Camping options near Colton, Washington range from lakeside sites to mountain retreats at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region close during winter months except for Winchester Lake and Fields Spring which offer yurt camping and winter activities.
What to do
Fishing along the Snake River: At Hells Gate State Park Campground, campers can fish directly on the Snake River. "Great camping spot. No RV hookups, but fresh water, restrooms, and showers. Next to river but lots of shrubs. Can walk down trail to access river bank," reports Jaime B.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for various animals while camping near Colton. "Awesome camp ground right on the river. We saw lots of different wild life. The only down side is a out of state fishing license is kind of expensive," notes Shane M. about Hells Gate State Park.
Island exploration: Chief Timothy Park sits on a 282-acre island in the Snake River. "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, the deepest river gorge in North America," explains Craig S.
What campers like
Peaceful natural settings: Winchester Lake State Park Campground provides a quiet forest retreat. "Upon arrival, we immediately felt the peacefulness. Our site was tucked into the pines creating a canopy of coolness in the midst of the oppressing heat of this record breaking year," shares Nancy C.
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer lake or river access. "The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing," says Brock W. about Winchester Lake State Park, while Chief Timothy Park visitor Chellsea W. notes, "Perfect location for swimming, kayaking, and fishing! There is also a trail all the way around the island for hiking/walking with great views!"
Abundant berries: Seasonal foraging adds to the camping experience. Nancy C. from Winchester Lake State Park mentions, "There are tons of thimbleberries bushes along the road to the boat launch and were just about ripe. They are so delicious!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. Kyle G. at Hells Gate State Park reports, "Great Verizon coverage at site and on trails," but at Boyer Park & Marina KOA, Lorrie K. warns, "WIFI is really weak and there is no cell service."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Colton, Washington, Winchester Lake State Park offers comfortable yurts among pine forests. "Beautiful setting. Nice campsite options, tent, RV, and yurt. Nice place to ride bikes, fish, hike, and relax," says Kendra M.
Winter accessibility: Fields Spring State Park Campground provides year-round access. Veronica H. says, "I absolutely adore this park! camping and hiking in the summer, tubing in the winter, mushrooming in the spring. There is no time of year that is bad for this park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds have 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," shares Brenda S. about Chief Timothy Park.
Accessible trails: Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake offers easy walking paths. "Very friendly staff that keeps the facilities clean. Full hookups with lots of pull through spaces if needed. We fully utilized the bike path along the river each day for nice long rides into Idaho and back to Washington," notes Brad.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature learning centers. "There is an actual spring that the park is named for" at Fields Spring State Park, while at Boyer Park & Marina KOA, fishing poles are available for loan at the visitor center.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Freeman Creek Campground — Dworshak State Park offers various site options. "We originally had a reservation for a view site with no hook ups, but upon arrival they had a hookup site(#104) available, and the temps were nearly 100 degrees, so we took it!" reports Dawn G.
Level site considerations: Check campground maps before selecting sites. "The sites are somewhat level. Easily adjusted to make them work," notes Nancy C. about Winchester Lake State Park, while Agnes B. warns about Freeman Creek, "drive through spot with a wicked drop off on the right side (camper door side) with the fire pit and picnic table at the bottom."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approaches. Agnes B. cautions about Freeman Creek, "We won't be returning simply because of the road to get there. Google maps wrecked us- I selected 'quickest route' and had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with a 11% incline!"
