About South Skookum Lake
Overview South Skookum Lake Campground is a beautiful campground situated next to South Skookum Lake. It is heavily forested and plenty of shade and seclusion from other campers. The lake is relatively small and is not suitable for boats exceeding 20 feet. The boat ramp is small and unimproved. Two docks, one of which is accessible, are located near the launch area and provide fishing opportunities. South Baldy lookout, which is still staffed during the summer months, is visible from the campground and is a popular day trip.Recreation Camping, fishing, bicycling, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, & swimming make this a favorable place to visit.Facilities Each site has a table and fire ring. The campground has vault toilets, drinking water, animal resistant garbage containers, and animal resistant food storage boxes. No place to fill recreational vehicles only water jugs so be prepared to come with your rig full prior to arriving.Natural Features A beautiful forested landscape with South Skookum Lake beside it. Most of the campground looks into the Colville National Forest and the lake can only be seen once you crest a small hill which overlooks the lake. Nearby Attractions South Baldy lookout, which is still staffed during the summer months, is visible from the campground and is a popular day trip.
How to Get There
From Newport, WA follow State Highway 20 north for 15 miles to the town of Usk. Cross the bridge over the Pend Oreille River on the east edge of town and follow the Kings Lake Road (County Road 3389) 8 miles to the junction of Forest Road 5032350 (Kings Mountain). Follow Kings Mountain for 0.5 mile to the campground entrance.
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 South Skookum Lake
Heading to South Skookum Lake? 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 South Skookum Lake?
No central reservation system listed for South Skookum Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10372633) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to South Skookum Lake?
From Newport, WA follow State Highway 20 north for 15 miles to the town of Usk. Cross the bridge over the Pend Oreille River on the east edge of town and follow the Kings Lake Road (County Road 3389) 8 miles to the junction of Forest Road 5032350 (Kings Mountain). Follow Kings Mountain for 0.5 mile to the campground entrance.
How do I contact South Skookum Lake?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-245-6521 or email: info@sceniccanyons.com.
References & Official Resources
