Best Dispersed Camping near Davenport, WA

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Davenport, Washington, with several free BLM sites offering primitive camping experiences. Hog Lake Campground features multiple informal sites along a gravel road leading to the lake, with established fire rings but no amenities. Fishtrap Recreation Area provides open, level sites suitable for both tents and RVs, though tent campers should be prepared for hard, rocky soil in some areas. Escure Ranch/Rock Creek Recreation Area showcases the unique Channeled Scablands landscape with access to Towell Falls via a three-mile trail.

These primitive sites require self-sufficiency as no drinking water is available. Most areas have vault toilets or portable facilities, but campers must pack out all trash. According to reviews, cell service is generally good at Fishtrap Recreation Area, with "3 bar 5G T-Mobile" reported by recent visitors. Road conditions vary significantly; several campers noted that "the road gets a bit rough" at Hog Lake, potentially challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Fire restrictions are common during dry seasons, so check current regulations before planning to build a campfire.

Wildlife encounters are frequent in these areas. Coyotes are commonly heard howling at night, particularly at Hog Lake where campers report their "2-3 minute party" around 2:00 a.m. Rattlesnakes have been observed on trails, especially during warmer months. The best time to visit Escure Ranch is spring when wildflowers bloom and before rattlesnakes become numerous. These areas offer exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution, with one visitor describing Escure Ranch as an "astro photographer's dream" during new moon periods. The standard stay limit at these BLM sites is 14 days.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Davenport, Washington (7)

    1. Hog Lake Campground

    33 Reviews
    Sprague, WA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 536-1200

    "BLM land was easy to find right off the highway. Rough gravel road easily traveled in a truck, low clearance vehicle may have trouble. There were a few people with campers at the end of the road."

    "I personally would not want to drive anything bigger than a camper van down there but there are quite a few bug turnaround spots and some nice big sites."

    2. Fishtrap Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Sprague, WA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 536-1200

    "Plenty of opportunity for solar 3 bar 5g Tmobile Open mostly level sites Not very busy Some larger sites able to accommodate bigger rigs (25' at least)

    Cons:

    No amenities (where we are, maybe further"

    "A nice location! I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents."

    4. Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Lamont, WA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 536-1200

    "The campground itself is on BLM land and is primitive.  There is a pit toilet, picnic tables, fire rings, corrals and horse water. "

    "The drive was mostly dirt roads. I managed just fine in a Subaru for context. The hike itself was incredible and a bit primitive at points. Bring bug spray and maybe a machete lol."

    5. Cow Lake

    2 Reviews
    Lamont, WA
    36 miles

    "Drive in was a little rough. Bagged trash left from previous campers. Spots next to the water"

    6. Bonnie Lake Island

    1 Review
    St. John, WA
    38 miles
    Website

    "This is a primitive site on an island in Bonnie Lake in Eastern Washington. Bonnie lake is a canyon lake, about 4 miles long and narrow."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Davenport, WA

54 Reviews of 7 Davenport Campgrounds


  • Josh S.
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Fishtrap Recreation Area

    Quiet Prairie Camping

    Quiet campsite in Fishtrap Recreation Area.

    Pros:

    Very quiet open sites. Plenty of opportunity for solar 3 bar 5g Tmobile Open mostly level sites Not very busy Some larger sites able to accommodate bigger rigs (25' at least)

    Cons:

    No amenities (where we are, maybe further in they have them) Dusty and dry Fire restrictions in place Sites have some trash in them.

    Overall we enjoyed it for a layover stay. It's very quiet, open skies were good to recharge solar and stargaze and it was a nice break from some of the more crowded campsites.

  • L
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Fishtrap Recreation Area

    Tent Camping meets dust

    A nice location! I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents. We did end up finding a spot in our tent, but this is site is much easier with an RV or van. Would recommend a backup plan ahead of time in case the sites available here are not compatible.

  • Gary M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Primitive but magnificent

    The campground itself is on BLM land and is primitive.  There is a pit toilet, picnic tables, fire rings, corrals and horse water.  The camping itself is on the primitive side, but the scenery it magnificent!  The last two miles driving in is a rough dirt road, and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly desirable. A three mile hike/horseback ride takes you through Washington's Channeled Scablands to Towell Falls through spectacular buttes and meadows along the creek.  The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous.  The night skies are particularly dark because you're a long way from any civilization.  It's also interesting exploring the old ranch building that remain on the site. The area is popular with horsemen and trail groups up to a bit of "roughing it." It also can be a great day trip from the Spokane Washington area.

  • Kayln H.
    Mar. 28, 2022

    Hog Lake Campground

    Great spot right off 90

    BLM land was easy to find right off the highway. Rough gravel road easily traveled in a truck, low clearance vehicle may have trouble. There were a few people with campers at the end of the road. A lot of dispersed sites, some close to the road, a few very private. Two nice lakes.. at the end of the road you cross to state park land which does not allow camping but is very well marked with a gate and signs. There was a fe portapottys scatter along the road. Light freeway noise, did hear one night train, but for free and a beautiful landscape not too bad.

  • Overland S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Astro Photographer’s Dream

    The drive was mostly dirt roads. I managed just fine in a Subaru for context. The hike itself was incredible and a bit primitive at points. Bring bug spray and maybe a machete lol. I was getting close to where one of the waterfalls was and ran into a Coyote who would not budge. That pretty much ended the hike as I could hear others howling nearby.

    The hike back was even amazing with the Sunset and landscape making me feel like I was on another planet. The best part was pure luck as I setup camp on the road back during a new moon which was perfect for star gazing and astro photography. I’m an amateur and took my time to learn my camera a bit. This little adventure was my favorite thus far this year.

  • Stephenie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 17, 2023

    Hog Lake Campground

    Coyotes and trains, OH MY!

    Nice little place. The road gets a bit rough. I personally would not want to drive anything bigger than a camper van down there but there are quite a few bug turnaround spots and some nice big sites. Be careful going into the sites as there is a dip. My Kia seemed to think I was just nose diving into a crevice as I was getting across with all its sensors screaming at me. Some coyotes came through camp at some point during the night. I heard them howling from a distance but only knew they came into camp because they left footprints in the frost. Only one other person was out there so nice and quiet

  • kara H.
    Sep. 26, 2021

    Hog Lake Campground

    Blm

    Nice open blm area, rustic campsites. there's an established trail that goes to hog lake and the boat launch area which is only accessible on foot when we were camping. The lake access (with the toilet) is not open, gate is locked. Saw a rattlesnake on the trail but we kept our distance and he went on his way. Be kind to the animals, it's their home. Can stay up to 14 days

  • Heather R.
    Jun. 24, 2020

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Stars, coyotes, and accessibility!

    This is a lovely secluded spot for amazing star-gazing on a clear night. At night it is in complete darkness, away from traffic noise, and you can hear the coyotes as they move nearer (I know, a little creepy, but making a little noise is all you need to do). 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! There are fire rings, a pit toilet, and stables and water for your horses. No portable water for humans, so bring your own. There's no shade other than under a nice picnic table shelter, so it was best for us to come late in the day and then make breakfast under that shelter.


Guide to Davenport

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Davenport, Washington, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Hog Lake Campground offers spacious sites with fire rings and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • At Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the scablands, which are reminiscent of the Badlands, providing a unique backdrop for your camping experience.
  • For those looking for a more remote experience, Bonnie Lake Island is a primitive site accessible only by boat, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Davenport, Washington

  • When visiting Fishtrap Recreation Area, be prepared for a dusty environment and bring plenty of water, as amenities are limited and the area can get dry.
  • The Cow Lake area is popular for fishing and recreation, so plan your visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, especially at sites like Crab Creek at Rocky Ford, where trash disposal is not available.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Davenport

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails around Escure Ranch & Towell Falls, where you can explore beautiful waterfalls and enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • Birdwatching is a must at Hog Lake Campground, where you can spot various species while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
  • For a unique experience, try paddleboarding at Hog Lake Campground, where the calm waters provide a perfect setting for water activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Davenport, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Davenport, WA is Hog Lake Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 33 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Davenport, WA?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Davenport, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.