Best Campgrounds near Clarkston, WA
Camping options around Clarkston, Washington center primarily on the Snake River, which forms the border between Washington and Idaho. Chief Timothy Park, located about 7 miles from Clarkston, provides both tent and RV sites with amenities including swimming areas, boat launches, and hiking trails that circle the island. Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake offers waterfront sites with full hookups and manicured grounds within city limits. Hells Gate State Park and Hells Canyon Resort provide additional developed camping with varying levels of amenities. The region supports multiple camping styles from primitive sites to full-service RV resorts, with most concentrated along the river corridor.
Road access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel drive. Summer temperatures can reach over 100°F, making shaded sites highly desirable. As one camper noted, "The campground is very shady which is great when it's 102 degrees." Most riverfront campgrounds remain open year-round, while those at higher elevations typically operate from April through October. Cell service is generally reliable near town but diminishes quickly in outlying areas. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, especially for waterfront sites. Smoke from regional wildfires occasionally affects air quality in late summer.
The Snake River dominates the camping experience, with water activities being the primary attraction. "Perfect location for swimming, kayaking, and fishing," reported one visitor about Chief Timothy Park. Paved walking and biking paths connect many riverfront campgrounds, allowing for extended recreation without driving. Tent sites at popular locations like Chief Timothy can feel crowded during peak season, with some campers noting they are "very crammed next to each other." Sites farther from town offer more seclusion but fewer amenities. Wildlife viewing opportunities include waterfowl along the river and larger mammals in the surrounding hills. Night temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with one camper noting it "gets real cold at night" even at riverside locations.
