Dispersed camping options around Royal City, Washington primarily occupy the shrub-steppe terrain of the Columbia Basin with elevations ranging from 400-1,200 feet. The region averages less than 8 inches of annual rainfall and experiences temperature extremes, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Most primitive campsites require high-clearance vehicles to navigate unmaintained access roads.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook Dispersed Campsite provides strategic positioning for climbers with "a lot of places to pull off the road and camp" according to Katie C., who notes they "were able to find a spot with our 32ft camper." The area features basalt columns and cliffs popular with technical climbers.
Fishing opportunities: Vernita Bridge offers river fishing access with boat ramps into the Columbia River. Horace M. describes it as having "isolation, river front view, and a boat ramp." Jennifer R. adds it's "not for regular camping" but instead "used for staying overnight and getting up early to hit the water."
Hiking exploration: Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead provides access to a network of trails through dramatic coulee landscapes. Zach A. calls it "a hidden gem" where you can "enjoy the lakes, waterfalls and killer sunsets that happen on a nightly basis." Brittany O. notes it's a "really easy straight on hike" with "several waterfalls that you can get super close to."
What campers like
Geological features: The basalt formations and desert landscape create distinctive camping experiences. John F. from Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook describes it as a "great spot with a water fall view." Tim H. adds that it offers a "beautiful overlook site" though cautions "the entrance to the site is rough. Scouting is a good idea before attempting entry with a trailer."
Seasonal water views: Many sites offer lake or river proximity despite the arid landscape. Beamus R. writes about Long Lake: "The views are insane. I found an awesome site that was pretty secluded." Laura M. from Perch Point describes watching "a sea plane practice takeoff and landing in the reservoir" and mentions "lots of people come here to fish and it gets busy on weekends (but quiet during the week)."
Wildlife watching: Martha Lake Dispersed Camping provides habitat for numerous bird species. Teresa A. shares they "spent the evening listening to a variety of birds before the frogs sang us to sleep." The area attracts waterfowl and shorebirds, particularly during migration periods.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access routes require patience and appropriate vehicles. Beamus R. warns about Long Lake's approach: "The road is washboarded out. Your teeth will rattle out of your head. It is passable by car, though."
Pass requirements: Nearly all sites require permits. James B. notes "Lake needs Washington Discover Pass" at Martha Lake. Laura M. from Perch Point Wild Camping Area adds "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."
Site conditions: Trash issues affect many areas. Charlotte F. writes about Long Lake: "Only reason for 4 stars is because people have left trash here." At Perch Point, Laura M. reminds visitors "there's also no water and no trash service here, please help keep the area clean and take your trash with you!"
Water safety: Agricultural runoff impacts water quality in many lakes. Emma A. warns about Ancient & Dusty Lake: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wilderness: Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping offers beginner-friendly exploration. Billie J. reports "I've also taken my family here over the summer for camping and hiking. We all love it." Annie B. adds the site has "a gorgeous natural amphitheater" and "camping is free with a discover pass."
Desert introduction: Ancient & Dusty Lake provides manageable backpacking for first-timers. Emma A. notes "Ancient Lakes sites are only 2 miles from the trailhead on flat terrain which makes it for an ideal first backpacking experience." Heather C. adds it's "a good early season hike while its still rainy in Seattle it can easily be sunny and warm on the other side of the mountains."
Safety precautions: Pack extra water for rustic camping near Royal City. Multiple reviewers mention lack of potable water at sites, with the need to carry in all drinking water. Zach A. from Ancient & Dusty Lake recommends "carry your own water in, it is irrigation runoff and has plenty of yummy pesticides that you cannot filter out."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking: Martha Lake works well for self-contained vehicles. Mary B. reports "Martha Lake requires a Discovery Pass, and you're allowed to stay for up to three days. There were three other car campers the night we stayed, but we were spaced out enough that I could only see one other vehicle in the distance."
Site selection: Look for level, accessible spots. James B. notes at Martha Lake that "camping areas are big gravel lots next to the lake" and he "had no problem with level." For larger rigs, Fish from Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook cautions the area offers "no shade and a healthy dose of wind. If you're going for the rugged feel, this'll do it."
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings insects and heat. Laura M. from Perch Point notes "flies and bees were annoying, but manageable. Same with the wind." For Ancient & Dusty Lake, Emma A. recommends to "avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around. It gets cold at night so come prepared."
