South Eastern Washington
Starkly different from the wet forests on the Western side of the state, Eastern Washington is home to rolling sagebrush hills, fertile valleys, and a rain shadow desert. This area is contains some less traveled State Parks and historic landmarks that are certainly worth visiting. If you have some extra time, you can even visit the region’s wineries on the Southern border.
Our Spokane/Coeur d’Alene campervan rental location makes accessing Eastern Washington’s gems easy and comfortable within just a weekend. Summer can get hot so be sure bring your bathing suits to cool off in the reservoirs (lake levels and conditions may vary) and be prepared to use our bug nets to add some extra ventilation. You can also plan a trip in the shoulder seasons (Fall and Spring) to avoid peak summer heat. There is plenty of room for your fishing gear or kayak in our campervans so be sure to bring them along. Let’s hit the road!
POTHOLES STATE PARK
Potholes State Park is a 773-acre camping park with 6,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on the southern shore of Potholes Reservoir. The Potholes are the defining geologic landmark near this eastern Washington park. These “potholes” make up half the Potholes Reservoir, and Potholes State Park lies on the other side where the deeper waters are more suitable for fishing and boating.
The reservoir is backed up against a large area of sand dunes making a welcomed oasis in the Washington desert. Thousands are attracted to the Potholes area each year to enjoy fishing, hunting, bird watching, water sports and sunshine.
Set up camp here for the night and explore some of the hiking trails or enjoy your favorite water activities.
Camping
There are bathrooms, showers, and WIFI at this park’s campground. Reservations can be made online or by calling (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688.
COLUMBIA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Columbia Wildlife Refuge two miles east of the Pot Holes State Park is a favorite for wildlife viewing and bird watching. This refuge is rich in geologic history and is a picturesque blend of rugged cliffs, canyons, lakes, and sagebrush grasslands.
Visitors can enjoy the refuge area by hiking, fishing, kayaking, or taking the 22 mile scenic drive that allows you to view the dramatic landscapes from the comfort of your campervan.
PALOUSE FALLS STATE PARK
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Washington State”, Palouse Falls is a must-see destination in Eastern Washington. The falls drop from a height of 198 feet with high volumes of rushing water, particularly in the Spring and early Summer during snow melt. There’s a scenic waterfall overlook, which is accessible via a gravel trail. If you want to explore the area a bit more in-depth, we recommend you take one of the hikes in the park.
You will need a Washington State Discover Pass to visit the park, but this pass is well worth the money and will be needed at the next destination as well.
Camping
The park has limited, first-come, first-served camping.
*** The Campground is currently closed due to COVID-19. Stay up to date on closures here. ***
LYONS FERRY STATE PARK
Lyons Ferry is a 1,000-acre park situated at the joining of the Palouse and Snake rivers. The park has more than 52,000 feet of shoreline and offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, hiking and swimming.
There are no established hiking trails, but Lyons Ferry offers an abundance of space to explore and absorb the information from interpretive signs on land and along the shore.
Camping
Lyons Ferry Marina KOA - Located on the Snake River and right across from the Lyons Ferry State Park. The sites here are all shaded by trees like a more traditional campground. If you want to spend some time on the historic Snake River, this is a great destination to call home for the night.
Have some extra time? Head down to Walla Walla and explore the delicious regional wines!