RV campgrounds near Ellensburg, Washington provide access to diverse terrain at the convergence of the Cascade Mountains and high desert plateau. The region sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation and experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter months bring occasional snow and freezing temperatures. Fall camping offers colorful foliage with temperatures ranging from 40-70°F during September and October.
What to do
Riverside recreation: At Squaw Rock RV Resort and Campground, the Naches River provides excellent fishing access. "Close to area fishing and hiking," notes one visitor. The resort maintains a swimming pool and riverside sites for water-based activities.
Trail access: Nearby hiking trails range from easy to challenging. "There are nice trails along the Yakima River and a fun little playground for the kiddos," according to a camper at Whispering Pines RV Campground. The campground offers paths along the river and access to regional trail systems.
Day trips: The region serves as a base for multiple day trip options. "Close to Moses Lake and Wenatchee - perfect getaway for the weekend," writes a visitor to Crescent Bar RV Resort. Small towns like Roslyn and Cle Elum provide shopping and dining within 20-30 minutes of most campgrounds.
What campers like
River access: Many campers value waterfront sites. "Our site was very close to level. The sites are very close together and you share the site utilities," noted a visitor to Squaw Rock Resort. The common grounds receive regular maintenance with daily pool cleaning.
Privacy options: Blu-Shastin RV Park offers sites backing up to the Peshastin River. "Creek right out the back of our site. No cell service with T-Mobile. WiFi at the clubhouse," reports one camper who appreciated the natural setting despite connectivity limitations.
Evening quiet: Most campgrounds enforce 10 pm quiet hours. "Quiet time at 10....woke up early and packed up...felt safe, didn't get bothered," mentioned a camper at Whispering Pines who appreciated the peaceful environment.
What you should know
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "There is a cell dead zone. We actually enjoyed being disconnected from the Internet," notes a visitor to Blu-Shastin RV Park. When cellular service is available, it tends to be strongest near interstate corridors.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential during peak season. "The camp host turned our anxieties around, as he came whipping cheerfully through the gate in his golf cart to let us in at 9:55, exclaiming 'You just barely made it!'," shared a visitor to Whispering Pines regarding their last-minute arrival.
Climate considerations: The region experiences significant temperature variations. At Lake Easton RV Resort, "During the day, I-90 is loud, evening not so much but can still hear it." Summer days often reach 90°F while nights can drop below 50°F even in July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playgrounds for children. "Excellent Family Campground...the campground was very clean, the spots were spacious and tons of things for the kids to do," shares a visitor to Whispering Pines RV Campground.
Activity options: Icicle River RV Resort provides access to nature viewing. "Loved seeing black bears across the river," reports one camper, though wildlife sightings vary seasonally.
Swimming facilities: Many campgrounds maintain swimming pools for children. "Beautiful cold pool. River is very scenic," notes a visitor to Squaw Rock Resort, providing options for water recreation beyond natural swimming areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "We have a 25 foot trailer and that island in the road can be a bit of a problem. Spaces are a bit close together," notes a camper at Icicle River RV Resort, highlighting the importance of researching site dimensions.
Utility sharing: At some parks, utility connections serve multiple sites. "The sites are very close together and you share the site utilities. It can get tight," explains a camper at Squaw Rock Resort who recommends bringing extra hoses since "your connection may be at the front right of your camper."
Reservation timing: Thousand Trails Crescent Bar operates seasonally. "It is about 10 miles from Quincy WA. There are very few restaurants in town they have a couple of grocery stores and gas stations along with an Ace Hardware," notes a visitor regarding nearby services.
