The Columbia River corridor near Vantage, Washington sits at approximately 600-700 feet elevation with dramatic basalt formations created by ancient lava flows. This region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between seasons, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Dispersed camping options throughout the area provide access to both riverside and elevated desert terrain camping sites near Vantage.
What to do
Rock climbing at Frenchman Coulee: This popular recreation area offers numerous climbing routes on columnar basalt formations, particularly at the Feathers formation. As one visitor to Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites noted, "Great access to climbing. We have been here 2 x now... staying for about 5 days in a row. It is a 4 minute approach to the nice moderate area called the Feathers and about 15 minutes from other climbs."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas provide opportunities to observe desert and riverside wildlife. At Rocky Coulee Recreation Area, campers report, "We had a large herd of bighorn sheep as pre dusk visitors which was great to admire." The area also hosts "frogs and sheep," according to another reviewer.
Fishing and water activities: The Columbia River shoreline provides fishing and swimming access at several camping sites near Vantage. Sand Hollow Campground offers "easy access to River activities (swimming, boating, fishing, rinsing dust off) with short, maintained pathways." Another reviewer mentioned that at Sand Hollow "you could fish and there is a beach area for when it warms up."
What campers like
Desert geology exploration: The Vantage area features unique geological formations. One camper at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground mentioned, "Just down from the interpretive center, on the river banks, is a nice little campground. It's not very remote or wild, but it is a good place to pop open your tent if you're hoping to do some kayaking." Another visitor added, "You're also a very short drive from the Ginko Petrified Forest, interpretive center, and rock shop, all of which are super fun for rock-hounders."
Seasonal solitude: Off-season camping provides a quieter experience with fewer crowds. A visitor to Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground shared, "This is our second time visiting this park and we're surprised how clean and well kept the park is. The bathrooms are great. The showers are the best we found, the hook ups are always in good repair. We've only been here in off-season for a night at a time, but it's always quiet with very respectable guess."
Sunrise and sunset viewing: The open terrain and elevated views create spectacular dawn and dusk light displays. At Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook, one camper observed, "This spot offers the best views, sunrises, and sunsets, at the cost of no shade and a healthy dose of wind. If you're going for the rugged feel, this'll do it."
What you should know
Extreme wind conditions: Wind consistently affects camping experiences throughout the area. At Sand Hollow Campground, a camper reported, "It was REALLY windy at night, which made mosquitos not bad and the high temps feel downright pleasant." Another visitor noted "Heavy winds at night" among their observations.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Facilities vary significantly across camping areas. At Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites, a visitor advised, "Free (if you have the WA rec pass $30). Pit toilet is available, no water." They added that it gets "exposed and hot" and reminded visitors to "take your trash. There is no trash service."
Highway noise proximity: Several campgrounds sit close to Interstate 90, affecting noise levels. A camper at Sand Hollow Campground observed, "Noise from highway at night is very noticeable." However, another visitor had a different experience: "The traffic noise overnight wasn't too bad and didn't disrupt our sleep."
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Some campgrounds provide wheelchair-friendly facilities. At Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "You'll also be close to handicapped parking spaces and have sidewalk access to your campsite, making this a great choice for campers with disabilities or mobility limitations. The restrooms are nice, too... well-maintained and plenty of room to maneuver a walker or wheelchair inside."
Beach access: Sandy shorelines provide safe water play areas. A reviewer at Sand Hollow Campground shared, "The water access is great for kids - rocky coastline and calm water. We caught one fish and our 9 yr old caught minnows in a lagoon." They added that "by the water there are trees" offering some shade relief.
Educational opportunities: Geological features provide learning experiences. A visitor to Vantage Riverstone Resort Campground mentioned, "Location has trees, grass, picnic tables, full hook ups, basic and premium rates, showers (3 minutes hot water for .50, buy 2 tokens at a pop), you can walk down to the river."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. At Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground, a camper observed, "Two camping loops, one on a bluff overlooking the river with pretty views (the loop you want to be on) and the other further away from the water."
Wind protection measures: Secure loose items in high winds. A visitor advised that at Sand Hollow Campground there are "lots and lots of rocks, helpful for holding things down in the strong winds."
Off-peak advantages: Traveling outside peak season provides more options. At Vantage Riverstone Resort, a reviewer noted, "Views of the lake and river are nice. Clean and well kept," while another mentioned that sites are "all grassy and gravel."
