Dispersed camping sites near Endicott, Washington offer varied terrain beyond the channeled scablands, including elevated buttes and sheltered valleys with seasonal temperature shifts. Summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights drop below freezing. Bureau of Land Management parcels surrounding Endicott provide multiple camping options without designated sites or reservation systems.
What to do
Stargazing and night photography: At Hog Lake Campground, the dark skies create exceptional viewing conditions. "If you are a night sky photographer, this is the campground for you. The limited to no light pollution makes this perfect for any night sky event," notes one visitor. Many campers bring telescopes or cameras with tripods to capture celestial events.
Wildlife watching: The diverse ecology supports various species. At Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area, one camper encountered "giant fish in the nearby creek" but warns to "watch out for rattle snakes! We didn't see any at the campground but they are known for being in the area in spades!" Early mornings and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Hiking to geological features: Trails access unique landscape formations. "A three mile hike/horseback ride takes you through Washington's Channeled Scablands to Towell Falls through spectacular buttes and meadows along the creek," writes a visitor about Rock Creek Recreation Area. "Rock creek runs through this lovely BLM land with 2 sets of falls."
What campers like
Open landscapes: The exposure to vast skies distinguishes these sites from forested campgrounds. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, campers appreciate the scenery despite minimal shade. "We enjoyed our stay here. We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes," reports one visitor.
Solitude and quiet: Many sites remain uncrowded, especially midweek. "We were the only ones there on a Monday night," notes one Fishtrap camper. At Hog Lake, another camper mentions, "Surprisingly busy... Incredibly busy for a Tuesday night, people were pulling in all hours of the night. I'm guessing, like me maybe, they are pulling in for overnighters on a longer road trip."
Accessibility to water features: Seasonal creeks and lakes attract visitors. Rock Creek has "2 sets of falls" with one camper noting "Towell falls is beautiful, but we have yet to visit Breeden falls." Another mentions "a nice little hiking trail and roads to explore off of. I heard there are giant fish in the nearby creek."
What you should know
Weather extremes: The region experiences significant seasonal variation. "Even in early June it was sweltering and dry at Palouse Falls. We stumbled upon the park while driving across the country and it was a welcome break from the monotony of the region," reports one camper. Summer heat can become intense with limited shade at most sites.
Road conditions: Access roads vary dramatically by season and location. At Kamiak Butte County Park, access remains generally good year-round. The sites are "inexpensive. Running water and pit toilets on site." This contrasts with more remote areas requiring higher clearance vehicles.
Water sources: Most dispersed sites lack reliable drinking water. "No portable water for humans, so bring your own," notes an Escure Ranch visitor. Plan to carry all needed water or bring purification methods for natural sources.
Wildlife concerns: Beyond scenery, wildlife requires safety awareness. "Keep a keen eye for rattle snakes, though they are rarely seen - they can be resting on stones sunbathing and comparing tan lines," warns a camper. Spring and fall typically offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer snake encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Developed facilities: For families needing more amenities, Boyer Park & Marina KOA offers structured camping. "Super safe and well organized. A little pricey and you need a reservation. Usually packed. Great for families (large and small), boaters, fishers, and the casual glamper needing a break," writes one visitor.
Swimming options: Water access points provide cooling opportunities. "There is a day use area with a gravel hike through the hills a canoe launch, fishing areas, tons of covered gazebos with bbqs at each, and a swing set," notes a camper at Wawawai County Park. Several locations offer shallow water access suitable for supervised children.
Playground equipment: Some established campgrounds include recreational facilities. Kamiak Butte features a "very nice playground in the day use area" alongside "clean, trash cans at each site and a pit toilet." A visitor mentions "so many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites feature uneven terrain. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, "the spaces are all different some more level and others." A camper notes it "can accommodate travel trailers" but preparation is needed for unlevel ground.
Site selection strategies: Arriving early improves options at non-reservable locations. "We stayed in site #4 which was right at the end with glimpses of the Palouse through the trees and lots of space. You could easily set up 2 tents there," shares a Kamiak Butte visitor regarding site selection. RVs should scout potential spots before committing.
Hookup availability: Limited services exist at most locations. Boyer Park provides the most extensive RV amenities, with one camper noting it's "a great site with all the amenities. It provides a boat launch and nice sized RV lotes." The limited cellular coverage affects trip planning and navigation.
