Rustic camping near Mattawa, Washington consists primarily of remote sites scattered around the Columbia Basin's shrub-steppe landscape. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during daylight hours but can drop below 50°F at night, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature fluctuations. Cell service varies dramatically between locations, with some sites offering reliable coverage while others remain completely disconnected from communication networks.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: From Perch Point Wild Camping Area: Spend time watching for birds and aquatic wildlife along the Potholes reservoir. "We watched a sea plane practice takeoff and landing in the reservoir, that was fun," notes Laura M., adding that it "gets busy on weekends (but quiet during the week)."
Fishing: Along the Columbia: The Columbia River offers prime fishing spots particularly at Vernita Bridge. "The 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," explains Nicole C. Some sites require specific permits beyond the Discover Pass.
Rock climbing: Near Frenchman Coulee: The basalt formations attract climbers year-round. "Popular rock climbing area that gets many people through the day," reports Joshua C., who recommends "nice trails that take you up above the climbing area... to get some nice views and away from the crowds."
Hiking: Explore desert trails: Several areas offer hiking opportunities with minimal elevation gain. At Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead, Brittany O. describes it as a "really easy straight on hike... definitely dusty but a really nice change of pace from the trees and mountains. Several waterfalls that you can get super close to."
What campers like
Solitude: At L.T. Murray Wildlife Area: Campers appreciate the private nature of many sites. "This was a great hidden spot and we did not see anyone else the whole time," reports Courtney P. Robert C. echoes this experience: "I stayed three nights and did not see anybody else camping or passing by on the road."
Night skies: Clear viewing conditions: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. At L.T. Murray, one camper saw that "the stars were out and the comet NEOWISE was visible." Another camper at Perch Point notes: "Biggest highlight for us is that this is the first and only place we got to see the northern lights!"
Wildlife encounters: Many sites offer chances to observe local fauna. "We saw large elk, deer, many birds, and were visited by some wild turkeys in the night," reports Shay F. at L.T. Murray Wildlife Area. Long Lake campers mention seeing "pelicans and weasels" with "plenty of big fish in the lake."
Water features: At Long Lake: Many sites offer lakeside camping options. "I love heading here to tent camp out of my car... you can camp feet from long lake and enjoy the open air," reports Dakota T., adding that "during some months their is cattle in the area and they come down to the lake in the morning and greet you."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: High clearance needed: Most dispersed sites require capable vehicles. At Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook, Tim H. advises: "The entrance to the site is rough. Scouting is a good idea before attempting entry with a trailer." At L.T. Murray, roads are described as "steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks that made the road are sharp, large, and loose."
Water contamination: Many natural water sources are unsafe. At Ancient & Dusty Lake, Emma A. warns "the lakes are polluted with agricultural runoff so that water should not be used for drinking not even if filtered. Pack all the water you will need."
Wind exposure: Exposed sites experience significant wind. A camper at Martha Lake notes they "spent the evening listening to a variety of birds before the frogs sang us to sleep" but warns about wind conditions. Another at Lenice Lake reported "winds were strong enough that we couldn't even set up the tent."
Pass requirements: Most sites require permits. "This is state property and a Discover Pass is required to stay here ($10/day or $30/year). Rangers did come by and check our pass and look at our license plate," reports Laura M. from Perch Point Wild Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for flat camping areas: Choose sites with level ground suitable for multiple tents. At Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping, billie J. shares: "I've also taken my family here over the summer for camping and hiking. We all love it... There are lots of sites to camp. In car/tent/RV it's pretty accessible."
Consider timing for optimal comfort: Early spring and fall offer milder temperatures. Emma A. recommends avoiding Ancient & Dusty Lakes in "summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around. It gets cold at night so come prepared."
Prepare for bugs: Insects can be prevalent in warmer months. At Perch Point, one camper mentioned "flies and bees were annoying, but manageable."
Plan waste management: Many sites lack facilities. At Frenchman Coulee, Annie B. advises: "There are two pit toilets. Bring your own TP." Many other sites have no facilities at all, requiring proper wilderness waste disposal practices.
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: Check access roads before bringing in large rigs. At Martha Lake, James B. notes: "Camping areas are big gravel lots next to the lake. Had no problem with level." Another camper at Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook warns the entrance requires scouting before attempting with a trailer.
Secure loose items: Wind conditions affect exterior storage. At Perch Point, Laura M. mentioned "wind, not too bad" but other campers across sites reported much stronger conditions that could damage awnings or unsecured items.
Maximize levelness: Look for established parking areas. Katie C. from Frenchman Coulee Overland notes: "Dispersed camping area with a lot of places to pull off the road and camp. We were able to find a spot with our 32ft camper."
Plan for self-contained camping: No hookups or services exist at these sites. Vernita Bridge offers "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."
