Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is located in northeastern Washington state and spans over 130 miles along the stunning Columbia River. Established in 1946, it serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
The area's historical background is rich and captivating. Before the establishment of the recreation area, the region was home to Native American tribes, particularly the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Their ancestral lands were flooded when the Grand Coulee Dam was constructed in the early 1940s, creating Lake Roosevelt and necessitating the relocation of several tribes.
Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this historical past. They can visit the ancestral lands of the tribes, like the Sanpoil Village site, and learn about their culture and traditions. The Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area also encompasses a part of the historic Columbia River, which played a crucial role in the region's development during the fur trading era and the expansion westward.
In addition to its historical significance, Lake Roosevelt offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. Boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the numerous boat launches and marinas scattered throughout the area. Anglers can cast their lines to catch a variety of fish species, such as rainbow trout, walleye, and chinook salmon. There are also ample opportunities for swimming and water skiing on the lake's sparkling waters.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the recreation area offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. With diverse terrain ranging from rugged cliffs to peaceful forests, hikers can enjoy scenic views and observe wildlife along the way. Camping facilities are available for visitors who wish to spend more time in nature and immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings.
Beyond the bounds of Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area lies a plethora of attractions. Visitors can explore the Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world, and discover its fascinating history at the Visitor Center. Just south of the recreation area, people can visit the historic Fort Spokane, which was strategically built in the late 1800s to protect settlers and travelers in the region.
Overall, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. From boating and fishing to hiking and camping, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this scenic and culturally rich region of Washington.
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is located in the beautiful state of Washington. Situated along the northeastern borders of the state, this enchanting recreation area spans across a sprawling landscape. Nestled within the majestic Columbia River Valley, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area boasts remarkable geographical features. Flanked by towering cliffs and framed by rolling hills, this gem of a location showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The recreation area encompasses vast stretches of pristine and sparkling water, with Lake Roosevelt being formed by the impounded waters of the Columbia River. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the scenic wonders of Washington.
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area1008 Crest DriveCoulee Dam, WA 99116Driving DirectionsPhone: 509-754-7800Web: Link
The best time to visit Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area would be during the months of May, June, and September. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities with average maximum temperatures ranging from 70°F in May to 76°F in September. Additionally, these months have lower average monthly precipitation compared to other months, with May having the lowest at 1.5 inches. The visitor counts during these months are also relatively lower compared to the peak months of July and August, making it possible to enjoy the area without large crowds.
Some of the activities you can do in Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area are: Astronomy Stargazing Food Picnicking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Motorized Boating Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Swimming Group Camping RV Camping Freshwater Fishing Volunteer Vacation Citizen Science Sailing Freshwater Swimming
Learn about these topics at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area: Animals Birds Geology Night Sky Native American Heritage Fish Trails Colonization and Settlement Explorers and Expeditions Military Religion and Spirituality Schools and Education Astronomy Forts Commerce Trade
Located in the former guardhouse of historic Fort Spokane, the visitor center and museum are open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day of each year. This facility has no entrance fee. 2026 Season: Fort Spokane Visitor Center is temporarily closed while crews complete major repairs to the historic building. For an audio description of the park brochure, visit the Publications or Accessibility page of our website: nps.gov/laro
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Spokane Visitor Center and Museum.
Cloverleaf is a small, walk-in only campground near Gifford. Tent sites are tucked into the pines with lake shore access. This campground is great for those wanting a more rugged, primitive camping experience with standard amenities like water and pit toilets. Although small, Cloverleaf Campground is not as popular as other campgrounds and doesn’t often fill. Note: Cloverleaf Campground is only open May 1 through September 30.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 7
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Evans Campground runs lengthwise along the lakeshore. One end is capped with the group sites and the boat launch. The other end is a Day Use Area with a covered picnic area and swim beach. The campground is busy in the summer and tends to fill on the weekends.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Title: Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 43
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
The Evans Group site is located in a clearing on one end of Evans Campground. The site holds a maximum of 25 people, with ample space for RV parking and/or tents. Clusters of pine trees provide shade. The boat launch is located nearby and a Day Use Area with covered picnic area and swim beach caps the other end of the campground. The campground itself is busy and may fill on the weekends.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Group Camping Fee, 1 – 25 People)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Fort Spokane Campground is part of a large recreation complex with the Fort Spokane visitor center, day use area, and boat launch within walking distance. The campground itself sprawls among towering pines, with plenty of space for RVs and walk-in sites for tent campers. Fort Spokane is a popular campground conveniently located near the visitor center and nearby gas stations and stores.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 67
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Gifford campground stretches along the lakeshore, giving almost every campsite a sweeping view of Lake Roosevelt and shoreline access. Towering pines provide ample shade. Gifford has a boat launch and dock, a dump station, and a fish cleaning station. A group site provides space and privacy for larger parties. Gifford Campground is conveniently located along WA 25 next to the Gifford Ferry.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 42
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
The Gifford group site is located in a clearing on one end of Gifford Campground. The site holds a maximum of 50 people, with ample space for RV parking and/or tents. Clusters of pines provide shade. The boat launch with parking is located at the other end of the campground. The campground itself is busy and may fill on the weekends.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Group Camping Fee, 1 – 25 People), 80.00 (Group Camping Fee, 26 – 50 People)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Haag Cove is a quiet, isolated campground on Lake Roosevelt’s west side. Sites are spread out along the shoreline in an open area with scattered pine trees. The open setting does not allow for much privacy between sites but provides sweeping views of the lake to most campers. The campground is typically quiet, though it may fill on holidays and weekends. There is not a boat launch or courtesy dock.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 18
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
June 10, 2024, through approximately December 1, 2024, there will be a partial road closure on Miles Creston Road. Hawk Creek Campground is tucked back from the lake on Hawk Creek. The campground is popular, but small enough to feel private and secluded. A small waterfall adds ambiance to this beautiful and unique campground. Hawk Creek is close to Fort Spokane Visitor Center, but far enough away to avoid the hustle and bustle. A courtesy dock provides access to Lake Roosevelt.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 20
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Hunters Campground is part of a larger recreation complex with a boat launch and Day Use Area. Campsites are tucked among the pines in a centrally-located loop with an easy walk to the beach area. Group sites offer privacy and beach access for larger parties. Hunters Campground is very popular and often busy in the summer.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 37
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
The Hunters Group sites are part of a larger recreation complex with a boat launch and Day Use Area. The site holds a maximum of 25 people, with ample space for RV parking and/or tents. The group sites are tucked among the pines on one side of the swim beach. An individual-site campground is located nearby. Hunters Campground is very popular and often busy in the summer.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Group Camping Fee, 1 – 25 People)
Total Campsites: 3
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Jones Bay is one of Lake Roosevelt’s smaller, more rustic campgrounds. The campground is mostly gravel and packed dirt, with not much vegetation, on the lake shore. It can be reached by boat and has a boat launch and dock. Jones Bay can be also be reached by car, but may be difficult to find.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 9
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Kamloops Island is a small, shady campground at the mouth of the Kettle River. The main hub of campsites is tucked into the vegetation at the top and can fit tents and RVs. A cluster of walk-in tent sites is spread out in a grove of pines. Many campsites offer views of the river, lake, and surrounding landscape. There is a courtesy dock, but no boat launch.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 17
Toilets: Vault Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Kettle Falls is a large, fairly wooded campground on the lake shore. All sites are open to tent campers, vehicles, and RVs. The campground is adjacent to Kettle Falls Marina (with boat launch and space for trailer parking) and nearby to Kettle Falls Day Use Area. The area is fairly well-trafficked and busy, but offers all the conveniences and amenities of nearby town of Kettle Falls.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 74
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Kettle River is a shady campground on the banks of the Kettle River. Most of the sites are on the shoreline and have beautiful views of the Kettle River and surrounding landscape. Kettle River does not have a boat launch but does have a courtesy dock. This campground is a great place for birding, with a variety of waterfowl and raptors seen in the area. Kettle River Campground is typically quiet and doesn’t often fill.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 13
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
The Locust Grove Group sites are located at the townsite of Old Kettle Falls, near Kettle Falls Campground and Kettle Falls Day Use Area. There are two sites with a capacity for 50 people and 75 people, respectively. A nature trail leads to Kettle Falls Campground and Kettle Falls Day Use Area with swim beach. Locust Grove Group sites are spacious and set apart from the hustle and bustle of the Kettle Falls Campground area.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Group Camping Fee, 1 – 25 People), 80.00 (Group Camping Fee, 26 – 50 People), 105.00 (Group Camping Fee, 51 – 75 People)
Total Campsites: 2
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Marcus Island Campground is tucked into the trees on the lake shore. The campground is heavily shaded and, in the summer, has shoreline on three sides. The main access road is single lane and winding, but campers flock to this shaded area in summer. A boat launch with parking is available before reaching the campground.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 25
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
North Gorge is a small, but popular, campground at the northeast edge of the park. A few sites are large enough for an RV, but most are built for tent camping. The campground is set in a grove of pines on the edge of the lake. A boat launch and dock are on the north or right side of the main loop. In the summer, North Gorge is busy on the weekends.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 - September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 - September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 12
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Porcupine Bay Campground and Boat Launch includes 20 campsites, seasonal flush facilities, and fish cleaning station, swim beach, and boat launch. The campground is tucked up into the shaded pines against the wall of the coulee, with beautiful views of the lake.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 20
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Snag Cove is a small, fairly isolated campground located on the western side of Lake Roosevelt. Eight out of the nine sites are on the lake shore and all sites are open to tents and RVs. A boat launch with trailer parking and courtesy dock frames one side of the campground. Because of its size and popularity, Snag Cove often fills in the summer.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 9
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
Spring Canyon Campground stair-steps down the hillside to Lake Roosevelt, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The open desert environment also means little shade and extremely hot temperatures in the summer. Spring Canyon is conveniently located near the towns of Grand Coulee and Coulee Dam, as well as the Grand Coulee Dam. The campground offers a Day Use Area, group sites, and a nearby boat launch.
Fees (US$): 23.00 (Standard Camping Fee, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Senior / Access Rate, May 1 – September 30), 11.50 (Standard Camping Fee, October 1 – April 30), 5.75 (Senior / Access Rate, October 1 – April 30)
Total Campsites: 68
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
The Spring Canyon group sites are located at the base of Spring Canyon Campground, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The open desert landscape also means little shade and extremely hot temperatures in the summer. Spring Canyon has two group sites, and each can hold up to 25 people. Spring Canyon is conveniently located near the town of Grand Coulee and the Grand Coulee Dam.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Group Camping Fee, 1 – 25 People)
Total Campsites: 2
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Camp Na-Bor-Lee is a concessionaire-operated campground managed by the Camp Na-Bor-Lee Association, Inc. It serves as an educational campground that is managed and maintained by volunteer service in cooperation with the National Park Service. It includes 10 campsites, flush toilets and showers, covered shelters, RV access (no hookups). There is no boat launch at this campground.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 10
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Keller Ferry Campground is managed by Lake Roosevelt Adventures. All reservations are done through lakerooseveltadventures.com. This campground includes 55 standard campsites (all dry; no hookups), flush restrooms and pit toilets, seasonal outdoor beach showers, access to the day use area, boat launch, and Marina Store (also managed by Lake Roosevelt Adventures). Contact Keller Ferry Campground at 509-647-5755.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 55
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
Keller Ferry Campground is managed by Lake Roosevelt Adventures. All reservations are done through lakerooseveltadventures.com. This campground includes 2 group sites (all dry; no hookups), flush restrooms and pit toilets, seasonal outdoor beach showers, access to the day use area, boat launch, and Marina Store (also managed by Lake Roosevelt Adventures). Contact Keller Ferry Campground at 509-647-5755.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 2
Toilets: Vault Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal
You'll be centrally located in Chewelah with a stay at Chewelah Motel and RV Park, and 11 minutes by foot from Providence St. Joseph's Hospital. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 311 S Park St, Chewelah, Washington 99109
Web: Link
When you stay at The Inn at Sand Canyon in Chewelah, you'll be next to a golf course and 12 minutes by car from Providence St. Joseph's Hospital. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 139 Richmond Ln, Chewelah, Washington 99109
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-03 | Hawk Creek Area Closed for 2026 Recreation Season The Hawk Creek Campground and boat launch area will close to all public access starting April 16 through Oct. 6. The closure is necessary to keep visitors, staff, and construction crews safe during the Hawk Creek Road Improvements and Stabilization Project. It may be extended through Oct. 30, if needed. The project, managed by the Federal Highway Administration in partnership with Lincoln County and the National Park Service, will begin at the intersection of Hawk Creek Road and Miles Creston Road. More |
| 2026-04-02 | Hawk Creek Area Closed for 2026 Recreation Season The Hawk Creek Campground and boat launch area will close to all public access starting April 16 through Oct. 6. More |
| 2026-03-30 | Fort Spokane Museum and Visitor Center to Close for Repairs The Fort Spokane Museum and Visitor Center in Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is temporarily closed for critical historic preservation repairs. Dating to 1880, the landmark building originally served as the fort's guardhouse and now operates as the primary hub to introduce visitors to the park and its many resources. More |
| 2026-03-30 | Fort Spokane Museum and Visitor Center to Close for Repairs Information on the temporary closure of the Fort Spokane Museum and Visitor Center. More |
| 2026-03-18 | Spring 2026 Prescribed Fire Notice at Lake Roosevelt Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area may implement the following prescribed burn during the spring of 2026. More |
| 2026-03-18 | Spring 2026 Prescribed Fire Burning Notice Information on potential prescribed fire locations at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. More |