Rustic camping near Burbank, Washington centers around several primitive sites situated along the Columbia and Snake Rivers at elevations ranging from 340 to 450 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from July through September, and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Wind patterns along the river corridors create challenging conditions for tent campers during spring months when gusts regularly exceed 20mph.
What to do
Fishing opportunities year-round: Ice Harbor Dam area provides excellent fishing access with seasonal variations. "Lots of flat open space below the dam. Nice river view, lots of pelicans. Quiet and uncrowded," notes Lloyd M. about Ice Harbor Dam.
Wildlife observation: The riverside camping locations offer chances to spot various animals throughout the year. Kevin C. describes his experience at Vernita Bridge: "We saw many ducks and some geese floating down the river at high speeds. Also saw coyotes and friendly bees."
Boating access: Multiple locations feature boat ramps for water recreation. "Discover Pass required. Not for regular camping. Used for staying overnight and getting up early to hit the water," explains Jennifer R. about the boating focus at Vernita Bridge.
Stargazing: The remote locations with minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for night sky viewing. One camper at Riparia notes the complete absence of electricity means "AMAZING star gazing" conditions.
What campers like
Uncrowded conditions: Most dispersed sites around Burbank see minimal use, particularly midweek. "This is a great mostly unknown little campground. Fun fact: This is the least used campsite maintained by the Lower Granite Natural Resources Management team," reports Nick E. about Riparia.
River access: Direct water frontage provides cooling opportunities during hot months. Angela P. shares about Riparia: "You can easily set up a tent and float along the river's edge. There are a few little coves that are nice for kids to play in and great to stay out of the river current."
Budget-friendly options: All sites in the area are either free or require only a Discover Pass. Jeremy H. notes about Ringold Springs Camping: "Requires a discover pass, but otherwise, free. Didn't see any park employees. I camped on a Friday evening and was the only one there camping except for an RV boondocking in a different section."
Off-grid experience: The isolation and lack of services appeals to those seeking disconnection. Horace M. enthusiastically shares about Vernita Bridge: "I just love this spot, no amenities, isolation, river front view, and a boat ramp. Bring your own everything!!"
What you should know
Seasonal fire restrictions: Most sites prohibit wood fires during peak dry periods. "Wood fires are NOT allowed from June 10th through October 10th. It gets very dry out here," cautions a Riparia camper.
Limited facilities: Most locations have minimal or no amenities. At Devil's Bench Recreation Area, Anton reports: "Large spot, with paved access right near the Dam, toilet, no service, 4 tables."
Access challenges: Some roads to camping areas have difficult grades. Nick E. warns about Riparia: "I followed my GPS which took me off of Highway 26 and onto Old Highway 26. DON'T do this. Take Hay rd. Old HWY 26 will take you onto Hammer Grade Rd. This is NOT a fun road with a trailer."
Seasonal crowding: While typically quiet, certain periods bring crowds. A Vernita Bridge camper notes, "If you arrive on the last weekend of October, there is a huge king salmon fishing derby with about 100 entrants so you will have company."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: The river currents can be dangerous despite calm appearances. "There are a few little coves that are nice for kids to play in and great to stay out of the river current," advises a Riparia camper.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate protection against seasonal pests. "Day time the bugs aren't bad but, when the sun starts going down, the mosquitoes are coming out. Also, spring into early summer, there are ticks," warns a camper at Riparia.
Shade considerations: Limited tree cover at most sites means preparation for sun exposure. "Limited sites have shade all day. Get there early to get one of these prime spots," suggests Nick E. about securing the best family camping locations.
Supply planning: The remote nature of these locations requires bringing all essentials. One camper at McDougall Dispersed Camping advises: "Primitive location, nothing there, but maybe a fire ring and a spot to park your vehicle."
Tips from RVers
Water conservation: No hookups means careful usage of onboard resources. An RV camper at Riparia shares: "We stayed here with our Travel Trailer with a 50 gallon fresh water tank. It lasted the 4 of us the 5 day weekend."
Generator needs: Temperature extremes may require power for cooling. "It was a hot weekend and we did end up having to run the generator for a few hours during the day to keep the newborn cool," notes an RVer about summer conditions.
Road conditions: Unpaved access roads affect vehicles and equipment. "Your trailer, tow vehicle and anything in the bed is going to get dusty getting here and leaving. It's a decent trek down a gravel road," warns a Riparia visitor.
Dumping station planning: No facilities exist at the primitive sites. Nicole C. mentions that for Vernita Bridge, "The closest [dumpsite] I found is right off highway 395 at the rest area."
