Nicholson Beach Campground

For Washingtonians, the allure of the outdoors is deeply ingrained, from the majestic mountains to the rugged coastlines. However, for those seeking a unique and truly exceptional lakeside experience that feels worlds away, look no further than Nicholson Beach Campground. Tucked away on the shores of Banks Lake near Omak, this campground offers a distinctive "boat-in" camping adventure that has left many visitors awestruck, even earning it the moniker "the Hawaii of Washington."

Nicholson Beach Campground isn't your typical drive-up site. Its charm lies in its accessibility primarily by water, leading to pristine conditions and a sense of exclusive tranquility. Visitors rave about the "warm lake, sandy beaches, shallow sand bars, cliff jumping, shady tent spots," highlighting its diverse appeal for both relaxation and adventure. It's a place where locals, after years of exploring Washington, discover a hidden gem that exceeds expectations. Operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, it offers a respectful and beautiful natural environment.

This article will provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Nicholson Beach Campground, offering essential information for Washington residents eager to experience this remarkable destination. We'll delve into its unique location, the services it provides, its standout features, and practical contact information, ensuring you're well-prepared for an unforgettable escape to one of Washington's truly special lakeside spots.

Nicholson Beach Campground is located on an Unnamed Road, Omak, WA 98841, USA. More precisely, it is situated on the northwest end of Omak Lake (also known as Banks Lake in local parlance, though Omak Lake is specifically a large saline lake on the Colville Reservation, while Banks Lake is part of the Columbia Basin Project and is freshwater, located west of Omak). The customer reviews strongly indicate this campground is on Banks Lake, a prominent and popular recreational area in North Central Washington. Banks Lake is a long, narrow reservoir, approximately 27 miles long, carved into the coulees of the Channeled Scablands. It is part of the Columbia Basin Project, offering a starkly beautiful landscape.

The unique aspect of Nicholson Beach Campground's accessibility is its "boat-in" nature. This means that while you can likely drive to a nearby boat launch (such as those within the vicinity of Omak or electric city, WA, like Steamboat Rock State Park or a Colville Tribes authorized launch), the final leg of your journey to the campsite requires a boat. This water-only access is a significant part of its allure, ensuring a less crowded and more pristine camping experience. The campground is located on land managed by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and visitors should be aware of specific permitting requirements for recreation on tribal lands.

For Washingtonians, reaching the general area involves driving on major state routes like US-97 or SR-174. Once near Banks Lake, visitors will need to launch a boat at an authorized access point and navigate to the campground. This adventure adds to the sense of discovery and seclusion that makes Nicholson Beach so highly rated.

Nicholson Beach Campground offers a primitive yet functional camping experience, emphasizing natural immersion over extensive amenities. As a "boat-in" site within a tribal recreation area, it focuses on essential services while maintaining the pristine environment.

• Boat-in Campsites: The primary service is providing designated campsites accessible by boat only, ensuring a unique and less crowded camping environment.
• Outhouse Toilets: Primitive restroom facilities, specifically "outhouse toilet," are available at the campground. These are basic, non-flush facilities.
• Potable Water: Access to "potable water" is provided, which is a crucial amenity for any primitive campsite and allows campers to refill water jugs.
• Designated Tent Spots: Reviewers mention "shady tent spot," indicating specific areas suitable for pitching tents, often with natural shade.
• Campsite Grills: Fire pits are typically equipped with grills, though their use is subject to burn bans, which are common in Washington's dry summers. Campers are advised to bring alternative cooking methods during such bans.
• Trash Service (Likely Pack-It-In, Pack-It-Out): While not explicitly stated, primitive campgrounds, especially those accessible by boat, often operate on a "pack it in, pack it out" principle regarding trash. Visitors should be prepared to remove all their waste.
• Permit System: Camping on Colville Indian Reservation land requires a specific Reservation Recreation Use Pass (daily or annual), which must be purchased online prior to arrival. An additional boat launch permit may be required for motorized boats.

Nicholson Beach Campground's charm lies in its unique natural features and the distinct experience it offers, setting it apart from typical campgrounds.

• "Hawaii of Washington" Experience: This powerful description by a reviewer perfectly encapsulates the main highlight – a "warm lake, sandy beaches, shallow sand bars" that create an unexpectedly tropical feel in Washington State. This unique combination is a significant draw.
• Cliff Jumping Opportunities: For the adventurous, the presence of "cliff jumping" spots provides an exhilarating recreational activity, adding to the fun and excitement.
• Shady Tent Spots: Despite the dry landscape, the availability of "shady tent spot" is a major advantage, offering relief from the summer sun and a more comfortable camping experience.
• Warm Banks Lake Water: Unlike many of Washington's colder lakes, Banks Lake is noted for its "warm" water, making swimming and water sports much more enjoyable, especially during peak summer months.
• Low Insect Presence (Seasonal): One reviewer specifically mentioned "no bugs" in July, which is a rare and highly desirable feature for any outdoor camping spot, enhancing comfort. However, bug conditions can vary, so it's wise to be prepared.
• Tranquil and Secluded Atmosphere: The boat-in access inherently limits crowds, contributing to a peaceful and relatively private camping experience, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and enjoy nature.
• Long-Term Visitor Loyalty: The anecdote of campers returning for "18 years" speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and quality of the experience, indicating a cherished spot for many families.
• Stunning Sunset Views: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, the "Sunset Point Campground" entry (if related or within the same general area of focus for the query) implies beautiful sunsets over the lake, adding to the aesthetic appeal.
• Managed by Colville Tribes: The fact that it's on tribal land managed by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation means visitors are supporting tribal land management and experiencing a unique cultural and environmental context.

For detailed information, current regulations, and especially for purchasing the necessary permits for Nicholson Beach Campground, visitors will need to contact the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation Parks & Recreation Department. Since Nicholson Beach is on tribal land, the usual State Parks or National Forest contact numbers may not apply.

Address: Unnamed Road, Omak, WA 98841, USA (This is the general location, but direct contact is vital for specific access and permitting.)

Contact for Colville Tribes Parks & Recreation:

Phone: (509) 634-3145 (Colville Tribes Parks & Recreation Office)

Fax: (509) 634-3150

Email: parks.rec@colvilletribes.com (This is a general email for the department and may be useful for inquiries.)

Online Permit Purchase: All permits (Reservation Recreation Use Pass and potentially boat launch permits) must be purchased online at https://colville.nagfa.net/online. It is crucial to purchase these permits in advance, as permits purchased in the field may be charged double.

Given its boat-in nature and tribal land management, it is absolutely essential for visitors to confirm all rules, regulations, burn bans, and permit requirements directly with the Colville Tribes Parks & Recreation office before planning their trip to Nicholson Beach Campground. This ensures a smooth and respectful visit.

For Washingtonians, Nicholson Beach Campground on Banks Lake offers a truly unparalleled and deeply satisfying outdoor experience, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking something beyond the ordinary. Its suitability stems from a combination of unique natural features, adventurous accessibility, and the promise of a peaceful retreat.

Firstly, the "boat-in" nature of the campsites immediately sets it apart, guaranteeing a level of seclusion and pristine beauty often absent from drive-up campgrounds. This makes it perfect for those who own a boat or are willing to rent one, and who desire an adventurous, less crowded escape. The reward is a "warm lake" with "sandy beaches and shallow sand bars" – a landscape that genuinely feels like a tropical oasis in the heart of Washington, a true "Hawaii of Washington."

Secondly, the diverse recreational opportunities cater to various interests. Whether it's the thrill of "cliff jumping," the relaxation of swimming in warm waters, fishing, or simply enjoying the "shady tent spots" and picturesque "sunsets," there's something to captivate every member of the family or group. The reported lack of bugs in July is a highly desirable bonus, allowing for uninterrupted enjoyment of the outdoors.

Finally, as a site managed by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, visiting Nicholson Beach offers an opportunity for locals to engage respectfully with tribal lands, appreciate their stewardship of natural resources, and learn about the unique ecosystems of the region. For Washingtonians looking for a memorable, distinctive, and truly restorative lakeside camping adventure that feels like a hidden paradise, Nicholson Beach Campground on Banks Lake is an absolute must-visit destination. It's a place that, once discovered, often becomes a cherished annual tradition, as evidenced by its loyal visitors.