Ankeny #1, near Coulee City, Washington, is a straightforward spot for those looking to set up camp without the frills. This area offers a handful of tent and RV sites along a maintained dirt road, making it a convenient choice for an overnight stay.

You’ll find a vault toilet on-site, but don’t expect much else in terms of amenities—there’s no drinking water or garbage disposal, so be sure to pack in what you need and pack out your trash. The calm waters nearby are great for a quick dip, but keep in mind that the wind can pick up at night, so stake down your tent well to avoid any surprises.

Visitors have noted the abundance of mosquitoes, so bring your bug spray. While fires aren’t allowed, some campers have found ways around that, so just be cautious. The area is also known for its scenic views, especially at sunset, making it a nice backdrop for a relaxing evening. Just remember, it’s a free spot with a Discover Pass, so you can enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.

Washington State Parks provide free camping with a Discover Pass.

Ankeny #1

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Coulee City. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Coulee City. Find the best campgrounds near Coulee City, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Coulee City

The Best Camping Near Coulee City, Washington

Free (with Discover Pass) dispersed spots by Banks Lake. Max stay is 3 nights 

Clean pit toilet

Small place to launch boats

Full At&amp;t service 

It says no fires but there are several rock firepits

Small amount of trash 

Spots for maybe a dozen campers, I was here on a Friday in spring and there was only 1 other car



Solid overnight 

We ended up here when we decided to stop and camp for the night when it was getting late on our drive home to Spokane. It was a Sunday night and we were the only vehicle there other than a truck that appeared to be unattended. 

It’s free (with a Discover Pass) and not far off of Highway. It’s close to the water and was really pretty as the sun was setting. 

It was very buggy. I ended up with multiple mosquito bites including one on the bottom of my foot after applying bug spray. 

There was a sign there saying no fires. However it was apparent that other campers had made fires there. Just FYI.

The pit toilet was a little sketch and the door had to be held shut with a rock so it wouldn’t swing wide open when empty, but it was well stocked with toilet paper. 

It got very windy at night even though it was completely calm when we went to bed. Just a warning to be sure to stake your tent out if you are tenting it like we were. Our tent tried to make a break for it when we were unpacking in the morning. 


Ok for a quick stay 

This place has a vault toilet and small boat launch by way of amenities. No tap, no garbage disposal so make sure to pack in your water and pack out your trash! The water is calm enough to swim here and doesn't get too deep, so could be nice for kids. The wind can get EXTREME at night so stake down your tent and don't leave anything out at night if you want to see it in the morning. Also heard from a local that rattlesnakes like to visit. Enjoy!

Nice, clean, free spot near water

Maintained dirt road with a dozen tent/RV spots. Easy access for an overnight. Lots of mosquitos, one vault toilet, no fires, and windy. Discover pass required $11.50 online purchase for a night. 

Photos of Ankeny #1

Real photos from real campers