Jackson Creek Fish Camp Introduce
For Washingtonians seeking a peaceful, rustic, and highly rewarding outdoor experience, Jackson Creek Fish Camp in Mattawa offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the majestic Columbia River. This well-kept campground is a true gem, especially for fishing enthusiasts and those who appreciate the quiet beauty of Washington's arid yet captivating landscape. It's a place where the primary soundtrack is the gentle flow of the river and the calls of nature, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Jackson Creek Fish Camp stands out for its commitment to maintaining a pristine environment, with visitors frequently praising its cleanliness and well-thought-out amenities. Despite its rustic nature (no hookups or potable water), the attention to detail, from gravel tent pads with tie-downs to concrete picnic table foundations, creates a surprisingly comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. This focus on upkeep ensures that campers can fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings without worrying about neglected facilities.
Whether you're casting a line for the abundant fish species found in the Columbia River, enjoying the serene desert evenings under a star-filled sky, or simply seeking a quiet spot to unwind by the water, Jackson Creek Fish Camp promises a memorable and rejuvenating experience. For Washington locals, it offers an authentic taste of the state's diverse geography and a perfect base for riverside adventure.
Jackson Creek Fish Camp is ideally situated on the banks of the mighty Columbia River, near Mattawa, Washington, with its address noted as Mattawa, WA 99349, USA. This places it in the central part of Washington State, within Grant County, an area known for its unique desert landscapes, agricultural fields, and the prominent Columbia River.
The campground's accessibility is generally straightforward, making it reachable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers (up to 40 feet in length). From major routes, access involves driving on well-maintained roads towards Mattawa, then following local signs to the campground. The roads leading directly to the camp are typically gravel, but are well-kept, as noted by visitors.
Its location directly on the Columbia River provides easy access to the water for various activities. While it offers a serene desert experience, it's not entirely remote. There might be some light pollution on the horizon, hinting at nearby communities, but the immediate campground environment maintains a strong sense of natural tranquility. The drive to the campground itself offers scenic views of the arid landscape and the river, setting the tone for a relaxing escape. Being managed by Grant County PUD, it's one of several recreation sites they maintain along the river, indicating a commitment to public access and enjoyment of the Columbia.
Jackson Creek Fish Camp provides a well-maintained, rustic camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that enhance comfort without over-developing the natural environment. Campers should come prepared for a self-sufficient stay.
Campsites with Gravel Pads:
Picnic Tables with Concrete Pads:
Charcoal Grills/Fire Rings:
Note:Vault Toilets (ADA Accessible and Very Clean):
No Potable Water:
No Hookups:
Day-Use Parking Area:
First-Come, First-Served Basis:
Trash Receptacles:
Dog-Friendly:
Jackson Creek Fish Camp boasts a variety of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination, especially for those drawn to fishing and a peaceful desert ambiance:
Exceptional Fishing Access:
Stunning Evening Skies and Stargazing:
Serene Desert Experience:
Well-Maintained and Cleanliness:
River Access for Recreation:
Natural Shade from Mulberry Trees:
ADA Accessible Options:
Wildlife Viewing:
Jackson Creek Fish Camp is operated by Grant County Public Utility District (PUD). For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the campground, current conditions, or specific regulations, the Grant County PUD Lands and Recreation department is the primary contact.
Phone: (509) 754-5085
Mobile Phone: +1 509-754-5085 (This is the same primary contact number)
Address: Mattawa, WA 99349, USA
For additional details, including specific rules, river levels, safety information, and a recreation planner, you can visit the Grant County PUD website, specifically their recreation section (often found via 509River.org).
It is highly recommended to call ahead or check the official Grant County PUD website before your visit, especially for updates on fire bans (as charcoal grills are seasonal), river conditions (which can fluctuate), and any other alerts that may impact your stay at Jackson Creek Fish Camp. Since it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, arriving early, especially during peak seasons, is also a good strategy.
For Washington locals, Jackson Creek Fish Camp offers a truly distinctive and highly appealing outdoor experience that contrasts beautifully with the state's more famously wet and forested regions. It's a prime destination for those seeking the unique tranquility of a desert riverside environment, coupled with exceptional recreational opportunities.
The campground's most compelling draw for Washingtonians is its direct and easy access to the Columbia River, renowned for its diverse and exciting fishing. Whether it's the challenge of landing a sturgeon, the pursuit of salmon (during season), or the consistent action of smallmouth bass and walleye, this camp serves as an ideal base for anglers. The natural setting, with "fish rise mornings and evenings," creates an immersive fishing experience that is hard to replicate.
Beyond fishing, the commitment to cleanliness and maintenance, as consistently praised by visitors, makes Jackson Creek Fish Camp a surprisingly comfortable rustic retreat. The well-kept gravel pads, concrete picnic areas, and spotless vault toilets demonstrate a dedication to visitor experience that elevates this no-hookup campground. For locals who appreciate a clean and orderly site without the frills of a full-service resort, this is a significant advantage.
Furthermore, the "very serene desert experience" and the "amazing" evenings with minimal light pollution offer a profound sense of peace and a chance for spectacular stargazing – a unique offering for residents used to more urban or evergreen-dense environments. This blend of excellent fishing, meticulous upkeep, and a uniquely peaceful desert setting makes Jackson Creek Fish Camp not just a place to stay, but a cherished escape that perfectly caters to the outdoor spirit of Washington locals. It's a true gem for those looking to experience a different side of their beautiful state.
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Jackson Creek Fish Camp Location
Jackson Creek Fish Camp Reviews
Stayed here late june/early July 2025 for a week. Was the only one here for most of that.The fish rise mornings and evenings and the sturgeon aren't picky about bait. Evenings are amazing, there's light pollution on the horizon but not here.The place is so well kept that I thought it was brand new - gravel pads to park on, smaller gravel pads to pitch a tent. The tent pads have tie-downs on two sides. Concrete under the picnic picnic tables. The gravel gets hot as I the middle of the day but theres generally a breeze. The river is very easily accessible and has large gravel/river stone pebble banks. People have cleared the larger rocks from some shady fishing spots. Mulberry trees like the banks and were fruiting while I was there.A very serene desert experience.
Jul 02, 2025 · The FarrierVery clean, but the only shade is the picnic shelter. Lot of gnats, but they pretty much left me alone - until they found my lantern after nightfall.
Sep 17, 2024 · Carey GatesI am a little biased since I work closely with the team that manages this beautiful place, but it’s the definition of serenity out here. The river is very peaceful here, and the scenery feels like it’s something out of a movie. If you like to fish, or even just have a magical dry camping experience under a blanket of stars (on a clear night it is almost unreal) then this place won’t disappoint you. The bathrooms are clean, and the picnic shelter offers shade from the sun. The camping spots are well thought out. In the hot summer months be sure and take sunscreen and options for shelter from the sun, but the evenings here sure are something else.
Oct 03, 2023 · Rosalie BlackI was amazed at how clean this camp was. The fact that it has 2 handicapped campsites was great! I love the design of the campsites and how close it is to the river. The only thing I didn't like was there are no shade trees by the sites but since it's so minimalistic there is no running water.
Jun 24, 2021 · Lily KillfaceDrove through to check out this campground, its a well kept pay site. There are nice, well kept bathrooms, walking trails and fishing. No trees so I would think it would be super hot in the summer
Mar 19, 2023 · Laura B
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