Dispersed camping near Colton, Washington offers primitive sites scattered across Bureau of Land Management and Army Corps of Engineers lands. Temperatures in this region typically reach 90°F during summer months and drop below freezing in winter. Several undeveloped locations lack cell service, requiring campers to bring all needed supplies as stores and services aren't available within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Escure Ranch provides exceptional dark sky viewing away from light pollution. "This little adventure was my favorite thus far this year," notes a camper who visited during a new moon, creating "perfect for star gazing and astro photography."
Hiking to waterfalls: Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area features a three-mile trail leading to Towell Falls through Washington's Channeled Scablands. "Rock creek runs through this lovely BLM land with 2 sets of falls. Towell falls is beautiful, but we have yet to visit Breeden falls," shares one visitor.
River activities: The Snake River corridor allows swimming and fishing at multiple sites. At Little Goose Landing, campers can observe commercial traffic: "We enjoyed a quiet site on the river bank. Watched a cruise ship and a couple barges pass by."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The rustic camping areas around Colton feature diverse wildlife. At Red Bird Creek Trailhead, campers report "Owls calling throughout the evening" creating a memorable natural soundtrack.
Spring wildflowers: Early season visitors to the scablands enjoy colorful displays. "The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous," advises a camper who explored the Escure Ranch area.
Historical exploration: Several sites contain remnants of the region's past. "The ranch has an interesting history and it's fun to poke around the old structures," notes a visitor to Escure Ranch, which features preserved historic ranch buildings.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The last two miles driving in is a rough dirt road, and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly desirable," warns one Escure Ranch visitor. Another notes, "Your trailer, tow vehicle and anything in the bed is going to get dusty getting here and leaving."
Seasonal hazards: Riparia and surrounding areas have specific seasonal concerns. "Spring into early summer, there are ticks. Summer through the rest of the year you should be tick free," mentions a camper, while another warns about rattlesnakes becoming more active as temperatures rise.
Water management: No drinking water exists at most sites. One Riparia camper advises: "There is NO running water available, unless you want to get some from the river (NOT suggested)." Plan to carry all water needed for your stay.
Tips for camping with families
River access: Some sites offer gentle water areas suitable for children. "There are many free dispersed camping site for several miles," notes a visitor to Elk River, which features numerous locations along the waterway.
Accessibility considerations: Certain campgrounds accommodate mobility restrictions. "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!" notes a camper about Escure Ranch.
Limited facilities: Prepare children for primitive camping conditions. "This is a bring it in, pack it out camping. A set of vault toilets are available," reports a Little Goose Landing visitor, reflecting the minimal facilities common throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven parking surfaces. At Horse Camp Trailhead, visitors note the terrain can make setting up difficult: "Sort of big rig friendly but make sure you are good at backing out if you have a long set up. Lot is pretty uneven so pretty tough to get level if you are staying the night."
Seasonal restrictions: Summer fire bans affect most sites. "Wood fires are NOT allowed from June 10th through October 10th. It gets very dry out here," explains a Riparia camper, highlighting the critical seasonal restrictions throughout the Colton region.
Isolation preparation: No services exist nearby most dispersed sites. "Come prepared for the whole trip. Washtucna is the closest town and they have limited supplies," advises a camper, noting even the nearest communities offer minimal resources.
