RV campgrounds near Mazama, Washington accommodate camping from spring through early fall, with most facilities closing by late October due to the region's heavy winter snowfall. Situated at approximately 2,100 feet elevation in the Methow Valley, the area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with significant snowpack. Campgrounds in this region typically open from mid-April through October, with water systems shut down during freezing months.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Klipchuck Campground offers three hiking trails directly from the campground. "There is a hike right off the campground, which we did. It was strenuous and a little sketchy (steep hillside slopes with a narrow, slippery path to follow) but the views were pretty amazing," notes one visitor. The scenic trail provides forest views and landscape features without needing to drive elsewhere.
River activities: Several campsites at Riverbend RV Park provide access to the Methow River. "Nice quiet amenities - new bathrooms, large dog area, easy river access, playground was older but did the trick for the kids, nice paved roads to scooter and skate," according to one camper. The river serves as a stopping point for tube rentals and fishing opportunities.
Downtown exploration: Pine Near RV Park places visitors within walking distance of Winthrop's western-themed downtown. "We used a tent site which was in excellent shape. The views from our site were of the North Cascades. Only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc," reports one camper. The proximity allows guests to explore without moving their vehicle.
What campers like
Off-leash areas: Big Twin Lake Resort and Riverbend RV Park provide designated pet areas. "A good, last minute get-away by the river and beautiful scenery. We appreciated the off-leash dog space!" mentions one Riverbend visitor. These areas allow pets to exercise without leashes, though restrictions apply elsewhere in the campgrounds.
Quiet camping: Klipchuck Campground offers a peaceful setting removed from highway noise. "Since it is set back from Highway 20, there is not as much noise as at Early Winters or Lone Fir. Instead, you can hear Early Winters Creek," notes a reviewer. Sites are arranged to maximize privacy with natural vegetation buffers.
Shade coverage: During summer heat, East Omak RV Park provides relief with significant tree coverage. "Found this on the way up to North Cascades on an unusually hot day. It hit the spot, easy, paved pull-thru sites with plenty of shade and hookups for electric and water," reports one visitor. Shade becomes particularly valuable during July and August when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We stayed in the last site, which was great because we didn't have anyone on one side of us... Klipchuck campground does not take reservations, which was great for us, though we did see several people come by in the evening when it was full," notes one camper. Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday, one camper noted "Skoolie friendly, nice and quiet. Very friendly staff. Good for travellers as you can rent just a shower. Only downside is wifi is sketchy and 4g is sub par." Signal boosters improve reception in some areas.
Water availability: Seasonal water systems operate at most campgrounds. At Klipchuck Campground, "The water is tasty and is tested. There are garbage dumpsters available... We have come in at either end when the water is shut off and it is hit or miss if Iron Ranger is covered or not meaning no fees if it is." Water systems typically operate from May through September.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Skagit River RV & Campground provides family-friendly water access. "Super Casual. No frills camping if you don't count FHU availability. The campground has a bunch of tent campers in and out... The views were awesome. Access to the park and Diablo Lake was no problem," notes one visitor. Swimming opportunities exist both at campgrounds and nearby lakes.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. At the KOA, "Swimming pool, bike rentals, mining for gems, arrowheads and fossils; purchase from store, playground. Cabins are quieter than tent/RV sites." These structured activities provide entertainment during downtime between outdoor adventures.
Restroom considerations: Family campers should note varying bathroom facilities. "Tent camped here by myself with 3 kids. It was super easy, nice showers, very close to town!" reports one Pine Near camper. Most campgrounds provide toilets, but shower availability varies with some charging additional fees.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campsites throughout the area have varying degrees of levelness. At Big Twin Lake Resort, one visitor noted, "The sites are large and grassy. A little unlevel but no big deal. The views were awesome." Bringing leveling blocks is advisable for most RV campgrounds near Mazama.
Specialized RV sites: Premium sites with additional amenities exist at some campgrounds. "We took the opportunity to secure one of the 'private' lots. Site S9 comes with a private fenced area, with fire pit, hot tub, seating and fully ready propane Weber," reports a visitor to the KOA. These specialty sites require advance booking.
Water restrictions: Seasonal water system shutoffs affect RV camping availability. "The camp host made a variety of helpful suggestions for spots to camp, both in the traditional tent spots and further out in the 90 acres they have," noted a Big Twin Lake visitor. RVers should verify water availability when booking between April and October.
