How much does camping cost at Lake Thomas Campground?

Camping fees at Lake Thomas Campground range from $10-$52/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

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

Lake Thomas Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservable sites.

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

Yes! Lake Thomas 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 Lake Thomas Campground?

Lake Thomas Campground is open Open from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.. 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 Lake Thomas Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Lake Thomas Campground?

Fire policies at Lake Thomas Campground: Only allow campfires in developed fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Lake Thomas Campground have?

Lake Thomas Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Lake Thomas Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lake Thomas 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 Lake Thomas Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Lake Thomas Campground?

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

Lake Thomas Campground

4.41

29 reviews

Pend Oreille Lake Rd, Colville, WA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Tent Camping Washington#2 Hidden Gem Campgrounds Washington Fishing Camping Washington +6 more

Quick Facts

3,300 ft

Price

$10 - $52/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open from Memorial D...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,300 ft

Price

$10 - $52/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open from Memorial D...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Thomas Campground

$10.00 - $52.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single Site: $31 per night Day Use: $10 per vehicle per day Season Pass for Colville and Idaho Panhandle: $52

Standard Site Fee$29.00

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USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Pend Oreille Lake Rd, Colville, WA

Lake Thomas Campground

Pend Oreille Lake Rd, Colville, WA

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.

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.

Weather at Lake Thomas Campground

Best Time to Camp at Lake Thomas Campground

Summer delivers the most comfortable conditions, with daytime highs between 65°F and 85°F and nighttime lows in the mid-40s to mid-50s. Water-based activities peak during this window when boat ramps and trails are fully accessible. Expect crowds on Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends, but weekday stays tend to be quiet. Shoulder seasons bring rain and cooler temperatures. Winter sees near-freezing conditions and occasional snow.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Open Memorial Day to Labor Day; 65–85°F and peak water activities make summer ideal.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.

About Lake Thomas Campground

Lake Thomas Campground sits on a forested hillside in Colville National Forest, offering 15 tent and primitive sites with views of the lake below. Sites run $10-52 per night and are sheltered under Douglas fir and cedar. No cell service. Vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers are provided.

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 SeasonsSummer delivers the most comfortable conditions, with daytime highs between 65°F and 85°F and nighttime lows in the mid-40s to mid-50s. Water-based activities peak during this window when boat ramps and trails are fully accessible. Expect crowds on Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends, but weekday stays tend to be quiet. Shoulder seasons bring rain and cooler temperatures. Winter sees near-freezing conditions and occasional snow.

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 SceneryThe campground occupies a hillside at 3,300 feet elevation within a seven-mile chain of interconnected lakes. Douglas fir and cedar provide shade and privacy for campsites. Trails run from camp down to Lake Thomas. The surrounding Colville National Forest stretches across northeastern Washington, offering dense conifer stands and multiple lakes for exploration. Views of Lake Thomas are visible from several sites, though private residences line portions of the shoreline.

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.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites offer views of Lake Thomas, described as 'beautiful and serene' by multiple user reviews. However, some reviews noted that the lake is surrounded by private residences, which may detract from the natural ambiance.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodge on-site, but the nearby Beaver Lodge offers accommodations, including a cafe and grocery supplies.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is arranged in two sections near the lake. The 15 sites are spaced to provide privacy under tree cover.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservable sites.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available on-site.

Site 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).

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 SitesCampers 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 offers the largest footprint and direct lake access. Reviewers note it can accommodate multiple tents. Sites throughout the campground are described as private and sheltered under pines, with trails leading to the lake.

Amenities available

Lake Thomas Campground provides several amenities to enhance the camping experience. The campground offers restrooms, picnic tables, and bear-proof communal storage lockers. While potable water is not available at this site, there are water spigots on-site (4 standard and 2 threaded). The campground features fire rings and picnic tables at each of the 15 sites. There is no provision for Wi-Fi, RV hookups, or laundry facilities.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

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

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is situated in bear country, requiring campers to practice safe food storage. Wildlife encounters, including moose, have been reported.

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. Vault toilets are provided and are reported to be clean and well-maintained. One user stated, "The latrine toilets are well maintained and clean smelling" (User Review by Todd Hansen).

Food Storage RequiredCommunal bear-proof storage lockers are available for safe food storage.

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).

Fire PolicyOnly allow campfires in developed fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesBeaver 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.

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof refuse storage is available. Users are advised to follow wildlife-safe food storage techniques as this is bear country.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Lake Thomas, part of a seven-mile chain of lakes. Activities like fishing and canoeing are popular.

Camp HostThe campground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in several reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

29 reviews

Recommended

Lake Thomas Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 29 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 29 reviews

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 29 reviews

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 29 reviews

Pro 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 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is quieter during weekdays and busier on weekends. Summer months are ideal for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities.

Based on 29 reviews

Camper 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...

Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available. No additional accessibility-specific features are mentioned.

Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. No specific reviews focus on pet-related experiences.

Based on 29 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Anglers and kayakers who can snag site 15 early will get direct lake access and room to spread out. Rufus Trail #148 is walkable from camp, the hosts are genuinely helpful, and $31/night is fair for the privacy you get under the firs.

Skip if

No potable water, no showers, no cell signal, and no reservations means showing up and hoping. Jet skis on the lake and private homes along the shoreline also cut into the wilderness feel some campers are expecting.

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Campgrounds

Colville National Forest

Lake Thomas Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

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

Overview

<p>Most sites are tent sites, private and have a view of the lake. This campground is located on a small hillside and overlooks Lake Thomas. Access to <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/colville/recreation/recarea/?recid=68036">Rufus Trail #148</a> is near this campground.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 3,300 ft. The campground has two sections next to Lake Thomas providing several campsites with access to lake which is shared with private residences. This compact campground is best suited for car, tent, and small RV campers. The vegetation in the campground is Douglas fir, cedar and other conifers. Lake Thomas is one of the lakes in the seven-miles of interconnected Little Pend Orielle Lakes. Nearby Beaver Lodge has gas, some groceries, a little cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and other services. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. Communal bear proof storage lockers are available in the campground.

Seasons & access

Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day

Facilities

Lake Thomas is 163 acres Hiking: None Fishing: Cutthroat and Rainbow trout

Water activities

Lake Thomas is 163 acres

Directions

From Ione, WA, take State Rt 31/20 south 3.5 miles to Colville sign in Tiger, WA. Turn right, onto Rt 20 West and go 11 miles to Colville campgrounds sign. Turn left onto Pend Oreille Lk Rd and go 1.2 miles into campground.

National Forest: Colville National Forest
Ranger District: Three Rivers - Kettle Falls Colville National Forest 38
Elevation: 3300
Rate: $18 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day Weekend