Camping near Burbank, WA

The Snake and Columbia Rivers provide access to some of the best places to camp near Burbank, Washington. This eastern Washington region can experience extreme temperature variations, with daily temperature swings of 40 degrees during spring and fall camping seasons. Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically operate from mid-May through early September, with most requiring advance reservations through Recreation.gov.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Hood Park offers direct river access for anglers. "It's right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want. There is a connected wildlife preserve that you can walk around in and also fish in that is a separate area," notes Nathan B.

Water activities: Charbonneau Park provides boat launch access for water recreation. As Kayla K. explains, "I have been going here for 20 years it's very nice clean and friendly people that run it. Great for tents or RVs. Full facilities with showers. You can watch the river traffic has a small marina by it that you can get gas at for your boat."

Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds connect to wildlife refuges with bird watching opportunities. At Fishhook Park, "There are quite a few trees for shade. Surprisingly good cell (Verizon) given the remoteness of the campground," according to Lee D.

What campers like

Spacious sites: The Corps of Engineers campgrounds feature unusually large sites. At Fishhook Park, "RV sites have a crazy amount of space between them - so awesome to not have to look into your neighbors RV," Kathy P. shares.

Clean facilities: Despite being remote locations, most campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. At Horn Rapids, one camper noted, "The bathrooms are spotless. There's plenty of them too. The community lounge is big and clean with a kitchen and sofas, TV, and tables."

Swimming areas: Many riverside campgrounds include designated swimming spots. Pasco Tri-Cities KOA offers "Pool and Hot tub. Great maintenance and services," according to John W.

What you should know

Noise considerations: Train tracks run near several campgrounds. At Fishhook Park, "Be aware of what campsite you get... It is also right off of the train tracks and the train runs numerous times a day and early in the morning," warns Kindra M.

Strict check-in policies: Corps of Engineers parks enforce specific check-in times. At Hood Park, Stephen L. cautions, "Do not try to check in before 2 pm!!!!"

Wildlife hazards: Watch for rattlesnakes on trails, especially in summer. At Fishhook Park, "There's a trail to the lake but we were warned not to use it due to the high likelihood of encountering rattlesnakes," reports one visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Playgrounds and activities: Columbia Sun RV Resort provides family-friendly amenities. One reviewer shared, "Has all the amenities and activities you want in a semi-urban RC resort / glamping get away. Heated pool and hot tub, game room and more."

Water fun: Many children enjoy the swim beaches during summer. At Fishhook Park, Haylee M. reports, "Played games and found a little spot down to the water we enjoyed. Store close by to grab sodas for our burgers that night."

Evening entertainment: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities. Chris A. notes about Hood Park, "This campground offers developed sites with hookups for campers. There is a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings. They even had some movies on the weekends."

Tips from RVers

Reservation advice: When booking at Corps of Engineers parks, be specific about your needs. At Hood Park, Charis W. advises, "No water or sewer hookups. Lots of nice sites. If you are a long RV, be cautious as the reservation line has little knowledge of sites."

Year-round options: For winter camping near Burbank, look to private RV parks. Franklin County RV Park provides affordable year-round camping: "Inexpensive RV park in pasco. Other options were full or twice the rate. Has discounts for goodsams. Laundry, Wi-Fi and bathrooms," notes Bradee A.

Irrigation systems: Be aware of sprinkler schedules at parks. John S. mentions about Hood Park, "The only issue we have is the sprinklers come on Friday nights and wash the tents for us. it's good and bad."