Porcupine Bay campground

Introduction / Overview

For those of us in Washington who cherish the diverse natural beauty of our state, from the rugged coastlines to the majestic mountains, there’s a special allure to our expansive lakes. Porcupine Bay Campground, nestled on the shores of Lake Roosevelt near Davenport, offers a unique lakeside camping experience that many locals might find perfectly suited to their outdoor adventures. Managed by the National Park Service as part of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, this campground provides direct access to the vast waters of Lake Roosevelt, a sprawling reservoir created by the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River.

While one review mentions that "campsites are close together" and it might not be ideal "if you have small kids" due to the proximity to the lake and a perceived lack of privacy for some, it also highlights the campground's beauty and its excellent potential for "day use than camping." However, official information from the NPS clarifies that Porcupine Bay offers 20 campsites, seasonal flush facilities, a fish cleaning station, a swim beach, and a boat launch, suggesting it's well-equipped for both short visits and overnight stays. It’s a place primarily for those who embrace water-based activities like fishing and kayaking, or simply wish to enjoy the serene beauty of a large, clear lake surrounded by Ponderosa pines. For Washingtonians looking for a convenient entry point to Lake Roosevelt's recreational opportunities, Porcupine Bay Campground stands out as a practical and beautiful choice.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Porcupine Bay Campground, helping our local Washington community understand what to expect and why this location might be their next favorite outdoor destination.

Location and Accessibility

Porcupine Bay Campground is strategically located on Porcupine Bay Rd, Davenport, WA 99122, USA. This address places it directly on the Spokane Arm of Lake Roosevelt, an extensive and vital part of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area in Eastern Washington. For Washington locals, accessing Porcupine Bay involves a relatively straightforward drive. From Spokane, one typically takes State Highway 2 west for about 32 miles, then turns north on State Highway 25 at the town of Davenport, traveling approximately 12 miles before turning right onto Porcupine Bay Rd and following it for about 7 miles to the campground.

The accessibility of the campground is generally good, with paved roads leading into the site. The campground roads and campsite parking spaces are paved, making it suitable for RVs and trailers, though maximum vehicle length varies from site to site. It's important to ensure vehicles, trailers, or RVs fit within the designated paved parking spot and are not parked on grass or elsewhere. While the area offers a sense of being "tucked up into the shaded pines against the wall of the coulee," it remains easily reachable for a wide range of vehicles, including larger RVs.

Its location on Lake Roosevelt, approximately 10 miles from the Fort Spokane Visitor Center, means visitors have nearby resources and information. Davenport, the closest town, provides opportunities to "replenish basic goods," adding convenience for campers. This balance of being immersed in nature while having relatively easy access to services makes Porcupine Bay a practical and appealing choice for Washingtonians looking for a lakeside escape without venturing too far into extremely remote areas.

Services Offered

Porcupine Bay Campground, managed by the National Park Service, provides a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience on Lake Roosevelt:

• Campsites: The campground features 20 campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring. RVs and trailers are allowed, but hookups are not provided for recreational vehicles.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground offers seasonal flush toilets and year-round vault toilets. This provides convenient and relatively comfortable restroom options for campers.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground during the operational season. However, visitors should note that drinking water is shut off during the winter season (December 1 – March 31).
• Boat Launch and Dock: A key service and highlight of Porcupine Bay is its "all accommodating 1243' boat ramp and dock." This provides excellent access to Lake Roosevelt for boaters, kayakers, and those with other watercraft.
• Fish Cleaning Station: For anglers, a dedicated fish cleaning station is available, making it convenient to prepare your catch.
• Swim Beach: The campground features a designated swim beach, offering a safe and enjoyable area for visitors to cool off in the lake's comfortable summer temperatures.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for a one-time fee, providing RVers with a convenient way to dispose of wastewater.
• Picnic Areas: While not every review explicitly mentions picnic tables at every site, the NPS website confirms campsites include picnic tables. There are also likely day-use picnic areas.

It's important to note that campfires may be subject to fire restrictions, and only self-contained propane or gas stoves and lanterns might be allowed during full fire bans. Always check current alerts and conditions. Reservations are required for all standard campgrounds at Lake Roosevelt from April 1 to November 30, and can be made up to 6 months in advance via recreation.gov.

Features / Highlights

Porcupine Bay Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for Washington locals:

• Direct Lake Access and Boating Focus: The most prominent highlight is its prime location directly on Lake Roosevelt, complete with a substantial "boat ramp and dock." This makes it an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts, kayakers, and paddleboarders looking for easy water access.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Roosevelt is renowned for its fishing, with an abundance of walleye, bass, rainbow trout, and salmon. The presence of a "fish cleaning station" further enhances its appeal for anglers, making it a "Great place! Fishing and exploring."
• Designated Swim Beach: The inclusion of a swim beach provides a safe and enjoyable area for swimming in the lake's "comfortable temperatures during summer," a welcome feature for families and anyone looking to cool off.
• Ponderosa Pine Shade: The campground is "tucked up into the shaded pines," offering natural shade, which is a valuable amenity during sunny Washington summers.
• Scenic Beauty: Overlooking the "beautiful views of the lake," Porcupine Bay provides a picturesque setting for camping and day use, surrounded by the natural charm of Eastern Washington.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Lake Roosevelt area is abundant with wildlife, including moose, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of birds such as Peregrine falcons, Blue herons, Bald eagles, and osprey. This offers fantastic opportunities for nature observation.
• Accessibility and Paved Sites: The paved campground roads and parking spaces, along with the ability to accommodate RVs, make it relatively easy to access for most campers, even those with larger setups.
• Managed by National Park Service: Being part of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area and managed by the NPS ensures a certain standard of maintenance and access to park information and resources.

While one review mentions sites being "close together" and a lack of privacy, for many, the trade-off for direct lake access and the abundance of recreational opportunities makes these minor concerns. It caters to those who prioritize water activities and natural beauty over secluded, private campsites.

Contact Information

For inquiries and reservations related to Porcupine Bay Campground, Washington locals should use the official channels provided by the National Park Service and Recreation.gov.

Address: Porcupine Bay Rd, Davenport, WA 99122, USA

Phone: (509) 754-7893 (This number likely connects to the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area general information line or a similar park service contact.)

Mobile Phone: +1 509-754-7893 (Same number, confirming mobile accessibility.)

For reservations, it is crucial to use the Recreation.gov platform. Porcupine Bay Campground is a reservation-only site during its operational season (April 1 through November 30), and reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance.

General inquiries about the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area can also be directed to:

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area Mailing Address: 1008 Crest Drive, Coulee Dam, WA 99116

General Park Phone: (509) 754-7800

Always check the Recreation.gov website or contact the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area directly for the most current information on availability, fees, fire restrictions, and any alerts or conditions that may impact your visit. Cell reception may be spotty in some areas of the park, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Porcupine Bay Campground is an ideal destination for us Washington locals who are drawn to the expansive beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Roosevelt. Its suitability stems from its primary focus on lakeside access, making it a perfect hub for water-based activities that are so popular in our state. For those with boats, kayaks, or a love for fishing, the convenient "boat ramp and dock" and "fish cleaning station" are invaluable amenities that make a day on the water effortless and enjoyable.

While some might find the campsites a bit close-knit, for many, the trade-off for stunning lake views and direct access to swimming and boating is well worth it. It’s a place where families can create cherished memories, whether it's learning to fish, splashing in the swim area, or simply enjoying a picnic under the shade of the Ponderosa pines. The availability of seasonal flush toilets and potable water ensures a relatively comfortable camping experience, even without full hookups.

Porcupine Bay offers a beautiful and functional base for exploring the broader Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, providing a quintessential Washington outdoor experience that combines relaxation with adventure. Its accessibility from various parts of the state means a great escape is always within reach, making it a go-to spot for locals seeking to maximize their time on one of Washington's most impressive bodies of water.

Porcupine Bay campground

Porcupine Bay Rd, Davenport, WA 99122, USA