Tent camping opportunities near St. John, Washington extend beyond established campgrounds into more remote locations and smaller, lesser-known sites. The area sits within the Palouse region characterized by fertile loess soil deposits creating the distinctive rolling hills typical of southeastern Washington. Summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F with little natural shade, while spring brings wildflowers but also frequent rain and mud conditions on unpaved access roads to camping areas.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: At Mica Bay Boater Park Camping, visitors can capture images of diverse bird species. A visitor noted, "Bald eagles and Osprey fighting for fish" make for exceptional photography subjects.
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution in these rural areas creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing at many sites. At Giant White Pine Campground, campers can find "a really nice hiking trail near the campsite" to reach open areas for star viewing.
Water recreation: Multiple tent camping locations offer water access. The Nine Mile Recreation Area provides direct lake access where "you're right off the water and get an amazing view of the sunset," according to one camper.
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Many primitive camping areas see minimal use Monday through Thursday. A camper at Rock Creek BLM Campground described it as "Remote and Quiet" with only "two other campers" during their stay.
Proximity to wildlife: The regional campgrounds offer frequent wildlife encounters. One visitor described Blyton Landing as having "wildlife very loud and very curious" requiring "earplugs if your sensitive to noise."
Affordability: Several camping options remain budget-friendly. Texas Rapids offers "Free dry camping on the Snake River near Little Goose Dam" with a boat launch but operates on a "First come basis" with no reservation system.
What you should know
Limited or no cell service: Most tent camping areas outside major towns have poor connectivity. Prepare offline maps and emergency plans accordingly.
Seasonal access limitations: Many dirt roads leading to remote camping areas become impassable after heavy rain. Always check current conditions before attempting access with non-4WD vehicles.
Limited facilities: At Kamiak Butte County Park, campers find "Running water and pit toilets on site" with a fee structure of "$15 a night plus $5 for an extra car."
Water sources: Bring sufficient water supplies as drinking water is unavailable at most primitive sites. Even established locations may have seasonal restrictions during drought periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include facilities for children. One camper noted that Kamiak Butte has a "Very nice playground in the day use area" making it suitable for families with younger children.
Wildlife viewing activities: Create scavenger hunts focusing on the diverse bird species. A camper at Lyons Ferry Park described it as "Busy, loud, good facilities" and a "fun spot to bring kids" with "the river there for water sports."
Space considerations: Select sites with adequate room for multiple tents and play areas. One camper at Kamiak Butte County Park noted their site 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."
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature fluctuations, particularly when tent camping with children. At Blyton Landing, a camper warned it "gets real cold at night" despite warm daytime temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most tent-focused camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. A visitor noted that Rock Creek sites "are designed for people with horses and RVs. Tent camping was a little rough but worked."
Road conditions: Access to many primitive camping sites requires navigating unpaved roads. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, a visitor mentioned "the entry road is narrow, it is not paved, and meanders through private property, so slow down!"
Seasonal availability: Plan trips according to facility operating schedules. As one frustrated camper discovered at Nine Mile Recreation Area, some locations close without updated online information, reporting they "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closes."
