Map showing campground location near Vantage, Washington

Camper submitted image from Old Vantage Highway

Old Vantage Highway

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Managed by Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife within the Columbia Basin Wildlife Area Complex, Old Vantage Highway sits close to the basalt sport climbing routes at Vantage, making it a functional base for climbers rather than a destination campground. Sites are small, exposed, and close together, with car camping and fire rings available. The single on-site bathroom has drawn consistent complaints. Campers focused on access to the rock will find it workable; those prioritizing comfort or privacy may want to check campgrounds around Columbia Basin Wildlife Area Complex before committing.

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Map & DirectionsOld Vantage Highway is located in Washington near Vantage

Public Campground

Coordinates

47.00073095 N
119.99024036 W

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Connectivity

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Last on 12/11/25
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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 8/15/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 12/11/25
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

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Site Types

Tent Sites
Dispersed

Features

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Contact

General Info

+15097544624

Drive Time

50 min from Wenatchee, WA
1 hr from Yakima, WA
1 hr 23 min from Kennewick, WA
2 hrs 3 min from Walla Walla, WA

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Old Vantage Highway

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Excellent location for rock climbing with direct access to Vantage's climbing areas. Small, cramped sites with poor bathroom facilities and per-person pricing may disappoint some campers. Great spot for climbers willing to trade comfort for convenience.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Brooke M.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2020

Love this place

Wonderful day hiking my sister took me to this spot it’s completely wonderful and beautiful

Jessie T.

Traveler

Reviewed Sep. 22, 2016

Great for climbers

The campgrounds are right next to all the climbing vantage has to offer. You can park right next to your site, have fires. There is one bathroom that smells horrible, I'm usually fine with campground bathrooms but this one is eye watering awful. The climbing is so close to the site, sunshine wall is my favorite

(5) View All

Christy K.

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 25, 2015

Good for Climbing, not for camping

We did not camp here (we camped at the nearby Whitehorse campground which is expensive and loud and a party site) but we ran into some folk that did camp here while we were climbing that day. After our horrible night of sleep, we asked how the Vantage campground was in case we wanted to stay there next time. I guess it is not much better but for different reasons.

They told us the spots are small and they charge per person as well as for the site. There is little to no privacy because the sites are on top of one another. But fortunately it was not full so it seemed better. I guess I would'vetraded a small spot for a decent night sleep. The campground is exposed too (ours was nice grass and shaded).

As for climbing, this spot is GREAT, especially for beginners. We were new to climbing (my partner to lead climbing) and had a great time. There are great holds and the people you meet are great. We stopped here for a morning before heading on a road trip to Idaho. Highly recommend Vantage for climbing.

(4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Old Vantage Highway camping area located?

The Old Vantage Highway camping area is located near Vantage, Washington. It's situated close to popular climbing areas in the region. The campground offers easy access to the natural features and recreational opportunities of central Washington's desert landscape. Its proximity to climbing walls makes it particularly popular with rock climbers visiting the area.

Is dispersed camping allowed along the Old Vantage Highway?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed along the Old Vantage Highway. Campers can set up their sites near the climbing areas, and you can park right next to your camping spot. This makes it a convenient option for those looking to spend time climbing or hiking in the area. Fire rings are available for campfires, though always check current fire restrictions before your visit.

What recreational activities are available near camping on the Old Vantage Highway?

Rock climbing is the primary recreational activity available near the Old Vantage Highway camping area. The campgrounds are situated right next to the climbing walls Vantage has to offer, including Sunshine Wall. Hiking is another popular activity in the area, with day hiking trails accessible from the camping area. The location offers beautiful scenery and wonderful natural landscapes to explore. The close proximity of recreational activities to the campsites makes this an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts.

What road conditions can I expect on the Old Vantage Highway for camping access?

The Old Vantage Highway is generally accessible for standard vehicles. The road provides direct access to the camping areas, allowing you to park right next to your campsite. While specific details about the road surface aren't mentioned, it appears to be regularly used by visitors accessing the camping and climbing areas. For current road conditions, especially during inclement weather, it's advisable to check with local land management agencies before your trip.

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