East Sullivan

Summary

East Sullivan Campground is a unique destination in Metaline Falls, WA where campers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities from swimming, fishing, boating and hiking to small aircraft flying. The natural features of the campground provide ample shade, wildlife and scenic views of Sullivan Lake and the surrounding mountains. The nearby attractions offer further exploration opportunities, especially the Salmo-Priest Wilderness area, Gardiner Cave and the Boundary Hydroelectric Project.

Overview

East Sullivan Campground is located at the north end of Sullivan Lake about five miles east of Metaline Falls, Washington. The campground provides a unique environment where campers can enjoy many recreational opportunities.

Recreation

The Sullivan Lake Basin provides campers with opportunities for swimming, biking, fishing, boating and hiking. Canoeing , kayaking, paddle boarding and power boating are among the water sports popular on the lake.  

Campers can walk directly from their campsite to a short nature trail, as well as the Lakeshore Trail, a National Scenic Trail that runs along the eastern shore of the lake. This 4.2 mile trail offers viewpoint of the lake and is a popular day-hike for all ages. Biking along local trails and roads is also popular.    

Common fish species include burbot and Kokanee salmon. Fishing in this deep mountain lake is most successful from a boat. 

Facilities

Campsites do not have a view of the lake, but they are all a short walk away. Along the lake is a day-use area, walking trail, boat ramp, picnic tables and swimming area. The group campground is located near the boat ramp and can accommodate up to 40 people. A small airstrip adjacent to the campground is used by some campers who fly in with their small aircraft, or via a chartered plane.

Natural Features

Sullivan Lake covers 1291 acres and has a depth of 320 feet. Hall Mountain rises abruptly from the eastern shore of the lake to a height of over 6000 feet. The densely wooded nature of the campground provides privacy at each campsite, and plenty of shade for warm summer days. Wildlife such as elk, moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears can be spotted in the area. In the fall, the surrounding forests are ablaze with the yellow foliage of western larch and aspen. 

Nearby Attractions

The trail to the top of nearby Hall Mountain offers great views of the lake basin and surrounding mountains. Wildflowers canb abundant on this popular trail. A 20 mile drive will take you to the Salmo-Priest Wilderness area, which offers excellent hikes and rugged mountain scenery.

Sullivan Lake is about four miles southeast of Metaline Falls, a quaint town with historic buildings. Crawford State Park is located on the west side of the Pend Oreille River near the U.S.- Canada border. In the summer, a park ranger conducts under-ground tours of Gardiner Cave, the main attraction at this park. Seattle City Light offers tours of their Boundary Hydroelectric Project, on the main-stem Pend Oreille River one mile from the international border.