RV camping near Cashmere, Washington offers access to recreational areas along the Columbia River Basin and surrounding mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 feet. Most campgrounds in this region experience hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from July through August, and cold winters with occasional snow between November and February. Cell service varies significantly throughout mountainous areas, with stronger connections available closer to highways and towns.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access nearby trails from Thousand Trails Leavenworth, located 30 miles northwest of Cashmere. "Close to Leavenworth and hiking. Close to the Enchantments," notes one camper. The surrounding area offers paths ranging from easy riverside walks to challenging alpine climbs.
Water activities: Visit Whispering Pines RV Campground for riverside recreation. "There are paths that go to the Yakima river or along side it was nice," writes a visitor. The campground provides easy access to fishing spots and water trails suitable for kayaking.
Winter recreation: Ski areas around Leavenworth stay open from December through March, with some campgrounds remaining accessible year-round. "October is perfect time. So quiet, leaves changing, crisp weather. Just make sure you have heated water hose," recommends a camper at Thousand Trails Leavenworth.
What campers like
Riverside spots: Blu-Shastin RV Park offers sites backing up to water. "Creek right out the back of our site. No cell service with T-Mobile. WiFi at the clubhouse. Best price only 45 a night full hookups," shares one visitor, highlighting the value compared to other parks in the region.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained amenities. "The campground is fairly quiet. We parked in space 81 so we could hear the raid noise from Icicle Road," notes one Icicle River RV Resort reviewer, indicating site selection matters for noise management.
Swimming options: Smokiam RV Resort provides water recreation beyond the typical river access. "Nice amenities for families. Put put golf swimming pool hot tubs basketball and volleyball court and nice playground. Paddle board kayak and paddle boat rentals as well," writes a visitor describing the diverse recreational opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. One camper notes, "We have stayed here for many years to enjoy the Chelan WinterFest Festival in January. The park is within walking distance of town and is perfect for the festival weekend."
Road and train noise: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "We kept driving south along the river towards Yakima and found 3 beautiful blm campgrounds!" writes one visitor who sought quieter alternatives to highway-adjacent camping.
Water quality concerns: Entiat City Park receives praise for its Columbia River access but some parks have issues. "Water came out brown each morning without a filter," reports one camper, suggesting filtration equipment is essential at certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature family-specific amenities. "Excellent Family Campground. I normally do not leave reviews but this campground was one of the nicest we have every been to. The campground was very clean, the spots were spacious and tons of things for the kids to do," writes a visitor to Whispering Pines.
Budget-friendly options: Find more affordable camping during shoulder seasons. "We visited in late June of 2024. Crescent Bar is a nice little community and the PUD park is beautiful," notes a camper about facilities near the Columbia River, where rates decrease after Labor Day.
Swimming safety: Thousand Trails Crescent Bar offers supervised water areas. "Close to Moses Lake and Wenatchee - perfect getaway for the weekend. Beautiful sites near the river and the area is rapidly growing with activity," reports a visitor, pointing out the increasingly developed recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose locations carefully based on specific needs. "Spaces 76-80 didn't have that issue. We have a 25 foot trailer and that island in the road can be a bit of a problem. Spaces are a bit close together but we were hiking most of the days we were there," explains an RV camper at Icicle River RV Resort.
Extra equipment needs: Pack extension hoses and cords. "Bring an extra hose because your connection may be at the front right of your camper," advises one RVer, highlighting inconsistent hookup placements at some facilities.
Off-season advantages: Several parks offer reduced rates and fewer crowds in spring and fall. "This was a great place to take the kids for a weekend to swim at the lake. There is a picnic table at each spot it seems, which is convenient. There is pretty much zero privacy though, so expect to get acquainted with your neighbors," writes a visitor about Entiat City Park.
