How much does camping cost at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Crawfish Lake Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Crawfish Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Crawfish Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First-come, first-served availability for all sites with no reservation options.

Can I see photos of campsites at Crawfish Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Crawfish Lake Campground has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Crawfish Lake Campground?

Crawfish Lake Campground is open Peak season runs from Memorial Day through October 15.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Crawfish Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Crawfish Lake Campground: Campfires permitted only in developed fire pits.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Crawfish Lake Campground have?

Crawfish Lake Campground has 19 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Crawfish Lake Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Crawfish Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Crawfish Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Crawfish Lake Campground include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Crawfish Lake Campground

4.36

44 reviews

Crawfish Lake Campground, Tonasket Ranger District, Okanogan National Forest, Washington

Summer Destination

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Washington Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Washington

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

May 1 - October 27

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

May 1 - October 27

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Crawfish Lake Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $10 per night

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

Crawfish Lake Campground, Tonasket Ranger District, Okanogan National Forest, Washington

Crawfish Lake Campground

Crawfish Lake Campground, Tonasket Ranger District, Okanogan National Forest, Washington

Nearby places

Riverside is the closest city, approximately 20 miles away.

Driving directionsFrom Riverside, WA, at the intersection of Main St., State St. and Tunk Valley Rd., take Tunk Valley Rd. east 0.2 miles to a 'T' intersection. Turn left onto Tunk Cr. Rd. and go 19.7 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right onto Forest Rt. 100 (single lane) and go 0.4 miles to campground on right. Note: The last 4.8 miles are dirt with washboards.

The roads are mostly paved except for the final 4.8 miles, which are dirt with washboards. The parking aprons are uneven and composed of sand and rocks, and the interior road is narrow and rough.

Weather at Crawfish Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Crawfish Lake Campground

Summer brings the most reliable conditions and full lake access. Daytime highs run 60–80°F, with nights cooling to 35–50°F. Water activities and shoreline trout fishing peak during these months. Calm mornings are best for paddling and wildlife viewing. July and August draw the most visitors, especially over holiday weekends, so reserve early for lakefront sites. Early and late season, expect freezing temperatures and possible snow.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Transitional forest with golden larch needles; fewer bugs later and crisp fall colors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season runs from Memorial Day through October 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 1 - October 27

About Crawfish Lake Campground

Crawfish Lake Campground sits along an 80-acre mountain lake in the Okanogan National Forest at 4,500 feet elevation. The 19 rustic sites include 11 lakefront spots, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Electric motors only on the lake keep mornings quiet for fishing and paddling. Cell service is minimal, even with a booster.

Crawfish Lake Campground accommodates tent camping and small RVs, with rustic sites offering lake views. It lacks RV hookups and group camping facilities but offers single and double campsites.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions and full lake access. Daytime highs run 60–80°F, with nights cooling to 35–50°F. Water activities and shoreline trout fishing peak during these months. Calm mornings are best for paddling and wildlife viewing. July and August draw the most visitors, especially over holiday weekends, so reserve early for lakefront sites. Early and late season, expect freezing temperatures and possible snow.

ElevationPerched at 4,500 feet above sea level, Crawfish Lake Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevated position means you'll enjoy naturally air-conditioned camping, with temperatures running 10-15 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The altitude creates perfect conditions for comfortable summer camping and spectacular star-gazing through the thin, clear mountain air.

Natural Features and SceneryThe east shore of Crawfish Lake sits in a glacially carved basin surrounded by Tamarack, Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, and Aspen. This transitional forest zone creates a mix of textures that shifts from spring greens to golden larch needles in fall. The lake itself holds crystal-clear mountain water. Wildlife is abundant. Eagles soar overhead, and reviewers mention seeing plenty of animals near camp. Some sites border private residential areas, which limits seclusion in those spots.

Geological RegionDeep within the Okanogan National Forest, Crawfish Lake Campground showcases the remarkable diversity of the inland Northwest's mountain ecosystems. The unique blend of Tamarack, Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, and Aspen tells the story of a transitional forest zone where different habitats converge. This geological sweet spot creates a tapestry of textures and colors that changes with the seasons - from the fresh green growth of spring to the golden larch needles of fall. The surrounding landscape bears the ancient marks of glacial activity, with the lake itself cradled in a basin carved by ice age forces, now filled with crystal-clear mountain water.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites enjoy views of the lake, enhancing the natural ambiance.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations or additional lodging options are provided at Crawfish Lake Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned in the source materials.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum length of stay: 14 days.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground runs along the east shore with 15 single sites and 4 double sites. Parking is sand and rock. Several reviewers noted challenges maneuvering larger trailers on uneven aprons and tight access points.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability for all sites with no reservation options.

Cancellation PolicyNo details provided.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available.

Site SizeSites are described as rustic but attractive, with parking composed of sand and rocks. Some campers reported challenges maneuvering larger trailers.

PrivacyThe campsites along the lakeshore offer varying levels of privacy. Some are adjacent to private residential areas, which may limit seclusion.

Total Campsites19 campsites

Recommended SitesSites bordering the lakeshore are recommended for better views and ambiance.

Best CampsitesReviewers highlight the lakefront sites as top picks. Site 9 earned specific praise in one review. Competition for these waterfront spots is high in summer.

Amenities available

Crawfish Lake Campground offers 19 campsites adjacent to Crawfish Lake. The campground features 15 single sites and 4 double sites, with 11 sites bordering the lakeshore. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and parking spaces suitable for small trailers or vehicles. Two vault toilet facilities are available, but potable water and garbage facilities are not provided. Users are expected to pack their garbage out. "Mature Tamarack, Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and other conifers provide ample shade," according to official comments, and aspen trees offer "pleasant fall colors."

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Crawfish Lake Campground offers recreational activities such as non-motorized boating, picnicking, and lake fishing. The lake is home to Eastern Brook trout, and wildlife such as ducks and loons are often sighted, creating opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is located in bear country, requiring proper food storage practices. Horseflies and mosquitoes can be an issue during certain seasons.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; however, two vault toilets serve the campground. "Vault-style toilets... seemed clean enough," according to one user.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

44 reviews

Recommended

Crawfish Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground’s scenic views, peaceful environment, and clean facilities. However, concerns about vault toilets and minimal phone service were mentioned.

Review Summaries

Based on 44 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praised the campground's cleanliness, scenic lake views, and abundant wildlife. "Beautiful little lake and the campground was very clean," noted one visitor. Another said, "Spacious clean...

Based on 44 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns about vault toilet maintenance and the uneven parking aprons were commonly cited. "Don't clean out the restroom holding tank often enough," mentioned one reviewer, while others highlighted...

Based on 44 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 9 was mentioned specifically. "We stayed in site 9 and didn't have too much trouble getting in with our 20 foot trailer." Other reviews favor lakeside spots for their views.

Based on 44 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing bug spray to handle seasonal horseflies and mosquitoes, packing out garbage due to lack of waste facilities, and using kayaks to explore the lake.

Based on 44 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In summer, horseflies and mosquitoes may pose issues for campers. Bugs are less of a problem later in the season, according to reviews. Winter conditions may include snow, making the campground...

Based on 44 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This one might have set the bar high for other free campsites." "It was a calm camping trip listening to the water and watching the sunsets!" "Absolutely amazing. Quite. Lots of wildlife." "Great...

Based on 44 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available, although no further accessibility features were noted.

Based on 44 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. "My son enjoyed the lake and it was peaceful." Some reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly policy.

Based on 44 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Brook trout anglers, kayakers, and anyone hauling a tent or a small trailer (site 9 works for rigs up to 20 feet) will get a clean, calm lakeside camp with eagle and loon sightings most mornings, all for $10 a night on a first-come basis.

Skip if

Bigger rigs will fight uneven, rock-and-sand parking aprons and tight access points. No potable water, no cell signal even with a booster, vault toilets with inconsistent maintenance, and zero hiking trails mean this isn't a good fit if any of those are non-negotiables.

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Lyman Lake dispersed camping sits at 2,884 feet in Colville National Forest near Tonasket, offering four primitive sites with basic amenities. Three sites cluster near vault toilets, while a fourth across the lake provides more isolation. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. The area isn't well signed, so expect to navigate carefully.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Colville National Forest

Long Lake Campground offers 12 sites beneath Douglas fir and conifers in Colville National Forest, near Republic. The $8-per-night campground accommodates both tents and larger RVs on level ground, with vault toilets, potable water from a hand pump, and picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Chipmunks scurry through camp, and loons call across the water at dusk.

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Ferry Lake Campground sits at 3,488 feet in Colville National Forest near Republic, Washington. The nine sites accommodate tents, camper vans, and small RVs (large rigs won't have room to turn around). Each site has a parking spur, picnic table, and fire ring. Fees run $6 per night. Internal combustion motors are banned on the lake, keeping the water quiet for paddling and fishing.

$6.00 - $6.00 / night

Colville National Forest

Ten Mile Campground sits in Colville National Forest near Republic, Washington, at the confluence of Ten Mile Creek and the Sanpoil River. The campground offers five primitive tent sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables for $6 per night (open May 22–Sept 30). There's no potable water or garbage service, so bring your own water and pack out all trash.

$6.00 - $6.00 / night

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Bonaparte Lake Campground

1 West Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855, USA

Bonaparte Lake Campground sits at 3,600 feet in the Colville National Forest foothills near Tonasket, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The small campground offers tent sites, RV spots, primitive options, group areas, and cabins along a mountain lake known for fishing and kayaking. Spacious sites and well-maintained facilities draw visitors seeking a quiet base for hiking into the Bonaparte, Spur, and Cumberland Mountains.

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Colville National Forest

Sugarloaf Campground sits on the shore of Sugarloaf Lake in Colville National Forest, offering four primitive sites at $10 per night. The campground has vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but no water or garbage service. Reviewers consistently praise the privacy and seclusion, though mosquitoes can be relentless during warmer months.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

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Crescent Lake Campground sits on a 20-acre lake in Colville National Forest, near Metaline Falls at 2,628 feet elevation. The 14-site campground operates May 23 through October 30 and offers fire rings and picnic tables. This is a small, uncrowded option for boaters and anglers who want lakefront access without the traffic of larger regional lakes.

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Pierre Lake Campground sits on 15 sites split across two areas on the lake's shoreline in Colville National Forest. The north end holds six sites that fit smaller RVs and trailers. The south end has nine sites better for tents and pickup campers. A boat ramp and 175-foot fishing dock separate the two sections. Sites run $2-6 per night. There's no potable water or cell service.

$2.00 - $6.00 / night

Campgrounds

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Crawfish Lake Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Crawfish Lake Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Crawfish Lake is adjacent to this 19 site campground (15 single and 4 double sites), which also has a boat launch. Two toilet facilities service the campground. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and parking for small trailers or vehicles. Eleven sites border the lakeshore. The Common Loon has been heard and seen on the lake. No water or garbage facilities available. Please pack garbage out. <br /></p>

About the campground

The elevation is 4,500 ft. This pack it in, pack it out campground stretches along the east shore of Crawfish Lake. Mature Tamarack, Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and other conifers provide ample shade. Aspen and other deciduous trees suggest pleasant fall colors. Campers must share the lake with private residents. Campsites are rustic but attractive; many enjoy views of the lake and a few have wooden benches. This is bear country; practise safe food storage techniques.

Seasons & access

Open Memorial Day through October 15

Facilities

Crawfish Lake is 80 acres and electric motor-only Hiking: None Fishing: Eastern Brook trout

Water activities

Crawfish Lake is 80 acres and electric motor-only

RV information

The parking aprons are uneven and composed of sand and rocks. The interior road is narrow and rough.

Directions

In Riverside, WA, at the intersection of Main St., State St. and Tunk Valley Rd., take Tunk Valley Rd. east 0.2 miles to a "T" intersection. Turn left onto Tunk Cr. Rd. and go 19.7 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear right onto Forest Rt. 100 (single lane) and go 0.4 miles to campground on right. Note: The last 4.8 miles are dirt with washboards.

National Forest: Okanogan National Forest
Ranger District: Tonasket Okanogan National Forest 152
Elevation: 4500
Rate: No change
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: May 1 – October 27