Dispersed camping sites near Coulee City, Washington range across prairie landscapes, sagebrush terrain, and water access points at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet. The region has a semi-arid climate with extreme temperature variations, dropping below freezing at night during spring and fall. Many sites experience strong winds coming off the Columbia Basin, creating challenging tent-staking conditions.
What to do
Fishing for trout: At Long Lake, 35 miles south of Coulee City, visitors report seeing "plenty of big fish in the lake, pelicans and weasels" during their stay. Early morning fishing provides best results, particularly in spring.
Swimming in Trail Lake: Trail Lake Dispersed offers swimming opportunities with "sandy dirt that is pretty firm" along the shoreline. One visitor mentioned "the water is nice and cool. Good for cooling down on a hot day."
Birdwatching from Martha Lake: At Martha Lake Dispersed Camping, located 40 minutes west of Coulee City, campers can observe diverse bird species. One camper shared they "spent the evening listening to a variety of birds before the frogs sang us to sleep."
Hiking Ancient Lakes: Though requiring a 90-minute drive, the Ancient Lakes trail system provides desert terrain hiking with "several waterfalls that you can get super close to." This area features "a really nice change of pace from the trees and mountains."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Long Lake camping areas provide significant separation between campers. One reviewer noted they were "one of only 3 campers in and around Long Lake. Lots of privacy" with sites spaced far enough apart that "everyone was a ways away."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently mention animal sightings as a highlight. At Martha Lake, one visitor described an evening soundtrack of birds followed by frogs. At Long Lake, during certain months "there is cattle in the area and they come down to the lake in the morning and greet you."
Stargazing conditions: Clear night skies and minimal light pollution make this area ideal for astronomy. The elevated position of Chelan Lookout at 4,750 feet provides exceptional stargazing, with one camper noting "sandy dirt camping site near the USGS sensor station" offering unobstructed views.
Weather variety: The region's climate shifts dramatically by season. Spring camping offers moderate temperatures and wildflowers, while fall brings cooler nights. One camper at Ancient Lakes advised to "avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around."
What you should know
Discover Pass requirements: Most sites in the region require Washington's Discover Pass. Martha Lake specifically notes "Lake needs Washington Discover Pass" ($35 annual or $11.50 daily) for overnight stays up to three days.
Bug populations: Insect activity varies dramatically by location and season. At Trail Lake, one camper described "literally the most mosquitos I've ever seen" while another detailed "a good variety of bugs. Mosquitoes, small flies, no see'ems."
Fire restrictions: Complete fire bans typically run May through October. At Long Lake, reviewers confirm "no fires May through Oct," and fire rings at many sites may be unusable during summer months.
Road conditions: Access to Jameson Lake requires navigating "a long wide well graded gravel road" while Long Lake features roads that will make "your teeth rattle out of your head" due to washboarding. Most sites remain accessible to standard vehicles despite rough conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Best first-time backpacking: Ancient & Dusty Lake provides an ideal introduction to backpacking for families. The trail is "only 2 miles from the trailhead on flat terrain which makes it for an ideal first backpacking experience" with multiple established campsites.
Swimming safety: Trail Lake offers swimming opportunities but requires parental supervision due to unclear water depths. One camper recommended bringing "floaties for the lake" to enhance safety for children.
Timing considerations: For Secret Camping Spot #1, families should arrive during daylight hours as the elevated ridge campsites require careful setup. One visitor warned to "be mindful of the cactuses, these are small but quite sharp" when pitching tents.
Educational opportunities: The unique geological features around Ancient Lakes provide teaching moments about the region's ice age floods and formation. One reviewer called it "a very pretty hike full of sage brush and interesting geological features, also several waterfalls."
Tips from RVers
Level parking at Martha Lake: The site offers "big gravel lots next to the lake" with "no problem with level" for various RV sizes. Located near Interstate 90, it serves as "a great overnight stop with a lake view."
Size limitations at Trail Lake: The access road and camping areas restrict larger vehicles. One RVer advised "I wouldn't take anything big in here, it's really a van-lifer or small TT area" due to limited turnaround space.
Highway noise considerations: While offering free camping near Coulee City, Washington, some sites experience traffic sounds. Martha Lake campers note "some noise from I90, but not really that bad" while Secret Camping Spot #1 is located "300 yards from highway" but remains "pretty quiet spot" due to tall bushes providing sound barriers.
