Dispersed camping near St. John, Washington offers numerous options in the channeled scablands region at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,000 feet. The area features dramatic basalt formations created by ancient Ice Age floods that carved the distinctive landscape. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during July and August, creating challenging camping conditions at exposed sites.
What to do
Hiking at Rock Creek BLM: Follow nature trails through BLM land near Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area where you can observe diverse wildlife. "There's a great little hiking trail and roads to explore off of. I heard there are giant fish in the nearby creek, but watch out for rattle snakes!" notes camper Evan S.
Night photography opportunities: The region's dark skies provide excellent stargazing conditions. At Escure Ranch, one visitor described their experience as "an amateur and took my time to learn my camera a bit. This little adventure was my favorite thus far this year." The isolation from light pollution makes astrophotography particularly rewarding.
Spring wildflower viewing: Early season visits (April-May) showcase wildflower displays across the scabland terrain. At Hog Lake Campground, the landscape transforms with seasonal blooms. The spring months offer "moderate temperatures and natural beauty" according to visitor reports.
What campers like
Quiet isolation: Many campers appreciate the solitude of these remote sites. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, one visitor noted it was "nice and relaxing" while another described hearing "wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes."
Wide-open spaces: The expansive terrain offers unobstructed views and camping flexibility. "It's a fine large gravel pull out. I did see 3 little spots on the way in as well," reported one Fishtrap camper, while another mentioned, "Lots of spots you can pull into. Road is decent the 02 Outback handled them loaded."
Night sky viewing: The dark skies create memorable stargazing experiences. At Escure Ranch, a visitor described the appeal: "This is a lovely secluded spot for amazing star-gazing on a clear night. At night it is in complete darkness, away from traffic noise, and you can hear the coyotes as they move nearer."
What you should know
Accessibility considerations: Some sites offer better accessibility than others. At Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area, a camper noted, "It is very flat and would be reasonably accessible for someone using a wheelchair or with other mobility restrictions. The picnic tables are even accessible!"
Wildlife safety: Be prepared for wildlife encounters including rattlesnakes. One camper at Hog Lake reported, "Saw a rattlesnake on the trail but we kept our distance and he went on his way. Be kind to the animals, it's their home."
Remote conditions: These sites lack many amenities. "No portable water for humans, so bring your own," advised an Escure Ranch visitor. Another Hog Lake camper warned, "Kind of littered with trash just about everywhere. Broken glass in some sites so be careful."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with better facilities for family comfort. At Kamiak Butte County Park, "The sites are inexpensive. Running water and pit toilets on site. Very nice playground in the day use area," notes one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy observing the abundant small wildlife. "So many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families," reports a Kamiak Butte visitor.
Space considerations: Some sites offer more room for family setups. At Kamiak Butte, "We stayed in site #4 which was right at the end with glimpses of the Palouse through the trees and lots of space. You could easily set up 2 tents there."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. For Hog Lake Campground, a camper noted, "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots. None of these are really official spots (not flattened or bordered) but it's a nice place to pass through."
Sound considerations: Noise from trains affects some campgrounds. "There are train tracks that parallel the highway, so the further you go down the gravel road, the further you'll be from the train noise," advised a Hog Lake visitor.
Parking logistics: For RVs, finding level sites can be challenging. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, a tent camper warned, "I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents... this site is much easier with an RV or van."
