Lake Ellen Campground
Closed for the season. Opens Memorial Day weekend (May 25, 2026) through September 30. First-come, first-served only; no advance reservations. 14-day stay limit.
Heat Advisory issued July 21 at 10:05PM PDT until July 23 at 9:00PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
* WHAT...Hot temperatures with daytime highs in the mid 90s to low 100s Wednesday and Thursday. This will pose a moderate to major risk of heat-related illness. * WHERE...Portions of North and North Central Idaho and Central, East Central, North Central, Northeast, and Southeast Washington. * WHEN...Until 9 PM PDT Thursday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Wednesday will likely be the hottest day with widespread moderate and major HeatRisk. Limited overnight relief expected across the lower elevations Wednesday and Thursday mornings with low temperatures in the mid 60s to mid 70s.
Air Quality Alert issued July 21 at 12:16PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the following agencies: Washington Department of Ecology Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency An Air Quality Alert continues for Spokane, Ferry, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, and Stevens Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday, July 22nd at 9 AM, due to current and expected wildfire smoke from regional fires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are expected to range in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups and Unhealthy categories. In Eastern Okanogan County near active wildfires, air quality may reach Very Unhealthy to Hazardous levels. When air quality is Unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air.
Air Quality Alert issued July 20 at 12:03PM PDT by NWS Spokane WA
An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the following agencies: Washington Department of Ecology Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency An Air Quality Alert has been issued for Spokane, Ferry, Lincoln, Okanogan, Grant, Pend Oreille, and Stevens Counties, effective immediately through Wednesday, July 22nd at 9 AM, due to current and expected wildfire smoke from regional fires. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are expected to range in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups and Unhealthy categories. In Eastern Okanogan County near active wildfires, air quality may reach Very Unhealthy to Hazardous levels. When air quality is Unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air.
About
Lake Ellen East Campground occupies a scenic setting of rock outcroppings and timber on the eastern shore of 78-acre Lake Ellen in Washington's Colville National Forest. The 11 campsites are well-spaced with natural vegetation providing privacy, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and parking spur. While no agency-developed tent pads exist, campers have created usable tent sites among the rocks and trees. Access is via a one-way single-lane gravel road loop. The lake is particularly popular with families due to extensive opportunities for bank fishing. Rainbow trout are stocked seasonally, and fishing from shore is accessible around much of the lake. Internal combustion motors are prohibited, making this an ideal destination for non-motorized boating, swimming, and paddling. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with frequent sightings of bald eagles, osprey, loons, beaver, turtles, and various waterfowl. This is a primitive campground with vault toilets but no potable water, trash service, or hookups. Campers must bring their own drinking water or filter from the lake, and pack out all trash. A Washington state fishing license is required, and lead weights are prohibited.
Directions
From Kettle Falls, WA: Head west on US-395 N/WA-20 W for 3.7 miles. Turn left onto WA-20 W and continue for 4.1 miles. Turn left onto Inchelium-Kettle Falls Road for 4.5 miles. Turn right onto Lake Ellen Road for 3.6 miles. Turn right to stay on Lake Ellen Road for 1.3 miles. Campground entrance on the right.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $6 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (509) 684-7000 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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