Camping options near Clarkston, Washington extend beyond the Snake River corridor into the surrounding Palouse region. The area sits at approximately 750 feet elevation with summer daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F between June and September. Winter camping remains viable at lower elevations with overnight lows typically staying above 20°F, though higher elevation sites close seasonally.
What to do
Fishing access points: McKay's Bend Recreation Site provides direct river access with designated fishing areas. "Short drive to town. Norm (host) is awesome and full of knowledge. Nice fishing river on the Northern side of the camp," notes one visitor at McKay's Bend Recreation Site.
Family playground time: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "The Kids loved this park, we just spent the day hanging out fishing and playing at the park when we went to Lewiston to Visit our daughter," reports a camper at Chief Timothy Park.
Trail exploration: Chief Timothy offers multiple hiking options. "There is a paved walking/biking path along the river with pet stations located at intervals and is maintained by the municipality," mentions a camper about nearby areas.
Wildlife viewing: The Clearwater and Snake River corridors support diverse bird populations. "We saw lots of different wild life," comments a visitor at Hells Gate State Park.
What campers like
River access: Most riverside campgrounds provide water entry points. "Camping right on the Snake River with Lewis & Clark Discovery Center. Lots of sites, water restrooms, showers, and fire pits," describes one Hells Gate State Park visitor.
Island camping experience: Chief Timothy Park offers a unique island setting. "Chief Timothy Park sits on a 282-acre island on Lower Granite Lake in the Snake River. The Park is known as the gateway to Hells Canyon Recreation Area," explains a camper.
Easy biking access: Paved pathways connect many riverfront locations. "We fully utilized the bike path along the river each day for nice long rides into Idaho and back to Washington," shares a visitor at Premier RV Resort.
Cultural attractions: Several campgrounds provide access to regional historical sites. "Super helpful staff gave us a sweet campsite. Lots of wildlife around and we were camped close to the trailhead. Great hiking and views of the river and canyon," mentions a camper at Hells Gate State Park.
What you should know
Spacing between sites: Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds. "If you dont mind campsites that are open and no tree blocking and your neighbors are right next to you," cautions a Chief Timothy visitor about the open layout.
Heat management strategies: Summer temperatures require preparation. "The campground is in a canyon on river. Number 8 has river view but not much shade. Other sites with much shade," advises a visitor at McKay's Bend.
Reservation policies: Each campground follows different booking protocols. "We checked in late and there were specific, thorough directions and information waiting for us," explains a visitor at Premier RV Resort.
Wildlife considerations: The region's ecosystem includes potentially dangerous wildlife. "Very family friendly place and the trail is wheelchair accessible. Great trek along the river. Watch for rattlesnakes in the area!" warns a camper at Hells Gate State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Riverfront campgrounds provide swimming and boating opportunities. "We went for a family reunion. We had a good time. It was very crowded. However we did have access to water from our campsite. That is always a bonus," notes a visitor at Chief Timothy Park.
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies seasonally. "Overall a good and clean stay on the water. Lots of bugs and very dry. Cute little gift shop!" reports a camper at Chief Timothy Park.
Entertainment options: Some resorts offer additional recreation. "The owners have fun with the residents... 'Sweet Saturday' with homemade goodies in the office and then Sunday Sundaes for $1 you can have an ice cream sundae with toppings in the office! The kids LOVED it!" shares a visitor at Premier RV Resort.
Accessibility features: Several campgrounds provide wheelchair-friendly facilities. "Tent sites at Hells Canyon Resort provide excellent views and right on the edge of Clarkston. Super clean, friendly people, a pet area and water access," notes a camper.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer varying levels of connections. "Full hookups, bathroom and showers. In a canyon on river," confirms a McKay's Bend visitor.
Pull-through accessibility: Site configurations vary across campgrounds. "Pull thru sites for RVs makes it easy to come and go as you please," explains a camper at Chief Timothy Park.
Leveling requirements: Some sites require minimal setup. "Parked ClassB in site 15-no leveling required. Blacktop with concrete pad under picnic table," notes a visitor at McKay's Bend Recreation Site.
Urban proximity benefits: Several campgrounds balance nature access with conveniences. "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," describes a visitor at Triple H Mini Ranch.
