Stinson Flats

Stinson Flats, situated along the scenic Klickitat River in Washington's Klickitat County, offers a distinctly primitive camping experience that caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature. Classified under the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, Stinson Flats provides essential facilities for camping, primarily favoring tent campers due to its access road, and is part of the larger Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) Klickitat Wildlife Area Complex.

The environment at Stinson Flats is a significant draw, characterized by its stunning riverside location and diverse ecological tapestry. The campground is located at the lower end of a gravel road, approximately 1.1 miles long, that descends into the Klickitat River valley. The Klickitat River itself is a free-flowing tributary of the Columbia River, originating from Mount Adams, and its presence provides a constant, soothing natural soundtrack. The campground is nestled within the Soda Springs Unit of the Klickitat Wildlife Area. This unit boasts a remarkable variety of habitats, including conifer forests, mixed pine-oak forests, Oregon white oak woodlands, riparian forests, open grasslands, aspen groves, talus slopes, cliffs, and bluffs. This ecological diversity, coupled with an elevation change of over 1,500 feet within the unit, supports a rich abundance of wildlife. Visitors to Stinson Flats may encounter numerous species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, making it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. The natural setting offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in the wilderness, despite being accessible by vehicle. The terrain within the campground itself is generally flat, providing suitable ground for pitching tents.

In terms of services, Stinson Flats aligns with its primitive designation, offering very limited amenities. Campers should arrive prepared for an off-the-grid experience. There are no hookups for electricity, water, or sewage at the campsites, meaning RVs will need to be self-contained. Potable water is generally not available, and visitors are advised to bring their own supply for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The primary sanitation facility is a single vault toilet. While functional, reviews suggest its cleanliness can vary. There are no shower facilities or dump stations on-site. The access road to Stinson Flats, while annually graded, can be challenging, particularly for larger RVs or trailers. It features a significant grade and can develop a washboard surface by mid-summer. This access difficulty contributes to its popularity for tent camping over larger RVs, as many visitors suggest alternative campgrounds like Leidl South for trailer camping due to easier road conditions. Despite these limitations, the campground does offer basic necessities for a comfortable, rustic stay.

The features of Stinson Flats are centered around outdoor recreation and its riverine location. A key amenity is the primitive boat launch and retrieval spot, which is armored gravel, providing direct access to the Klickitat River. This makes Stinson Flats an excellent base for various water activities, including fishing, particularly for salmon during the spring runs, and for launching rafts or kayaks to navigate sections of the river. Beyond the river, the surrounding Klickitat Wildlife Area offers extensive opportunities for hunting (with specific safety zones around the campground where firearms are prohibited), hiking, wildflower viewing, horseback riding, bicycling, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing depending on the season. Dispersed camping is generally allowed along most roads open to public vehicle use within the wildlife area, either beside the road or in designated "camping areas." At Stinson Flats specifically, open campfires are permitted, except during the seasonal burn ban, which typically runs from June 1 through October 12. During the burn ban, only propane stoves, grills, and fully enclosed firepits with screened chimneys are allowed; charcoal barbecues and open wood fires are prohibited. Firewood can be salvaged from dead and downed wood, but cutting standing trees is strictly forbidden. The campground is dog-friendly, provided pets are kept under physical restraint or on a leash, allowing for furry companions to join in the outdoor adventure.

Promotional information for Stinson Flats often emphasizes its rustic charm and its status as a free or low-cost camping option for those holding a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass, as it is situated on Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) land. It's often highlighted as a quiet and peaceful retreat, ideal for unwinding by the river and enjoying the sounds of nature. Visitor accounts frequently praise the beauty of the Klickitat River and the opportunity for excellent fishing. Its relative remoteness, especially compared to more developed campgrounds, is often seen as a benefit for those seeking solitude and an authentic wilderness experience. The proximity to other regional attractions like the Columbia River Gorge and the Goldendale Observatory allows for varied itineraries for campers using Stinson Flats as a base. While it might see more activity during prime fishing or hunting seasons, its access challenges tend to keep it from becoming overwhelmingly crowded. The overall impression is one of an unpretentious, natural setting perfect for those who appreciate self-sufficient camping and direct access to diverse outdoor activities.