Summer Island Campground

For those of us who call Washington State home, the vast expanse of our natural landscapes offers endless opportunities for adventure and tranquility. From the rugged coastlines to the majestic mountain ranges, Washington's diverse environments provide a perfect escape from the everyday. Today, we're setting our sights on a truly unique gem nestled in Eastern Washington: Summer Island Campground. This isn't your typical drive-up campsite; it's a destination that promises a more immersive and secluded experience, perfect for locals seeking a genuine connection with nature on Lake Roosevelt.

Summer Island Campground offers a distinctive camping experience primarily accessible by boat, making it a sought-after spot for paddlers and boaters looking for a peaceful retreat. Imagine arriving at your campsite after a scenic paddle or boat ride, ready to unwind in a serene environment, far from the hustle and bustle. While its "boat-in" nature adds an element of adventure, it also helps preserve the campground's tranquil atmosphere, ensuring a more intimate interaction with the surrounding wilderness. This article will provide you, a Washington local, with an engaging and factual overview of Summer Island Campground, highlighting its unique accessibility, available amenities, and the compelling features that make it an ideal choice for your next outdoor escape.

Summer Island Campground is located at 2155 Ray Anderson Rd, Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA. This places it within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, a vast and stunning reservoir formed by the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River. The campground itself is situated on an island within this expansive lake, which is the key to its unique accessibility.

Critically, Summer Island is a "boat-in campground." This means vehicle access is not available directly to the campsites. Instead, campers typically launch their boats or kayaks from nearby boat launches, such as those near Evans Campground or Kettle Falls, and then paddle or motor across the lake to Summer Island. One reviewer specifically mentioned, "Worth the paddle from Evans," confirming this mode of access. This characteristic immediately sets it apart from many other campgrounds and appeals to those who enjoy watersports and a more secluded experience. While the physical address is listed, it serves more as a general locator for the area, with the true access point being the surrounding waters of Lake Roosevelt. This unique access contributes significantly to its peaceful atmosphere and makes it a distinct choice for Washington locals looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

As a boat-in campground, Summer Island offers a set of basic amenities designed to support a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. It's important to remember that the focus here is on immersion in nature, so modern conveniences found at developed RV parks will be limited.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers spacious campsites, each typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. These amenities are essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (when fire restrictions permit).
• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities, often in the form of vault toilets, are available to maintain hygiene and minimize environmental impact in this natural setting.
• Drinking Water Facilities: Public information indicates that clean drinking water facilities are available, which is a crucial convenience for campers, especially given the boat-in access.
• Garbage Disposal Areas: The campground provides designated areas for garbage disposal, making it convenient for campers to keep their sites clean and adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles. This helps manage waste effectively in a remote location.
• Boat Docks: Given its boat-in nature, it's highly probable that there are designated boat docks or landing areas to facilitate easy access and mooring for watercraft. One review stated, "Nice boat in campground," implying suitable facilities for boats.

While these are essential services, campers should always arrive prepared for a more self-sufficient experience, bringing all necessary supplies for their stay.

Summer Island Campground's true appeal lies in its unique features and the unforgettable experiences it offers, particularly for Washington locals seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure.

• Secluded "Boat-In" Experience: This is the defining feature. The necessity of arriving by boat or paddle craft ensures a more serene environment, as it filters out casual visitors and motor vehicle traffic. This leads to a quieter campground, often resulting in a more profound connection with nature.
• Paddling Paradise: For kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders, the journey to Summer Island is part of the adventure. Launching from nearby points like Evans or Kettle Falls and paddling across Lake Roosevelt offers scenic views and a great workout, culminating in a rewarding arrival at a peaceful island haven.
• Stunning Lake Roosevelt Setting: The campground is nestled within the vast and picturesque Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. The lake itself is a massive body of water, offering expansive views, opportunities for swimming, and various water-based activities. The forested surroundings add to the natural beauty.
• Fishing Opportunities: Lake Roosevelt is known for its diverse fish populations, including walleye, bass, rainbow trout, and even salmon and sturgeon in season. Campers at Summer Island have direct access to prime fishing spots, making it an excellent base for anglers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The relatively undisturbed nature of Summer Island and its surroundings makes it an ideal spot for wildlife observation. Expect to see various bird species, and potentially larger mammals along the lake shores or on the island itself. Being a peaceful spot, animals might be more comfortable approaching the area.
• Escape from Crowds: Compared to more easily accessible campgrounds, Summer Island's boat-in requirement naturally reduces crowds, providing a more exclusive and tranquil camping experience. This is a significant draw for those seeking solitude and a true escape.

It is important to note the concern raised by a reviewer about previous instances of vandalism and trash left by "power boaters," which "will attract wildlife." While the campground is "usually lovely," this highlights the importance of respecting the environment and practicing Leave No Trace principles to preserve its natural beauty.

For direct inquiries regarding Summer Island Campground, or for information about Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area and boat launch points, you can use the following general contact details for the area's management, likely the National Park Service or a related entity.

Address: 2155 Ray Anderson Rd, Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA

Phone: (208) 717-4553

Mobile Phone: +1 208-717-4553

Summer Island Campground near Kettle Falls is a truly remarkable destination perfectly suited for Washington locals seeking an authentic and somewhat adventurous outdoor experience. Its defining characteristic as a "boat-in" campground makes it an ideal choice for those who own kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats, providing a unique sense of accomplishment upon arrival and ensuring a more secluded and peaceful environment. For Washingtonians looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, the journey to Summer Island is as much a part of the adventure as the stay itself.

The tranquil setting on Lake Roosevelt offers abundant opportunities for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing, appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to reel in a prize catch, a nature photographer capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife, or simply someone yearning for quiet nights under a starry sky away from urban light pollution, Summer Island delivers. The available basic amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, drinking water, and garbage disposal, ensure a comfortable yet rustic experience, aligning with the expectations of seasoned campers who appreciate simplicity.

While a past concern about litter left by inconsiderate visitors exists, the overall consensus is that Summer Island is "usually lovely," emphasizing the responsibility of all campers to maintain its pristine condition. For Washington locals, Summer Island Campground represents an accessible yet distinctly wild escape, promising memorable moments of solitude, recreation, and connection with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. It's a place where the effort of getting there is richly rewarded by the serenity and untouched charm you find upon arrival.

Summer Island Campground

2155 Ray Anderson Rd, Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA