Dispersed camping areas near Lamont, Washington sit among the unique channeled scablands of eastern Washington, a landscape formed by ancient ice-age floods. This high desert environment sees summer temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F with minimal shade, while winters bring freezing conditions. Most primitive sites in this region require visitors to carry in their own water and supplies, as amenities are sparse at best.
What to do
Hiking at Towell Falls: The trail through Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area offers a distinctive landscape experience. "The hike itself was incredible and a bit primitive at points. Bring bug spray and maybe a machete lol," advises one camper who encountered wildlife during their trek.
Stargazing after dark: The dark skies in this remote region provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Escure Ranch, the conditions are described as "an Astro Photographer's Dream" where visitors can experience "the Sunset and landscape making me feel like I was on another planet."
Boating and paddling: Access Bonnie Lake Island via paddling up Rock Creek. "Access is by paddling up Rock Creek about a mile and another 1/2 mile paddle up the lake. The creek can be seasonally shallow and you'll have to portage across at least one beaver dam," notes an experienced paddler.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts various species from coyotes to wild turkeys. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, campers report: "We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes."
What campers like
Open prairie spaces: The landscape offers unobstructed views and natural camping areas. At Hog Lake Campground, visitors appreciate that "there are 10-12 spots along the gravel road to Hog Lake" and that "Sites are spaced out well though."
Easy highway access: Many sites are conveniently located near major routes. One camper notes that Hog Lake Campground "was the perfect break in our drive from North Cascades to Glacier. The road was easy to find and there were so many great sites."
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and creeks in the area provide fishing spots. At Cow Lake, visitors come specifically for angling: "By evening there were over a dozen boisterous people fishing along the shore. Sound travels well over water and it was very noisy."
Solitude in off-seasons: Visiting during cooler months offers more privacy. A camper at Escure Ranch notes: "It's a great spot in late winter or early spring if you're looking for solitude. We visited in February and saw 4 or 5 people, but no one stayed the night except us."
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Most sites offer minimal protection from the sun. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, one camper noted it's "a fine large gravel pull out... No shade and it's windy. Almost lost my canopy."
Seasonal hazards: Watch for rattlesnakes in warmer months. A visitor to Escure Ranch warns: "The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging, especially after rain. At Riparia, a camper warns: "Your trailer, tow vehicle and anything in the bed is going to get dusty getting here and leaving. It's a decent trek down a gravel road."
Water availability: No drinking water is provided at any sites. "Come prepared for the whole trip. Washtucna is the closest town and they have limited supplies," advises a Riparia camper who managed with their RV's tank: "We stayed here with our Travel Trailer with a 50 gallon fresh water tank. It lasted the 4 of us the 5 day weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Shoreline exploration: Some sites offer shallow water areas for children. At Riparia, "You can easily set up a tent and float along the river's edge. There are a few little coves that are nice for kids to play in and great to stay out of the river current."
Toilet considerations: Facilities vary widely between sites. Riparia offers a "Clean, frequently checked toilet," while at Little Goose Landing, "A set of vault toilets are available." However, many primitive sites have no facilities.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially at dusk. A Riparia camper advises: "Bring bug spray! Day time the bugs aren't bad but, when the sun starts going down, the mosquitoes are coming out. Also, spring into early summer, there are ticks."
Temperature management: Plan for extreme heat in summer months. "It was a hot weekend and we did end up having to run the generator for a few hours during the day to keep the newborn cool," shares a Riparia camper who visited with an infant.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Not all pull-offs are created equal. At Hog Lake Campground, a traveler with a trailer notes: "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots. None of these are really official spots (not flattened or bordered) but it's a nice place to pass through."
Water conservation: Plan for dry camping with no hookups. The 5-day family camper at Riparia managed with "a 50 gallon fresh water tank" for four people during a hot weekend.
Road navigation caution: Choose your route carefully when towing. An RVer warns about Riparia access: "I followed my GPS which took me off of Highway 26 and onto Old Highway 26. DON'T do this. Take Hay rd. Old HWY 26 will take you onto Hammer Grade Rd. This is NOT a fun road with a trailer."
Levelness considerations: Sites vary in their natural grading. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, a camper notes: "Quite a few spots you can pull into. Road is decent the 02 Outback handled them loaded. The spaces are all different some more level and others."
