Camping sites near Othello, Washington range from primitive lakeside spots to full-service RV parks with amenities. The area sits within the Columbia Basin at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with terrain featuring scrubland punctuated by lakes formed from irrigation runoff. Summer temperatures frequently reach 100°F during July and August while winters typically see temperatures dropping into the 20s.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Long Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities about 15 miles from Othello. "I found an awesome site that was pretty secluded. The views are insane," reports a camper at Long Lake.
Swimming at designated areas: Mardon Resort provides a dedicated swimming beach with sand for families. "Wake up hot and jump in the reservoir. It can be crowded on the weekends, but many of the sites in the willows provide a good deal of privacy," notes a visitor to Mardon Resort.
Golf and camping combo: Some resorts offer golf access right from your campsite. "Perfect weekend getaway right off highway 17. Immaculately kept RV sites and 20 yards from teeing off," mentions a camper at Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse bird populations including pelicans, quail, and red-wing blackbirds. "The bird sounds are incredible. I wish I would have made a recording. Mourning doves, quail, robins, and red wing blackbirds among the many," notes one camper at Potholes State Park.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many visitors appreciate finding private spots away from crowds. "I was one of only 3 campers in and around Long Lake. Lots of privacy," reports a camper at Long Lake.
Resort amenities: For those seeking more comfort, several resorts offer extensive facilities. "This campground has a number of pull in/plug in sites, with restrooms, but also has more rustic, off the beaten path sites towards the back of the park," explains a camper about Potholes State Park.
Lake access: Many campers value direct water access from their sites. "Beautiful trees surrounded the sites provide much need shade during hot summer," notes a visitor to Potholes State Park.
Tent camping options: Despite RV popularity, tent campers find suitable spots throughout the region. "We were the only tent as this is an RV park but had an okay grass patch. One tiny tree," shares a tent camper at Coyote Run RV Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites requires preparation for rough roads. "The road is washboarded out. Your teeth will rattle out of your head. It is passable by car, though," notes a Long Lake visitor.
Permit requirements: Camping at state-managed lands requires a Discover Pass. "No fee other than discover pass. There's an outhouse but we didn't use it," mentions a visitor to Long Lake.
Heat preparation: Summer camping demands heat management strategies. "Beautiful trees surrounded the sites provide much need shade during hot summer. However, mosquitoes are leaving you alone every time you are outside," warns a Potholes State Park visitor.
Limited services: Some smaller towns have restricted business hours. "Be aware that on Sundays, every restaurant is closed!" advises a visitor to Coyote Run RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "There is a playground for the kids along with a nice sandy beach. Tons of sites with and without full hookups," notes a visitor to Mardon Resort.
Wildlife awareness: The region hosts wildlife including reptiles. "We did see two snakes. One swimming towards us while we were fishing on the boat, the other in our camp site. This was a baby rattlesnake, not a gopher snake," reports a Potholes State Park camper.
Cabin options: For families seeking more comfort, cabin rentals provide an alternative. "Mixed into the primitive sites are cute cabins with air conditioning, if you really want to get away from the heat!" explains a Potholes visitor.
Water safety: Lakes in the area require supervision for children. "The lake is in the scrub land though so there is not a whole lot of shade. Be prepared it can get really hot out there. The swimming area is nice and open," advises a camper at Scooteney Reservoir Camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary greatly in size and privacy levels. "All RV Sights are Big Rig Friendly. 50' min and ALL are pull thru's," notes a Sage Hills visitor.
Electric considerations: Some parks offer specific electric hookups. "They only have 50 amp & we needed 30 but mgr let me borrow an adapter," shares a Coyote Run RV Park camper.
Dump station access: Not all parks with RV sites have functional dump stations. "There is a dump station but was closed during our stay," mentions a Scooteney Reservoir camper.
Summer preparation: RVers need adequate cooling systems for summer camping. "A hidden gem near moses lake, wa. Easy to find from I-90. Very friendly staff," reports a visitor to Warden Lake RV Resort.
