Durr Road Campsite

For Washington locals yearning for an authentic outdoor escape that feels wonderfully remote yet remains conveniently close to civilization, Durr Road Campsite in Ellensburg offers a unique and appealing option. This rustic campground provides a distinct experience, setting itself apart from more developed sites by embracing the wild beauty of Central Washington. It's a place where the vastness of the landscape and the tranquility of nature truly take center stage, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate simplicity and rugged charm in their camping adventures.

Durr Road Campsite is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a gateway to some of Washington's most captivating scenery and outdoor activities. Renowned for its stunning nighttime views and expansive spaces, it caters to campers seeking a less-structured environment where the focus is on natural beauty and a genuine connection with the environment. While it offers a more primitive style of camping, its appeal lies precisely in this unadorned authenticity, making it a favorite for adventurers, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone looking to truly unwind under the vast Washington sky.

Durr Road Campsite is located on Old Durr Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, USA. Its geographical placement is one of its most intriguing features: it manages to be "close to town but it feels very remote." This paradoxical accessibility is a significant draw for Washington locals. Ellensburg, a vibrant city in the Kittitas Valley, is known for its Western heritage, rodeo, and as home to Central Washington University. The campsite's proximity means campers can easily resupply, grab a meal, or explore local attractions before or after their outdoor adventure.

Access to the campsite itself is via Durr Road, which is generally a gravel road. While parts of Old Durr Road are noted for being rougher, especially the section that drops to Umtanum Creek, a review suggests that "Road into campsite was fairly easy 2wd shouldn't have an issue." However, for continued exploration on the deeper parts of Durr Road, particularly if you plan to traverse sections of the WABDR (Washington Backcountry Discovery Route) that it's part of, higher clearance vehicles might be recommended, as the road can become more challenging with steep inclines, loose rock, and occasional water runoff ditches.

Despite its somewhat rugged approach in parts, the overall accessibility allows for a quick transition from urban convenience to wild solitude. This makes it an ideal spot for Washington locals seeking a genuine off-grid experience without excessive travel time. Being on Section 2 of the WABDR also makes it a prime staging or resting point for those undertaking this epic backcountry adventure, solidifying its status as a key spot for the state's outdoor community.

Durr Road Campsite operates as a more primitive, dispersed camping area, meaning it offers fewer traditional services compared to developed campgrounds. Its appeal lies in its raw, natural setting. Based on customer reviews and the nature of dispersed camping, the following can be inferred:

• Ample Parking and Camping Space: Reviewers consistently note "plenty of room for parking," which is a significant advantage for RVs, vehicles with trailers, and groups. This generous space also extends to "nice grassy areas to put up a tent," allowing for comfortable and spacious setups.

• Natural Setting: The campsite offers a direct connection to nature, with grassy areas and views of the surrounding canyon and landscape. This provides a truly rustic experience for campers.

• Proximity to WABDR: As a recognized stop on Section 2 of the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR), the campsite inherently offers a base for adventurers looking to ride or drive this renowned off-road trail.

• Self-Sufficiency Required: While the campsite offers ample space, campers should anticipate needing to be self-sufficient. This means bringing all necessary water, waste disposal solutions, and sanitation supplies, as formal facilities like restrooms or potable water hookups are typically not present in such dispersed camping areas.

• Remote Feel Yet Close to Town: This is a defining characteristic. Campers experience the profound quiet and expansive views of a remote wilderness, while still having the convenience of Ellensburg town just a short drive away. This balance is highly valued by those who want to "get away from it all" without completely disconnecting from services.

• Stunning Night Views: "The best part is the view at night!" This highlights a spectacular stargazing experience, a major draw for many campers. Away from city lights, the celestial display at Durr Road Campsite promises to be unforgettable.

• Expansive Space: With "plenty of room for parking" and "nice grassy areas to put up a tent," the campsite provides ample space for various camping setups, from individual tents to multiple RVs or groups, without feeling cramped. This is particularly appealing for those seeking uncrowded spots.

• Unique Wind Experience: While potentially challenging, the fact that "wind comes ripping down the canyon" is a noteworthy natural phenomenon, indicating the campsite's raw, exposed location within a canyon. Campers should be prepared for this element, but it also speaks to the wild, untamed nature of the site.

• Wenas Wildlife Area Access: Durr Road is part of a larger area encompassing the Wenas Wildlife Area. This means the campsite offers immediate access to a vast natural expanse, ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, off-roading, and exploring the unique desert landscape of Central Washington.

• Rustic Charm and Natural Beauty: Despite some minor issues like "a little bit of trash and broken glass" (which highlight the importance of Leave No Trace principles), the overall sentiment of a "Great campsite!" and its "rustic and beautiful" character shines through. The natural setting, with sagebrush, dry grass, and rolling hills, offers a distinct aesthetic compared to the state's lush western side.

• Off-Roading Access (WABDR): Its inclusion on Section 2 of the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR) makes it a significant waypoint for adventurers who traverse this renowned route, offering a unique draw for the off-road and overland community.

Durr Road Campsite is generally considered a dispersed camping area rather than a commercially operated campground with a dedicated office or booking system. As such, direct phone numbers for the campsite itself are not typically available. Information regarding this type of site is often found through local land management agencies (e.g., Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Land Management) or through online camping forums and off-roading communities.

Address: Old Durr Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, USA

For specific regulations, burn bans, or land access information, it is recommended to consult the relevant Washington state land management agencies or local Ellensburg tourism resources. Online forums dedicated to Washington State camping and off-roading may also provide insights from recent visitors regarding conditions and accessibility.

For Washington locals, Durr Road Campsite offers a distinct and highly suitable option for those seeking a genuine and uncomplicated outdoor experience. Its unique blend of feeling "very remote" while being "close to town" caters perfectly to the local desire for accessible wild spaces. In a state with diverse landscapes, this campsite provides a taste of Central Washington's arid beauty, a stark and appealing contrast to the state's more famously lush western side. This offers a different kind of natural immersion for those who appreciate sweeping vistas and desert flora.

The emphasis on a rustic experience, with ample space for both parking and tent setup, aligns with the independent spirit of many Washington outdoor enthusiasts. It encourages self-reliance and allows campers the freedom to create their own comfortable basecamp. The highlight of the "view at night!" is a powerful draw, promising unparalleled stargazing opportunities away from urban light pollution—a simple yet profound pleasure that resonates deeply with those who cherish the state's natural wonders.

Furthermore, its location on Section 2 of the WABDR immediately positions it as a relevant and exciting destination for the growing community of off-roaders and overland adventurers within Washington. For these locals, it's not just a campsite; it's a strategic point on an epic journey, a place to rest and prepare for the next leg of their exploration. Even for those not tackling the full WABDR, the surrounding area provides ample opportunities for off-road driving and exploring the diverse terrain.

While the campsite's primitive nature means campers must be prepared for the elements (like the occasional strong winds) and practice Leave No Trace principles, this very aspect is often what appeals to seasoned Washington locals looking for an unadorned connection with nature. Despite minor mentions of past litter, the core experience remains one of spaciousness, solitude, and stunning views. Durr Road Campsite truly offers Washingtonians a chance to experience the raw, untamed beauty of their state's interior, making it a highly recommended spot for those who seek adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

Durr Road Campsite

Old Durr Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, USA