About SWAN LAKE KITCHEN
Overview A variety of activities await visitors at the open air Swan Lake Kitchen. Located within the Swan Lake Campground, the group site is situated on a large, flat open space near the beach. The kitchen itself is located up the hill from the beach in the trees. The kitchen is accessible via a staircase from the parking area and a path from the beach. A day of swimming, boating, fishing or hiking can be topped off with a trip to the kitchen to wind down and enjoy a group meal. Originally built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the site was historically preserved in 2009 and retains its charming historic character. Recreation Swan Lake has a sandy beach with a swimming dock, plus access to the Swan Lake Trail #14. The trail boasts views of the lake and seasonal huckleberries. Wildlife watching is excellent and the lake is home to loons throughout most of the summer. Facilities The covered kitchen comes with several picnic tables, a campfire ring, a stone fireplace, drinking water, vault toilets and garbage containers. The site is suited to groups of 35. Natural Features At an elevation of 3,640 feet, Swan Lake Kitchen is located in a wooded area overlooking the 52-acre Swan Lake. The kitchen is on the north end of the lake near the swimming beach. The 1.1 million acre Colville National Forest lies in the northeast corner of Washington. The forest's great salmon runs first attracted native Americans to the area, then miners, homesteaders and fur trappers followed. The variety of resources and natural beauty in the region continues to attract visitors. Nearby Attractions The Republic Ranger Station and the Stonerose Interpretive Center are 15 miles north in the town of Repbulic.
How to Get There
From Seattle take Highway 2 east to Wenatchee, Highway 97 north to Tonasket, then Highway 20 east to Republic. From Republic take Highway 21 south seven miles to paved Forest Road 53 (Scatter Creek). Travel on FR 53 approximately seven miles to the entrance of Swan Lake Campground. The kitchen area is located at the far end of the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SWAN LAKE KITCHEN
Heading to SWAN LAKE KITCHEN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SWAN LAKE KITCHEN?
No central reservation system listed for SWAN LAKE KITCHEN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234632) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SWAN LAKE KITCHEN?
From Seattle take Highway 2 east to Wenatchee, Highway 97 north to Tonasket, then Highway 20 east to Republic. From Republic take Highway 21 south seven miles to paved Forest Road 53 (Scatter Creek). Travel on FR 53 approximately seven miles to the entrance of Swan Lake Campground. The kitchen area is located at the far end of the campground.
How do I contact SWAN LAKE KITCHEN?
You can reach the park at phone: (509)775-7400.
References & Official Resources
