Camping options near Walla Walla, Washington span from the Blue Mountains to the Snake River with elevations ranging from 900 to 5,500 feet across the region. Summer temperatures in higher elevation sites can drop to the mid-20s overnight even during summer months, providing relief from valley heat. Access roads to many remote camping areas remain unpaved and can be challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Jubilee Lake Campground offers a clear, mountain lake perfect for swimming during hot months. "The lake water is semi murky in the muddy areas but clear and beautiful in the pebble beach areas. This body of water makes for a beautiful backdrop that glistens in the sun," notes one visitor. A rope swing located about half a mile from the campground provides additional recreation.
Fishing opportunities: Fishhook Park on Lake Sacajawea provides productive fishing areas accessible from shore. "Fishing was great off of the docks," reports one camper. The park offers both boat launch facilities and shore access for anglers targeting the lake's fish populations.
Hiking trails: Several campsites near Walla Walla connect to trail systems. Target Meadows Campground connects directly to the Burnt Cabin trailhead. According to a visitor, "the backyard of the campsites are filled with lush trees and the hiking trails are everywhere around the campground."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Harris Park receives positive comments for its well-designed spaces. "They are angled nicely to allow views of the river with vegetation between sites to add a little extra privacy," explains one reviewer who appreciated the thoughtful layout.
Clean facilities: Blue Valley RV Park maintains high cleanliness standards throughout its facilities. "Very clean park with level, paved, large sites. Full hookups. Clean bathrooms, showers, laundry, and gathering space," mentions one satisfied visitor who stayed at this in-town option.
Mushroom hunting: The McDougall Dispersed Camping area offers unique opportunities for foraging. "Just past the village you get into the woodland where the Morels are plentiful. This is an ideal location to go mushrooming," reports an experienced camper who visited the area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campgrounds requires travel on unpaved roads that deteriorate seasonally. One camper at Jubilee Lake Campground noted, "Last several miles of the road were very washboard-y - something that has not changed from previous visits over the years."
Seasonal closures: Most forest service campgrounds close during winter months. According to a visitor attempting to access McDougall Dispersed Camping during off-season: "The road to the site was not plowed. Several feet of snow. Not many alternatives in the area so plan accordingly if you hope to stay here."
Insect activity: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be problematic at certain times. At Target Meadows Campground, one camper reported, "The only con of this campground is a lot of mosquitoes so better bring insect repellent or spray if you don't want to get annoyed by those bugs."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: River currents can be dangerous for young swimmers at certain campsites near Walla Walla. One family camping at Lewis & Clark Trail State Park Campground shared: "There is a river nearby but no access from the campsites directly... The spaces are fairly private and each have a picnic table and fire pit."
Bug protection: Parents should bring ample insect protection for children, especially at riverside locations. A family camper warned, "We were all eaten alive. We wore bug spray the whole time but it couldn't keep them at bay."
Accessible water play: For families with children looking for safer water options, Jubilee Lake provides better conditions than river sites. A visitor noted: "This campground is really big and spread out so even when it's busy it doesn't feel cramped. The bugs were not bad even though we were close to the water and it was late summer."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV Resort Four Seasons receives mixed reviews regarding site conditions. "The sites are annoyingly un-level. Make sure you have pads and a septic ramp," cautions one RV camper who found the setup challenging.
Full-service options: For RVers seeking complete amenities within Walla Walla city limits, Blue Valley RV Park offers all necessary hookups. "Nicely spaced concrete pads. Shower, bathrooms an laundry were clean an well kept," reports one satisfied customer who appreciated the park's organization.
Site selection strategies: Fishhook Park offers distinctly different experiences depending on site location. "Be aware of what campsite you get as we picked spot 27 and were not made aware before hand that you need an escort to your site due to the site facing the opposite way of traffic," warns one RVer who also noted the site's proximity to train tracks.
