The best desert campgrounds near Coulee Dam, Washington

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 100 options available near Coulee Dam, Washington, and with a preference for the desert terrain, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park an RV, or stay in a cozy cabin, we have something for everyone. Our top campsites in the area include Earthlight Camping (120 reviews), Rock-N-Woods Farm & Kennel (38 reviews), and Whimsy Rock Homestead (32 reviews). With popular amenities such as pet-friendly accommodations, showers, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while immersing yourself in nature. And for those seeking adventure, you'll find plenty of wind sports, hiking trails, and off-roading opportunities nearby. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in the desert near Coulee Dam, Washington!

98% (266)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 100 options available near Coulee Dam, Washington, and with a preference for the desert terrain, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park an RV, or stay in a cozy cabin, we have something for everyone. Our top campsites in the area include Earthlight Camping (120 reviews), Rock-N-Woods Farm & Kennel (38 reviews), and Whimsy Rock Homestead (32 reviews). With popular amenities such as pet-friendly accommodations, showers, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while immersing yourself in nature. And for those seeking adventure, you'll find plenty of wind sports, hiking trails, and off-roading opportunities nearby. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in the desert near Coulee Dam, Washington!

98% (266)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sasquatch Villa

100%

(184)

45mi from Coulee Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Orondo, WA

Get those holiday campsites booked before it’s too late!☀️ Welcome to the top-rated Hipcamp in the area! Nestled at just under 2,500 feet above sea level, our private campsites offer breathtaking views of Lake Chelan, the Columbia River, and rolling hills, depending on which site you choose. Tucked away on a peaceful mountain just a mile up a well-maintained dirt road, our secluded location provides the perfect escape. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on an adventure, there’s plenty to do nearby—mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and more! As the sun sets, solar lights and propane fire pits create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plus, with Beebe Park on the Columbia River just 10 minutes away and Lake Chelan only 20 minutes from camp, you’ll have easy access to all the valley has to offer. Planning something special? Whether it’s a surprise engagement or another unforgettable moment, we’d love to help make it happen! Please note: If you are staying with us in a tent or camper that does not have a toilet you are required to bring a portable toilet for convenience and hygiene. Experience the magic of Lake Chelan from our private mountain retreat!

2. Peterson Lake Ranch

100%

(3)

40mi from Coulee Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Krupp, WA

Working Cattle Ranch. Lush spring green pastures. Crab Creek running through property. I still can't decide if I like the sunrise or the sunset more. Come camp and enjoy the peaceful environment.

3. PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

92%

(25)

46mi from Coulee Dam · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pateros, WA

Philville is 3.85 miles from US 97 on state highway 153. Near Pateros wa., the property is ten acres and includes 3 acres of tent sites, 3 rv hookups and 3 cabin rentals. All sites are riverfront and the adjoining property is a state fishing access and boat launch used by rafters and fishermen. The site is at the very end of the popular "Black canyon" section of the Methow river. Rafting and fishing guides use this property regularly. There is ample space for boat and trailer parking. There is a winery in walking distance that offers a beautiful oudoor tasting experience. Winter opportunities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Nearby the recreational opportunities abound. Alta Lake is a popular tourist area only 2 miles away. 4 miles away is Lake Pateros - home to many popular species of gamefish with massive runs of salmon passing eagerly anticipated each year in summer. The number in 2024 was over 500,000. Winthrop Wa. -a small western themed town is 30 miles away and a popular tourist destination. One of the most popular activities here is simply sitting in the river. We have a stunning swimming hole that is enjoyed by young and old. there are vertical bluffs across the river that are home to 60 bird species. A paradise for birders. Close to upland gamebird hunting on state land. The site also has historical significance being a site along the first wagon road into the Methow valley built in the 1800's

4. Steamboat Rock State Park

100%

(14)

257 sites · Electric City, Washington

Overlooking the Grand Coulee Dam, this park boasts the perfectly scenic 600 acres of Steamboat Rock.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Alta Lake State Park

100%

(2)

125 sites · Pateros, Washington

Recover, relax, and rest at this picturesque mountain lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Marmel Coulee

28mi from Coulee Dam · 4 sites · Tents · Coulee City, WA

Twenty acres of sagebrush and native plants that has a couple of sites to set your tent up in a secluded part of the Coulee. You can park you car and hike into the property and find a nice spot to sleep under the stars. There is no outhouse or water so you should be prepared to bring all of your camping needs with you. This is true offgrid camping.

7. Methow Valley View Property

100%

(9)

47mi from Coulee Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Methow, WA

Get away from it all when you stay at this Methow valley view property. Located 5 miles out of downtown Pateros on a private 10 acres, and with valley views all the way to the Columbia River. Enjoy the dark skies with stars like you haven't seen in years! The only sounds are the native birds and coyotes in the distance. With nearly 300 degree views and sunrise and sunsets on each side of you, you'll feel a world away from the hustle back home. Only 12 minutes to downtown Pateros, 15 minutes to Alta Lake, less than 30 to Chelan.

8. Coyote Estates

95%

(50)

41mi from Coulee Dam · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Brewster, WA

This property is a great camp for enjoying everything that Eastern Washington outdoors has to offer. The Columbia river is in the valley below which provides fishing and watersports. The property is adjacent to thousands of acres of State and federal land which are free to explore. Winter tends to bring significant snowfall which makes this a great destination for winter sports as well. The property sits on top of a mountain plateau known as Harmony Heights. The site is about a 20 minute drive to Brewster or Pateros and about 40 minutes to Lake Chelan. This is an fairly large site and will accommodate two RV's as well as plenty of area for tent camping. There is plenty of good spots to play with dogs without any conflicts. Despite the existence of year round residences and cabins this area is still very wild so you have a chance of an encounter with any critter that is native to the forests and prairies of North Central Washington. This includes but is not limited to the occasional bull snake, rattle snake, badger, black bear, mule deer, whitetail deer, moose, coyote, wolf, mountain lion, bobcat, as well as all kinds of birds including blue birds, hawks, owls, turkey, chukar, ravens, Hungarian partridge, quail, and forest grouse. Bring a field guide you will be happy you did.

9. Country Lane Campground & RV Pa

96%

(38)

19mi from Coulee Dam · 8 sites · RVs · Wilbur, WA

Purchased by my parents in 2009 with only 6 RV sites, Country Lane Campground and RV Park now has 37 Full Hook Up RV Sites and a handful of dry camping/tent areas. Unfortunately due to the expanding business and time consumption we have decided to close our Cafe. With the closure we have expanded our onsite store to include Camping, Fishing, Hunting, Propane, RV Supplies and Boating items, along with snacks and other small items. We have also expanded our laundry room to include much larger commercial machines for all your washing needs.

10. Nico's Nerdy Nursery

100%

(17)

50mi from Coulee Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Riverside, WA

We acquired the 22+ acre property to develop a nursery for Chinese medicinal plants, and we grow a small market garden and bring plants and vegetables to the local farmers' market. Learn more about this land: We are less than five miles from the highway between Omak and Tonasket. The county-maintained road up to the 22 acre property runs through a beautiful canyon (McLaughlin Canyon). Deer, eagles, coyotes, and more wildlife (there are rattlesnakes in the area as well). Wide views all around - to the West are the Cascades. Lots of space to hike, and climbing opportunities as well. We are developing gardens and a nursery for Chinese medicinal plants, starting this year (2018). Your host can introduce you to Chinese herbal medicine. We have a nice dog.

11. The Ranch

46mi from Coulee Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Moses Lake, WA

Property has gravel and hardpan dirt to put an RV/trailer or tent to view and access the desert, and see the beautiful sunrise and sunset as well as the starry night sky without lights or trees interfering. The property backs up to Dept of Natural Resources Land, which is accessible by hiking in only (no motor vehicles or ATVs). There is a trail on property and many miles of gravel roads available for biking. Indoor bathroom inside our home is available as needed. Well Water available by hose to fill containers or tanks as needed. Mountain bikes recommended (no motor bikes/ATVs allowed). Campfires are not allowed. There are many lakes for fishing within driving distance. This is desert land, so it has natural desert animals, such as rattlesnakes and coyotes. Please be aware and be prepared. Dogs need to be watched or on leash at all times.

12. Wapiti Heights

31mi from Coulee Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Deer Meadows, WA

Located in Deer Heights, this lot overlooks beautiful Lake Roosevelt. Seven Bays Marina is a short drive away where you can utilize their boat launch for water activities. This lot is prime for anyone wanting to get away for the weekend, a hunting trip or plan a family trip. Lot has water, electric and septic installed.

Camper favorites near Coulee Dam

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Marmel Coulee

28mi from Coulee Dam · 4 sites · Tents · Coulee City, WA

Twenty acres of sagebrush and native plants that has a couple of sites to set your tent up in a secluded part of the Coulee. You can park you car and hike into the property and find a nice spot to sleep under the stars. There is no outhouse or water so you should be prepared to bring all of your camping needs with you. This is true offgrid camping.

Methow Valley View Property

100%

(9)

47mi from Coulee Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Methow, WA

Get away from it all when you stay at this Methow valley view property. Located 5 miles out of downtown Pateros on a private 10 acres, and with valley views all the way to the Columbia River. Enjoy the dark skies with stars like you haven't seen in years! The only sounds are the native birds and coyotes in the distance. With nearly 300 degree views and sunrise and sunsets on each side of you, you'll feel a world away from the hustle back home. Only 12 minutes to downtown Pateros, 15 minutes to Alta Lake, less than 30 to Chelan.

Coyote Estates

95%

(50)

41mi from Coulee Dam · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Brewster, WA

This property is a great camp for enjoying everything that Eastern Washington outdoors has to offer. The Columbia river is in the valley below which provides fishing and watersports. The property is adjacent to thousands of acres of State and federal land which are free to explore. Winter tends to bring significant snowfall which makes this a great destination for winter sports as well. The property sits on top of a mountain plateau known as Harmony Heights. The site is about a 20 minute drive to Brewster or Pateros and about 40 minutes to Lake Chelan. This is an fairly large site and will accommodate two RV's as well as plenty of area for tent camping. There is plenty of good spots to play with dogs without any conflicts. Despite the existence of year round residences and cabins this area is still very wild so you have a chance of an encounter with any critter that is native to the forests and prairies of North Central Washington. This includes but is not limited to the occasional bull snake, rattle snake, badger, black bear, mule deer, whitetail deer, moose, coyote, wolf, mountain lion, bobcat, as well as all kinds of birds including blue birds, hawks, owls, turkey, chukar, ravens, Hungarian partridge, quail, and forest grouse. Bring a field guide you will be happy you did.

Country Lane Campground & RV Pa

96%

(38)

19mi from Coulee Dam · 8 sites · RVs · Wilbur, WA

Purchased by my parents in 2009 with only 6 RV sites, Country Lane Campground and RV Park now has 37 Full Hook Up RV Sites and a handful of dry camping/tent areas. Unfortunately due to the expanding business and time consumption we have decided to close our Cafe. With the closure we have expanded our onsite store to include Camping, Fishing, Hunting, Propane, RV Supplies and Boating items, along with snacks and other small items. We have also expanded our laundry room to include much larger commercial machines for all your washing needs.

Nico's Nerdy Nursery

100%

(17)

50mi from Coulee Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Riverside, WA

We acquired the 22+ acre property to develop a nursery for Chinese medicinal plants, and we grow a small market garden and bring plants and vegetables to the local farmers' market. Learn more about this land: We are less than five miles from the highway between Omak and Tonasket. The county-maintained road up to the 22 acre property runs through a beautiful canyon (McLaughlin Canyon). Deer, eagles, coyotes, and more wildlife (there are rattlesnakes in the area as well). Wide views all around - to the West are the Cascades. Lots of space to hike, and climbing opportunities as well. We are developing gardens and a nursery for Chinese medicinal plants, starting this year (2018). Your host can introduce you to Chinese herbal medicine. We have a nice dog.

The Ranch

46mi from Coulee Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Moses Lake, WA

Property has gravel and hardpan dirt to put an RV/trailer or tent to view and access the desert, and see the beautiful sunrise and sunset as well as the starry night sky without lights or trees interfering. The property backs up to Dept of Natural Resources Land, which is accessible by hiking in only (no motor vehicles or ATVs). There is a trail on property and many miles of gravel roads available for biking. Indoor bathroom inside our home is available as needed. Well Water available by hose to fill containers or tanks as needed. Mountain bikes recommended (no motor bikes/ATVs allowed). Campfires are not allowed. There are many lakes for fishing within driving distance. This is desert land, so it has natural desert animals, such as rattlesnakes and coyotes. Please be aware and be prepared. Dogs need to be watched or on leash at all times.

Wapiti Heights

31mi from Coulee Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Deer Meadows, WA

Located in Deer Heights, this lot overlooks beautiful Lake Roosevelt. Seven Bays Marina is a short drive away where you can utilize their boat launch for water activities. This lot is prime for anyone wanting to get away for the weekend, a hunting trip or plan a family trip. Lot has water, electric and septic installed.

Public campgrounds near Coulee Dam

100%

(14)

Steamboat Rock Campground

7.2mi from Coulee Dam · 257 sites · Tents, RVs · in Steamboat Rock State Park

100%

(2)

Alta Lake Campground

45mi from Coulee Dam · 125 sites · Tents, RVs · in Alta Lake State Park

Stories from the community

J

Jon

October 2025

36 ft toy hauler

With pets

7 nights at PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

As always our stay at Philville was awesome! Kicking back in the afternoon sun next to the river never gets old. Phil is over the top accommodating. Can't wait to get back there.

Courtney

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Country Lane Campground & RV Pa

Nice spot to spend the night when passing through the area. Sheri was helpful with our late(r) arrival and ensured our spot would still be available. We appreciated the heated bathrooms just a short walk from our site. The RV park is next to the highway, but we weren't bothered by any noise at night.

J

Jason

September 2025

23 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Peterson Lake Ranch

Hauntingly serene and remote location in the basalt columned scablands of Eastern Washington on the unrestored portion of a family ranch in the Crab Creek bottoms. Interesting historic barns and structures with cool vintage retired machinery. It’s a new HipCamp and will likely get some improvements, like signage and some tidying of the immediate grounds and perhaps more detail in the listing. There’s only one hookup spot, so if it’s taken, you’ll be dry camping. But the host was amenable to getting some distance from the other guest while I was there. The price is very reasonable. The region has so few camping opportunities, I’m grateful they opened up this gem. BNSF trains run by a couple times an hour 200 yards away, but no crossings for miles, so no whistles.

F

Francis

September 2025

37 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Peterson Lake Ranch

Out of way Ranch camp. Good place to explore Grand Coulee and other Glacial Remnants in the area.

Mathew

August 2025

13 ft campervan

1 night at Country Lane Campground & RV Pa

Nice enough for a night. Kinda close to the highway, but price was right.

w

wendi

August 2025

Weekend Trip to PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

We really loved the remoteness! Phil was very helpful guiding our RV in and making us feel comfortable. Osprey site is the best with river views and amazing star gazing. The river was clear, cool and refreshing. We will definitely be back.

P

Paula

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

Great stay! We were only there for one night but the site was great. Nice location on a hill with a beautiful view.

A

Anuj

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Sasquatch Villa

This camping spot truly exceeded our expectations. The site was immaculately clean and well maintained, offering a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the valley. It felt wonderfully private, yet reassuringly safe, with a few residential properties nearby that didn’t intrude on the serenity. The host was exceptional—communicative, welcoming, and clearly thoughtful. As a sweet gesture, he left us delicious cookies for both me and my pups, which we enjoyed while soaking in the scenery. It’s little touches like this that make a stay memorable. Navigating and parking our RV was a breeze, and the site included a cozy tent with a comfortable bed, perfect for lounging and gazing down the valley. The propane firepit was a fantastic addition, and the host even provided a full tank, so we didn’t have to worry about setup. Overall, this place is a true gem—a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the outdoors with ease.

E

Erin

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Sasquatch Villa

This was our second time at this site and it was so wonderful! The hosts, Chris and Jennifer, are so awesome and kind! The view is amazing and loved the addition of power and water to the site! We’ll definitely be attending again!

N

Nicole

August 2025

31 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

What a truly spectacular experience. This was our first trip out in our new (to us) RV, and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend it. The site itself was wonderful; we found it easily, RV hookups worked beautifully, the site was clean, the propane fire pit was excellent, I could go on and on. Great communication from the site hosts. The view, though? Unparalleled. Pictures can’t do it justice. Truly just a magical experience. I can’t gush enough about how great of a time we had. I’d love to return (again and again and again) in the future!

A

Andrew

August 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

Great site! Quiet and beautiful location close enough to lake chelan to take advantage of it but far enough to avoid the crowds. Road up to the site is under construction which makes the drive to any activities longer than expected, but that probably won’t be relevant information much longer.

A

Axel

July 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

Chris and Jennifer were amazing hosts. Everything was clean. I would definitely recommend this spot to everyone

Sara

July 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

Cowboy Way was amazing!! The site was spacious with beautiful views, and our dogs also loved the space. We had so much fun with the bb gun, lasso, and catching some shade in the covered bed area as well. The stars at night were amazing too! Thanks Chris and Jennifer for the tasty cookies and fun stickers too! We'll definitely be back!!

David

July 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Villa

Amazing stay - great views, quiet, private, great communication with owner. Hope to return!

J

Jon

July 2025

36 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

Our particular spot was perfect for us. We have a 40' toyhauler and a 25' cab and chassis truck. The spot had enough for that plus our jeep and then some. The views are great. The sound of the river is perfect. The full hook ups are right next to the site.

T

Tonia

July 2025

36 ft travel trailer

With pets

14 nights at PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

Just had a great stay at Philville! Stayed in Osprey's Perch that had the best view for morning coffee, plus can't beat full hook-ups with a travel trailer. The walk to the river is easy and there's a great beach and swimming hole. Phil is a very accomodating host, super friendly and knowledgeable about the area and his little puppers are so cute! Definitely will stay again soon!

A

Andreas

July 2025

21 ft Class B

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Nico's Nerdy Nursery

This place and his wonderful host is so wonderful that it’s absolutely worth making not only a detour but also add it as a target. The mountains and its views are very special and you have an amazing view. We would love to come back – but next time for a longer stay. It’s the perfect spot. Highlights: A huge amount of space for one own Fantastic view Very quiet and peaceful surroundings Exceptionally friendly host --- Wenn du möchtest, kann ich es auch noch etwas emotionaler oder poetischer formulieren – je nach Stilwunsch.

Sink toilet and hot plate
Another Single bed slides out from under

A

Alfred

July 2025

2 nights at PHILVILLE RV AND CABINS

Nice quiet place and love the river. Had a nice soak after a long hot day of fishing

B

Breanna

July 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Group trip

3 nights at Coyote Estates

Our annual salmon fishing trip with friends was made even better this year thanks to our stay at Rock Garden! From the moment we arrived, Chris was incredibly hospitable & kind, truly going out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed. This spot is a dream – a convenient 5-minute drive from the dock in Pateros which meant more time fishing & less time commuting. But what truly set this stay apart was Chris's incredible generosity. He even provided access to a freezer in his shop for us to store our vacuum-sealed salmon! This was an absolute game-changer & shows just how much he cares about his guests. The sites are well-maintained with plenty of room & the location is perfect for exploring the area. If you're looking for a comfortable, welcoming, & perfectly located spot, especially if you're in the area for fishing, look no further. We can't recommend Rock Garden & Chris enough – we'll definitely be back next year!

Alayna

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Sasquatch Villa

Host was super responsive and helpful. View was beautiful with everything conveniently close by such as access to the Columbia River and lake chelan. We enjoyed the set up so much! Very thoughtful layout and pretty sunsets. Favorite time was in the evening with the all the lights around and also the cookies were wonderful! Definitely the spot you wanna be if you’re in town for some lake or river fun.