Camping near Dayton, Washington ranges from secluded forested sites to riverside locations across the Blue Mountains region. The area sits at elevations between 1,600-6,000 feet with temperatures dropping significantly at night even in summer. Many campgrounds implement seasonal closures due to snowfall, with the highest elevation sites typically accessible only from May through October.
What to do
Riverside activities: Lewis & Clark Trail State Park Campground provides quick access to the Touchet River for cooling off on hot days. "The river is so close to hop in. There is no super easy walk in route to the river that we found. You may need to scramble over some stuff, so bring your floaties/chairs, but leave your rolling cooler or wagon at your site," notes Clare M.
Hiking opportunities: Midway Campground offers nearby trails for day excursions. "There are plenty of logging trails to hike within walking distance, and more a short drive away. The drive to Midway is beautiful, worth it even if you don't plan to stay overnight," reports Nick B.
Stargazing: The remote location of Palouse Falls State Park provides exceptional night sky viewing. "If you are a night sky photographer, this is the campground for you. The limited to no light pollution makes this perfect for any night sky event!" shares Andrea R.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lewis & Clark Trail State Park Campground offers more secluded camping spots. "The spaces are fairly private and each have a picnic table and fire pit. There is a river nearby but no access from the campsites directly," writes Hayley S.
Quiet atmosphere: The smaller campgrounds tend to be less crowded. "This campground has only 5 sites, but we were the only campers. We camped the first week of June, so days were warm and it got cool enough at night to sit close the campfire," says Nick B. about Midway Campground.
Accessibility for overnight stops: Some campgrounds work well for travelers passing through. "We were so surprised by this sweet little area right off our journey south. An excellent place to stop for a hike, camp or just a simple stretch on a long drive," Rachel A. comments about Lewis & Clark Trail State Park.
What you should know
Limited or no connectivity: Prepare for communication blackout in most areas. "Zero cell reception here in this entire area. This is a popular area for hunters, so during hunting season heads up for that," notes Laura M. about W.T. Wooten Campground #8.
Abundant insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly in riverside locations. "The bugs. Seriously. We were all eaten alive. We wore bug spray the whole time but it couldn't keep them at bay. We had mosquitoes for sure but there were other bugs stinging us that left stingers in that we had to pick out," warns Clare M.
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "There is a pit toilet, and individual sites with a picnic table and fire pit, but nothing else. The sites are sort of close together, no division between them, and would be awkward if they were completely full," Laura M. explains about W.T. Wooten Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: When camping with children near rivers, bring appropriate gear. "I highly recommend making sure you are wearing secure water shoes to help you get in and out. Some rocks were highly slippery," advises Clare M.
Quieter camping weekdays: For families seeking more space, timing matters. "We went during Memorial day weekend which is a very busy camping weekend. The entire time people who were dispersed camping would constantly drive into the campsite to use the bathroom," reports Kristina C. about Midway Campground.
Alternative accommodation options: Some locations offer unique lodging. "The cabin is pretty cheap and was able to fit my entire family including uncles and aunts and grandparents," shares Caleb B. about Godman Guard Station.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Tucannon River RV Park offers well-maintained spaces for larger vehicles. "Beautifully maintained campground with friendly camp hosts. Affordable, large pull through sites. Some of the most level sites we've stayed in," Lisa B. mentions.
Limited tank facilities: Plan water usage carefully when camping near Dayton, WA. "We stayed here in the most shaded part of the campground with our Travel Trailer with a 50 gallon fresh water tank. It lasted the 4 of us the 5 day weekend," Nick E. shares about Riparia Park.
Road access considerations: Some routes to campgrounds may be challenging for larger rigs. "I followed my GPS which took me off of Highway 26 and onto Old Highway 26. DON'T do this. Take Hay rd. Old HWY 26 will take you onto Hammer Grade Rd. This is NOT a fun road with a trailer," cautions Nick E.
