Long Lake

Gate was closed and we were unable to get to the site

If you look at the map, Washington Fish and Wildlife manages a bunch of these seep lakes, but be aware this area borders a national refuge that allows no overnight camping. The West side of this lake is in the refuge. The roads are excellent with good signs, cattle guards everywhere cause...cows. Everywhere. They don't bother you and are amusing to watch but I have a philosophical issue with it on public land..cows poison everything. Anyway. We bailed on Potholes State Park because they opened reservations for the season and overnight it's like wall to wall people. So, while Potholes is lovely in the late winter/early spring for a dead quiet getaway, that's over until next fall. We scouted Long Lake and said yes please. There are 3 or so "pull through" sites next to the lake on the east side, you need to be good at leveling. Also important point, a good turn around loop where the road ends next to the canal. Trying to turn around in your site could be a challenge for us longer rigs, but no matter the turnaround made departure easy. People seem to camp anywhere out here, which is nice for the solitude. I am guessing this area with all the stocked lakes gets popular. We drove past a couple lakes that were camper full, but Long Lake was empty upon arrival. Other campers showed up later but didn't alter our experience. I think the fishing season doesn't open until April 1 on this lake which may explain the ease of getting a site. Some guy in a bass boat roared around the lake and then flew down the tiny canal like he was filming miami vice or something lol. Speaking of locals, expect some garbage, bullet hole in signs, graffiti on the pit toilets - the usual. We are always vigilant and stayed hooked up for a quick departure, I don't want to sound paranoid, everyone in the local stores were very friendly but this place feels "out there" which is kinda what we are after, right ? That being said I am selfishly reluctant to share this site as it was a top notch experience, and there are quite a few choices in the area as well. We were able to get slow Verizon data here, voice and text worked. Free with Discover Pass.