Primitive camping near Mica, Washington offers multiple undeveloped sites within the scabland terrain of Eastern Washington, where sparse Ponderosa pine forests meet rocky outcroppings. These dispersed camping areas typically sit at elevations between 2,000-2,500 feet, making summer nights cooler than the surrounding Columbia Basin. The region's rain shadow location means campers can expect hot, dry conditions from June through September with frequent evening winds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fishtrap Recreation Area, visitors can access both lake and stream fishing. "We enjoyed our stay here. We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes," notes one camper about the wildlife viewing that accompanies fishing.
Lake exploration: The Bonnie Lake Island offers a unique boat-in camping experience. "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," explains a visitor who navigated to this primitive campsite.
Hiking trails: Multiple campsites connect to trail systems. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, one camper mentions, "It's a fine large gravel pull out... But it has a really nice hiking trail behind it. Worth a stop, but not for long term camping."
What campers like
Spacious dispersed sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at Bull Run Access Dispersed. "Very quiet, isolated camp spot. This is the best spot to set up: Cross the one-lane bridge > make a right till you hit the parking lot > make another right towards the sign that says 'sportsman access (or something like that)' > stay straight until you are prompted to make a left. Instead of making that left, stay right there. Spacious enough for you to set up a tent and park your car."
Lake views: Several primitive campsites offer water access. At Rose Lake, one camper described, "Great elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake. A little noisy, but not distracting."
Wildlife encounters: The primitive camping areas near Mica attract various wildlife. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, campers report seeing "wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat affects camping comfort. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, one camper reported, "Would try this again maybe when it's nicer weather. It was too hot for us to hang around. Not many spots with shade."
Road access concerns: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Hog Lake Campground, visitors note specific conditions: "Found this last minute after deciding to drive further than planned. Quite a few spots available. It is quite open with no tree so not so great for windy days."
Site availability patterns: Campsites fill predictably at certain times. One Hog Lake camper observed, "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."
Safety considerations: Some areas have specific concerns. At Rose Lake, a visitor noted, "We didn't feel secure at this location, it was very removed from the main road, it was not looked after (grass was very high), and it seemed liked someone was living there permanently. Generally weird vibes."
Tips for camping with families
Finding shade spots: For comfort with children, prioritize trees. At Bull Run Access, a family camper advises, "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree. The best site there imo. privacy, lots of trees so the site gets a good amount of shade but sun still pokes through, perfect."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential, especially near water. One camper at Bull Run Access warned, "Just stopped for one night but I enjoyed the rest. Pretty spot close to the lake, but the mosquitoes are abundant! I had my door opened for just a few minutes and had to kill like 20 before I could sleep."
Swimming access: Most lakes in the area aren't suitable for swimming. Rose Lake campers note, "Pretty little lake (but nothing you'd want to swim in. Pretty murky and gas polluted water by the boat launch)."
Tips from RVers
Site length restrictions: Different campsites accommodate various RV sizes. At Bull Run Access, one RVer shared, "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around."
Leveling challenges: Many primitive sites have uneven terrain. At Rose Lake, an RVer noted, "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere."
Overnight turnaround spots: For those just passing through, several areas offer quick overnight options. At Hog Lake Campground, a visitor explained, "We have stayed here twice while driving through the area. It's quiet and really close to the highway. There are 10-12 spots along the gravel road to Hog Lake. We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots."
