Best Campgrounds near Cowiche, WA
Camping near Cowiche, Washington sits within the arid, high desert landscape of central Washington, with several established campgrounds and recreational areas along the Yakima River. The region includes a mix of state parks, BLM sites, and private RV parks accommodating tent campers, RVs, and some glamping options. Yakima Sportsman State Park provides developed camping from April through November, while the Yakima River Canyon offers multiple year-round BLM campgrounds including Big Pines, Umtanum, and Roza. These sites provide access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the shrub-steppe ecosystem. As one camper noted, "Eastern Washington near the water is a hot, windy, true desert climate, but when you get near the Yakima River, the diversity of life expands and makes for great wildlife watching."
The camping season in this region varies by location, with most developed sites operating from late spring through early fall. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making shade a valuable commodity at many exposed riverside sites. Fire restrictions are common during the dry summer months, particularly in July and August. Highway 12 campgrounds like Windy Point (open May to September) and Hause Creek provide drinking water, while many BLM sites along the Yakima River do not. Cell service is limited in canyon areas but generally available at campgrounds closer to Yakima and Ellensburg. A Washington State Discover Pass is required for state parks, while BLM sites typically require recreation passes or day-use fees.
RV campers have several options with varying levels of amenities. Ellensburg KOA offers full hookups, showers, and a store from February to November, though reviews mention significant highway noise. Circle H RV Ranch and Stagecoach RV Park provide year-round options closer to Yakima with electric, water, and sewer connections. For those seeking more natural settings, the riverside BLM campgrounds offer basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables but no hookups. These sites are popular with anglers and river floaters, particularly during summer weekends when they can become quite crowded. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bighorn sheep, wild turkeys, and various raptors along the Yakima River corridor.
