Offield Landing Recreation Area

For us Washingtonians, especially those of us in the eastern part of the state, finding a tranquil spot to enjoy our vast rivers and open landscapes is a cherished part of our outdoor lifestyle. Offield Landing Recreation Area, located near Pomeroy, offers a unique, rustic camping and day-use experience along the beautiful Lower Granite Lake on the Snake River. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this site provides a back-to-basics approach to recreation, emphasizing self-reliance and appreciation for the natural environment.

Offield Landing isn't a bustling resort campground with extensive amenities. Instead, it’s a quieter, more primitive option, perfect for those who enjoy the simplicity of camping with basic facilities and direct access to the water. It’s a place where you can launch your boat for a day of fishing or enjoy a picnic with scenic river views. While it offers a valuable resource for locals, especially those looking for a free camping option, it’s important to arrive prepared and aware of the type of experience it provides, focusing on its natural highlights.

This recreation area embodies a certain rugged charm, appealing to those who prefer uncrowded spaces and direct access to the Snake River’s recreational offerings. It's a reminder of the raw beauty of our region and the opportunities for peaceful enjoyment that still exist, making it a good choice for Washington locals who value simplicity and self-sufficiency in their outdoor adventures.

Offield Landing Recreation Area is located in Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA, specifically on the south bank of the Snake River at Mile 108 of Lower Granite Lake. Its precise address is not a typical street address but rather a geographical marker within Garfield County, approximately 1 mile east of the Lower Granite Dam. This placement offers direct access to the reservoir and river, making it particularly appealing for boaters and anglers.

Access to Offield Landing is generally via local roads leading off major highways in Eastern Washington. While the exact driving instructions might vary depending on your starting point, it's typically reached by following signage towards the Lower Granite Lock and Dam, then a short distance further east. The roads leading to the site are generally passable for most vehicles, including those towing boats and RVs, although some internal areas or approaches might be gravel or unpaved.

The location offers reasonable proximity to essential services:

• Pomeroy, WA: Approximately 3 miles from Offield Landing, Pomeroy is the closest town for basic groceries, restaurants, and supplies. It also hosts Garfield County Memorial Hospital (509-843-1591) for emergency medical needs.

• Clarkston, WA: Located further west along the Snake River, Clarkston and its twin city Lewiston, ID, offer a wider range of services, including larger grocery stores, more diverse dining, and auto mechanics.

• Lower Granite Lock and Dam: The nearby dam is a significant landmark and offers a visitor center, though dam crossing might be on a limited basis, requiring a call to 1-888-DAMINFO (1-888-326-4636) for current information.

Offield Landing Recreation Area is designated as a day-use, boating, and primitive camping area. This means the services are minimal, focusing on essential facilities for outdoor recreation.

• Camping Area: Offers space for both tents and RVs. It is important to note this is primitive camping, meaning no hookups (water, electricity, sewer) are available at individual sites.

• Fire Pits/Grills: Each campsite and picnic area is equipped with fire pits or grills, allowing for outdoor cooking and campfires. However, it is crucial to note that wood fires are generally NOT allowed from June 10 through October 10 due to high fire danger. Charcoal and propane fires are acceptable during these periods. Campers should always check for current fire restrictions before lighting any fire.

• Picnic Tables: Picnic benches are available at both the camping and day-use areas, providing comfortable spots for meals outdoors.

• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets (restrooms) are provided on-site, offering essential sanitation facilities. These are ADA accessible.

• Boat Launch Ramp: A one-lane boat launch ramp is available, offering direct access to Lower Granite Lake for boating activities. A handling dock is also provided to assist with launching and retrieving vessels.

• Shade Shelter: A shade shelter is present in the day-use area, offering relief from the sun during warmer months.

• No Running Water: There is no running water available at Offield Landing. Campers must bring their own potable water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. Access to river water is available but not suitable for consumption without proper filtration/purification.

• No Electricity: The campground does not offer any electrical hookups or lighting, contributing to an off-grid, stargazing-friendly experience.

• No Cell Service: Cell service at the campsite is typically zero. While this offers a digital detox, it means campers should be prepared for emergencies without immediate communication. Service may be available at higher elevations, such as at the top of Hammer Grade Road.

• No Trash Cans/Dumpsters: Offield Landing operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" principle. There are no trash cans or dumpsters on-site, requiring campers to take all their waste with them upon departure.

• Free Camping: Camping and boat launching at Offield Landing are free of charge, making it a very budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Free Primitive Camping: One of the most significant highlights is that Offield Landing offers free primitive camping year-round, making it a highly accessible option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts in Washington. This often means less crowded conditions compared to paid campgrounds.

• Direct Boat Launch Access: With its 1-lane launch ramp and handling dock, Offield Landing is an excellent spot for boaters looking to access the expansive waters of Lower Granite Lake on the Snake River for fishing (steelhead during fall run), water sports, or simply cruising.

• Quiet and Peaceful Setting: The area is generally known for its quiet and peaceful ambiance, especially outside of peak fishing season. The scattered trees and open spaces provide a sense of tranquility, ideal for relaxation.

• Stargazing Opportunities: With no electricity or artificial lighting, the night skies at Offield Landing are exceptionally dark, offering magnificent opportunities for stargazing.

• Rustic Charm: The campground embraces a rustic, undeveloped feel. It appeals to campers who prefer a more natural, unmanicured experience and are comfortable with minimal amenities.

• Scenic Views: The location on the Snake River provides scenic views of the water and the surrounding rolling hills and canyons typical of Eastern Washington's unique landscape.

• Picnic Facilities: The presence of picnic tables and fire pits (with seasonal restrictions) makes it suitable for day-use visitors looking for a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal by the river.

• Year-Round Accessibility: The recreation area is open year-round, allowing for camping and day use even in the off-season, though visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Address: Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA (Note: This is a general address for the area; the site is on NF-895 off US-12, near the Lower Granite Dam.)

Phone: (509) 397-6413 ext. 262 (This number connects to the Park Ranger for the Lower Granite Lock and Dam area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District).

Mobile Phone: +1 509-397-6413 ext. 262

For the most up-to-date information regarding dam crossing, call 1-888-DAMINFO (1-888-326-4636).

Operating Agency: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District, Lower Granite Natural Resources Office, 100 Fair Street, Clarkston, Washington 99403. Phone: 509-751-0240. Contact: Resource Manager.

For us Washingtonians, especially those of us who call Eastern Washington home, Offield Landing Recreation Area offers a specific and appealing kind of outdoor experience. It's not a glamping destination, nor is it a packed resort. Instead, it’s a truly free, rustic, and quiet gem that caters to our love for raw nature and self-sufficient adventure. The prime highlight for many locals is undoubtedly the immediate access to the Snake River's Lower Granite Lake, making it a fantastic spot for boating and fishing, particularly during the fall steelhead run.

We understand that "primitive camping" means packing in and packing out everything, including our trash, and bringing our own water – a small trade-off for the peace and quiet found here. The "great little boat launch with picnic bench and restroom" provides just enough infrastructure to make a day on the water enjoyable. While a recent review highlighted concerns regarding semi-permanent encampments, this underscores the importance of being aware of your surroundings and exercising caution, a practice many seasoned campers already employ in more remote, free-use areas.

The "gorgeous sites available," even if limited, offer ample space and a genuine connection to the landscape. For locals, Offield Landing is a perfect choice for a spontaneous weekend getaway or a planned fishing trip where the focus is on the outdoors, not amenities. It’s a place to enjoy the big skies and quiet nights that define our region, offering a much-appreciated free escape into the natural beauty of the Snake River canyon.

Offield Landing Recreation Area

Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA