Lake Thomas Campground
4.7211 reviewsPend Oreille Lake Rd, Colville, WA
Lake Thomas Campground
$10.00 - $52.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single campsites are $29/night, with an additional reservation fee. Double sites cost $52/night. Day use costs $10. Discounts are available for Interagency Senior and Access passes, as well as Golden Age and Golden Access passes (50% off on single sites only).
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About this campground
Perched on a gentle hillside with sweeping views of Lake Thomas, this tranquil campground invites you to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature's embrace. Whether you're pitching a tent in one of the private, thoughtfully-spaced sites or arriving with a small RV, you'll find yourself captivated by the shimmering lake vistas that greet you each morning. This hidden gem caters primarily to tent campers seeking an authentic outdoor experience, where the only soundtrack is the whisper of wind through towering evergreens and the gentle lapping of lake waters below.
Lake Thomas Campground primarily caters to tent campers but is also suitable for car and small RV camping. It includes walk-in sites and offers lakefront camping.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Lake Thomas Campground with its own distinctive palette. Summer days unfold with comfortable temperatures between 65°F and 85°F, perfect for lakeside adventures and evening campfires. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing light transform the landscape. Winter brings a dramatic shift, with temperatures hovering near freezing and occasional snowfall blanketing the forest in pristine white. Spring awakens the campground with intermittent rains that nourish the verdant forest floor. Pack layers and rain gear during shoulder seasons to fully enjoy nature's ever-changing moods.
ElevationAt 3,300 feet above sea level, the campground's elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from summer heat. Evening temperatures drop delightfully, making for perfect sleeping weather in your tent and cozy nights around the campfire. This mountain setting ensures refreshingly cool mornings that inspire early rises to catch the mist dancing across the lake's surface.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Douglas firs and majestic cedars create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their ancient branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The rich tapestry of conifers provides both shade and shelter, while framing stunning glimpses of Lake Thomas below. This pristine body of water forms part of an enchanting seven-mile chain of interconnected lakes, each one a sparkling jewel waiting to be explored. The interplay of forest and water creates endless opportunities for photography, quiet contemplation, and wildlife watching.
Geological RegionTucked within the vast wilderness of Colville National Forest in northeastern Washington, Lake Thomas Campground occupies a privileged position on a forested hillside. This remarkable location places you at the heart of a unique aquatic wonderland—a seven-mile chain of interconnected lakes carved by ancient geological forces. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in Douglas fir, cedar, and diverse conifers that have thrived here for generations, creating a living testament to the Pacific Northwest's natural splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available on-site.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as spacious, with some being large enough to accommodate multiple tents. One user noted, "We stayed in site 15 very large site with direct lake access" (User Review by Dawn Keplinger).
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as private and sheltered under trees. "The campsites are clean and sheltered beneath the pines with trails to the lake itself" (User Review by Heidi Hartnett).
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers seeking privacy and lake access are recommended to choose higher-numbered campsites, like 15, which are more spacious and closer to the water.
Best CampsitesSite 15 is particularly noted for its size and direct lake access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay: 14 days
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two sections near the lake. Sites are arranged to provide privacy, with 15 tent sites available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservable sites.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Thomas Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities. These include boating, both motorized and non-motorized, and fishing for cutthroat and rainbow trout. The proximity to Lake Thomas allows campers to enjoy water-based recreation, and trails nearby offer hiking opportunities.
Hiking
Access to Rufus Trail #148 is near the campground. User reviews highlight the availability of trails: "Great trails within the camp area and the nearby recreational areas" (User Review by Chris Wherity).Fishing
Fishing is popular at Lake Thomas, with species like cutthroat and rainbow trout available. A user noted, "We had success in fishing with trout and perch caught and we release" (User Review by Heidi Hartnett).Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating is allowed. There is a boat launching area with a dock. "Motorized boats and skidoos are allowed" (User Review by Heidi Hartnett).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, as noted by one camper: "We saw moose wading through the lily pads" (User Review by Ellie Christina).Water Sports
Users mention kayaking and canoeing as popular activities on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only allow campfires in developed fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is situated in bear country, requiring campers to practice safe food storage. Wildlife encounters, including moose, have been reported.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Beaver Lodge (approximately 1.2 miles away) offers basic services including gas and groceries. Further emergency services like hospitals and police stations are likely in Colville, about 40 minutes away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingBear-proof refuse storage is available. Users are advised to follow wildlife-safe food storage techniques as this is bear country.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Lake Thomas, part of a seven-mile chain of lakes. Activities like fishing and canoeing are popular.
Common complaintsSome users mentioned the presence of private residences around the lake as a drawback. Additionally, the presence of motorized boats, including jet skis, can disrupt the otherwise peaceful environment.
HostThe campground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in several reviews.
Campground Map
Pend Oreille Lake Rd, Colville, WA
Driving directionsFrom Colville, WA: Head north on N Maple St toward E 2nd Ave for 0.1 miles. Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto WA-20 E/E 3rd Ave, continue to follow WA-20 E for 24.5 mi. Turn right onto NF-200/Pendoreille Lake Rd for 1.3 miles. Destination will be on the right.
The road access includes paved highways (e.g., WA-20 E) and short unpaved stretches (NF-200/Pend Oreille Lake Rd). There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain, but the final stretch is narrow.Nearby places
Colville, WA: 25.9 miles (approximately a 40-minute drive)
Ione, WA: 16 miles
Tiger, WA: 11 miles.
Nearby supplies
Beaver Lodge, located nearby, provides gas, some groceries, and a small cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also offers fishing supplies and firewood.
Camper Reviews
4.7
11 reviews
Lake Thomas Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Thomas Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its serene environment, clean facilities, and scenic lake views. It is described as a peaceful and well-maintained site.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Campsites are described as private and clean, with beautiful views of Lake Thomas. The camp hosts are friendly, and the vault toilets are well-maintained. Fishing and kayaking opportunities are...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users noted that the lake is surrounded by private residences, which can detract from the natural setting. Additionally, motorized boats and jet skis may disrupt the tranquility of the lake.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a saw to cut downed timber for firewood. Visit the nearby Beaver Lodge for supplies and meals. Opt for site 15 for direct lake access.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is quieter during weekdays and busier on weekends. Summer months are ideal for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice little campground! The campsites were large and fairly private with lakefront views" (User Review by Sandra French). "We stayed in site 15 very large site with direct lake access" (User Review...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is highly recommended for its large size and direct lake access. Other sites are noted to be private and well-shaded.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available. No additional accessibility-specific features are mentioned.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. No specific reviews focus on pet-related experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025