Conconully Lake

For Washington residents seeking a tranquil escape into nature, complete with pristine lakes, modern amenities, and a true sense of relaxation, Conconully Lake offers an ideal destination. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of North Central Washington, this area provides diverse camping experiences, primarily centered around the inviting waters of Conconully Lake and the nearby Conconully Reservoir. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a comfortable base for outdoor adventures, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat, Conconully Lake provides a welcoming environment.

This article aims to be a comprehensive guide for local Washingtonians, shedding light on the current camping opportunities around Conconully Lake. We'll cover its location, the services available, its standout features, and why it's a perfectly suited spot for your next regional getaway.

Conconully Lake is located in Okanogan, WA 98840, USA. More specifically, the primary camping facilities are found at Conconully State Park, situated at 119 Broadway Street, Conconully, WA 98819. This places it in the heart of Okanogan County, a region known for its sunny climate, sagebrush hills, and a network of beautiful lakes and rivers.

Conconully is a small, historic mining town nestled between mountains, offering a charming, small-town atmosphere alongside its natural attractions. While it feels wonderfully removed from the urban sprawl, it is still reasonably accessible for many Washingtonians. The drive into Conconully from larger population centers like Omak (a short distance to the south) is scenic and straightforward, typically via State Highway 215. The relatively easy access means you can transition quickly from your daily routine to lakeside serenity without an arduous journey.

It's important to note the distinction between the "upper" Conconully Lake (also known as Salmon Lake) and the "lower" Conconully Reservoir, where Conconully State Park is predominantly located. While there were historically private resorts and state-owned facilities on both, current information indicates that state-run camping for the "upper lake" (the privately run resort on the upper lake was shut down due to run down facilities and poor management) has faced issues with water supply but has since opened as of spring 2019. However, the main, well-established state park campground is located on the lower Conconully Reservoir. This concentration of amenities at the State Park makes it the primary public camping destination for the area.

Conconully State Park offers a range of services designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for various preferences, from tent campers to RV enthusiasts.

• Diverse Campsites: The park boasts a variety of camping options, including 40 standard campsites and 20 partial-hookup sites. These sites can accommodate both tents and recreational vehicles, with a maximum site length of 75 feet (though availability for longer rigs may be limited). Sites are generally reservable, though some standard sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Cabins: For those seeking more comfort, the park offers five charming cabins located near the lower reservoir. Cabin 1 is pet-friendly (for a fee) and sleeps six with one double bed and two sets of stacked bunks. Cabins 2 through 5 sleep four guests, furnished with a double bed and a set of stacked bunks. All cabins include air conditioning, heating, electrical outlets, and a ceiling fan. Campers should bring their own bedding, as cabins do not have plumbing inside.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: A standout feature, as highlighted by a visitor, is the exceptional cleanliness and maintenance of the bathroom and shower facilities. They are described as "by far the cleanest well kept modern bathroom/shower I have ever experienced at a campsite/park. The bathrooms are always clean." This is a significant plus for any camper.

• Watercraft Launches and Docks: The park provides two boat ramps and an 80-foot boat dock for easy access to the Conconully Reservoir for both motorized and non-motorized boats. Note that access may be seasonal depending on water levels, particularly in spring, summer, and fall.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous unsheltered picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, there are two reservable day-use shelters with electricity, accommodating groups of up to 25 and 50 guests, respectively.

• Discover Pass Requirement: Day-use visitors and campers require a Washington State Parks Discover Pass. This pass grants vehicle access to state parks and other state-managed recreation lands. Annual and one-day passes are available.

Conconully Lake, particularly the area encompassed by Conconully State Park, offers a wealth of features that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Washington.

• Angler's Paradise: Both Conconully Lake and the Conconully Reservoir are well-known for excellent fishing. They are regularly stocked with a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, smallmouth bass, and Kokanee salmon. Ice fishing is also popular in winter months, making it a year-round fishing destination.

• Watersports and Recreation: The lakes are perfect for a wide range of water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming (with designated swimming beaches), waterskiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The calm waters of the reservoir are particularly inviting for non-motorized crafts.

• Scenic Beauty and Serenity: The park is an "81-acre camping park nestled between three mountains and two lakes," offering beautiful views of forests, creeks, and mountains. Its relatively remote setting provides a peaceful, relaxing, and scenic place to escape from the world.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With modern restrooms, picnic areas, and ample space for outdoor activities, the park is well-suited for families. The general atmosphere is often described as quiet and courteous, even when busy.

• Winter Activities: Conconully isn't just a summer destination. In the colder months, the area transforms into a haven for winter sports, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding.

• Proximity to Town Amenities: While offering a natural retreat, the small town of Conconully is just a stone's throw away. This means campers have convenient access to local shops for supplies, and possibly a lodge or hotel for those preferring alternative lodging options, as some local resorts operate on the lower lake.

• Wildlife Viewing and Nature Exploration: The surrounding natural environment provides opportunities for birdwatching (including bald eagles and ospreys), and possibly sightings of deer, coyotes, and other wildlife. The diverse forest landscape of Ponderosa Pines and other trees makes for beautiful walks.

For reservations, current conditions, or more specific inquiries about Conconully Lake and Conconully State Park, use the following contact details:

Address: Conconully State Park, 119 Broadway Street, Conconully, WA 98819, USA

Phone: (509) 826-7408 (Conconully State Park Information)

Reservations: (888) 226-7688 or online via the Washington State Parks reservation system.

Email: Conconully@parks.wa.gov

For residents across Washington State, Conconully Lake offers a uniquely balanced camping experience. It’s a place where the wild beauty of North Central Washington meets comfortable, well-maintained facilities. As one satisfied visitor put it, it's "a peaceful, relaxing, scenic place to escape from the world for a while. Loved it." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the appeal of Conconully Lake.

Whether you're casting a line into the fish-filled waters, enjoying a leisurely paddle across the lake, or simply relaxing by your campfire under clear Okanogan skies, Conconully provides the perfect backdrop. The ongoing improvements and the commitment of Washington State Parks to maintaining high standards (evidenced by the "cleanest well kept modern bathroom/shower" reviews) ensure a pleasant stay. The availability of cabins provides an excellent option for those who prefer a little more comfort, while the diverse campsites cater to traditional tent and RV campers.

Conconully Lake is more than just a campground; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor activities throughout the year, from summer watersports to winter snow adventures. Its accessibility from various parts of Washington, combined with its remote feel, makes it an ideal destination for a weekend trip or an extended vacation. For an unforgettable experience that blends natural beauty with thoughtful amenities, look no further than Conconully Lake for your next Washington adventure.