Vantage, Washington sits where Interstate 90 crosses the Columbia River at an elevation of 630 feet. The area features dramatic basalt columns and a desert-like climate with summer temperatures typically above 90°F and winter lows around 20°F. Camping options include both established campgrounds with hookups and primitive dispersed sites that offer direct access to the Columbia River shoreline.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: Frenchman Coulee offers extensive climbing routes for various skill levels. "This is primarily a rock climbers base camp, but also serves well for a great overnight stop where you can camp right on the edge of the canyon, get in some nice vista views, & a short hike to a 'falls'," notes a camper at Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes provide good fishing options within short driving distance. "I have fished and camped here a few times, different parts of the lake(s)... the fishing is good, mostly perch and punkin seed that I've caught," reports a visitor to Quincy Lake.
Waterfall viewing: Several locations offer views of seasonal waterfalls. "There's a trail down to the waterfall and one toilet but no tp so be prepared," advises a camper about Frenchman Coulee. Another mentions, "Several waterfalls that you can get super close to" at Ancient & Dusty Lake.
Columbia River water activities: The river provides options for boating, swimming, and paddling. "The park has a very large boat launch area with day use facilities available," notes a reviewer at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground.
What campers like
Desert landscape variety: The arid environment offers unique scenery different from western Washington. "The landscape is really gorgeous and colorful," says a camper at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground. Another reviewer notes, "This is 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."
Stargazing conditions: Clear desert skies create excellent night viewing. "On clear nights you can see all the stars. Which is my favorite!" shares a visitor to Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife sightings: The area supports diverse desert wildlife. "We had a large herd of bighorn sheep as pre dusk visitors which was great to admire," reports a camper at Rocky Coulee Recreation Area.
Geological features: Unique rock formations and petrified wood specimens are accessible throughout the region. "Just off the banks of the Columbia River, Ginkgo Petrified Forest is a fascinating testament to the wild geology of the Gorge. An easy 1.5 mile hike will take you past several nicely preserved examples of different types of petrified wood."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds are common in the area. "We arrived on a Thursday - only two other sites were taken. We had site 8 - highly recommend. It was REALLY windy at night, which made mosquitos not bad and the high temps feel downright pleasant," reports a camper at Sand Hollow Campground.
Limited services: Most campgrounds have basic facilities only. "This is a dry campsite with clean and well stocked toilets. The entrance site was impeccably clean. It is on the Colombia river so you could fish and there is a beach area for when it warms up," notes a camper at Sand Hollow.
Water availability: Many sites require bringing your own water. "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," warns a visitor to Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead.
Seasonal hazards: Weather and wildlife risks vary by season. "Avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around. It gets cold at night so come prepared," advises another Ancient & Dusty Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: Look for calm water areas along the Columbia. "There is a small swimming beach and calm water which would be good for paddle boarding, but no docks or official put-ins," mentions a camper at Sand Hollow Campground.
Educational opportunities: Visit geological sites with interpretive displays. "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," shares a visitor to Ginkgo Petrified Forest.
Accessibility options: Some campsites accommodate mobility limitations. "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. They're pit toilets, but well-maintained and plenty of room to maneuver a walker or wheelchair in side."
First backpacking experience: Consider the shorter trails. "Ancient Lakes sites are only 2 miles from the trailhead on flat terrain which makes it for an ideal first backpacking experience," suggests a camper at Ancient & Dusty Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose locations based on size requirements and accessibility. "Drive in spots are really tight. Heavy winds at night. No running water bathrooms. Noise from highway at night is very noticeable," warns a visitor about Sand Hollow Campground.
RV parking options: Some locations better accommodate larger vehicles. "There are a few spots that can be used for camping. Probably wouldn't want to tent camp here, not a lot of flat cleared ground, but we found a small clearing that was perfect for a night," shares a camper at Caliche Lake.
Road condition alerts: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. "The entrance to the site is rough. Scouting is a good idea before attempting entry with a trailer," advises a camper about Frenchman Coulee Overland Overlook.
Weather preparations: Wind protection is essential for RVs in this area. "Campground was across from a be gorge. There was a campstore with all necessities. Sites are all grassy and gravel... The wind was so bad we couldn't use our awning or slideout," reports a visitor to Vantage Riverstone Resort Campground.
