Primitive camping near Anatone, Washington centers primarily in the Blue Mountains and along lesser-traveled sections of the Grande Ronde and Snake rivers. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall below 3,000 feet elevation. Most dispersed sites in this area remain accessible from April through October, with seasonal road closures affecting higher elevation locations during winter months.
What to do
Wildlife observation at dawn and dusk: Starvation Springs offers excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "Mid 80's during the day in late July. Love this spot! It's also great that it isn't 5 miles down some super washboarded gravel road," notes Kenny R. about the Starvation Springs NF 46 Site.
Stargazing from elevated sites: The remote location provides minimal light pollution for astronomical viewing. According to Kenny, the site has "fantastic starlink speeds" which can be useful for identifying constellations with stargazing apps.
Hiking to Snake River access points: The terrain offers challenging trails with significant elevation changes. "Trailhead view is beautiful. Hike is down to the Snake River, which is over 5 miles each way. Major elevation change," explains Leah G. about the Red Bird Creek Trailhead.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Campers appreciate direct water access at certain sites. Laura M. notes about Pealy Loop Recreation Site: "It's an established campground, with maybe 4 or 5 sites, all open, spread out, right on the river. There's a picnic table and fire pit for each site, and a porta potty."
Nocturnal wildlife sounds: Evening animal activity provides natural ambiance. David C. mentions, "Great spot to camp out. Owls calling throughout the evening. Great cell service."
Relative isolation with decent access: Sites balance remoteness with reasonable driving conditions. Kenny R. describes access to Starvation Springs as "Not far up a nicely paved road, and then onto maybe 0.3-0.4 mile bumpy gravel/rock FS road. Plenty of large open sites with rock fire rings."
What you should know
Variable cell service conditions: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. While some areas have surprisingly good coverage, others have none. Laura M. reports at Pealy Loop: "Verizon was roaming and AT&T had great reception. Despite being right off the main road, it was very quiet."
Self-sufficient camping required: No amenities exist at most sites. "No trash service, no water other than the river," Laura notes about Pealy Loop, emphasizing the need to bring all supplies.
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. Kenny R. mentions his "20 foot RV" handles the approach to North Thomason Meadows, while other sites may require higher clearance.
Seasonal considerations: Weather and environmental factors vary throughout the year. Alyse L. recommends visiting North Thomason Meadows "in late spring or early fall" for optimal conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for longer stays at accessible sites: Sites with easier access allow for more comfortable extended camping. Laura M. notes, "We stayed here two nights. Ranger came through to check on things, always love to see that."
Pack extra water supplies: No potable water exists at primitive sites. "Bring all the water and supplies and tools you need--this area is REMOTE," advises Alyse L.
Consider seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring and early summer offer botanical displays for nature education. Alyse describes Starvation Springs NF 46 Site as having "more plant diversity--i.e. great WILDFLOWER BLOOM in the spring. At 5000 feet, June to early July is a peak bloom time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection based on approach roads: Choose locations with manageable access for your specific rig. Kenny R. appreciates that Starvation Springs "isn't 5 miles down some super washboarded gravel road."
Fire pit availability: Many sites include established fire rings, but seasonal restrictions apply. Kenny notes, "Plenty of large open sites with rock fire rings. Be aware of burn bans and/or prescribed burns in the area."
Maneuverability at riverside locations: Some water-adjacent sites accommodate larger vehicles. Laura M. states that Pealy Loop has "Easy access for big rigs" despite being positioned lower on the riverbank.
