Camping opportunities near Kennewick, Washington range from waterfront sites along the Columbia and Snake Rivers to urban RV parks with modern amenities. The region sits at approximately 400 feet elevation in an arid climate zone receiving less than 8 inches of annual rainfall. Summer temperatures regularly reach 100°F during July and August, with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from November through February.
What to do
Water activities at Charbonneau Park: Located where the Snake River meets the Columbia, this Corps of Engineers campground offers boating and swimming. "Great for tents or RVs. Full facilities with showers. You can watch the river traffic has a small marina by it that you can get gas at for your boat," notes Kayla K.
Golf proximity at Horn Rapids: Camp within minutes of public golf courses. "If you're looking for a full-service sort of experience, look no further! Fantastic amenities and right across from a major golf course," according to Rachel A.
Children's activities at Pasco Tri-Cities KOA: "Nice playground and RC track which our child loved," reports Lawrence L. The campground offers organized recreation during summer months and maintains play equipment year-round.
Beach access at Umatilla Marina: Just across the state line in Oregon, this campground provides Columbia River shoreline access. "The beach/cove is very nice and good place to paddle-board or kayak," states Kevin H., noting the protected cove area that's safer for water activities.
What campers like
Shade and grass at Hood Park: This riverside campground features irrigated lawns and mature trees. "Lots of options in this campground from drive through big trailer spots to back in spots to tent only areas. Tons of wide green lawns with lots of space," explains Nathan B.
Clean facilities at Columbia Sun RV Resort: "Gorgeous location on the outskirts of town. Has all the amenities and activities you want in a semi-urban RC resort / glamping get away. Heated pool and hot tub, game room and more," reports Jeff M.
Affordability at Franklin County RV Park: "Inexpensive RV park in Pasco. Other options were full or twice the rate. Has discounts for Goodsams. Laundry, Wi-Fi and bathrooms," according to Bradee A., who appreciated the value compared to other local options.
After-hours convenience at Pasco Tri-Cities KOA: "Easy after hours registration," notes Samantha A., beneficial for travelers arriving late. The campground maintains a 24-hour check-in system for late arrivals.
What you should know
Alcohol regulations vary by campground: Corps of Engineers facilities like Hood Park prohibit alcohol consumption. "This is an Army Corp of Engineers campground so some federal rules apply: no firearms, no alcohol (at least not openly)," advises John S.
Sprinkler systems operate regularly: "The only issue we have is the sprinklers come on Friday nights and wash the tents for us. It's good and bad," explains John S. about Hood Park. Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain irrigated lawns with automatic sprinklers.
Road noise considerations: At Umatilla Marina & RV Park, "You'll get a little truck noise but was worth the $34 for an overnight stay," reports Ray V. Similarly, at Horn Rapids RV Resort, "Although you can hear the traffic going by still a nice park," notes David T.
Fire restrictions common: Several RV parks prohibit wood fires. "No wood fires allowed. All have electricity and water. Nice playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings," Chris A. mentions about Hood Park's rules.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Horn Rapids RV Resort offers recreational areas for children. "Great spot, clean facilities, horse trails and boat ramp. I've stayed here many times and feel it's under utilized," Horace M. reports about the family amenities.
Swimming opportunities: "There is a connected park that is only open during the day with a beach," notes Nathan B. about Hood Park, which provides supervised swimming areas during summer months.
Organized activities: "They even had some movies on the weekends," Chris A. mentions about evening entertainment at Hood Park. Similarly, KOA campgrounds in the area regularly schedule kid-friendly events during peak seasons.
Sports complex proximity: For families attending tournaments, Franklin County RV Park offers direct access. "We stayed here during a baseball tournament and you couldn't beat the convenience of walking over to the Pasco sports complex," Jennifer H. explains.
Tips from RVers
Excellent maintenance: "This RV park is the best maintained park I have ever seen. The lots are not real big, but the landscaping is pristine (think golf course) and overall the park is meticulously maintained," Jim J. shares about Horn Rapids RV Resort.
Full hookup availability: Most RV parks offer complete services. "Very well maintained RV sites in the middle of town. Convenient for that weekend getaway. Hot tub and pool are amazing. Some of the sites now have patio and fire pit," Kurtis K. notes about Pasco Tri-Cities KOA.
Long-term stays possible: "We had a family emergency and stayed at this RV resort for almost two months. Crista was very accommodating and helpful to find us a monthly spot," Tina M. explains about Horn Rapids RV Resort's flexibility with extended stays.
