The Monitor area offers RV camping options amid the eastern Cascade foothills, where elevations range from 800-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F while winter months often drop below freezing with occasional snowfall. Cellular connectivity can be particularly limited in valley locations between Leavenworth and Monitor.
What to do
Hiking near camp: Multiple campgrounds provide access to nearby hiking trails, particularly along the Yakima and Icicle Rivers. "Close to Leavenworth and hiking. Close to the Enchantments," notes one visitor at Icicle River RV Resort.
River activities: The Columbia, Yakima, and Icicle Rivers offer fishing and water recreation within 30 minutes of Monitor. At Entiat City Park, "There is a lakefront park for swimming and a dock for boats/jet skis etc."
Winter options: Several RV parks remain accessible throughout winter despite mountain passes occasionally closing. "October is perfect time. So quiet, leaves changing, crisp weather. Just make sure you have heated water hose," mentions a camper at Thousand Trails Leavenworth.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Several parks offer camping directly adjacent to rivers. "Beautiful spots right along the Columbia River... full RV hookups," reports a camper at Entiat City Park about the waterfront setting.
Recreational amenities: Some campgrounds feature dedicated recreation facilities beyond basic camping. One visitor at Smokiam RV Resort appreciated the "playground for kids, nice store in case you forget anything," adding that "sites are pretty close together, but not too close to be uncomfortable."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "Loved our time here, clean campsite, beautiful spots on the river. Loved seeing black bears across the river," shares a camper about Whispering Pines RV Campground.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area with some locations having virtually no coverage. "There is no cell coverage due to the mountains. Closest town is a 20 min drive away," notes a visitor at Blu-Shastin RV Park.
Site proximity: Many RV parks feature closely positioned sites, which can limit privacy. "The RV sites are close but you can spend some time at the river," explains one camper at Icicle River RV Resort.
Reservation timing: During peak periods, especially summer weekends and special events, advance booking becomes essential at most RV sites near Monitor, Washington. "We stayed here twice this year. Had a good experience both times but my spots in both times were along the road so there was a bit of road noise," mentions a visitor at Icicle River RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas for children. At Thousand Trails Crescent Bar, "Columbia river right there. Full hookups at all sites. Staff very friendly and helpful."
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment for younger visitors. One camper at Whispering Pines RV Campground mentioned it has a "huge lots for our ambo conversion and plenty of room to relax and unwind," noting the "big play area for kids, lake looked big, same with dog park."
Pet facilities: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "Nice big area for dogs by the store and pool," reports a visitor to Smokiam RV Resort, which maintains separate pet zones away from swimming areas.
Tips from RVers
Pad specifications: Many RV sites near Monitor have specific surface types and leveling characteristics. "Our site had water and 30/50 amp, but no sewer. The camp was not full, and we were nicely spaced with other campers leading to lots of privacy," reports a visitor to Whispering Pines RV Campground.
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have unique hookup configurations requiring preparation. "Bring an extra hose because your connection may be at the front right of your camper," advises a visitor to Squaw Rock RV Resort, where "single utility service serves two sites."
Winter preparations: RV campers visiting during colder months should prepare for freezing temperatures. Smokiam RV Resort provides "heated coils to prevent any water freeze," making it ideal for off-season visits when heated water lines become essential for winter RV camping near Monitor.
