Camping options near Kennewick span across the Columbia Basin, where summer temperatures regularly reach 100°F. The area sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate receiving less than 8 inches of annual rainfall. Winter camping remains viable with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F, though most seasonal campgrounds close between September and May.
What to do
River activities: Charbonneau Park offers excellent water access for boating and fishing. One camper noted, "Great protected boat launch" and another mentioned enjoying "watching the sunset over the water while taking a stroll by the shore."
Kids' recreation: Horn Rapids RV Resort provides multiple family-friendly amenities. A visitor shared, "There is a really nice pool and hot tub, laundry room, showers, and a very nicely stocked store that includes hot food available."
Sports events: Franklin County RV Park serves as convenient lodging for tournament attendees. A camper explained, "We stayed here during a baseball tournament and you couldn't beat the convenience of walking over to the Pasco sports complex. Plus we caught a dust devils game and just had to walk across the parking lot."
What campers like
Inexpensive options: Franklin County RV Park provides budget-friendly camping near Pasco. A reviewer commented, "Inexpensive RV park in pasco. Other options were full or twice the rate. Has discounts for goodsams."
Green spaces: Hood Park maintains landscaped grounds along the Snake River. Campers appreciate that "Park has a dump station" and the "Tons of wide green lawns with lots of space, camp sites end up pretty well spaced apart so you might only have 2 or 3 neighbors then a ton of lawn before another neighbor."
Modern facilities: Columbia Sun RV Resort offers upscale amenities for long-term stays. A visitor described it as having "Beautiful golf course quality" grounds, while another noted the "Gorgeous location on the outskirts of town. Has all the amenities and activities you want in a semi-urban RC resort / glamping get away."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in July and August, requiring proper hydration and shade. Winter camping is available at year-round facilities with temperatures typically between 20-40°F.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. One Hood Park visitor warned, "Do not try to check in before 2 pm!!!!" while another advised making reservations through "Recreation.gov first. Even if you are showing up at 7:30 at night."
Noise levels: Pasco Tri-Cities KOA experiences some traffic sounds but remains popular. A camper mentioned, "Like others that have reviewed this campground I agree this is great for an in-city campground. Yes, you can hear the freeway it it becomes white noise at night."
Wildlife awareness: Insects can be problematic at certain times. A Plymouth Park visitor cautioned about "swarming yellow jackets" while other campgrounds report seasonal mosquito activity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Kennewick feature dedicated play areas. Horn Rapids RV Resort has a "community lounge is big and clean with a kitchen and sofas, Tv, and tables," while Hood Park offers "a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings."
Swimming options: Water access varies by location. A camper at Hood Park mentioned, "Decent swim beach area a lot of algae outside of swim area," while another noted Columbia Sun RV Resort has a "Heated pool and hot tub, game room and more."
Activity planning: Pasco Tri-Cities KOA provides organized recreation options. A reviewer appreciated "Lots of activities for the family" including an "RC track which our child loved."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs. At Pasco KOA, one camper recommended "any of the sites in the newer section," while another appreciated that "We never even unhooked the trailer but was spot on level."
Pet-friendly amenities: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Kennewick accommodate pets with varying facilities. A Horn Rapids visitor noted, "Each RV spot has a place to park a car. The grass green and it's a quick five to ten minute drive to the river!"
Seasonal considerations: Year-round parks offer different experiences by season. A Columbia Sun RV Resort camper shared, "Although you can hear the traffic going by still a nice park. This is the trade off with being close to town but being close to civilization allowed us to go get items we needed."
