Rufus Woods Lake Campground

For Washington locals who gravitate towards the expansive skies and abundant waters of Eastern Washington, Rufus Woods Lake Campground in the Nespelem Community presents a compelling destination, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. Situated along the shores of the vast Rufus Woods Lake, a reservoir of the mighty Columbia River, this campground offers direct access to some of the state's best fishing opportunities. While it provides a more open, sun-exposed environment than a forested retreat, its primary appeal lies in its excellent fishing, spacious sites, and essential RV amenities, making it a functional and popular choice for many Washingtonians looking to cast a line and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.

Rufus Woods Lake is renowned for its trophy-sized trout and kokanee, drawing anglers from across the state. The campground itself is designed to cater to these visitors, with a focus on providing convenient access to the water. Reviews highlight the "pretty great" camping spots that offer water and electricity on site, a significant convenience for RV and trailer campers. While some might miss the shade of trees, the wide-open views of the lake and surrounding arid landscapes offer a different kind of beauty, characteristic of the Moses Coulee area. This article will delve into the specifics of what makes Rufus Woods Lake Campground a noteworthy option for your next Washington outdoor adventure, providing insights into its location, services, features, and why it remains a popular choice for our local community.

Rufus Woods Lake Campground is located at 4VRW+7W, Nespelem Community, WA 99116, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Rufus Woods Lake, a reservoir formed by Chief Joseph Dam on the Columbia River, on the Colville Indian Reservation. The campground's location is somewhat remote, nestled within the expansive landscapes of Eastern Washington, approximately 10-15 miles northwest of Nespelem. Access to the campground typically involves driving on well-maintained roads leading to this developed recreation site. For Washington locals, it's a destination that offers a distinct change of scenery from the western side of the state, showcasing the unique beauty of the high desert and river country.

Upon arrival, visitors will find a campground layout that emphasizes open space. While specific road conditions within the campground itself are not detailed, the general accessibility is good for RVs and trailers, as it provides electrical and water hookups. Given its location within the Nespelem Community, visitors should be mindful of tribal land regulations and respect the local environment. The popularity of the campground, especially for fishing, means it can be quite busy, particularly during peak seasons. However, the spacious individual sites aim to provide comfort even when the campground is full. The open nature of the area also means that visitors should be prepared for direct sun exposure, especially during warmer months.

Services Offered:

• Spacious Campsites: The campground offers individual camping spots that are described as "pretty great" and spacious, accommodating various camping setups.
• Water and Electricity Hookups: A significant convenience for RV and trailer campers, each site provides on-site water and electricity hookups.
• Bathrooms with Showers: The campground is equipped with bathrooms that include showers, offering essential hygiene facilities, though their cleanliness can be inconsistent according to some reviews.
• Garbage Cans: Trash receptacles are provided for waste disposal, though they may fill up quickly during busy periods.
• Boat Launch Access: While not explicitly stated as on-site, the location on Rufus Woods Lake strongly implies easy access to launch points for fishing boats, which is a primary reason visitors come here.

Features / Highlights:

• Excellent Fishing: The absolute top highlight of Rufus Woods Lake Campground is its unparalleled fishing opportunities. Rufus Woods Lake is famous for producing large trout (rainbow trout up to 20 pounds, Brown Trout, and Lake Chelan Cutthroat) as well as Kokanee, making it a prime destination for serious anglers.
• Lakeside Location: Situated directly on Rufus Woods Lake, the campground offers immediate access to the water for fishing, boating, and enjoying lake views.
• Open and Sunny Environment: The campground is largely exposed to the sun, providing abundant sunshine throughout the day. While this means less shade, it also offers expansive views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
• Spacious Camping Spots: The individual campsites are designed to be roomy, providing ample space for campers and their gear.
• Convenience of Utilities: The availability of water and electricity at individual sites is a major draw for RV and trailer campers, offering a more comfortable camping experience.
• Popular for Motorized Boating: Given its status as a premier fishing lake, it is a popular spot for motorized fishing boats.
• Year-Round Fishing: Fishing is generally good year-round on Rufus Woods Lake, making it a consistent destination for anglers.
• Access to the Columbia River System: Being on Rufus Woods Lake, part of the Columbia River, provides a unique opportunity to experience this iconic waterway.
• Unique Landscape: The surrounding Moses Coulee area offers a distinct high desert landscape with basalt cliffs and unique geological features, providing a different kind of scenic beauty compared to Western Washington.
• Potential for Wildlife Viewing: The area can offer opportunities to view local wildlife, including various bird species.

Contact Information:

Address: 4VRW+7W, Nespelem Community, WA 99116, USA

While the campground is located within the Nespelem Community, it is often associated with public lands or managed under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) or tribal recreation departments. The provided phone numbers, (509) 486-2186 or +1 509-486-2186, might be associated with a nearby Ranger District or local land management office that oversees such sites. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Rufus Woods Lake Campground, including specific operating seasons, any fees, reservation policies (if applicable), and current conditions of facilities, it is highly recommended to contact the Colville Confederated Tribes Fish and Wildlife Department or the local tribal recreation office. You may also find information on relevant state or federal agency websites if they have a co-management agreement.

Rufus Woods Lake Campground is highly suitable for Washington locals, particularly those who are avid anglers or enjoy a more open, desert-lake camping experience. For many Washingtonians, the opportunity to fish for trophy-sized trout and kokanee in a well-stocked lake is a significant draw, and Rufus Woods Lake consistently delivers on this promise. Its location in Eastern Washington offers a compelling change of scenery from the often-forested landscapes of the west side, providing a unique high-desert and river valley aesthetic that many locals appreciate.

The convenience of water and electricity hookups at each site makes it an excellent choice for RV and trailer campers from across the state, allowing for a comfortable stay even without extensive amenities like shade trees. While the cleanliness of the bathrooms has been inconsistent, the fundamental offerings for a fishing trip are solid. For locals who prioritize direct lake access, excellent fishing, and spacious sites for their RVs, Rufus Woods Lake Campground provides a functional and rewarding outdoor experience. It's a testament to the diverse recreational opportunities available within our state, offering a distinct and often highly productive fishing getaway that perfectly suits the interests of many Washington outdoor enthusiasts.

Rufus Woods Lake Campground

4VRW+7W, Nespelem Community, WA 99116, USA