Bonaparte Lake Campground

Star4.68
151 reviews
1 West Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA
Scenic ViewsFishingSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,600 ft

Price

$20 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open from May 14 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Bonaparte Lake Campground
$20.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season fees range from $20 to $125 depending on site type. Standard non-electric sites are $20-$40 per night, while group sites are $125 per...
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Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
509-486-2186ejpeterson@fs.fed.us
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What Campers Say

4.68

Top-Rated

Based on 151 reviews

95 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulspacioushiking

Some mention

cell service

"Most reviews highlight the campground's serene atmosphere, clean facilities, and scenic beauty. The friendly and helpful camp hosts are frequently praised, and many reviewers recommend the South Loop for its quiet environment and proximity to the lake."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1 West Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA

Bonaparte Lake Campground

1 West Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA

Driving directionsFrom Tonasket, Washington, take State Route 20 East for 24 miles. Turn left onto the Bonaparte Recreation Area turnoff (Okanogan County Road 4953). Continue on Okanogan County Road #4953 for approximately 6 miles to the Bonaparte Lake Campground entrance on the left-hand side of the road.
Road access to Bonaparte Lake Campground is paved and straightforward. The entrance is accessible via Okanogan County Road 4953, which is well-maintained, making navigation easy for both cars and RVs.
Nearby places
Tonasket (24 miles, ~30 minutes)
Beaver Lake (~7 miles, ~15 minutes)
Lost Lake (~10 miles, ~20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from Bonaparte Resort, located next door to the campground. It offers a small store, restaurant, and showers for a fee.

Best Time to Camp at Bonaparte Lake Campground

Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lakeside lounging, though mountain weather can surprise you with an afternoon thunderstorm. As autumn paints the forest in gold and crimson, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland with temperatures that dip below freezing, while spring awakens the forest with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
5.0 / 5
Top 4% in WA

Most popular season; warm days, full access to lake activities and high review praise.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn offers crisp weather and colorful forest displays; fishing and hiking remain good.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens mid-May; late-spring access but conditions and mosquitoes can be variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (open May 14–Oct 16).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 14, 2025 - October 16, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 14 to October 16 annually. Reservable season runs from June 25 to October 16.
  • Current Alerts: Trails on the west side of the lake are washed out due to fire damage and erosion.

About Bonaparte Lake Campground

Nestled along the pristine southern shores of Bonaparte Lake, this enchanting campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its towering ponderosa pines and majestic Douglas firs. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, gliding across the lake in your kayak, or exploring scenic mountain trails with your family, Bonaparte Lake Campground serves as your perfect basecamp for Pacific Northwest adventures.
Bonaparte Lake Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, including RVs, tents, and groups. The nearby resort offers cabins for those seeking additional comfort.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

This campground offers a plethora of recreational activities, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is a highlight, with anglers targeting rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. The lake also supports kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, with a swimming dock provided. Hikers can enjoy trails like the Pipsissewa Trail and the South Side trail, which lead to scenic overlooks and a fire lookout. Biking on the surrounding roads is also a noted activity.
HikingTrails like the Pipsissewa Trail, a two-mile hike leading to an overlook, and the South Side trail, which extends five miles to the Bonaparte Mountain Fire Lookout, are accessible from the campground. These trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding areas.
FishingFishing is a major draw, with the lake being home to rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. An accessible dock and boat launch enhance the fishing experience.
SwimmingA dedicated swimming dock in the middle of the lake provides a safe and enjoyable swimming area.
BikingThe surrounding roads offer opportunities for road biking, with reviewers mentioning the scenic routes.
BoatingKayaking and canoeing are popular water activities, and the lake is also suitable for small boats due to restrictions on boat speeds.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include mule deer, elk, moose, and the rare northern loon. Birdwatchers will find the lake particularly rewarding.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsVisitors should be cautious of black bears and mosquitoes. Trails on the west side of the lake have been damaged due to fires and landslides.
Active AlertsTrails on the west side of the lake are washed out due to fire damage and erosion.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available at campsites, designed to protect food from wildlife such as bears.

Weather at Bonaparte Lake Campground

Reviews

4.7
151 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Bonaparte Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most reviews highlight the campground's serene atmosphere, clean facilities, and scenic beauty. The friendly and helpful camp hosts are frequently praised, and many reviewers recommend the South Loop for its quiet environment and proximity to the lake.
Review Summaries
Based on 151 reviews

What Campers Love

Common positives include spacious campsites, well-maintained bathrooms, breathtaking views of the lake, and a peaceful ambiance. Activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking are highly appreciated.
Based on 151 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of cell service, showers within the campground, and unleashed dogs were noted as drawbacks by some campers.
Based on 151 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend reserving sites in the South Loop for better lake views and tranquility. Bringing mosquito repellent and preparing for unpredictable weather are also advised.
Based on 151 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying the warm weather and lake activities. Mosquito levels vary by year, with some summers being more affected.
Based on 151 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This is the most peaceful place I've ever been to!" - Mindy Scott; "The loons on the lake are special." - Shawn Robins; "Lovely campsites, clean bathrooms & a beautiful lake." - Matt Edwards; "Our...
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Based on 151 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 11 is praised for its lakeside location and proximity to bathrooms. Site 27 is frequently mentioned as one of the best spots, offering direct lake access and spacious layouts.
Based on 151 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features like fishing docks and restrooms are praised. The campground's layout and amenities make it a good choice for visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 151 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some reviewers noted issues with unleashed dogs at campsites. Owners are advised to keep pets secured.
Based on 151 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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