Tent camping near Walla Walla, Washington offers numerous options within the Blue Mountains region, where elevations range from 1,200 to 6,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during day with cooler 50°F nights at higher elevations. Most primitive sites remain snow-covered until late May, with the highest elevation campgrounds often inaccessible until early July.
What to do
Hiking from camp: The Blue Mountains trail system connects several campgrounds, providing day hiking options. At Lyons Ferry Marina, campers can find less demanding terrain. "Nice campground but very desert-ie right so hot in the summer but on the river though so if you have a boat its great," notes Lindsey M.
Stargazing opportunities: Astronomical viewing is excellent at dispersed sites in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. "Open forest area spots, pretty quiet," reports Rachel W. about Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed, making it suitable for night sky viewing during summer months.
Water activities: Swimming and boating options exist at river-adjacent campgrounds. "We had lots of fun with the river right there and watersports," Tiffany M. reports about Lyons Ferry Park, where families often gather during holiday weekends.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for quieter camping experiences. "Teal is quite, peaceful scenic and offers amazing views and sunsets," mentions Rich W. about Teal, which has only seven campsites spread across the area.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-fee sites. "Free dry camping on the Snake River near Little Goose Dam. No reservations. First come basis. Boat launch," Lisa B. reports about Texas Rapids - Snake River.
Convenient road access: Some sites offer easy highway access for quick overnight stays. "Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities," says Matt B. about Wallowa-Whitman NF dispersed camping areas.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require specific vehicle types. About Bone Spring Campground, Nick B. warns, "Coming from Tiger Creek Road, it's about 20 miles down a dirt two-track. I wouldn't attempt this route without a 4x4 with decent ground clearance."
Condition of facilities: Maintenance varies considerably between locations. "Now, it is not maintained and it's difficult to tell where the sites were. There's a pit toilet on site, also not maintained," Nick continues about Bone Spring.
Crowding patterns: Holiday weekends see significant visitor increases at accessible campgrounds. "We stayed only one night, around the 4th of July. It was very busy with lots of kids and little privacy," reports Tiffany M. about Lyons Ferry Park.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important for families with small children. "I saw Lots of elk and turkeys(?) and a rattlesnake," cautions mel B. about Wallowa-Whitman dispersed camping areas, suggesting proper footwear and vigilance.
Cleanliness challenges: Some popular areas suffer from overuse. "This is a nice area to maybe stop and have a short picnic. I wouldn't recommend camping as it gets crowded and there is so much geese poop all over in the grassy area that you just can't feel relaxed," Hollina P. warns about Lyons Ferry Park.
Hiking with children: Godman Campground & Trailhead offers family-appropriate trails. "Nice campground with a covered picnic shelter. A little difficult finding a level spot but we managed alright," notes David S., mentioning the shelter provides shade during midday heat.
Tips from RVers
Towing considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate campers despite challenging access. "I have pulled a 30 foot camper into this campground, you will want a 4 wheel drive to pull your camper the entrance is intimidating, it's steep but passable with 4x4 when towing a camper," advises Rich W. about Teal campground.
Campground approaches: Panjab Campground provides easier RV access. "Very nice campground for the area. Come here all the time. First come first serve, there is a nice little river that runs near the campground as well," reports Bleak M.
Site selection: Finding level ground can be challenging at some locations. "We just needed a quick tent soot on a monday night on the way to moab. better than expected. bit muddy. some shells. but lots of space," Jodie E. mentions about dispersed camping in the Wallowa-Whitman area.
