About BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND
Overview Bonaparte Lake Campground is located on the southern edge of Bonaparte Lake east of Tonasket, WA, in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The setting of the campground is in a mixed ponderosa pine and Douglas fir conifer forest at the base of Bonaparte Mountain. This campground has a group site, multiple family and individual campsites available.Recreation Fishing is a popular activity on the lake, with anglers enjoying boat fishing for rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout as well as using the accessible fishing dock. A boat launch area is available in the campground. Kayaking, canoeing, and swimming can also be enjoyed. Hiking around the lake or up the Pipsissewa Trail, which is accessed from the southern loop, are popular activities. Taking a bike ride on the surrounding roads is also available. Facilities The sites are equipped with picnic tables and campfire grills. All sites can accommodate tents and some sites feature tent pads. The group site is equipped with drinking water, picnic tables, campfire grills, a community fire pit, RV/Camper parking and room for tent sites. A group shelter is available at the site. Drinking water, vault and flush toilets are also available in the campground. Access to the lake and boat launch are within walking distance.Natural Features Bonaparte Lake's elevation is at 3,600 feet and is home to multiple waterfowl species including the rare northern loon. Mule deer, elk, moose, and the occasional black bear can be sighted in the area. Bonaparte, Spur, and Cumberland Mountains surround the lake. Nearby Attractions Pipsissewa Trail to Pipsissewa Point, which overlooks Bonaparte Lake, is a two mile hike from the campground. Continuing from there onto the South Side trail #308 for five miles will take you to the Bonaparte Mountain Fire Lookout. Lost Lake Campground is approximately 10 miles away on the 33 road. Beaver Lake and Beth Lake Campgrounds are approximately seven miles away on the 32 road. Within 10 miles visitors
How to Get There
From Tonasket, Washington, take State Route 20 East for 24 miles. Turn left onto the Bonaparte Recreation Area turnoff (Okanogan County Road 4953). Continue on Okanogan County Road #4953 for approximately 6 miles to the Bonaparte Lake Campground entrance on the left hand side of the road.
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
- 💧
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 BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND
Heading to BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND? 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 BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/252036) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND?
From Tonasket, Washington, take State Route 20 East for 24 miles. Turn left onto the Bonaparte Recreation Area turnoff (Okanogan County Road 4953). Continue on Okanogan County Road #4953 for approximately 6 miles to the Bonaparte Lake Campground entrance on the left hand side of the road.
How do I contact BONAPARTE LAKE CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 509-486-2186 or email: ejpeterson@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
