Rufus Woods Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Rufus Woods Lake was created when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed the construction of Chief Joseph Dam. The lake and dam are on the Columbia River in north-central Washington. The dam was authorized primarily for power and irrigation and is the second-largest hydropower dam in the United States. A secondary purpose of the project was for recreational use.
Rufus Woods Lake is 51 miles long, creating an oasis for water sports and many other activities for visitors. A boat ramp near the dam and another in the state park make it easy for those with boats and other watercraft to access the water. Fishing is open year-round, and the lake has an abundance of trout along with many other types of fish. Picnic areas, hiking trails, and a swimming beach also await Rufus Woods Lake visitors.
Camping is offered at Bridgeport State Park, which is adjacent to Chief Joseph Dam. Guests at the state park will enjoy 7500 feet of shoreline along Rufus Woods Lake and many amenities. There are 34 campsites at the state park, 20 of which have electric and water hookups for those with RVs.
RV Rentals in Rufus Woods Lake
Transportation
Driving
Rufus Woods Lake is located in Bridgeport, WA in north-central Washington state. The small community is just a short drive from both Chief Joseph Dam and Bridgeport State Park. Fuel, groceries, and other services can be found there. From Bridgeport, the dam orientation and recreation areas can be accessed from US-17.
Campers may want to head to Bridgeport State Park to set up their campsite before exploring the dam. Drivers will want to take Half Sun Way from US-17 to the state park. A limited number of large campsites are at the park. Guests will want to ensure they reserve a campsite in advance of their visit. Parking at many of the campsites is back-in, though there are some pull-through sites at the campground.
Visitors to Rufus Woods Lake will find activities and amenities to be accessible with minimal driving necessary. The swimming beach, two boat ramps, and picnic areas are all within the state park. Hikers can venture down the North Shore Trail which runs between the dam and Bridgeport State Park. There is parking at the day-use and dam orientation areas.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Rufus Woods Lake
Campsites in Rufus Woods Lake
Reservations camping
Bridgeport State Park
Located on the north shore of Rufus Woods Lake, just behind the dam is Bridgeport State Park. The state park was built based upon an agreement between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Washington State Parks. It is a requirement for the Corps of Engineers to make recreation areas where dams are operated.
The state park has 34 campsites, including 20 with water and electric. Some sites extend as long as 45 feet, though these long sites are limited. It is encouraged to make reservations in advance, especially to ensure a site is secured that can accommodate your rig. Bridgeport State Park has one group camp that can be reserved for groups ranging from 20 to 72 people. The campground is mostly open, though there are some shade trees throughout the park.
There are many amenities for campers to take advantage of at the state park. Two restrooms with showers and a dump station are available to make overnight stays comfortable. Additionally, there is WiFi in the park. Generator use is permitted during certain hours. Pets are welcome at Bridgeport State Park but should be kept on a leash at all times.
Seasonal activities in Rufus Woods Lake
In-Season
Boating
Boating is popular at Rufus Woods Lake. The 51-mile long lake has plenty of space for paddlers, anglers, and those on waterskis or enjoying other watercraft. Near the dam, there is a boat launch at the Corps of Engineers access area. There are also two boat ramps at Bridgeport State Park. Canoes and kayaks will find additional access in the state park near the swimming beach.
Swimming
Swimming in Rufus Woods Lake is a fantastic way to cool off on a summer day. High temperatures in the summertime often reach into the 90s. Head on over to the designated swimming area at Bridgeport State Park to wade or swim. The sandy beach is perfect for lounging in a chair or on a towel. The picnic area with many picnic tables and restrooms are nearby, so you can make the most of your day at the lake.
Picnic
Rufus Woods Lake is a great spot to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. There are 20 picnic tables at Bridgeport State Park that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The picnic tables are unsheltered and shade is limited throughout the park. If planning to make a day of it, you may want to pack a canopy for extra shelter. The swimming area and restrooms are nearby.
Off-Season
Fishing
Anglers come to Rufus Woods Lake year-round for the fantastic fishing opportunity the lake provides. Rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, walleye, and yellow perch are popular fish. Though fishing from the shore is permitted, most anglers opt to fish by boat.
Fishing from the shore requires both a state license and a Colville Tribe fishing license. By boat, only a state fishing license is required.
Golf
Be sure to bring your golf clubs along for your visit to Rufus Woods Lake. Bridgeport State Park is home to Lakewoods Golf Course. This nine-hole golf course is perfect for practicing your swing or playing a round of golf with friends or family. You can call the golf course in advance for information regarding rates or the course itself.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails at Rufus Woods Lake. The North Shore trail is three miles in length and leads from the orientation area at Chief Joseph Dam to Bridgeport State Park. The South Shore Trail connects hikers to Willow Flat Recreation Area after leading them around Debris Basin. There are an additional four miles of hiking trails at the state park. Hiking provides lake and dam visitors with the opportunity for wildlife viewing and to take in scenic views of the area.
