The Davenport area sits within the Columbia River Plateau region, characterized by open shrub-steppe landscapes with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter lows dropping to 20°F. Camping opportunities around Davenport span between 1,500-2,500 feet in elevation, with many sites offering direct access to Lake Roosevelt's 150 miles of shoreline. Seasonal water level fluctuations in the reservoir affect boat launch access and shoreline camping from April through October.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Hawk Creek Campground provides access to a notable waterfall that varies dramatically with seasonal water levels. "The waterfall was about 30-40' high and emerged from a rock crevice," notes camper Judy T. During spring runoff, the waterfall's flow increases substantially but "slows as summer sets in," according to Patrick R.
Fishing for diverse species: Banks Lake at Coulee Playland Resort offers excellent fishing opportunities from shore or boat. "The fish and banks lake range from 8 foot sturgeon's all the way down to rainbow trout. It's a hotspot for walleye tournaments throughout the year," writes Craig L., who adds that you can "fish from right outside your tent if you would like."
Hiking with elevation gains: The trail network at Steamboat Rock State Park provides varied terrain options. "Steamboat Rock Trail will take you to amazing 360° views of Banks Lake. Watch for snakes during the summer though," warns Carlos M. The initial section can be challenging as Lisa B. describes: "The first 1/3 of the hike was more moderate with steep trails and scree, but it gets easier once you're past that."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Coffeepot Lake offers exceptional wildlife observation possibilities. "Extremely, extremely active wildlife. Dozens of kinds of birds and bats. Neat big bugs. We woke up to a flock of pelicans," reports Mint T., who also notes the area's active nocturnal life: "At night, coyotes howling in ALL directions and raccoons rustling all around by the water."
Secluded camping experiences: Several campgrounds offer quieter alternatives to the busier glamping sites in Davenport, Washington. "If you like being almost completely alone, this is your spot! The sites aren't very huge and private, but that doesn't matter because you will most likely have the whole campground to yourself," writes Timothy about Coffeepot Lake, where "the lake's crystal clear water is beautiful."
Dark skies for stargazing: The region provides excellent night sky viewing conditions. Coffeepot Lake camper Mint T. mentions "widest, darkest skies in the state" and Erica B. from Dune Loop notes: "My favorite thing is the clear skies at night, so I can lay in my tent and watch for falling stars."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations affect access: Lake Roosevelt experiences significant water level changes throughout the season. At Hawk Creek Campground, "the boat launch is only available during high water. When Grand Coulee starts letting the water down in Lake Roosevelt the Hawk Creek boat launch gets closed," cautions Patrick R.
Military ID requirement: Some glamping facilities near Davenport have restricted access. At Clear Lake Recreation Area, Jennifer B. advises: "Military ID required. Sites 1-15 have zero shade and are close together. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or lake areas."
Seasonal insect activity: Yellow jacket wasps can be problematic in late summer. Geoff B. reports from Hawk Creek Campground: "Everyone at the camp ground was constantly being attacked by yellow jackets, being stung multiple times. The bathroom toilets had no cover so the bugs were bad."
Limited water availability: Some campgrounds have restricted water access. At Coffeepot Lake, "we packed in water. With all of the agriculture around here I dunno if the lake is filterable," notes a visitor, mentioning "a broken spigot" at the site.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and swim areas: Porcupine Bay Campground offers family-friendly amenities according to Natasha S.: "There's a designated swimming area for kids, a dock, and a playground. Definitely a busy spot mid summer season, but good for the whole family."
Beach access for kids and pets: Porcupine Bay provides shoreline areas suitable for families with children and pets. Katrina C. notes, "Really amazing area for families and pets. The first 9 campgrounds are right on the water so my dog was so happy to be right on the beach. Perfect space for leads in every campsite."
Wildlife educational opportunities: Hawk Creek offers natural learning experiences for children. Gary S. reports, "The last couple times there were literally 1000's of baby frogs that my son was catching and playing with. There is a ton of wildlife. Crawfish. Birds. Small snakes if you go looking for them. Fish."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger RVs: Dune Loop Campground accommodates larger units with hookup options. "We loved this campground. The grounds were well maintained, and bathrooms were clean. There was a good amount of space between sites, which was great," reports Lisa B., who adds that "most spots were very nice, and many were right next to the water."
Road noise considerations: At Coulee Playland Resort, Brandon K. cautions: "The only downside to this place is the road noise. There is a lot of traffic all through the night and the sites are very close to the road."
Seasonal timing affects crowding: For Bowl and Pitcher Campground and other locations, off-peak visits provide better experiences. Christi R. advises, "We have started camping here in September instead of August like we used to because we've discovered the weather is much more pleasant and it is a lot less busy."
