RV sites near Chelan, Washington accommodate camping needs across all four seasons with varying water supplies. Winter temperatures in the region average between 20-40°F while summer months often exceed 90°F, especially in July and August. Columbia River reservoirs create numerous water access points with both shaded and exposed camping areas.
What to do
Hike near Leavenworth: Multiple trails accessible from Thousand Trails Leavenworth provide mountain adventures. "Hiking in the Leavenworth area is amazing! Colchuck Lake is incredible, and I would highly recommend doing this one," notes Sasha W., who stayed at the RV park for three nights as a base for hiking excursions.
Swimming: Soap Lake offers a unique mineral water experience at Smokiam RV Resort. "Soap Lake is interesting with a very soft muddy bottom on the CG side of the lake," reports Sarah, who stayed at one of the hot tub sites. The lake has a film-like texture from its mineral content, justifying its name.
Fishing: Columbia River access points support angler activities year-round. At Marina RV Park, "a lot of fishermen use it. Also very nice swimming Cove around the corner and playground for the kids," according to Don, who found the camp staff "super friendly and helpful."
What campers like
Winter accessibility: Cold-weather camping remains viable for those seeking hookups. "I am surprised to find how often we camp in the snowy winter months, empty campgrounds are a plus this time of year! Come summer you won't be able to get a reservation in this park, but in January it was wide open," writes Dawn G. about her stay at Lakeshore RV Park.
Big rig accommodation: Several parks can handle larger RVs with proper planning. "Gorgeous 2 parks 1/2 mile apart. The Marina Park and this one. Gorgeous plush grass, immaculate kept parks. Pull throughs are nice for Big Rigs," notes Bruce B. about his experience at Conklin Landing RV Park, where a one-day visit extended to five days.
Family activities: Campgrounds often include multiple recreation options beyond water access. "Very clean campground. 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," explains Justin M. about Smokiam RV Resort, adding "Very little motor boat activity on the lake makes for great swimming."
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Many RV parks in the area position sites closely together. At Blu-Shastin RV Park, "The camping spots for everyone else are so close to each other that you can't put your awning out all the way without hitting the trailer next to you. My left slide was less then a feat from the power pole and my right slide was about 2 feet from the other side of the camping spot," reports Adam A.
Winter hookup preparation: Cold weather camping requires specific preparation. At Smokiam RV Resort, sites have "heated coils to prevent any water freeze," notes Kurtis K., making it "Perfect for tent camping and off season."
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. Icicle River RV Resort visitor David E. found "WiFi is pretty bad, which is unfortunate if you try to download the laundry app. T-Mobile cell coverage was basically useless for data."
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visits: Families can enjoy more space during shoulder seasons. "October is perfect time. So quiet, leaves changing, crisp weather. Just make sure you have heated water hose," advises Kurtis K. about Thousand Trails Leavenworth.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds have dedicated facilities for younger campers. "Great playground for kids, nice store in case you forget anything," notes Lindsay G. about Smokiam RV Resort, adding "The sites are pretty close together, but not too close to be uncomfortable."
Seasonal water activities: Summer visitors benefit from water access at multiple locations. "Very little to no motor boat activity on the lake makes for great swimming," according to Justin M., who visited Smokiam RV Resort for an anniversary trip, finding "Sites are very clean and green! Nice grass to relax in."
Tips from RVers
Sprinkler systems: Be prepared for automated irrigation at certain parks. Craig S. found at Lakeshore RV Park that "They water every night, you have to pull everything in, every night. Water came out brown each morning without a filter."
Site selection for road noise: Choose locations away from busy roads when possible. At Icicle River RV Resort, Rick S. reported "We parked in space 81 so we could hear the road noise from Icicle Road. Up in this area, the road is paved but lots 76-87 are gravel," with water drainage issues affecting lower elevation spots during rain.
Boat launch proximity: Several RV sites near Chelan provide direct water access. "This is a nice little campground by the river with a boat launch," writes Don about his stay at Marina RV Park.
