Swan Lake Kitchen
4.138 reviews650 East Delaware Ave, Republic, WA, 99166, USA
Swan Lake Kitchen
$35.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group shelter nonelectric costs $35.00 during May 16, 2025 - September 21, 2025 (Peak Season) and increases to $55.00 during May 15, 2026 - September 20, 2026 (Peak Season). Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step into living history at Swan Lake Kitchen, where an open-air group pavilion built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936 serves as your gateway to endless adventure. This beautifully preserved gathering space anchors the Swan Lake Campground experience, inviting families and groups to create memories against a backdrop of pristine wilderness. Whether you're launching a morning paddle across the lake, setting off on forest trails, or gathering for evening stories under the stars, this historic site seamlessly blends the past with present-day recreation.
Swan Lake Kitchen is a group camping site that caters to gatherings of up to 35 people. It is located within the larger Swan Lake Campground.
Historical SignificanceThe weathered timbers of Swan Lake Kitchen tell the story of America's Great Depression, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this recreational haven from the wilderness in 1936. Lovingly restored in 2009, the structure stands as a testament to their craftsmanship and vision. These forests have witnessed centuries of human history – from Native American tribes who first called this land home, to fur trappers navigating ancient trails, miners seeking fortune in the hills, and homesteaders building new lives in the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Swan Lake into a sun-drenched paradise, with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for swimming and outdoor dining. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing leaves create a photographer's dream, while winter blankets the landscape in snow, offering a completely different kind of beauty for the hardy souls who venture here in the off-season. The sweet spot for camping runs from June through September, when warm days give way to cool, star-filled nights around the campfire.
ElevationPerched at 3,640 feet above sea level, Swan Lake Kitchen offers a refreshing escape from lowland heat. This mountain elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, where towering evergreens provide shade and gentle breezes carry the scent of pine and wildflowers. The altitude ensures cooler nights perfect for sleeping and crisp mornings that beckon you to explore.
Natural Features and ScenerySwan Lake spreads like a mirror across 52 acres, reflecting the endless sky and surrounding forest canopy. From the kitchen pavilion, watch as morning mist rises from the water while loons call across the stillness. The forest floor bursts with seasonal treasures – wild huckleberries in late summer that stain fingers purple with their sweetness. A sandy beach beckons swimmers, while a wooden dock extends into the clear water, perfect for fishing or simply dangling your feet. This is nature's amphitheater, where every sunset becomes a show and wildlife provides the soundtrack.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Colville National Forest of northeastern Washington, Swan Lake Kitchen occupies a special corner of the Pacific Northwest's geological tapestry. This 3,640-foot perch offers commanding views of a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity. The surrounding forest tells the story of the region through its towering pines and diverse ecosystem – a living museum that has drawn people for thousands of years, from indigenous peoples following seasonal rounds to fur trappers, fortune-seeking miners, and pioneering homesteaders who all left their mark on this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe kitchen is accessible via a staircase from the parking area and a path from the beach. No additional information on accessibility for individuals with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeThe group site is situated on a large, flat open space near the beach, offering ample room for gatherings.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews note 'lots of space between campsites,' highlighting the privacy and openness of the campground.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite is ideal for groups of up to 35 people and includes amenities like covered kitchen, picnic tables, and close proximity to Swan Lake.
Best CampsitesSpecific to Swan Lake Kitchen group site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of up to 35 people.
Groups
The covered kitchen area is specifically designed for group camping and is suitable for up to 35 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site for up to 35 people, located near Swan Lake beach and accessible via staircase and paths.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 to September 21 during peak seasons; closed to reservations during off-season (September 21 to May 15).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo mention of walk-up sites. Entry to the site requires a combination lock, confirming a reservation is needed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival) incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's use fee.
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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Swan Lake Kitchen offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating. Its sandy beach features a swimming dock, and the Swan Lake Trail #14 provides scenic views and seasonal huckleberries. Kayaking is popular due to restrictions on motorized boats. Wildlife watching is excellent in the summer, as loons are commonly seen on the lake.
Hiking
The Swan Lake Trail #14 passes through the group site and offers views of the lake and seasonal huckleberries. Official sources note that hikers and bikers may pass through the group site meadow, so campers should expect some interaction with other visitors.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, but user reviews mention mixed experiences: 'Fishing was poor, kayaking great,' and 'Good camp spots, great fishing.'Swimming
The lake features a sandy beach and a swimming dock. User reviews appreciated the facilities, with one reviewer stating, 'Beautiful lake and campground. Loved listening to the loons.'Biking
Biking is permitted along the Swan Lake Trail #14, which passes through the group site.Boating
Kayaking is a recommended activity, as no motorized boats are allowed on Swan Lake. One reviewer noted, 'Kayaking great,' emphasizing the peaceful nature of the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife watching is excellent throughout the summer. Loons are frequently seen on the lake, and the campground host provides brochures on wild animals that visitors may encounter.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beach near the swimming dock.Winter Activities
No information on winter activities is provided in official sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on Swan Lake due to restrictions on motorized boats.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of bears and cougars. Food must be stored properly to avoid wildlife conflicts.
Active alertsBoil water order due to coliform contamination mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Republic Ranger Station is 15 miles north in the town of Republic.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 21, 2025 and May 15, 2026 - September 20, 2026.
Trash and recyclingGarbage containers are available on-site for waste disposal, but there is no mention of recycling facilities in either official sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Swan Lake with a sandy beach and swimming dock.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight cow droppings on trails and in the water, leading to water contamination issues.
HostHosts reported as friendly and provide local wildlife brochures, according to user reviews.
Campground Map
650 East Delaware Ave, Republic, WA, 99166, USA
Driving directionsFrom Seattle, take Highway 2 east to Wenatchee, Highway 97 north to Tonasket, then Highway 20 east to Republic. From Republic, take Highway 21 south seven miles to paved Forest Road 53 (Scatter Creek). Travel on FR 53 approximately seven miles to the entrance of Swan Lake Campground. The kitchen area is located at the far end of the campground.
The access road is paved and generally accessible year-round but requires navigating Forest Road 53 for seven miles, which may have seasonal conditions affecting access.Nearby places
Republic (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Republic, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
8 reviews
Swan Lake Kitchen is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Swan Lake Kitchen are mixed, with many praising the natural beauty and recreational opportunities while expressing concerns about cow droppings and water contamination. Overall, the campground-specific sentiment averages 4.5 stars.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the beauty of the lake, the spacious campsites, and the friendliness of the campground host. Comments such as 'Beautiful place to camp,' 'Good camp spots, great fishing,'...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues mentioned by users include cow droppings on trails and in water, loud disturbances from neighboring campers, and unpleasant smells during bathroom maintenance. One user stated, 'Now there is...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include visiting neighboring lakes, walking the Swan Lake Trail for scenic views, and being prepared for occasional disturbances from wildlife or other visitors. One user...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is praised for its wildlife viewing, swimming opportunities, and scenic trails, while early fall sees fewer crowds and quieter conditions. Negative reviews mention cow-related disturbances and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful lake and campground. Not crowded in early August." "Loved listening to the loons." "Our favorite place to camp. Then they started letting cows come into the campground. Now there is poop...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specifically for Swan Lake Kitchen highlight cleanliness and tranquility but mention occasional issues with reservation management, with one user stating, 'They had signs up announcing the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are provided.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No pet-related reviews are provided.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025