West Sullivan
4.9126 reviews12391 Sullivan Lake Rd Box 10
West Sullivan
$31.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $31 for standard non-electric sites and $60 for group shelters. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations, changes, or group reservations.
About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine northern shores of Sullivan Lake, West Sullivan Campground offers an intimate escape into northeast Washington's untamed wilderness. This hidden gem beckons travelers seeking tranquility, where morning mist dances across crystal-clear waters and well-maintained sites provide the perfect basecamp for adventure. Just a short stroll leads to secluded beaches, inviting swimming holes, and meandering nature trails that reveal the area's natural splendor.
West Sullivan Campground accommodates various types of camping, including standard nonelectric sites and group shelters. It is suitable for RV and tent camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Mill Pond Historic Site, where interpretive trails weave stories of early settlers and the region's logging heritage through remnants of a bygone era. Adventure seekers can venture to Crawford State Park, home to the fascinating Gardiner Cave—Washington's longest limestone cavern—where guided tours unveil millions of years of geological history hidden beneath the forest floor.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into an outdoor paradise, with sun-drenched days perfect for diving into Sullivan Lake's refreshing waters or exploring miles of hiking trails under azure skies. As autumn approaches, crisp mountain air carries hints of the coming winter, when snow blankets the landscape and the campground rests beneath a quiet white shroud. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and rushing streams, though early-season adventurers should check conditions before making the journey to this seasonal sanctuary.
ElevationPerched at 2,700 feet above sea level, West Sullivan offers a refreshing mountain climate where summer heat gives way to cool, pine-scented evenings. From this vantage point, sweeping vistas unfold across the surrounding peaks and valleys, creating a natural amphitheater where sunrise paints the mountains in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Hall Mountain soars above the campground, its 6,000-foot summit standing sentinel over a landscape of emerald conifers and the sprawling 1,291-acre Sullivan Lake below. This pristine wilderness serves as a sanctuary for an impressive array of wildlife—from the powerful grizzly and black bears that roam the dense understory to soaring bald eagles patrolling the shoreline. Lucky visitors might even glimpse the elusive woodland caribou, one of the rarest mammals in the lower 48 states.
Geological RegionDeep within the Colville National Forest of northeast Washington, West Sullivan sits at the heart of a geological wonderland where ancient forests carpet rugged mountains and pristine Sullivan Lake stretches across 1,291 acres of wilderness. The dramatic landscape, crowned by Hall Mountain's 6,000-foot peak, showcases nature's artistry through dense coniferous forests, rich understory vegetation, and the kind of unspoiled terrain that has drawn adventurers to this corner of the Pacific Northwest for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll sites are accessible, with accessible vault toilets and parking aprons made of gravel and grass. Accessible walkways are also provided.
Sites SizeThe campground is described as small, with spacious campsites suitable for RVs and tents.
Sites PrivacyA dense understory of conifer trees ensures privacy between campsites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #007 is close to outhouses when wind blows a certain direction. Site #006 received positive reviews for its proximity to water and privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #002 is noted in multiple reviews for its spaciousness and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit one vehicle per site
- specific guest limits per site not mentioned.
Groups
Group shelters are available for $60 per night during the peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged with parking aprons of gravel and grass. All sites are accessible and spaced with privacy provided by dense understory vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23 and closes September 1 for reservable individual sites. Out-of-season camping is not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome reviews mention first-come-first-serve availability in limited sites, especially outside peak days.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online prior to arrival for a $10 fee; late cancellations incur an additional charge of the first night's use fee. No refunds for cancellations after the check-in date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
West Sullivan Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. The proximity to Sullivan Lake and its scenic surroundings enhance the outdoor experience.
Hiking
The campground features access to the 4.2-mile Lakeshore Trail, a designated National Scenic Trail with lakeside viewpoints. The nearby Salmo-Priest Wilderness also offers additional hiking opportunities.Fishing
Fishing in Sullivan Lake is best done by boat, with opportunities to catch burbot and Kokanee salmon.Swimming
Campers can access a designated swimming area directly from the campground. The lake is described as clean and ideal for swimming, with warm waters during summer.Biking
Mountain biking is supported with access to surrounding Forest Service roads and trails.Boating
The lake accommodates various boating activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Boat ramps are available at the north and south ends of the lake in nearby campgrounds.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as grizzly and black bears, cougars, bald eagles, and the last woodland caribou herd in the U.S. can be observed.Beach activities
Limited beach access is available. As noted by user AmigoJuggernaut, "beach access is limited but still an amazing place to camp and swim with the family."Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions such as the Mill Pond Historic Site and tours of Gardiner Cave provide educational opportunities.Water Sports
Popular water activities include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is significant; campers must use food storage lockers. Occasional windstorms have been noted in reviews. Wildlife such as cougars and caribou may be present.
Active alertsNo active alerts listed in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Metaline Falls, which include a ranger station and basic medical assistance facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 1.
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is available, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Sullivan Lake with direct access to swimming areas and boat ramps nearby.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from neighboring generators and occasional airstrip activity. "Beach access is limited."
HostCamp hosts include Scott and Sue, who are frequently praised in user reviews for their helpfulness and friendliness.
Campground Map
12391 Sullivan Lake Rd Box 10
Driving directionsCampground is located 90 miles from Spokane. From the junction of Highway 20, take Highway 31 north towards Ione for 3 miles. About 1 mile south of Ione, turn onto the Sullivan Lake Road (County Road 9345). Travel 12 miles to the north end of Sullivan Lake. Campground is located across from the Ranger Station.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to Sullivan Lake Road. Seasonal closures and potential wildlife may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Metaline Falls (5 miles), Ione (15 miles), Spokane (90 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel, are available in Metaline Falls, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.9
26 reviews
West Sullivan is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, West Sullivan Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and family-friendly environment. However, some issues with noise from neighboring campers and limited beach access were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, picturesque setting, and friendly camp hosts. The proximity to the lake and available activities are also commonly praised.
Based on 26 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the noise from neighboring campers' generators and limited beach access. Additionally, the airstrip's occasional activity can generate noise.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend storing food securely to avoid bear encounters and using accessible food storage containers. Visiting during weekdays is advised to avoid crowds.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to warm lake waters and accessible trails. The campground is less crowded on weekdays but can get busy towards the weekend.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground was impeccably clean and well cared for." - Jennifer W. "Lovely area with so much to do." - Cassie S. "Absolutely favorite place to go camping." - AmigoJuggernaut.
Based on 26 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Campsite 002 received mixed reviews; it is close to the airstrip but spacious. Campsite 006 was praised for lake access but noted for its proximity to vault toilets.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
Many reviewers appreciated the accessible features, including the walkways and vault toilets.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025