Tent camping near Palisades, Washington provides access to the dramatic Columbia River basin terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 3,500 feet across the region. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F at lower elevations while higher campsites offer cooler conditions. Road access to many sites deteriorates significantly after rain, with several campgrounds requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet weather.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites offers prime positioning for climbers with minimal approach times. "It is a 4 minute approach to the nice moderate area called the Feathers and about 15 minutes from other climbs," notes one regular visitor. The area attracts climbers of various skill levels, with several commenting on the welcoming community.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes near Palisades provide fishing access without crowds. At Antilon Lake Campground, anglers report diverse catches: "I caught sun fish, crappie, and brown trout" from shore access. The fishing improves in spring, with one camper noting, "I caught 3 gorgeous brown trout from my kayak, which made 2 delicious meals."
Wildlife viewing: The region's varied terrain supports diverse wildlife. At Rocky Coulee Recreation Area, visitors regularly encounter "a large herd of bighorn sheep as pre dusk visitors" according to recent campers. Morning hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities, with marmots and rabbits commonly spotted at dawn.
What campers like
Scenic vistas: Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping delivers panoramic views from elevated positions. "Incredible sunset views of the valley in front of Chumstick Mountain," reports one camper, though they caution "it gets pretty windy at night but there are treelines you can position against." The position above the valley provides unobstructed sunrise perspectives.
Water access: Several campgrounds offer direct lake or river frontage. At Lake Chelan State Park Campground, "the water sites you park at the top and carry your things down to the site" but the reward is "direct access to the water." Another visitor highlights the "amazing dock system and access to the lake, great day use area where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards."
Solitude options: For campers seeking quieter experiences, weekday camping provides significant advantages. One Antilon Lake visitor reported, "I literally had the entire lake to myself" while fishing on a weekday. During peak summer weekends, sites fill quickly, with some campers arriving midweek to secure preferred locations.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Strict fire bans typically apply from early July through September throughout the region. One camper at Swakane Canyon/Creek Campsite emphasized the importance of verification: "One fireplace - check if fire ban is active!" Many dispersed sites lack established fire rings.
Weather challenges: Wind presents a consistent challenge across most camping areas near Palisades. Chumstick Mountain campers consistently mention strong winds, with one noting it "would get 5 stars if it weren't for the terribly bumpy and long road up to the main site." Afternoon gusts often intensify, requiring secure tent stakes and wind-resistant setups.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly across the region. The approach to Swakane Canyon includes "over 4 miles of poorly maintained gravel road," according to recent visitors. Many dispersed sites require four-wheel drive, with one Chumstick Mountain camper reporting their "Toyota Highlander made it up, but I was a little nervous."
Insect activity: Bug populations vary dramatically by season and location. Antilon Lake campers frequently mention mosquitoes, with one reporting "100 mosquitoes INSIDE of the tent" after setup. Spring and early summer typically bring the heaviest insect activity, gradually diminishing as summer progresses.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with younger children, Lake Chelan State Park offers dedicated play areas. "There was also a nice playground for him to play on as well," reports a parent who visited with a two-year-old. The facilities complement the swimming areas, providing activity options when water temperatures feel too cold.
Swimming safety: Water access points vary widely in quality and safety. Rocky Coulee campers note that water "is not necessarily easily accessible from every camp spot. You may have to walk your SUP board around up to a spot to put in." Sites with gradual entries work better for families with small children than steep-banked water access points.
Food storage requirements: Wildlife interactions require proper food containment. One Lake Chelan visitor warns: "Watch for the critters they are ruthless so cover ALL your dry goods!" Store food in sealed containers and never leave food unattended, especially at dusk when animal activity increases.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds near Palisades have limited accommodation for larger vehicles. At Frenchman Coulee, "small camper trailers can work in some areas but the roads leading to campsites are very rocky and some are steep." Most dispersed camping areas strictly limit RV length, with few suitable for rigs over 20 feet.
Hookup availability: Full-service RV sites remain limited throughout the region, with Lake Chelan State Park offering the most reliable hookups. "RV sites with electricity and water hookups" are available there, though they require advance reservations during summer months.
