Sun Cove Resort

For Washingtonians who cherish the classic lakeside retreat, Sun Cove Resort, historically known as Rainbow Cove, on Clear Lake in Medical Lake, offers a traditional camping and fishing experience. This long-standing destination has welcomed generations of families, providing direct access to Clear Lake for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. While recent reviews suggest the resort is in a transitional phase and could benefit from significant updates, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who have frequented its shores for decades, drawn by the promise of good fishing and a laid-back atmosphere.

Sun Cove Resort presents an opportunity for locals to connect with the simple pleasures of lakeside living. It’s a place where the focus is on the water, whether you’re casting a line from the dock, heading out in a rental boat, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the lake. Despite the need for repairs mentioned by recent visitors, the resort's enduring appeal lies in its fundamental offering: a gateway to Clear Lake and its fishing opportunities. If you're a Washington local looking for a no-frills, direct-to-lake experience that echoes the camping trips of yesteryear, and you're prepared for a rustic environment, Sun Cove Resort provides that essential connection to the beautiful outdoors of Medical Lake.

Sun Cove Resort is ideally situated at 12514 S Clear Lake Rd, Medical Lake, WA 99022, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Clear Lake, a popular body of water in Medical Lake, Washington. Clear Lake is known for its recreational opportunities, particularly fishing, making the resort's location highly desirable for those looking to spend time on the water.

Accessibility to Sun Cove Resort is generally straightforward, located on a well-established road leading directly to the lakefront. Medical Lake itself is a community west of Spokane, making the resort a convenient drive for residents across Eastern Washington. The proximity to Spokane means that while you can enjoy the peace of a lakeside setting, essential services, supplies, and other urban amenities are within reasonable reach if needed. The resort accommodates various vehicle types, with a maximum vehicle/RV height of 13 feet and length of 40 feet, and offers both RV and tent camping sites. This makes it accessible for a wide range of campers, from those with larger RVs to individuals preferring tent camping. The clear directions and straightforward road access ensure a relatively easy journey for Washington locals eager to get to their lakeside getaway.

Sun Cove Resort offers a range of services designed to facilitate a traditional camping and lakeside experience, though recent feedback indicates that some facilities are in need of significant restoration.

• RV Sites: The resort provides RV sites, with specific mention of accommodating vehicles up to 40 feet in length and 13 feet in height. While hookup details aren't explicitly listed in the provided reviews, other sources indicate some RV sites may offer 50 Amp and water hookups, so it's advisable to confirm directly.
• Tent/Dry Camping Sites: Tent or "dry camping" sites are available for those who prefer a more traditional tenting experience without hookups.
• Cabin Accommodations: The resort offers Studio Log Cabins, a 2-Bedroom "Mama Bear" Log Cabin, and a 3-Bedroom "Papa Bear" Cabin, providing options for guests seeking more comfort than a tent. Pet fees apply for cabin accommodations.
• Boat Rentals: Various watercraft rentals are available, including 12-foot Livingston fishing boats with electric motors, stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats, and kayaks. However, a review notes issues with boat rentals, specifically the lack of an anchor and an additional day-use fee on top of the rental price, leading to a higher than expected cost.
• Boat Launch & Moorage: For guests bringing their own boats, there is a boat launch and trailer parking available for a fee (moorage included). Boats/trailers are prohibited in RV or campsites, requiring them to be trailered or moored at the dock.
• General Store: The resort features a "Country Store" where guests can find essentials, fishing tackle, and rent watercraft. However, a review describes the "store" as "run down looking and dirty."
• Fishing Access: The resort offers direct access to Clear Lake, including a dock for fishing. A review mentions good fishing off the dock but also notes the dock's dilapidated condition, with one section "damn near disconnected."
• Pet Friendly: The resort welcomes pets under specific conditions, including a pet fee for cabin accommodations, leash requirements, and owner responsibility for waste disposal and any damages.
• Internet & Air Conditioning: More recent information suggests the resort offers high-speed Starlink internet with a property-wide WiFi mesh system and air conditioning in cabins, aiming to blend rustic charm with modern comforts.
• Playground: A traditional playground is mentioned, inspiring imaginations for decades.

While the resort aims to provide a range of services, recent customer feedback emphasizes the need for significant maintenance and improvements to its facilities and the overall guest experience.

Sun Cove Resort, despite recent challenges, boasts several features and highlights that have historically drawn, and continue to draw, visitors to its Clear Lake location in Medical Lake, WA.

• Prime Lakeside Location: The resort's most significant feature is its direct access to Clear Lake. This makes it an ideal spot for activities like fishing, boating, and enjoying the serene lakeside environment. The lake itself is known for "great fishing off of the dock," a consistent draw for anglers.
• Long-Standing Tradition: For many local Washingtonians, Sun Cove Resort (formerly Rainbow Cove) holds sentimental value, being a place where families have camped and fished for "at least 40 years." This long history creates a sense of nostalgia and tradition for returning guests.
• Variety of Accommodations: Sun Cove offers a range of options including RV sites, tent sites, and various cabin rentals (Studio Log Cabins, Mama Bear, Papa Bear cabins), catering to different preferences and group sizes, although the condition of these accommodations might vary.
• Boat Launch Facilities: For those bringing their own watercraft, the on-site boat launch and trailer parking (with a fee) provide convenient access to Clear Lake.
• Water Activities: Beyond fishing, the availability of boat rentals (fishing boats, paddleboards, pedal boats, kayaks) means guests can actively engage in various water sports and explore the lake.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The resort welcomes pets, allowing Washington locals to bring their furry companions along for their outdoor adventures, albeit with specific rules and fees.
• Natural Surroundings: Located on 38 acres of lakefront property, adorned with various trees and plants like Carolina Poplar, Ponderosa Pine, Sage, and Arrowleaf Balsamroot, the resort offers a picturesque natural retreat.
• Potential for Stargazing: The resort highlights "exceptional Class 2 stargazing opportunities," perfect for astronomy lovers to admire the night sky away from city lights.

It's crucial for potential visitors to be aware of the recurring feedback regarding the run-down condition of the docks and the store, as well as the pricing structure for boat rentals, as these factors significantly impact the overall experience. Despite these issues, the fundamental appeal of its lake access and fishing potential remains.

For direct inquiries and reservations at Sun Cove Resort, here is the primary contact information:

Address: 12514 S Clear Lake Rd, Medical Lake, WA 99022, USA

Phone: (509) 216-6776

Mobile Phone: +1 509-216-6776

It is highly recommended to call the provided phone numbers directly to:

• Check Current Conditions: Given the reviews mentioning the "run down and raggedy" state of docks and the store, it is crucial to call and inquire about the current condition of facilities, particularly the docks, before planning your visit.
• Confirm Pricing: Verify current nightly rates for camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals, as well as any additional fees like day-use fees for boat rentals, to avoid surprises.
• Inquire about Availability: Especially during peak seasons, confirm availability for your desired dates and accommodation type.
• Discuss Specific Needs: If you have particular requirements (e.g., specific RV hookups, pet accommodations, or boat moorage), confirm these details directly.
• Get Updates on Restoration Efforts: If the resort is under new ownership or undergoing improvements, direct contact might provide information on any ongoing restoration work that could enhance your experience.

While there might be an official website (such as thesuncoveresort.com) that outlines policies and amenities, a direct phone call can provide the most up-to-date and nuanced information, particularly given the mixed recent reviews.

For Washington locals, Sun Cove Resort on Clear Lake offers a nostalgic and accessible option for a lakeside getaway, particularly for those focused on fishing and traditional camping. Despite current challenges highlighted in recent reviews regarding its condition, its long-standing history as "Rainbow Cove" for over 40 years underscores its established place in the local outdoor community. For residents who prioritize direct lake access, the potential for great fishing, and a relaxed, no-frills environment, Sun Cove can still serve as a convenient and familiar escape.

It's especially suitable for locals who are prepared for a rustic experience and who value the spirit of a classic lakeside campground over modern, polished amenities. Families who have traditionally visited may find comfort in returning to a familiar spot, and anglers will still appreciate the productive waters of Clear Lake. While it may require a bit of understanding regarding its current state, Sun Cove Resort remains a testament to simpler times by the lake, inviting those who share that appreciation to create new memories on its shores. For the right kind of adventurer, it offers an authentic, unpretentious slice of Washington's natural beauty.

Sun Cove Resort

12514 S Clear Lake Rd, Medical Lake, WA 99022, USA