Tent campers near Davenport, Washington experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter temperatures dropping below freezing. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet, with most camping areas positioned around Lake Roosevelt and smaller lakes throughout Lincoln County. Campsites typically close during winter months due to snow accumulation, with prime camping season running May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Twin Lakes offers trout fishing in both upper and lower lakes. According to Shiloh I., "Fairly good in fishing for smaller fish" at this location, which requires a Washington Discover Pass.
Water recreation: Nine Mile Recreation Area provides direct lake access with equipment rentals. Taesagh M. notes, "You're right off the water and get an amazing view of the sunset," making this a popular spot for tent camping in Davenport, Washington during summer months.
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Several tent camping areas connect to nature trails with seasonal wildflowers. A visitor to Nine Mile Recreation Area mentioned, "There's a nearby walking path through the woods that was covered in wildflowers!"
Boating options: Sterling Point on Lake Roosevelt features boat-in access with docking facilities. Matthew T. reports, "I always take my boat in because there is a dock, but one time I saw people there with no boat and when they left, they wandered into the woods, so I assume there is some way to hike in and out."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Many tent sites provide isolation from neighboring campers. Campers at Sterling Point appreciate that it is "a beautiful area and reasonably isolated at night depending on whether or not there are other campers in the area."
Lake Roosevelt access: Several primitive camping options exist along the shoreline. A visitor to Rogers Bar described, "The areas are spacious and cleared out under the trees and there is plenty of beach to explore and the water is cool & clear to play in!"
Free camping options: Some tent camping sites near Davenport have no fee. According to Chandra B. at Twin Lakes, "Great FREE camping near lakes, fishing. Vault toilets. Limited internet at top of road but none at lake side."
Rustic amenities: Many sites offer basic facilities while maintaining wilderness feel. At Rogers Bar, Terrie M. explains, "There is a vault toilet but that is it. There is no water so bring your own."
What you should know
Difficult access roads: Several camping areas have challenging approach routes. Richard M. warns about Twin Lakes: "The road that leads down to the lake/camping area is steep and winding. I would not suggest anything over 25 foot length try to go down because you may not get back up."
Cell service limitations: Most tent camping locations lack reliable communications. At Twin Lakes, a visitor reported, "Once you drive down to the lake/camp sites there is ZERO cell reception."
Limited amenities: Many sites lack basic facilities. The 5 Authentic Barn Campsites offer more amenities than most primitive sites, with toilets, showers, and potable water available.
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds close during off-season periods. One frustrated visitor to Nine Mile Recreation Area reported, "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closed."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Steep banks and water access points require supervision. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, Aaron P. advises, "Great family place, so much to do for everyone. Especially if you love the water. The campsite is butted up to the lake."
Shaded sites: Limited shade exists at many locations. A visitor noted, "The campsite is butted up to the lake, which makes it great for sunsets and sunrises. There is hardly any shade at the campsite."
Water activities: Bring personal flotation devices for lake recreation. Terrie M. from Rogers Bar suggests, "Be sure to bring a boat of some kind to enjoy water sports but be careful if in a kayak or canoe as the main channel is popular with skiers and tubers."
Alternative accommodations: For families wanting more facilities, consider locations with restrooms. Jim T. describes Nine Mile as having "picnic pavilions and a boat launch, and lots of camping sites."
