Camping spots near Moses Lake, Washington sit in a landscape dominated by channeled scablands, carved by ancient floods during the last ice age. Summer temperatures regularly climb into the 90s with evening temperatures dipping into the 50s. This desert environment creates habitat for unique wildlife including coyotes, mule deer, and numerous birds that can be spotted around the camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Potholes State Park Campground is known for excellent fishing. "The bird sounds are incredible. I wish I would have made a recording. Mourning doves, quail, robins, and red wing blackbirds among the many. Deer walked through the campground and beavers and otters were swimming in the reservoir while we did some fishing from the group camping area," reports one camper.
Water sports: Mardon Resort provides direct access to Potholes Reservoir for boating and swimming. "There is a playground for the kids along with a nice sandy beach. Tons of sites with and without full hookups. Fully stocked store, a great restaurant and matina with gas," notes a visitor who has been camping there since childhood.
Sand dunes exploration: The area's unique landscape includes expansive sand dunes where vehicles can be driven. A visitor to the area mentions, "Easy to get to near residential area. Good place to have some off road fun," when describing the Moses Lake Mud Flats and Sand Dunes.
What campers like
Privacy at dispersed sites: For campers seeking solitude, Long Lake offers secluded camping. "I was one of only 3 campers in and around long lake. Lots of privacy," shares a recent visitor. The sites are spread out with makeshift fire pits and require only a Washington Discover Pass.
Sunset views: Moses Lake's position in the Columbia Basin creates dramatic evening skies. "Hard packed sandy road takes you out here. We arrived way after dark. Beware of soft sand on the shoulders but overall 40+ foot rigs can make it as the road is very wide. Woke up to an amazing sun rise and were able to let the dogs hang off leash before everyone started getting on their ATVs," describes a camper about their experience at the sand dunes.
Wildlife viewing: The lakes and reservoirs attract numerous bird species and other wildlife. "We did not encounter too many bugs, but the season is still early. We did see two snakes. One swimming towards us while we were fishing on the boat, the other in our camp site," explains a visitor to Potholes State Park, highlighting the diverse wildlife in the area.
What you should know
Heat preparation: The desert climate requires proper planning. "Beautiful trees surrounded the sites provide much need shade during hot summer. However, mosquitoes are leaving you alone every time you are outside," notes a visitor to Potholes State Park, emphasizing the importance of finding shaded sites.
Cell service: Connection varies throughout the camping areas. At Whimsy Rock Homestead, campers report adequate service for both Verizon and AT&T users. One camper at Long Lake mentioned, "We have Verizon and AT&T and had decent service."
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed camping areas requires driving on unmaintained roads. A visitor to Long Lake noted, "The road is washboarded out. Your teeth will rattle out of your head. It is passable by car, though. I am sure it will get fixed further into the season."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cascade Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "There is a nice playground. The bathrooms were reasonably clean and there are showers available for a fee based on how long of a shower you want," explains a visitor who stayed there with family.
Swimming options: Several campsites offer swimming areas for children. At Mardon Resort, a visitor mentions the "nice sandy beach" that's perfect for families with children wanting to cool off from the summer heat.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about potential wildlife encounters. "Just be aware especially if you have little kids running around. I want to be clear, this is not anything against the park. You are in snake country and this is that animals home," advises a camper who spotted a rattlesnake at Potholes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Many RV parks in the area have varying space between sites. "T mobile 5G. Dead fish and algae in the lake- green speckles. The water is green. The picnic tables are partially buried in the sand. The sites are big and well spaced along the reservoir shoreline," reports an RVer at Potholes State Park.
Full hookup options: Numerous campgrounds offer complete RV services. "We stayed for four nights. Arrived on Friday and it's a busy, fun place over the weekend. Emptied out on Sunday and only a few campers left Monday and Tuesday. Electric and water hookups. Dumping for gray and black water on site," notes a camper about their experience at Cascade Campground.
Traffic noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "We spent an overnight here, but it was sadly not a great stay. The site was backed up against the highway and was not only was it so loud we couldn't sleep—it literally shook the rig despite stabilizers," warns a reviewer about Pier 4 RV Resort.
