Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Kennewick? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Washington camping adventure.
Camping is allowed, registration required, 3 day limit. See Ringold Designated Use Areas map for more information: https://wdfw.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-08/30083_ringold_designated_use_areas.pdf
Ringold Springs Recreation Site is situated along the Columbia River just south of https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Hanford_Reach/ and is a popular place for camping and fishing. The park is located 25 miles north of the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, WA) and is maintained by the https://wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/water-access-sites (WDFW). Ringold Springs campsites are first-come, first-served with a maximum stay of 3 nights in a 7 day period. Campers should be aware that the Ringold Springs camping area does not have hookups or potable water (dry camping) but the park does offer vault toilets and a boat launch. A Washington State Discover Pass or WDFW Vehicle Access Pass is required to camp at Ringold Springs. Washington State Discover Passes can be https://discoverpass.wa.gov/ and provide access to additional state lands, including state parks. The Vehicle Access Pass provides access only to WDFW lands and is obtained with the purchase of a hunting and fishing license.
Limited camping will continue at Vernita for the 2024 and 2025 fall salmon seasons, but it will look different than in the past:
Camping and day use users will have designated areas.
Camping will be limited to 14 days per user in a 30 day period.
When fall salmon seasons are not underway, camping is prohibited and vehicle access limited to a smaller day use area.
The area will be patrolled by WDFW Enforcement officers for compliance with the new requirements.
Scout
The sign says you need to register, couldn't find anywhere to register. Sign on board says closed for camping, it was a Covid-era sign. Requires a discover pass, but otherwise, free. Didn't see any park employees. I camped on a Friday evening and was the only one there camping except for an RV boondocking in a different section. Has a boat ramp and a spot you can fish from. No campfires.
Traveler
I just love this spot, no amenities, isolation, river front view, and a boat ramp. Bring your own everything!!
GuideDiscover Pass required. Not for regular camping. Used for staying overnight and getting up early to hit the water.
ScoutThis site is now gated off.
LegendThis is a Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing access site. It is free with a Washington State Discovery Pass for $30/year. This annual pass will also gain you admission to state parks. There are several boat launch sites here and a number of those Sani Cans. The area is spread out over open land with smooth rocks. It can be a bit bumpy if hauling a trailer unless you stick to the smooth rock roads. No shade except along the shore.
For a free site, it has its good points: easy access to highway 24/243 which will bring you to I-90, quiet, wide open space, near the Vernita Bridge Rest Area for free tank dump site. If you arrive on the last weekend of October, there is a huge king salmon fishing derby with about 100 entrants so you will have company. But, it is usually quiet midweek in the spring and fall. It may be busier in the summer midweek as there are lots of fishing enthusiast ps and boaters who live close by in the Tri Cities area.
If you need a quiet place for one night or are hauling a river fishing boat, this is a good place to stay.
GuideThe main draw here is that there's a boat ramp into the Columbia. If you've got a fishing/camping rig and like to tell fish stories, this is a great spot for you.
If you're looking for a private, secluded or picturesque spot, this isn't for you.
This place does require a Discover Pass, but it's otherwise free. There were portapotties available, but I wouldn't count on them always being available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kennewick, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kennewick, WA is Ringold Springs Camping with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kennewick, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Kennewick, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
