Camping spots near Tieton, Washington provide access to the high-desert terrain of Central Washington, where elevations range from 1,200 to 3,000 feet across diverse landscapes. The area marks a transition zone between alpine mountains and desert ecosystems, creating distinct camping conditions. Summer temperatures often exceed 85°F during daytime hours, while nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July and August.
What to do
Hike the Umtanum Creek Trail: Cross the suspension bridge from Umtanum Campground to access desert canyon hiking. "The mossy cliff was beautiful and fun foot bridge. We were warned there's a lot of rattlesnakes in summer, but we camped in February," notes Terra J., who appreciated the off-season experience.
Fish the Yakima River: The river offers excellent year-round fishing opportunities. At Big Pines Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Large Campground right on the river. Very little shade. Vault toilets. Great place to stay for floating the river or fishing, located in the beautiful Ellensburg canyon on the Yakima river."
Wildlife viewing: Scan the hillsides and waterways for diverse wildlife. "One thing I love about Washington is that there are so many different places to hike. My husband and I stayed here, which is close to White Pass where there are tons of great hikes. This area is known for rattlesnakes, though so definitely be alert," shares Sasha W. about camping at Big Pines.
What campers like
River access sites: Riverside camping spots provide direct water access. At Willows Campground, Chelsea experienced "A ginormous site right on the Tieton River (seriously, you could fit like 4 tents on this site). Two walkdowns directly from your site to the river, giving you a (very small) private 'beach.'"
Sound of rushing water: Many campers appreciate the natural sound barrier. Joe's experience at Willows Campground highlights this: "Super nice to hear rushing water 24/7 at camp. Sites were clean, vault toilet bathroom was clean as can be...We set up camp around the fire pit but spent most of our time sitting on the riverbanks and watching the clear, cold water rush by."
Stargazing opportunities: The clear desert skies offer excellent nighttime views. At Roza Campground, Shawn A. noted, "Early in the AM the fish are jumping, but this section is catch & release only in the canyon. I just love this canyon."
What you should know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit close to roadways. "2020 prices in the photo. Clean camp with multiple water points. There's 4 or 5 spots large enough for an RV away from the river. Several flat tent camping spots along the river. We found the location a little noisy because HWY12 runs along the north side of the park," Eric H. reported about Willows Campground.
Water availability varies: Not all sites provide drinking water. Ashley B. experienced this at Hause Creek Campground: "This campground is right next to HWY 12, therefore you hear loud road traffic at all hours of the day. The spots are pretty open and some are pretty close together so little to no privacy."
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings heat and potential wildlife concerns. Skylar M. noted at Umtanum Campground: "My husband and I don't really ever make our way around the Yakima area, only because the hiking there is more 'desert' feel and in the summer the rattlesnakes are out and about. The weather in the Yakima area in the summer is amazing, though (hot!!)."
Tips for camping with families
Look for shade options: The desert environment can get extremely hot. At Windy Point Campground, Jason S. shared, "We stayed here a few days in July and loved it! The river is so beautiful with the waterfall cascading down into the river directly across from the campsite. There is a shallow part near the shoreline where the kids had a great time playing in the river."
Consider site placement: Some sites offer better family layouts than others. Cassandra C. found at Windy Point Campground that "Spot 4 is very spacious, with a more private beach area. Bathrooms were clean and stocked. This campground is right off the highway, so you do hear occasional road noise."
Pack extra water: Limited water sources mean coming prepared is essential. At Hause Creek, Erica B. reported, "We camped on site #42 and it was perfect location. We didn't want to be right on the water as our dogs would be in it 24/7. This site you could still see the water and hear it. The bathrooms (glorified outhouse) were always clean and had toilet paper. There is no running water, so we brought our own."
Tips from RVers
Prepare for limited hookups: Most forest service and BLM campgrounds offer minimal amenities. The campground at Rimrock Lake Resort provides a notable exception, with L & J L. reporting: "This campground had availability when I called less than a week in advance and was not super busy when we were there. We were in sites 15 (20' truck camper) and 16 (30' Class A RV), which both have water/electric hookups."
Expect tight sites: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Rimrock Lake Resort, one visitor mentioned, "Tightly spaced sites but the setting more than makes up for it as does the friendly staff. Enjoyed our time here and especially the chance to dip in the lake!"
Consider road access: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. At Hause Creek, Stephanie S. shared detailed insights: "All four of these sites has room for 2 cars in the parking area. The hosts were super friendly and helpful and did a nice job keeping the grounds and bathrooms clean. It's windy and cooler along the river. Had we known about the wind, we'd have brought a different tent!"
