Camping near Coulee Dam, Washington, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for every type of camper.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Steamboat Rock State Park. One camper mentioned, "The hike up Steamboat Rock and the kayaking on Banks Lake is amazing." The views from the top are breathtaking, especially at sunrise.
- Fishing and Boating: The lakes in the area are great for fishing. A visitor at Bay Loop Campground noted, "Fishing was fair for walleye, bass," making it a solid spot for anglers.
- Wildlife Watching: Campers at Hawk Creek Campground enjoyed the local wildlife, saying, "The waterfall really flows in the spring, but slows as summer sets in." Keep an eye out for deer and wild turkeys!
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Fort Spokane Campground said, "Very clean flush toilets. An active camp host who keeps his eyes on incoming folks and stops to say hello."
- Spacious Sites: Campers at Dune Loop Campground enjoyed the space between sites, stating, "There was a good amount of space between sites, which was great."
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the activities available. One visitor at Blue Lake Resort shared, "Kids enjoyed the kayaks and paddle boards. Overall it’s a good value and we will be regular here."
What you should know:
- Windy Conditions: If you're tent camping, be prepared for strong winds. A camper at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park warned, "This one is very windy! Keep that in mind if you are tent camping."
- Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A reviewer at Spring Canyon Campground mentioned, "The campsites were hard, small, and lacked privacy."
- No Reservations at Some Sites: Certain campgrounds, like Jones Bay Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to snag a good spot.
Tips for camping with families:
- Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with water activities. A parent at Bay Loop Campground noted, "We spent time on and on the water every day. Gorgeous location and super friendly staff."
- Bring Outdoor Games: Many campgrounds have large grassy areas perfect for games. A visitor at Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park mentioned, "Tons of fishing options, walking trails, camp fires, lots and lots of big grassy areas to set up pickle ball, badminton, volleyball, soccer."
- Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have cooking facilities, but it’s good to bring your own supplies. A camper at Blue Lake Resort appreciated the "dedicated cooking sites" that helped avoid windy cooking conditions.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dune Loop Campground said, "If you’re hooking up, you’ve got sewer right at the site!"
- Be Prepared for Heat: Some campgrounds can get hot in summer. A visitor at Bay Loop Campground mentioned, "It would probably be too hot for us during the summer."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, it’s wise to stock up. A camper at Hawk Creek Campground noted, "The available water was treated with iodine."
Camping near Coulee Dam, Washington, is a great way to enjoy nature and spend time with family and friends. With plenty of activities and beautiful scenery, it’s a spot worth checking out!