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Reconstruction efforts lead to campground re-opening
COLVILLE – Browns Lake Campground has reopened after an extended closure that began in September 2020 due to hazardous conditions. The Kalispel Tribe, U.S. Forest Service officials and area partners worked together to re-open Browns Lake Campground.
Browns Lake is an 88-acre, 23-foot deep, high elevation lake that is located on the Newport Ranger District, 25 miles northeast of Newport. It is a non-motorized lake that is a popular destination for campers and fly-fishing enthusiasts.
In 2020, a windstorm toppled many trees in the campground and most of the remaining trees in and around Browns Lake were a safety hazard due to root rot and other disease. It was determined that extensive tree removal and strategic thinning must take place to create a safe environment for campers and recreators.
In partnership with the Kalispel Tribe of Indians, the Colville National Forest made extensive repairs to Browns Lake Campground. The primary focus of this reconstruction effort was to treat timber stands due to poor health to include hazard tree removal, fuels reduction, clearing and thinning of existing camp sites and surrounding areas.
Additional upgrades include new parking spurs, ADA compliant tables, replacement fire rings, and new vault toilets. Future upgrades in the next year include interpretive trail signage and replanting of vegetation.
For more information about Browns Lake Campground, visit the website at Colville National Forest - Browns Lake Campground (usda. gov). Additional questions can be directed to our Newport Sullivan Lake Ranger District at 509447-7300.
