Tent campsites near Dixie, Washington occupy mountainous terrain with elevations averaging 4,000 feet throughout the Blue Mountains. These remote locations experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter temperatures dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain snow-covered until late spring, limiting accessibility to summer months for standard vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Panjab Campground, campers can access the small river that runs near the grounds for fishing. "Very nice campground for the area. Come here all the time. First come first serve, there is a nice little river that runs near the campground as well," notes camper Bleak M.
Hiking trails: Teal Campground serves as a base camp for numerous hiking routes. "We went because we wanted to do a few hikes around the area, which I definitely recommend. The area was really pretty- you get views of the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness and Tucannon drainage," reports Sasha W.
Water recreation: The Snake River provides opportunities for boating and water activities during summer months. "Free dry camping on the Snake River near Little Goose Dam. No reservations. First come basis. Boat launch," explains Lisa B. about Texas Rapids.
What campers like
Remote locations: Many campers appreciate the isolation and quiet of these campgrounds. "Way better than Jubilee lake! Jubilee lake is crowded and you camp right on top of your neighbors. Here there's lots of room between you and your neighboring campsite - if you even have neighbors, we were the only ones there," writes Aaron B. about Mottet Campground.
Sunset views: The elevated terrain provides scenic views, particularly at dusk. "Teal is quite, peaceful scenic and offers amazing views and sunsets. This is a pack it in pack it out area," comments Rich W.
Astrophotography conditions: The minimal light pollution makes these camping areas ideal for night sky viewing. Aaron B. notes about Mottet Campground, "Great place for astrophotographers when conditions are right!"
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Most campgrounds require appropriate vehicles for access. "You will need a higher clearance vehicle to reach this campground, and signage may be limited so make sure you know your step by step directions beforehand. The road is basically a forest service road with ruts and high bumps," warns Aaron B. about accessing Mottet.
Limited facilities: Expect basic amenities at most sites. "Dry camping with vault toilets. Each site has picnic tables and fire pits," reports Jake Z. about Big Springs Campground.
Town distances: Supply runs require significant travel. "Make sure to bring everything you possibly need because the nearest town is Pomeroy, WA and they didn't really have many grocery shopping options. So get all your necessities beforehand! Pomeroy is about an hour away from the Teal Spring Campground," advises Sasha W.
Tips for camping with families
Consider timing: Family camping works best during summer months when access roads are clear and temperatures moderate. "We were there over the weekend of the 4th of July. Lots of campers and children," notes Tiffany M. about Lyons Ferry Park.
Water activities: Some locations offer water recreation suitable for children. "We had lots of fun with the river right there and watersports. Bathrooms and showers are available for a fee. Busy campground and park for fun," adds Tiffany M.
Campsite cleanliness: Some locations require extra attention for family comfort. "I wouldn't recommend camping as it gets crowded and there is so much geese poop all over in the grassy area that you just can't feel relaxed. The designated swimming area doesn't look too clean," cautions Hollina P. about Lyons Ferry Park.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most tent campsites near Dixie cannot accommodate large RVs due to narrow forest roads and tight turns. "I have pulled a 30 foot camper into this campground, you will want a 4 wheel drive to pull your camper the entrance is intimidating, it's steep but passable with 4x4 when towing a camper," explains Rich W. about Teal Campground.
Limited hookups: These campgrounds focus on primitive camping experiences without standard RV amenities. "Only stopped here for a little bit. It was basic, but no crowd," notes Juice B. about Alder Thicket Campground.
Weather considerations: Summer heat affects comfort in RVs without electricity for air conditioning. "Nice campground but very desert-ie right so hot in the summer but on the river though so if you have a boat its great," comments Lindsey M. about Lyons Ferry Marina.
