Primitive camping near Colfax, Washington offers access to eastern Washington's distinctive scabland terrain, characterized by basalt outcroppings and seasonal waterways. Elevations range from approximately 1,500 to 2,000 feet, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F during July and August. Free dispersed sites typically feature minimal improvements beyond fire rings, with most locations requiring visitors to pack in all supplies including water.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Escure Ranch offers a 3-mile trail leading to Towell Falls through unique geological formations. "A three mile hike/horseback ride takes you through Washington's Channeled Scablands to Towell Falls through spectacular buttes and meadows along the creek. The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous," notes one visitor to Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area.
Night sky photography: The remote locations provide exceptional dark sky viewing conditions. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "It's a fine large gravel pull out. No shade and it's windy. Almost lost my canopy. But it has a really nice hiking trail behind it. Worth a stop, but not for long term camping." The open terrain makes for unobstructed astronomical viewing.
Island exploration: For paddlers seeking solitude, Bonnie Lake offers boat-in primitive camping. "This is a primitive site on an island in Bonnie Lake in Eastern Washington. Bonnie lake is a canyon lake, about 4 miles long and narrow... Access is by paddling up Rock Creek about a mile and another 1/2 mile paddle up the lake. The creek can be seasonally shallow and you'll have to portage across at least one beaver dam," explains a camper about the unique access requirements.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate the diverse animals visible from dispersed sites. At Hog Lake Campground, visitors report, "Around 2:00 a.m. every morning the coyotes have a 2 to 3 minute party. It's amazing to hear him. Never saw one though they keep away." The same reviewer noted excellent cell service in certain areas, "Very quiet out of the way boondocking area. Many of the spots are RV accessible a decent gravel road goes through the entire area."
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these sites provides peaceful camping experiences. A camper at Riparia observed, "There is NO running water available, unless you want to get some from the river (NOT suggested). Absolutely no electricity here, not even for park lights. This makes for AMAZING star gazing. ZERO cell service at the campsite."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies offer fishing access. At Hog Lake, one visitor mentioned, "This spot has made many memories for me. The hike is pleasant and the view is pretty awesome. Pet friendly and honestly it doesn't feel like this place is well known. I don't find many folks there every time I go."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. At Horse Camp Trailhead, a camper warned, "The coordinates from this listing are incorrect and take you down the wrong road." For Riparia, another advised, "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."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common throughout the region. At Riparia, visitors note, "No wood fires allowed from June 10 through October 10." Similar restrictions apply at most dispersed sites during summer months.
Wildlife safety: Several campers mention encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife. At Hog Lake, one camper observed, "Saw a rattlesnake on the trail but we kept our distance and he went on his way. Be kind to the animals, it's their home."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Some sites offer better accessibility than others. At Escure Ranch, one visitor noted, "It is very flat and would be reasonably accessible for someone using a wheelchair or with other mobility restrictions. The picnic tables are even accessible! There are fire rings, a pit toilet, and stables and water for your horses."
Water access spots: Finding campsites near water can provide activities for children. Riparia campers mention, "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."
Bug protection: Insect management is essential for comfort. At Riparia, campers advise, "Bring bug spray! 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. Summer through the rest of the year you should be tick free."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all dispersed areas accommodate larger vehicles. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, a reviewer mentioned, "A nice location! I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents. We did end up finding a spot in our tent, but this is site is much easier with an RV or van."
Self-sufficiency: RV campers must prepare for limited services. At Hog Lake, one camper noted, "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots. None of these are really official spots (not flattened or bordered) but it's a nice place to pass through."
Dust preparation: Unpaved roads create challenging conditions for RVs. A Riparia visitor warned, "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. Speed limit is 45MPH. Good luck to you if you try to go that fast."
