Best Campgrounds near Clarkston, WA

Camping options around Clarkston, Washington center primarily on the Snake River, which forms the border between Washington and Idaho. Chief Timothy Park, located about 7 miles from Clarkston, provides both tent and RV sites with amenities including swimming areas, boat launches, and hiking trails that circle the island. Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake offers waterfront sites with full hookups and manicured grounds within city limits. Hells Gate State Park and Hells Canyon Resort provide additional developed camping with varying levels of amenities. The region supports multiple camping styles from primitive sites to full-service RV resorts, with most concentrated along the river corridor.

Road access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel drive. Summer temperatures can reach over 100°F, making shaded sites highly desirable. As one camper noted, "The campground is very shady which is great when it's 102 degrees." Most riverfront campgrounds remain open year-round, while those at higher elevations typically operate from April through October. Cell service is generally reliable near town but diminishes quickly in outlying areas. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, especially for waterfront sites. Smoke from regional wildfires occasionally affects air quality in late summer.

The Snake River dominates the camping experience, with water activities being the primary attraction. "Perfect location for swimming, kayaking, and fishing," reported one visitor about Chief Timothy Park. Paved walking and biking paths connect many riverfront campgrounds, allowing for extended recreation without driving. Tent sites at popular locations like Chief Timothy can feel crowded during peak season, with some campers noting they are "very crammed next to each other." Sites farther from town offer more seclusion but fewer amenities. Wildlife viewing opportunities include waterfowl along the river and larger mammals in the surrounding hills. Night temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with one camper noting it "gets real cold at night" even at riverside locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Clarkston, Washington (116)

    1. Hells Gate State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Asotin, WA
    3 miles
    Website

    "*Lots of biking in park and nearby along the riverfront. *Very nice Lewis and Clark Discovery Center *Aspen and Birch Loops DO have RV hookups. Cottonwood Loop does not."

    "Next to river but lots of shrubs. Can walk down trail to access river bank."

    2. Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake

    10 Reviews
    Clarkston, WA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (800) 989-4578

    $59 - $66 / night

    "This “RV resort” is within the city of Clarkston and a stone’s throw from a Costco, a WalMart and an Albertson’s. It’s highly manicured and very clean."

    "We fully utilized the bike path along the river each day for nice long rides into Idaho and back to Washington. Would stay again."

    3. Chief Timothy Park

    11 Reviews
    Clarkston, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    "Chief Timothy is a great campground not far from clarkston that provides all he ammenties any camper would want. They have rv and tent sites available."

    "Chief Timothy is a great campground about 7 Miles outside of Clarkston, WA. Perfect location for swimming, kayaking, and fishing!"

    4. Hells Canyon Resort

    6 Reviews
    Clarkston, WA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (509) 758-6963

    $30 - $40 / night

    "Excellent views and right on the edge of Clarkston. Super clean, friendly people, a pet area and water access"

    "It is close to town but on the outskirts away from the hustle and bustle. It is nestled near the marina and has gorgeous views of the river! Definitely a top notch park in our books!"

    5. Clearwater River Casino RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Lewiston, ID
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 746-0723

    "We paid $30 for 1 night, full hook-ups, pool, some shade, bathroom/shower, and walking distance to the casino."

    "Only downside is having to walk the dogs across the parking lot to go to the bathroom in the grass, but it’s nice to have the grass! Dog poo bags and trash cans available."

    6. Hillview RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Clarkston, WA
    0 miles
    +1 (509) 758-6299

    7. Triple H Mini Ranch

    2 Reviews
    Lewiston, ID
    7 miles
    +1 (208) 413-1801

    $45 / night

    8. Nisqually John Landing

    1 Review
    Colton, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 751-0240

    9. McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    6 Reviews
    Juliaetta, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 962-3245

    "Highway 12

    Flat, quiet, clean, and cheap. 15 RV sites and 3 tent sites. Full hookup, clean and large shower rooms and restrooms.

    Camp hosts are great caretakers and quick to greet new guests."

    "There is some road noise; the campground is very close to Route 12."

    10. Gone West RV

    1 Review
    Colton, WA
    9 miles
    Website

    $21 - $55 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 116 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Clarkston, WA

282 Reviews of 116 Clarkston Campgrounds



Guide to Clarkston

Camping near Clarkston, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially at Hells Gate State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great River Access" and noted the nice beach for swimming and launching kayaks.
  • Hiking: Explore trails at Kamiak Butte County Park. A reviewer shared, "There’s a little trail at Kamiak Butte... I did the hike on a Saturday and there were quite a few other hikers on the trail."
  • Boating: Enjoy the water at Chief Timothy Park. One visitor said, "The actual location and grounds are amazing. Right on the Snake river. So much walking and fishing."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Boyer Park & Marina KOA, require reservations. A camper advised, "You need a reservation. Usually packed."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Spring Valley Reservoir has no showers, as one reviewer pointed out, "Everything but the outhouses was clean."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Chief Timothy Park mentioned, "My wife and family were freaked out about the bugs… wanted to boondocks after 1 night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Spots: Look for campgrounds like Kamiak Butte County Park, which is described as "super cute small campground" and great for families.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities like fishing or hiking. One family enjoyed the "good hiking and fishing" at Winchester Lake State Park Campground.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Hells Canyon Resort mentioned, "Check in was easy, they do offer food items for sale."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake noted, "Full hookups with lots of pull through spaces if needed."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Hells Canyon Resort mentioned, "Some of the long-term campers have multiple cars and large add-ons, so it was tricky getting out."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the local attractions. A visitor at Boyer Park & Marina KOA said, "It is kid-friendly and is a 2-minute drive from Lower Granite Dam if you want to take a tour."

Camping near Clarkston, Washington, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Clarkston, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Clarkston, WA offers a wide range of camping options, with 116 campgrounds and RV parks near Clarkston, WA and 9 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Clarkston, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clarkston, WA is Hells Gate State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clarkston, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Clarkston, WA.

What parks are near Clarkston, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Clarkston, WA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.