Established Camping
Roza - Yakima River Canyon
Roza - Yakima River Canyon, near Yakima, Washington, is a cozy spot for those looking to unwind by the river. With just a handful of sites, it offers a more intimate camping experience, complete with picnic tables and fire rings for those classic campfire nights.
This campground is a favorite for its serene setting along the Yakima River, making it a great endpoint for summer rafting trips. Visitors have noted the well-kept areas, and one camper mentioned, “Another great camping experience...what a clean and well-run place.” Just keep in mind, there are no electric hookups or showers, so come prepared for a more rustic experience.
The surrounding scenery is a treat, with calm waters perfect for tubing and fishing. Campers have enjoyed the peaceful vibe, with one reviewer highlighting the “great location” that’s just a short drive from Yakima. If you’re into fishing, early mornings are prime time, as the fish are known to be jumping.
While the campground is close to a main road, it’s not overly busy, allowing for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, Roza offers a simple yet enjoyable escape into nature.
Description
The gentle Yakima River winds for 27 miles through massive basalt cliffs and rolling desert hills between Ellensburg and Yakima, Washington. This area is popular for wildlife viewing, fishing, and floating the river.
Recreation The Yakima River Canyon is a popular destination for plant and wildlife viewing, including bighorn sheep, various birds of prey, and mule deer. This section of the river is classified as a Blue Ribbon trout stream, but is catch and release only. One of the most popular summer activities is floating the river, which is a family friendly Class 1 river with no rapids. Rafters often put in at Umtanum and take out at Roza.
Facilities All four BLM-managed recreation sites offer picnic tables, fire rings, nearby dumpsters and vault toilets. Hookups and potable water are not provided. Big Pines campground is where the majority of the campsites are located, and contains two group campsites. Umtanum, Lmuma Creek, and Roza also offer campsites. Umtanum and Roza receive high day-use visitation during the summer months. Roza offers a concrete boat launch. Motorboats are prohibited upstream from Roza.
Reservation Info
Location
Roza - Yakima River Canyon is located in Washington
Directions
From Ellensburg, Washington, take Hwy 821 (Canyon Road) south through the Yakima River Canyon. Roza is located at milepost 7.
Coordinates
46.76443844 N
120.45650618 W
Detours Nearby
The Cottonwood Retreat
37 min away
Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping
51 min away
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 users
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
