RV sites near Coulee City, Washington sit in the heart of the Columbia Basin, a region characterized by basalt formations carved by Ice Age floods. The area typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F in July and August, making water access particularly valuable for campers. Cell service can drop significantly in the more remote camping locations west of Banks Lake.
What to do
Golfing at your campsite: Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort combines camping and golf with spacious sites directly adjacent to their challenging course. "My husband loved it said he would come back. Good parking for the rv," notes one camper. The course is particularly challenging and offers prime rib specials every Friday evening.
Swimming in mineral-rich waters: Smokiam RV Resort provides access to Soap Lake, known for its mineral content. "Soap Lake is interesting with a very soft muddy bottom on the CG side of the lake," reports one visitor. The resort also offers multiple swimming options including a pool, as one camper notes: "The swimming pool, hot tub and clubhouse are immaculate."
Water recreation: Columbia River access from Bridgeport Marina RV Park provides opportunities for boating and fishing within walking distance of campsites. Boat launches are available at several locations, and as one visitor mentioned, "Bathrooms clean hot showers and free Wi-Fi even if it's a bit spotty depending on your service."
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Smokiam RV Resort offers extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. "Lots of activities for kids, and a large fireworks display/live band. Really nice people," mentions one reviewer who visited during July 4th. Another notes, "Very clean campground. Nice amenities for families. Put put golf swimming pool hot tubs basketball and volleyball court and nice playground."
Spacious sites: Many RV parks in the area provide generous spacing between sites. Conklin Landing RV Park features "60 ft pull throughs, NO PROBLEM" according to one reviewer who adds, "Gorgeous plush grass, immaculate kept parks. Pull throughs are nice for Big Rigs."
Convenient locations: Many campgrounds provide easy access to regional attractions. "Great park with tons of room. No one is right on top of each other," says one camper about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar, while another adds, "Close to Moses Lake and Wenatchee - perfect getaway for the weekend."
What you should know
Summer heat management: The Columbia Basin region experiences intense summer heat. "It is blazing hot here in summer with little to no shade," warns a camper at Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. Parks with tree cover or water access become particularly valuable during peak summer months.
Seasonal availability: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Thousand Trails Crescent Bar operates only "April 24 to September 28," while others like Grand Coulee RV Park remain open year-round with snowbird appeal during winter months.
Lake conditions: Be prepared for varying lake experiences. One visitor to Smokiam RV Resort explains: "The lake is great, though, once you get past the first 6 feet of muck. It's warm, shallow, but appropriately named. The water tastes soap and has a film, but that's the 'healing' part, right?"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Look for parks with dedicated recreational facilities for children. "Staff was super nice and check in process very easy. Great playground for kids, nice store in case you forget anything," mentions a visitor to Smokiam RV Resort.
Temperature considerations: Plan around the extreme summer heat if camping with children. Morning activities are best, with water recreation in the afternoon. At Oasis RV Park & Golf Course, "The tent spots are spacious and green, and the amenities are great... It includes a fishing pond, miniature golf, par-three golf, and a swimming pool."
Supply access: Most campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance of stores. "Campers are within a few miles of many grocery stores, and a large Walmart, so stocking up on supplies is easy," notes a camper at Oasis RV Park & Golf Course, making it convenient for families who forget essential items.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers recommend securing back-in sites when possible. At Lakeshore RV Park, one RVer notes: "Pull throughs are right on top of each other. Recommend back in."
Water quality: Water systems vary across parks. "Water came out brown each morning without a filter," reports an RVer at Lakeshore RV Park, suggesting that travelers bring water filters for drinking water.
Big rig access: Many parks accommodate large motorhomes. "Goose Creek RV Park is a really nice park, a gem in the middle of wheat and ancient lava flow fields... full hookups for all sized rigs (30/50). Small, quaint town, great burgers at Billy's Burgers."
