Mattawa, Washington sits at the confluence of the Columbia and Yakima rivers with an elevation of approximately 650 feet. This desert region receives less than 8 inches of annual rainfall, creating warm summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F from June through August. The sparse tree cover at most RV sites near Mattawa, Washington means advance planning for shade is essential during summer visits.
What to do
Water recreation on Columbia River: Crescent Bar RV Resort provides easy access for boating and water activities. "There is a walking path that you can access easily from the campground that goes to the end of Crescent Bar," notes one visitor to Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. Another camper adds, "Dramatic cliffs make the perfect backdrop for a week of fun on the water. Tire yourself out on the river, find a sandbar and post up for the day."
Wine tasting tours: The region hosts numerous vineyards within short driving distance. At Wine Country RV Park, "Wineries in walking distance a huge plus. Loved Coyote Canyon!" shares a visitor. The park offers a unique advantage: "This could be a nice basecamp spot for people who love exploring wineries. The small town of Prosser has almost 30 wineries and tasting rooms in the immediate area."
Golfing opportunities: Several resorts offer direct golf course access. According to a visitor at Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort, "With gas prices out of control this was a perfect weekend getaway right off highway 17. Immaculately kept RV sites and 20 yards from teeing off. Full hookups, propane refill and a pool."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many parks offer extra-wide spots for comfortable setup. At Horn Rapids RV Resort, "The lots are not real big, but the landscaping is pristine (think golf course) and overall the park is meticulously maintained." Another visitor confirms, "We will definitely be adding this spot to our route again when we pass through."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive consistent praise. At Coyote Run RV Park, visitors appreciate the "very wide road through the park which is nice and long pull-through sites." Another camper notes, "Clean, great private showers, nice area for our evening mile walk. Some noise from highway traffic, but not terrible."
River views: Campsites with water visibility are especially valued. At Crescent Bar RV Resort, "We have a beautiful spot with a view of the water, surrounded by green grass, a willow tree and pickle ball court. There are a lot more trees and privacy in this campground compared to the other one."
What you should know
Pet restrictions: Some facilities limit animal sizes or breeds. One frustrated visitor to Wine Country RV Park reports, "Looks great on paper. However these people must be into froufrou type dogs. 40 POUND LIMIT. We travel with our fur kids (over 40 pounds). Shallow minded management."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate limited schedules. At Columbia Sun RV Resort, "Wifi was being upgraded but cell service with Verizon wasn't an issue. Will go back." The resort provides both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical options across its 145 sites.
Highway noise: Proximity to major roads affects some locations. A visitor at Coyote Run RV Park mentions, "There is road noise audible inside the rig from accelerating/decelerating trucks but not awful." Another notes, "Although you can hear the traffic going by still a nice park. This is the trade off with being close to town."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Facilities with swimming options provide relief from summer heat. At Horn Rapids RV Resort, "There is a really nice pool and hot tub, laundry room, showers, and a very nicely stocked store that includes hot food available." These amenities help families manage extended stays.
Recreation facilities: On-site activities keep children entertained. According to a visitor at Columbia Sun RV Resort, "Enjoyed the pool and event centers. ALOT of full timers which doesn't bother me - not sure if we bothered them. No firepits but we knew that before going - brought a propane fire pit with us."
Security features: Gated communities provide peace of mind. At Warden Lake RV Resort, "The gated entry provided extra sense of security and it was a very relaxing stay." The resort also offers "Good lake for fishing trout. Definitely will go back."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Sites designed for minimal maneuvering reduce setup stress. A Sage Hills Golf Club visitor emphasizes, "Never been to an RV Park where all the sights r 50' plus and pull-thrus. We will be back a lot more."
Hookup specifications: Understanding electrical limitations prevents problems. At Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort, full hookups include "50/30 amp service and price INCLUDES ELECTRIC!!! Very clean RV Resort! Lots of grass b/n sights."
Dump station planning: Not all facilities offer this service. A reviewer of Wine Country RV Park noted, "We only stayed at Wine Country RV Park as an overnight along our way, however, this could be a nice basecamp spot for people who love exploring wineries."
