Camping sites near Selah, Washington offer diverse terrain from arid canyon settings to forested mountain surroundings. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-100°F during daytime hours while dropping to 50-60°F overnight, requiring campers to prepare for both heat management and cool evenings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Yakima River provides excellent fishing access at multiple locations. At Big Pines Campground - Yakima River Canyon, campers can fish directly from their sites. One visitor noted, "Right on the Yakima river, fishing. Boating, floating the river. Watching Elk, Bighorn Sheep, Eagles and Pelicans."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations across desert and river ecosystems. Campers frequently spot birds of prey, mammals, and aquatic species. "Wild turkeys with babies, and fish. No rattlesnakes or ticks, but this is prime territory," reports a camper who stayed at Umtanum Campground - Yakima River Canyon.
Hiking trails: Numerous trails accommodate various skill levels throughout the area. One visitor described, "The path was really good, clear, and easy to find. There were a few waterfalls, and creeks to cross to just know that your shoes/feet might get a little wet." Accessible trails include the Umtanum Creek trail, which features a suspension bridge and multiple water crossings.
What campers like
Riverside access: Camping directly beside the Yakima River ranks among the top features mentioned by visitors. A guest at Roza - Yakima River Canyon commented, "Great spot on a calm bend in the river. Great location and 20 min to Yakima or 15 to reds fly shop."
Off-season solitude: Many campgrounds remain open year-round with significantly reduced crowds during fall, winter, and early spring. According to one camper at Big Pines, "We stayed here one night on our way to Bend traveling from Seattle in the late afternoon... Given that was winter season, part of the campground is closed yet there were several RVs and a couple of tents in the one open loop."
Affordability: Bureau of Land Management sites offer economical camping options throughout the canyon. "At $15 per night or 7.50$ if you have the senior discount there is not much you can complain about," mentioned a reviewer about Yakima River Canyon Campgrounds. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis outside peak summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with extreme heat common during summer months. "It was pretty dang hot here in the summer, more of a desert type of feel. We were super worried about rattlesnakes because we heard this part of Washington has tons during the summer," reported a visitor at Windy Point Campground.
Limited amenities: Most canyon campgrounds provide basic facilities only. "BLM recreation area. So no electric, water, or sewage dump. But what a clean and well run place," noted a Roza camper. Vault toilets are standard, with no showers available at most sites.
Road and railway noise: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways and railway lines. "The train on the other side of the river will wake you once or twice during the night," mentioned a camper at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground. Sites deeper into the canyon generally experience less traffic noise.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: The river offers swimming opportunities during summer months, though water remains cold even in peak season. At Windy Point Campground, a visitor shared, "The river is so beautiful with the waterfall cascading down into the river directly across from the campsite. There is a shallow part near the shoreline where the kids had a great time playing in the river."
Educational experiences: Incorporate learning opportunities into your camping trip. "Visit the nearby Ginko Petrified Forest state park. Free, nice exhibits, and even some petroglyphs, which my older son especially loved," suggested a camper at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground.
Space considerations: Choose sites with adequate room for family activities. At Yakima Sportsman State Park Campground, "There are lots of spaces for tents and RVs... There is plenty of space for kids to play and visibility is high for bike riding. There is a huge group campsite that has bathrooms near it."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service RV sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are limited to a few locations. "Yakima Sportsman State Park is one of my favorite campgrounds!! As a Tacoma resident we have a lot of clouds. I head over to Yakima for my sun. This campground never disappoints!"
Site selection: When staying at facilities with multiple loops, research specific site advantages. At Ellensburg KOA, a camper advised, "It's a nice park that doesn't offer much from the road, but if you get one of the sites in the back and on the river it's actually really nice and spacious!"
Weather preparation: RV campers should be prepared for wind, especially in canyon locations. "The site we stayed was right by the river and across from the one outhouse that was open... Big dumpster also available to deposit garbage. This looks like a really nice spot for warmer weather hanging out."
