Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites, near Quincy, Washington, is a prime spot for those who love rock climbing and the great outdoors. This location offers a rugged, primitive camping experience with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the Columbia River, making it a favorite among climbers and adventurers alike.

The area is known for its bouldering and lead climbing opportunities, with easy access to various climbing routes just a short walk from your campsite. Visitors have noted that the scenic vistas are breathtaking, especially during sunset, and the wildlife adds to the natural charm of the place. As one camper put it, “The view can’t be beat,” highlighting the beauty that surrounds you here.

Facilities are basic, with pit toilets available but no running water or designated sites, so you'll need to be self-sufficient. Campers often share the space, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere remains friendly and welcoming. Just remember to bring your own supplies, including toilet paper and trash bags, as there’s no trash service. If you're looking for a place to connect with nature and enjoy some climbing, Frenchman Coulee is definitely worth a visit.

The free camp sites - There is a designated areas located near the main parking area. There are no designated sites but you can drive in on rough dirt trail. Portable toilets are nearby but there is no running water, no picnic tables and no fires are allowed. The area can become quite busy during long weekends or when there are big concerts held at the nearby amphitheater in George.

Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites

Join the fun near Vantage. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Vantage, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Vantage

The Best Camping Near Vantage, Washington

Free (if you have the WA rec pass $30). Pit toilet is available, no water.

Exposed and hot.

BUT AMAZING access to climbing. We have been here 2 x now... staying for about 5 days in a row. It is a 4 minute approach to the nice moderate area called the Feathers and about 15 minutes from other climbs. A short drive down the road brings you to the Columbia River if you're lookiung to take a swim.

Weekends get busy. Lots of rowdy Seattle climbers come out to party.

Please take your trash. There is no trash service.

Great for climbers

There is not a lot of room for big rigs so I would not suggest staying here If you're 20 + feet long. Plenty of car camping and is a popular spot for rock climbing. There's a trail down to the waterfall and one toilet but no tp so be prepared. Dog friendly and there's a boat launch at the very end of the drive.

Packed but Beautiful 

This is my favorite place to be, but only in the summer. I‘m not a fan during the Spring due to mud, foxtails, and mosquitos, though I did find a frog and that’s pretty neat. As soon as it heats up for summer it’s perfect. The landscape is gorgeous, there’s a sand dune right around the corner, and the sunsets are breathtaking. Be careful with dogs around the cliffs—there are rabbits and marmots around and your dog should be contained. 

Beautiful Everything

Tons of campsites. Tons of rock climbing. Limited bathrooms. 

Great climbing in any weather

Just off I90 in Eastern WA at Vantage. This is primarily a rock climbers base camp, but also serves well for a great overnight stop where you can camp right on the edge of the canyon, get in some nice vista views,&amp; a short hike to a"falls". You will share this spot with other campers, busy even in winter. One note about access, the entrance to this camping area has some pitch to it. Better suited for high clearance vehicles, and brave souls in truck campers......

Camp on the "Canyon" Edge 

This is a well-known primitive camping area for rock climbers and other outdoor recreation folks (there are also hiking, biking and boating opportunities in the Frenchman Coulee recreation area).
Lots of vans, tents and trucks. Small camper trailers can work in some areas but the roads leading to campsites are very rocky and some are steep. Two pit toilets by the main parking lot. No water or any other services. Great AT&amp;T cell coverage.

Always a great spot to camp when climbing

Mid week in fall, we have the place to ourselves! Surrounded by gorgeous cliffs with hikes and scrambles, if you are not a rock climber. Drive down to the end of the road for gorgeous access to the Columbia.

It’s very primitive, with two pit toilets and no other services. Sites are not designated, just find a spot you like.


The view can’t be beat

Overall it's not great nor is it terrible. It's always busy and often a bit crowded in the main portion but the people are usually not too rowdy. The scenic views are killer, the wildlife is active, and the mini trails around the place feel adventurous. The climbing is bang on but it's bouldering or lead climbing only. BE WARNED, THE BATHROOMS ARE STANKY (hot tip: bring a citronella candle and your own TP)

Photos of Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites

Real photos from real campers