RV camping near Methow, Washington offers diverse accommodations across multiple price points, with campgrounds typically 30-60 minutes from main attractions. The region sits within the Methow Valley at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, requiring heated water hoses at some year-round facilities, while summer conditions remain warm and dry.
What to do
River activities: Access via multiple points at Riverbend RV Park where visitors note "easy river access" and the ability to enjoy water-based recreation. One camper mentioned it's "a good, last minute get-away by the river and beautiful scenery" with opportunities for fishing and swimming.
Explore nearby towns: Within 30 minutes of Pine Near RV Park, offering access to Winthrop's attractions. A camper shared that it's "only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc."
Outdoor recreation: Year-round options including fishing, hiking and winter sports. At Thousand Trails Leavenworth, one visitor noted "fishing abounds, winter sports are nearby and the town of Leavenworth is an awesome place to visit anytime of the year." Another camper specifically recommended "Colchuck Lake is incredible, and I would highly recommend doing this one."
What campers like
Spacious dog areas: Designated spaces for off-leash pets at several parks. A Riverbend RV Park visitor appreciated "the off-leash dog area" while another noted the park "welcomes families but also their pets, with a large pet area for them to run free and enjoy stretching their legs."
Campground activities: On-site recreation for families at larger facilities. At Marina RV Park, one camper found "a nice little campground by the river with a boat launch... Also very nice swimming Cove around the corner and playground for the kids."
Proximity to attractions: Walking distance to local towns from some campgrounds. A Pine Near RV Park user commented "very close to town" while another mentioned the "location was good for being able to just walk into town."
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Weather impacts campground operations year-round. A visitor at Thousand Trails Leavenworth advised "October is perfect time. So quiet, leaves changing, crisp weather. Just make sure you have heated water hose."
Site layouts: Varying spacing between sites at different campgrounds. One camper at Carl Precht RV Park described it as "a comfortable park on the banks of the Okanagan River at the stampede grounds... Well maintained with large shade trees."
Water quality concerns: Filtration recommended at some parks. At Lakeshore RV Park, a camper warned "Water came out brown each morning without a filter" while also noting the "park like setting."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds available at select locations. A Riverbend RV Park visitor noted "the kiddos were also welcome with their own play area that was well maintained and away from the other campers just enough to not disrupt the silence of the camp. This area had its own water fountain."
Multiple accommodation options: Beyond RVs at some parks. Thousand Trails Leavenworth offers diverse lodging with one visitor commenting "We stayed in a tiny house at this campsite, and had a great time exploring the local area. The campground also offers plenty of RV and tent sites."
Swimming opportunities: Natural water access available seasonally. At Marina RV Park, campers can use "a nice swimming Cove around the corner and playground for the kids" providing welcome relief during hot summer days.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Advance planning needed as not all sites accommodate big RVs. A visitor to Columbia Cove RV Park cautioned "This is not a suitable site for big rigs. We have a 22 foot and it was pretty tight."
Navigation challenges: Alternative routes recommended for some areas. When visiting Thousand Trails Leavenworth, one RVer suggested "Might want to go alternate route and not Chumstick" to avoid difficult road conditions.
Utility considerations: Water hose protection needed during colder months. A winter visitor to Thousand Trails Leavenworth reminded others to "make sure you have heated water hose" when camping in October and beyond as temperatures drop significantly in the region.
