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Best Dispersed Camping near Coulee Dam, WA

14 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Coulee Dam, Washington include several primitive sites on public lands. Trail Lake Dispersed provides free camping with good water access for fishing, swimming, and paddling. Jameson Lake offers both dispersed sites and a nearby resort with amenities. Million Dollar Boat Launch Dry Camp and Blue Lake Water Access provide additional options for self-contained camping. According to reviews, Trail Lake features "different pull outs that feel secluded enough" with "sandy dirt that is pretty firm."

Access to most sites requires a Washington Discover Pass ($30 annually), though camping itself is typically free. Jameson Lake features a large gravel parking area suitable for RVs and boat trailers, accessed via a well-graded gravel road. No designated site numbers exist at these locations; campers select available spots upon arrival. Several campers noted that Jameson Lake "can be windy during season change" but offers "beautiful nights, great for star gazing."

Water availability varies by location, with no potable water at most dispersed sites. Fire restrictions apply seasonally; check current regulations before travel. Trail Lake requires closing the cow gate when entering or exiting. Prepare for insects, particularly during warmer months. Secret Camping Spot #1 provides basic overnight accommodations with vault toilets located approximately 1/4 mile down the road. Be aware of small cacti in some areas. Jameson Lake is particularly noted for fishing opportunities, with trout being abundant during fishing season. The lake operates on a split season schedule, so verify open dates before planning your trip.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Coulee Dam, Washington (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Coulee Dam, WA

11 Photos of 5 Coulee Dam Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Coulee Dam, WA

14 Reviews of 5 Coulee Dam Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2018

    Jameson Lake

    Great Fishing

    RV and tent camping. Can be windy during season change. Boat accessible. Gravel and dirt. Very beautiful night, great for star gazing. Great fishing spot, has split season and is only open during fishing season. There is a private camping location close by with restaurant and store for supplies. Lots of trout, caught limit every time. Witnessed someone pull a 18" trout last visit.

  • Dawn G.
    Dec. 1, 2019

    Jameson Lake

    Kayaking Fun!

    We arrived here on a Sunday night in May and the place was empty...... only one other camper and it was really far away. It is very remote, no services around and a little odd to get to, in that you have to wind past a lakeside"resort" with a little store and campsites that didn't look really very nice, yet there were people everywhere, it looked totally booked. Then you cross over the line into the campground where a$30 annual pass is required, yet the per night cost is$0 as of 2017, and there was nobody around! The campground is like a big open parking area with a boat launch and toilets and then there is also a little more dispersed sites where random fire pits have been built. We had our choice of sites so we picked one that sat away from others and was right above the water making the launch of the kayaks pretty easy.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    Nice Lake, bugs are very friendly 😁

    Enjoyed our time here. The entrance is not marked that I can see. Follow the directions to a Bob wire fence where you turn in. There is a turn off not too far in on the right. I assume there are more campsites. Unfortunately, when we went, there was a sizable mud puddle that I didn't feel like driving through. I'll explore that next time. But further ahead it opens up to the beautiful lake. The campsite(s) are surrounded by the lake. Kinda like a peninsula. It's a large area with room for a good size group or maybe up to 5 individual sites. There were remnants of a few fire rings. Only one other small family camping when we were there. The water is nice and cool. Good for cooling down on a hot day. Saw a few people fishing from small boats. There are no trees for shade. But there are lots of very friendly bugs that want to say hi. When we first arrived, it was pretty breezy. As soon as it died down the welcoming community came out in full effect. Which just happened to correspond with when we were making dinner for the night. They, of course, invited themselves. It got so bad that as soon as we were done cooking, we each took our plates, and scurried away to our tents to eat and turn in for the night. There was a good variety of bugs. Mosquitoes, small flies, no see'ems. They probably wouldn't bother you too much if you had a fire going and maybe some bug repellent. But bugs are to be expected when you're next to water. And since there were lots of bugs there were also lots of birds to watch. As far as the actual camping, it's kind of a chore to set up tents just because the ground is so rocky. But if you have a good mallet and sharp tent steaks as well as some patients you'll be fine. It got pretty cool during the evening, even chilly overnight. So it was pretty comfortable overall. There is a noise factor to deal with though there are some roads nearby so you do hear cars throughout the night. But overall, it's a pretty nice place with a beautiful lake. The cell reception for T-Mobile was great. It seems to be a first come camp. I believe it is free. We have a Discovery Pass. But we saw zero signs to say either way and there was no pay station. We would definitely come back. Just with better bug protection and floaties for the lake😁

  • Judy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2021

    Jameson Lake

    Free dispersed campsites on a fishing lake

    We camped here because my grandparents used to fish here long ago. The camping is free and dispersed. There is a large gravel parking lot suitable for large RVs plus those towing a trailer or boat. We chose to find a more secluded site away from the strong winds. The views of the lake were beautiful especially in the fall.

    Below the gravel area was a large paved area for boat trailers. A discover pass is needed ($30/year) but we always get one and use it extensively.

    You access this area via long wide well graded gravel road. There are no site numbers; you just find a spot and stay.

  • Maui F.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2023

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    Great spot

    Great spot to disperse camp, no toilets , great for swimming fishing kayaking paddle boarding and disperse camping, sunken boat at edge of water cool feature. Lots of bugs and spiders. Also close the cow gate.

  • Laura B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    So many mosquitos!!

    Beautiful spot, but literally the most mosquitos I’ve ever seen (and I used to work in the woods of northern Maine). My family can deal with basically any conditions and we bailed to drive into the night after 30 minutes of painful tent set up.

  • Shay S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    Perfect

    Easy to get to. Different pull outs felt secluded enough. Lots of bugs. Felt safe

  • Ryan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2025

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    Great location on the water

    We stayed on a side access trail right before this pin drop and it was just as nice, if not better. A few other campers spread out around the lake but very separated from each other. Sandy dirt that is pretty firm. Beautiful view of the lake and hillsides.

  • Cheese H.
    May. 6, 2019

    Jameson Lake

    Gramping

    Skip this dirt field and stay at Jack’s Resort. My grandparents invited me out and, be it not my dispersed style (hence the two stars), I enjoyed the beautiful lake. Jack’s Resort is extremely well maintained. It has a little cafe. Immaculate bathrooms and even a few cabins for those who would rather. Lots of fishing if that’s your thing. Take a little boat and an ice chest of cold beverages and enjoy a day on the lake.

Guide to Coulee Dam

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Coulee Dam, Washington, where nature offers a serene escape and a chance to connect with the great outdoors. Here are some top spots to consider for your next adventure.

Stunning Views at Jameson Lake for Dispersed Campers

  • The Jameson Lake area features a large gravel parking lot that accommodates RVs and trailers, making it easy to find a spot that suits your needs.
  • With no site numbers, you can choose your own secluded area away from the wind, ensuring a peaceful camping experience while enjoying beautiful lake views.
  • This location is perfect for fishing and kayaking, with a boat launch available for easy access to the water.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Coulee Dam, Washington

  • Consider visiting Trail Lake, where you can enjoy a free camping experience with plenty of space to set up your tent and enjoy activities like swimming and fishing.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience, as this spot does not offer amenities like toilets or drinking water, so plan accordingly.
  • The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Unique Features of the Million Dollar Boat Launch Dry Camp

  • The Million Dollar Boat Launch Dry Camp provides a drive-in access point, making it convenient for those traveling with gear.
  • This dispersed camping area is ideal for those who appreciate a more rugged experience, as it lacks formal amenities, allowing for a true back-to-nature feel.
  • The surrounding landscape offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping spots near Coulee Dam?

Jameson Lake offers excellent dispersed camping opportunities near Coulee Dam with spacious spots for both RVs and tents. The large gravel parking lot accommodates large RVs and those towing boats or trailers. For more seclusion, campers can find spots away from the main area that offer beautiful lake views and excellent stargazing. This area is particularly known for fishing, though it's only open during fishing season. For a different experience, Secret Camping Spot #1 provides a relatively quiet option despite being close to the highway, with vault toilets available nearby.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Coulee Dam?

Dispersed camping sites near Coulee Dam are typically primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Million Dollar Boat Launch Dry Camp, you'll find drive-in access but few facilities. Most dispersed areas require campers to be fully self-sufficient. For those staying at Secret Camping Spot #1, vault toilets are available approximately 1/4 mile down the road. If you need supplies while camping at Jameson Lake, there's a private resort nearby with a restaurant and store. Remember to bring plenty of water, pack out all trash, and prepare for no electrical hookups, shower facilities, or potable water at most dispersed sites in the region.

Is dispersed camping available near Trail Lake by Coulee Dam?

Yes, dispersed camping is definitely available at Trail Lake Dispersed. The camping area features multiple pull-outs that feel secluded from each other, providing privacy despite other campers being present. The entrance isn't clearly marked—look for a turnoff near a barbed wire fence. Various side access trails offer camping spots with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hillsides. The terrain is sandy dirt that's generally firm enough for vehicles. Be aware that Trail Lake is known for extremely high mosquito activity during certain times of the year, which might impact your camping experience.

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