jones Bay Campground is relatively straightforward. Electric City is reachable via State Route 174, connecting to major highways like US-2 and US-17. The drive from larger population centers in Western Washington (like Seattle) can be several hours, offering scenic views as you transition from the lush Cascades to the drier, more open landscapes of Eastern Washington. From Spokane, the drive is considerably shorter. While the campground can be reached by car, some visitors note that it "may be difficult to find," so it's advisable to have clear directions or a GPS. It also boasts a boat launch and dock, making it accessible by water for those cruising Lake Roosevelt.

The campground's location within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area means visitors are immediately immersed in a vast natural playground. Nearby attractions include the Grand Coulee Dam, offering tours and a spectacular laser light show, and Steamboat Rock State Park, with its unique columnar basalt formations and extensive trail system. This provides campers at Jones Bay with a wealth of options for day trips and exploration beyond the immediate campground, blending peaceful lakeside relaxation with opportunities for adventure.

Jones Bay Campground, managed by the National Park Service within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, offers a more rustic camping experience while still providing essential services for a comfortable stay.

• Campsites with Basic Amenities: The campground features 9 individual campsites, which are reservation-only and can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (subject to burn bans). Sites are mostly gravel and packed dirt, with varying levels of vegetation.

• Clean Restrooms: Customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms, specifically vault toilets. While there is no running water in the restrooms, their well-maintained condition contributes significantly to a positive camping experience.

• No Potable Water On-Site: It is crucial for campers to note that potable drinking water is NOT available at Jones Bay Campground. Visitors must bring their own sufficient supply of drinking water or have the means to purify lake water for consumption.

• Boat Launch and Dock: For water enthusiasts, the campground provides convenient access to Lake Roosevelt with its own boat launch and dock, allowing for easy access to fishing and boating activities.

• Limited Trash Services: The campground offers limited trash services. In line with Leave No Trace principles, campers are encouraged to pack out all garbage to help maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty of the area.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available for recreational vehicles, indicating a primitive camping experience primarily suited for self-contained RVs or tent camping.

• Quiet Hours and Generator Policy: Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM, ensuring a peaceful environment for all campers. Generators may only be used between 6 AM and 10 PM.

• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.

• Lakeside Location with Stunning Views: The most prominent feature of Jones Bay Campground is its picturesque location directly on the banks of Lake Roosevelt. Campers are treated to beautiful views across the lake of nearby mountain ranges and the surrounding brush steppe, providing a serene and scenic backdrop for their stay.

• Excellent Boating and Fishing: Lake Roosevelt is renowned for its recreational opportunities, and Jones Bay offers premiere access for both boating and fishing. Whether you're on a motorboat or casting a line from the shore, the lake provides ample opportunities for enjoyment. Reviewers have highlighted the "great fishing" available.

• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Described as a "nice quiet" campground, Jones Bay offers a more remote and primitive experience compared to larger, more developed sites. This provides ample space between sites, fostering a sense of seclusion and tranquility, which is ideal for those seeking to escape crowds.

• Clean Facilities: The consistently praised "clean restroom" facilities (vault toilets) are a significant highlight, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic experience even in a primitive setting.

• Unique Desert Steppe Environment: The campground is situated in the brush steppe, offering a distinct desert feel with bitter antelope brush and sage. This unique ecosystem provides an interesting landscape for exploration and wildlife viewing.

• Proximity to Grand Coulee Dam: A major nearby attraction, the Grand Coulee Dam, offers interpretive centers and a spectacular laser light show in the evenings, providing an educational and entertaining outing for campers.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The area is home to various wildlife. While one review humorously mentioned "little spiders... falling from the trees like rain" (a common occurrence with certain harmless species like orb weavers, especially in forested areas), campers can also expect to see a variety of birds, deer, and other local fauna.

For inquiries and to make reservations for Jones Bay Campground, which is managed by the National Park Service within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, please use the following resources:

Address: 55000-55126 Coulee Blvd, Electric City, WA 99123, USA

Phone: (No direct phone number for the campground is widely published as it is unstaffed). For general information about Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area campgrounds, you can contact their main office at (509) 754-7889.

Mobile Phone: (No specific mobile phone for the campground is available).

Reservations for Jones Bay Campground are mandatory and can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. It's important to remember that there is typically no cell service at the campground, so making reservations in advance is crucial.

For Washington locals, Jones Bay Campground in Electric City offers a highly suitable and distinctive camping experience that perfectly captures the essence of Eastern Washington's unique natural beauty. Its appeal lies in its blend of serene lakeside living, essential amenities, and a true sense of peaceful detachment from the everyday hustle.

Firstly, its prime location on Lake Roosevelt is a significant draw. For those living in Washington, access to such a vast and beautiful body of water, offering exceptional fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, is a cherished asset. Jones Bay provides a direct and uncrowded gateway to these aquatic adventures, making it ideal for families, anglers, and anyone seeking refreshment by the water. The stunning views across the lake and of the surrounding desert steppe also offer a visually rewarding backdrop unique to this part of the state.

Secondly, the campground's focus on a rustic, quiet, and clean environment resonates deeply with campers who prioritize tranquility and basic comfort over extensive amenities. The consistently praised clean restrooms demonstrate a commitment to visitor experience, even without running water or electricity at sites. This primitive yet well-maintained approach allows locals to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in nature without feeling entirely roughing it. The "no cell service" feature, while a logistical note, is often seen as a highlight by those truly wanting to escape digital distractions.

Moreover, Jones Bay's reservation-only system (with 9 sites) ensures a less crowded experience, which is a major advantage for locals seeking peace and quiet, particularly during peak seasons when other campgrounds might be bustling. This small capacity contributes to the secluded feel and allows campers to truly relax and enjoy their surroundings. The nearby attractions, such as the Grand Coulee Dam and Steamboat Rock State Park, also provide convenient opportunities for day excursions, adding value to a longer stay.

In conclusion, Jones Bay Campground is an excellent choice for Washington locals looking for an authentic, peaceful, and clean camping experience on Lake Roosevelt. It perfectly balances basic comfort with an immersive natural setting, making it an ideal spot for fishing, boating, quiet reflection, and creating lasting memories amidst the captivating landscapes of Eastern Washington. It's a place to embrace simplicity and the beauty of the outdoors, right in your own backyard.

Jones Bay Campground

55000-55126 Coulee Blvd, Electric City, WA 99123, USA