Dispersed camping options are plentiful near Quincy, Washington, where the high desert landscape sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in the rain shadow of the Cascades. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with minimal natural shade, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for exploring the columnar basalt formations and coulee landscapes. Winter camping is possible but requires preparation for temperatures that can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Hiking near waterfalls: Ancient Lakes trail system offers routes to multiple waterfalls throughout the coulee landscape. "This is a very pretty hike full of sage brush and interesting geological features, also several waterfalls. Past the lakes you can go out to the Columbia River Gorge," notes Heather C. about Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead.
Rock climbing: The basalt columns at Frenchman Coulee provide climbing routes for various skill levels. "Amazing access to climbing. We have been here 2 x now... staying for about 5 days in a row. It is a 4 minute approach to the nice moderate area called the Feathers and about 15 minutes from other climbs," writes Leah W. about Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites.
Lake fishing: Multiple stocked lakes in the area provide fishing opportunities through much of the year. "Nice little lake to fish rainbow trout," says Travis P. about Burke Lake South.
Geological exploration: Visit the petrified wood specimens at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, located 30 minutes from Quincy. "The building houses an interesting collection of rocks- petrified, sedimentary, igneous, even meteorite chunks. Interesting are the 'picture' rocks that have naturally formed images that the human eye and mind reinterprets into recognizable pictures," explains Jared S.
What campers like
Dramatic landscape views: The contrasting colors and formations of the coulee landscape create distinctive campsites. "Gorgeous cliffs make the perfect backdrop for a week of fun on the water," shares Jessica M. about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar.
Off-season solitude: Spring and fall camping offers more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. "We visited in late June of 2024. Crescent Bar is a nice little community and the PUD park is beautiful," reports Derek B.
Accessible water recreation: Columbia River access points provide alternatives to lake activities. "A short drive down the road brings you to the Columbia River if you're looking to take a swim," notes Leah W. about the area near Frenchman Coulee.
Dog-friendly camping spots: Most campgrounds accommodate pets with varying amenities. "This is a very kid friendly campground. There are a ton of paved trails for bike riding or walking. The Columbia river is feet away and has plenty of access points," explains Cinco D. about Crescent Bar Campground.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Irrigation runoff affects many lakes in the region. "Note that there is no potable water, you have to haul it in. The lakes are contaminated by irrigation runoff," warns Heather C. about Ancient Lakes area.
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be challenging for some vehicles. "Best to have high clearance as there are some good size rock outcroppings," advises jeremy M. about Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping.
Parking regulations: Some campgrounds strictly enforce vehicle limits. "They are sticklers on the parking situation so don't expect any leeway. I believe it was 2 cars max with one boat and camper," explains C.j. M.
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes are present in warmer months. "Avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around," advises Emma A. about camping near Ancient Lakes.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with geology lessons at nearby sites. "Just a short drive from the interpretive center, on the river banks, is a nice little campground. It's not very remote or wild, but it is a good place to pop open your tent if you're hoping to do some kayaking," recommends Meghan O. about Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park.
Swimming alternatives: When lake water isn't suitable for swimming, seek out alternatives. "Tire yourself out on the river, find a sandbar and post up for the day, maybe surf down some dunes into the river. Back on land take advantage of the pool at the nearby condos," suggests Jessica M.
Accessibility considerations: Several campgrounds offer facilities for those with mobility needs. "You'll also be close to handicapped parking spaces and have sidewalk access to your campsite, making this a great choice for campers with disabilities or mobility limitations," notes Meghan O.
Shade management: Most camping areas have minimal natural shade. "It is blazing hot here in summer with little to no shade," warns Gary K. about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Choose sites based on level ground and access needs. "Looking at our receipts, we averaged 14.5 miles per gallon driving mostly through mountains on a combination of highway and small-town roads," reports Corinna B.
Utility connections: Many established campgrounds offer full hookup sites. "There are 30 and 50 amp sites with sewer hook ups," notes Gary K. about Crescent Bar RV Resort.
Reservation timing: Book early for peak season at popular campgrounds. "This was our favorite spot on our recent central-Washington camping trip. We pulled up about 7pm and grabbed a huge spot with a peekaboo view of the river," shares Corinna B.
Supply planning: Limited services means bringing necessities. "Not a lot of food choices close by, with a pizza place and the clubhouse up the road being your only choices unless you want to drive into Quincy," advises Chris C. about staying at dog-friendly campgrounds near Quincy.
