Camping 250 feet above the Pend Orielle River offers a rare chance to experience the Selkirk Mountains from a breathtaking vantage point. At Mountain Refuge Ranch, the Cliff Side Campsite combines wild views with kayak access for an unforgettable adults-only retreat.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Overnight to multi-night stays (1-7 nights)
Fitness Level
Good physical condition recommended due to steep approach trail and outdoor endurance needs
Wildlife
History
Metaline Falls is historically known for its early 20th-century lead and zinc mining industry, providing context for the rugged regional character.
Conservation
Mountain Refuge Ranch maintains a strict leave-no-trace ethic to protect fragile cliffside soils and river ecosystems.
Mountain Refuge Ranch
Camping 250 feet above the Pend Orielle River offers a rare chance to experience the Selkirk Mountains from a breathtaking vantage point. At Mountain Refuge Ranch, the Cliff Side Campsite combines wild views with kayak access for an unforgettable adults-only retreat.
Mountain Refuge Ranch is a private outdoor retreat located near Metaline Falls, Washington, overlooking the Pend Oreille River and the Selkirk Mountains.
The ranch offers a range of adults-only camping and guided experiences, including cliffside and secluded campsites, lake fishing and boat rentals, kayak trips, underground cave and dam tours, and half-day mountain peak drives to Gypsy and Salmo. Camp options feature panoramic river and mountain views, a clean outhouse at select sites, and lodge amenities and boat rentals at nearby lakes. Guided activities include kayaking and fishing excursions, waterfall and creek hikes, and interpretive tours that highlight local history and scenic overlooks. Several experiences emphasize wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot loons, eagles, and seasonal salmon runs. Mountain Refuge Ranch presents routes for self-drive 4x4 access or optional side-by-side rides for certain peak adventures. Many trips are described as adults-only and note that activities are undertaken at participants’ own risk; visitors should come prepared for rugged terrain and limited on-site services. The ranch also connects guests with local attractions in Metaline Falls, such as a train museum and town history tied to regional film locations. Reservations are available for single-day adventures and multi-hour excursions. Mountain Refuge Ranch focuses on delivering direct access to natural features — cliffs, lakes, creeks, caves, and old-growth woods — while maintaining simple amenities and local lodge support for fishing and boating. Booking information and detailed trip descriptions are provided on site and through local reservation channels to help guests plan responsibly and assess conditions.
Location
Metaline Falls, WA
Pend Oreille River & Selkirk Mountains
Scenic Views
Cliff & River Views
Panoramic Selkirk vistas
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
Adults-only adventures
Wildlife
Loons & Eagles
Seasonal sightings possible
Reserve cliffside campsites, lake fishing, kayak excursions, or guided cave tours — plan responsibly and expect rugged terrain.
Secure Setup on Cliff Edge
Pitch your tent carefully on the limited flat space and keep clear of the cliff edge for safety.
Pack In, Pack Out
Bring out everything you bring in to preserve the pristine cliffside environment.
Kayaking Preparation
Wear water shoes and bring dry bags when renting kayaks to navigate the Pend Orielle River safely.
Check-In Window
Arrive between 2pm and 9pm; late check-ins are not accommodated due to remote property conditions.
Compact Tent
Fits the limited flat camping space and withstands mountain weather.
Hiking Boots
Supportive footwear for the dirt path leading to the site.
Dry Bags
Protect your gear during kayak rentals on the Pend Orielle River.
summer
Warm Layers
For chilly nights and variable temperatures on the cliffside.
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