Camp Here: Evans in Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Washington
On our last road trip through the Canadian Rockies, we were haunted by some unfortunate weather and terrible private campgrounds - so we ended up making tracks for home a day or so earlier then planned. This decision presented the challenge of finding a nice campsite in the middle of the night in far northeastern Washington without any cell phone reception. At first we drove straight past the Evans Campground in Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area in hopes of finding a spot with hot showers. When we found cell phone reception again and deemed it not practical to drive even further to a different campsite, we made a u-turn and headed back to Evans.
About Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
Formed as a result of the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam, Lake Roosevelt runs for 130 miles in the upper northeast corner of Washington State. While we didn't spend much time around the park, there are a number of hikes to take you to historic sights and plenty of water-based activities to make for a fun weekend.
Campsites
One of 27 car and boat-in campsites around Lake Roosevelt, Evans Campground is located north of Kettle Falls. Evans has 43 sites but only the single group site is reservable. The others are all first come first serve. The sites don't offer much privacy, but they are fairly spacious - offering plenty of spots to place your tent a good distance from your neighbor. To make up for the lack of privacy, try to snag a lake side spot and wake up to the peaceful view you see in the photo above. If you end up arriving late in the evening, make sure to bring cash to put in the pay box to cover your campsite. Most sites are set up with a parking area, picnic table, and fire ring.
Facilities
Evans Campground has a comfort station with flush toilets and running water. For those looking to get some time in the lake, there's a boat launch, dock, and a swimming beach. Overall, the facilities are simple but nice.
Tips
- Bring the bug spray, citronella candles, and whatever other bug control or containment methods you would like. I don't remember the last time I encountered so many bugs.
- Bring cash to pay for your campsite - head to Kettle Falls if you need an ATM.