Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area

Hello, Washington adventurers! Are you seeking a straightforward, no-frills camping experience that truly gets you away from it all? Look no further than Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area, a hidden gem managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) near Coulee City. This is not your typical developed campground; it’s a rustic and quiet spot designed for those who appreciate simplicity, self-reliance, and direct access to Washington’s stunning natural landscapes. This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview, helping you understand what makes Ankeny #1 a suitable and appealing choice for local campers seeking a tranquil escape on Banks Lake.

Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area offers a unique opportunity for dispersed-style camping on WDFW-managed lands. As noted by a satisfied visitor, it's a place where you can be "All alone out here at this clean public campground," highlighting its remarkable solitude compared to more crowded sites. This makes it an ideal spot for Washingtonians who want to truly disconnect, enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, and immerse themselves in outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and birding on Banks Lake. While one reviewer cautioned about "so many mosquitoes" at certain times, preparedness (like bug spray and keeping car doors closed) can easily mitigate this common outdoor challenge.

The emphasis at Ankeny #1 is on accessible recreation within a natural setting. It’s designed for campers who are self-sufficient, bringing their own water and managing their waste, reflecting the "pack it in, pack it out" ethos essential for preserving Washington's precious wild spaces. We understand that for many locals, finding free or low-cost camping options that offer genuine outdoor experiences is highly valued, and Ankeny #1 fits this criteria perfectly, especially with the required Discover Pass. We'll delve into the specific amenities you'll find (or won't find!), the activities available, and how to prepare for a rewarding stay.

The appeal of WDFW lands like Ankeny #1 also lies in their primary mission: to conserve fish and wildlife habitats while providing opportunities for public recreation. This means that when you camp here, you're not just enjoying a personal getaway; you're also part of a larger effort to connect people with Washington's diverse ecosystems. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of native birds, potentially spot local wildlife, and experience the unique geological formations of the Grand Coulee area firsthand, making it a truly enriching experience for any Washington resident.

Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area is located on an unnamed road near Coulee City, WA 99115, USA. More specifically, it’s situated on the southwest shore of Banks Lake, approximately 3.4 miles from the town of Coulee City. This location places it in the heart of Washington's unique coulee country, characterized by dramatic basalt cliffs, vast open skies, and the expansive waters of Banks Lake, which is a man-made impoundment within a natural coulee.

Accessibility to Ankeny #1 is generally good. The access road leading to the camping area is described as a "well maintained, gravel" road, though some reviewers noted "washboard and some pot holes" so taking it slow is advised. It’s easily reachable from Highway 2, a major east-west route through central Washington. This makes it a convenient stop for those traveling across the state or looking for a close-to-home escape from communities like Spokane, Wenatchee, or even the Seattle area (though it's a longer drive from western Washington).

While the general map location might indicate a boat ramp area, several reviews clarify that the actual camping sites are "about 0.7 mile" further down the same road, offering "very nice spot with designated sites." The road and sites are generally "good for any RV," according to one camper, though another noted that "sites could be leveled out a bit better," indicating that some minor leveling might be necessary for RVs. This access to a gravel parking lot with unmarked but designated campsites provides a straightforward arrival for those with tents or RVs.

Being on WDFW land means a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access. This pass provides access to millions of acres of state recreation lands, including WDFW wildlife areas, making Ankeny #1 a perfect spot to utilize it. The relative ease of access combined with its remote feel makes Ankeny #1 a highly appealing destination for Washington locals seeking a quick and immersive outdoor getaway.

As a primitive WDFW camp area, Ankeny #1 provides basic amenities focused on a self-contained camping experience. Understanding these services is key to a comfortable stay:

• Campsites: Ankeny #1 features about "a dozen dispersed campsites" or "10 or so sites" located in a gravel parking lot setting, rather than individual, developed sites. There are no fire rings or picnic tables provided directly at each spot, so campers should be prepared to be self-sufficient in this regard. The sites are generally flat ground where you can park.
• Restroom Facilities: A vault toilet (or pit toilet) is available on-site. Reviews indicate these are generally "clean" and "well stocked with toilet paper."
• No Potable Water: There is no access to drinking water at the campground. Campers must "pack in your water" for all needs, including drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Hookups: Ankeny #1 does not offer any electricity, water, or sewer hookups, making it a true dry camping or boondocking experience. RVs and campers must be fully self-contained.
• No Garbage Disposal: Visitors are required to "pack out your trash" as there are no garbage cans or disposal services provided.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed, but per WDFW regulations, all dogs and other pets must be leashed from April through July to protect wildlife and sensitive habitat.
• Maximum Stay: There is typically a 3-day maximum stay limit, as noted by reviewers, or a 21-day limit within a 30-day period on WDFW lands unless otherwise posted.
• Discover Pass Required: A Discover Pass is necessary for vehicle access and camping on WDFW lands. This can be purchased online or at various retailers.

Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area, despite its minimalist approach, offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable spot for Washington locals seeking specific types of outdoor recreation:

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: The most frequently highlighted feature by campers is the "secluded" and "quiet spot" feel, often allowing visitors to be "All alone" or with very few other campers. This provides a serene escape from crowded areas.
• Direct Access to Banks Lake: The campground is located directly on Banks Lake, offering easy access for "boating, fishing, wildlife viewing," and kayaking. There is a gravel boat ramp at the end of the area, making it convenient for launching small boats or kayaks.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Banks Lake is known for its fishing, making Ankeny #1 an ideal base for anglers.
• Birding Hotspot: The area is great for "birding," with numerous bird noises often heard, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatchers.
• Good Cell Service: Several reviewers have noted surprisingly good cell service, with reports of "full Verizon service" and "Full At&t service," which is a significant plus for a remote camping area.
• Stargazing Potential: Being away from significant light pollution, the "dark area" offers "phenomenal" stargazing opportunities, allowing campers to appreciate the night sky.
• Rustic Charm: For those who prefer a primitive, uncommercialized camping experience, Ankeny #1 delivers. It’s a "no frills camp but quiet most of the time," as described by one long-term camper.
• Scenic Views: The location on Banks Lake with basalt cliffs provides a picturesque backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Free Camping (with Discover Pass): The fact that camping is free with a Discover Pass makes it a highly economical choice for outdoor enthusiasts who frequently visit Washington's state lands.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: While secluded, it’s not too far from Coulee City, which offers basic services like gas stations, a small grocery store, and local eateries. Larger towns like Grand Coulee (with the Grand Coulee Dam) and Ephrata are also within a reasonable driving distance, offering more extensive amenities and attractions.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area, including current conditions, fire restrictions, or any alerts, it is best to consult official sources.

Address: Unnamed Rd, Coulee City, WA 99115, USA

Phone Numbers:

• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Headquarters: (360) 902-2200. This is the main general information line for WDFW. When calling, you may need to specify that you are inquiring about a WDFW Water Access Area or Wildlife Area camping near Coulee City.
• Alternatively, you can call the North Central Regional Office (Region 2) of WDFW, which covers the Coulee City area, for more localized information. Their number is typically available on the WDFW website.

It is highly recommended to check the official Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website before your trip. Look for sections related to "Water Access Areas," "Wildlife Areas," or "Recreation" to find specific details about Ankeny #1, including any seasonal closures, fire bans, or regulations that might affect your stay. Given its primitive nature and first-come, first-served availability, direct phone contact to a camp host is generally not available, making the WDFW general information line or website your primary resources for planning.

For Washington locals, Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area presents an incredibly suitable and appealing option for immersing themselves in the state’s diverse outdoor offerings. Its greatest asset is its profound seclusion; in a state with many popular and often crowded camping destinations, finding a place where you can genuinely be "All alone out here" is a rare and highly valued experience. This quiet solitude provides the perfect antidote to the stresses of city life, allowing for true relaxation and reconnection with nature.

The fact that it's a free camping area (requiring only the state's affordable Discover Pass) makes it an exceptionally budget-friendly choice, encouraging more frequent and spontaneous trips for residents. This accessibility means you don't need extensive planning or reservations, just a packed bag and a desire for adventure. For those with self-contained RVs, it offers a convenient and picturesque boondocking spot right on Banks Lake, transforming a simple overnight stop into a scenic lakeside retreat.

Ankeny #1 is also ideal for Washingtonians who enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and birding. Its direct access to Banks Lake provides endless opportunities for water-based recreation, while the surrounding wildlife area offers chances for wildlife viewing. The surprising presence of good cell service, as noted by several campers, adds a layer of comfort and safety for those who prefer to remain minimally connected while still enjoying an off-grid feel.

Ultimately, Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area embodies the spirit of Washington's outdoor culture: accessible, diverse, and deeply connected to nature. It’s a perfect spot for locals seeking a genuine, rustic camping experience where the emphasis is on the natural environment rather than extensive amenities. By utilizing these WDFW lands, Washingtonians not only enjoy incredible outdoor adventures but also support the conservation efforts that keep our state beautiful for generations to come. It's a true gem for those who cherish peace, quiet, and the raw beauty of Washington's coulee country.

Ankeny #1 WDF Camp Area

Unnamed Rd, Coulee City, WA 99115, USA