The Beverly, Washington area features dramatic basalt cliffs rising above the Columbia River at approximately 500 feet elevation. These geological formations create distinctive camping environments in this semi-arid region that receives less than 8 inches of precipitation annually. Campsites near Beverly, Washington experience temperature extremes with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Columbia River area climbing spots near Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping offer routes for various skill levels. The area attracts climbers year-round with its basalt formations. "There are some nice trails that take you up above the climbing area and you can get to the backside to get some nice views and away from the crowds," notes Joshua C.
Wildlife viewing: Bighorn sheep frequent the camping areas near Rocky Coulee Recreation Area. The area provides opportunities to observe native desert wildlife from camp. A visitor mentioned, "We had a large herd of bighorn sheep as pre dusk visitors which was great to admire."
Water recreation: Columbia River access points allow swimming, fishing and boating. Multiple camping locations offer direct water access for cooling off during hot summer days. A camper at Sand Hollow Campground observed, "The water access is great for kids - rocky coastline and calm water. We caught one fish and our 9 yr old caught minnows in a lagoon."
What campers like
Stargazing: Clear desert skies create exceptional night viewing conditions. Limited light pollution and open terrain make this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "On clear nights you can see all the stars. Which is my favorite!" reports billie J. about Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook.
Geological features: Petrified wood specimens and interpretive trails at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground showcase ancient geology. Visitors can explore fossils and learn about the region's volcanic past. A camper described, "An easy 1.5 mile hike will take you past several nicely preserved examples of different types of petrified wood, including some whole logs where you can clearly still see the shape of the bark, rings, etc."
Uncrowded weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer significantly quieter experiences. Many campgrounds experience dramatic differences between weekend and weekday occupancy. Jacob V. noted at Beverly Dunes, "It is an ohv area so weekends, especially holiday weekends, can get loud and crowded. During the week it is very quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Challenging wind conditions: Strong, persistent winds affect tent stability and camping comfort. Wind speeds can increase dramatically, especially during evenings. One camper at Sand Hollow Campground reported, "Dusty. Minimal to no shade. Walk in sites are really tight. Heavy winds at night."
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most primitive camping areas have minimal services. Many locations offer vault toilets but no running water or other amenities. A visitor to Vantage Riverstone Resort Campground advised, "Location has trees, grass, picnic tables, full hook ups, basic and premium rates, showers (3 minutes hot water for .50, buy 2 tokens at a pop)."
Vehicle clearance considerations: Access roads to some camping areas require higher clearance vehicles. Rough terrain may challenge standard passenger cars. According to a reviewer at Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook, "The entrance to the site is rough. Scouting is a good idea before attempting entry with a trailer."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible campsites: Several campgrounds offer ADA-compliant facilities for visitors with mobility needs. Wheelchair-friendly camping options exist throughout the area. A camper observed at Sand Hollow Campground, "Many ADA features: multiple sites are set up for wheelchair access, even some paths are wheelchair accessible."
Swimming spots: Protected areas of the Columbia River provide safer water recreation for children. Calm water inlets reduce current concerns for younger swimmers. Julie M. shared about Sand Hollow, "The campsites are in great condition (gravel pad, picnic table) and the water access is great for kids - rocky coastline and calm water."
Educational opportunities: Geological and natural history exhibits engage younger visitors. The petrified forest and interpretive centers provide learning experiences. "The Ginko Petrified forest has amazing views alongside an interpretive center with cool rock formations and ancient petroglyphs. The rock shop is super funky with cheesy dinosaur statues out front," notes Brian C. about Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for exposure: Upper loop areas typically provide more natural desert vegetation. The camping experience varies significantly between different loops at established campgrounds. An RVer at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park noted, "Upper loop is more sage brushy & less manicured lawn than the lower loop. Great views and pretty private spots."
Concert weekend considerations: Event schedules at the Gorge Amphitheatre dramatically impact campground availability and atmosphere. RV sites throughout the region fill quickly during major concert events. "If there is a concert at the Gorge don't even try here as it will be a full party palace," warns a camper about Ginkgo Petrified Forest.
Off-season advantages: Spring and fall camping offers better availability and quieter conditions. Shoulder season visits avoid peak crowds and heat. A reviewer at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground shared, "This is our second time visiting this park and we're surprised how clean and well kept the park is. The bathrooms are great. The showers are the best we found, the hook ups are always in good repair. We've only been here in off-season for a night at a time, but it's always quiet with very respectable guess."
