Primitive tent camping near Hartline, Washington primarily centers around Bureau of Land Management properties and public recreation areas. The region sits within the channeled scablands, formed by ancient ice age floods that carved distinctive geological formations through basalt bedrock. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly, while winter conditions can include snow and freezing temperatures from November through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Twin Lakes, campers can access both upper and lower lakes for varied fishing experiences. "This is a gorgeous camping area. A Washington Discover Pass is required. 14 day max stay," notes Richard M., who adds that many visitors "pulling aluminum boats drive down to the boat launch that goes to the upper lake."
Water recreation: Plum Point on Lake Roosevelt offers boat-in camping with dedicated facilities. "Docked here in mid Sept 2020 to camp for the night. Vault toilet, fire pits and picnic tables for 4 sites with boat dock supports up to 8 boats," reports Jim P.
Cultural attractions: Tent campers can use Odessa Tourist Park as a base to visit nearby Grand Coulee Dam. One visitor mentioned, "stopped in March and it was open but no services available (power/water). picnic shelter, grills and clean bathrooms. Not a lot to do in town but a nice place to catch some sleep off the beaten path."
What campers like
Boat access camping: Sterling Point on Lake Roosevelt provides isolation with boat-in sites. "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," explains Matthew T.
Free camping options: Multiple campers note cost-free camping opportunities near Hartline. "Great FREE camping near lakes, fishing. Vault toilets. Limited internet at top of road but none at lake side," reports Chandra B. about Twin Lakes camping areas.
Quiet surroundings: The remote location offers peace and solitude. Jim P. describes Plum Point as "Quiet, flat, easy boat access" and notes the area "was well used, so native grasses were well trampled, as it is the first boat-in camp from Grand Coulee Dam."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to camping areas can be challenging on rural roads. At Twin Lakes, Richard M. cautions that "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."
Connectivity limitations: Most camping areas have minimal to no cell service. A Twin Lakes visitor states, "once you drive down to the lake/camp sites there is ZERO cell reception. I'm camping at the top of the trail which has a few spots for those with RV's."
Primitive facilities: At Crab Creek Camp, expect truly rustic conditions. One camper describes it as "Nothing here but a clearing in a field. Worked well for passing through to spend the night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shade: Summer heat can be intense in the Hartline region. Shiloh I. noted about Twin Lakes, "We went camping here on Labor Day 2020, the campsite is fairly nice, although there is no shade. The pictures that are uploaded must be from a long time ago."
Alternative access points: Consider various entry points to find suitable family camping. Richard M. suggests "There is a second site about 22 minutes away (coffee pot recreation site) that is more accessible friendly for larger rigs and setups and a boat launch to the lower lake."
Activity options: Look for camping that supports diverse recreation. Shiloh I. mentions Twin Lakes provides options beyond water activities: "The campsite ended up being full, so we camped on top of the ridge and rode mini bikes around the fields. Not many trails to drive on. Fairly good in fishing for smaller fish."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking alternatives: When tent camping near Hartline isn't feasible, consider city parks. Cori H. found Odessa Tourist Park useful: "Free Camping for overnight travelers" with "picnic shelter, grills and clean bathrooms."
Size restrictions: Many access roads to tent camping areas have limitations. Richard M. warns about Twin Lakes: "If you're pulling a car or trailer you'll want to be mindful" due to steep, winding access roads.
Backup camping plans: Matthew T. advises having alternatives ready when boat-in camping at Sterling Point: "Most times I've been by, it has been vacant, but a few times, it has been crowded. If it is full, you can easily find another spot to camp along the banks of the lake."
