RV camping near Palisades, Washington sits within the semi-arid Columbia Basin where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and winter lows can drop below freezing. The area features basalt outcroppings and sparse vegetation typical of the shrub-steppe ecosystem. Cell service throughout the camping corridor varies significantly depending on elevation and proximity to major highways.
What to do
**Golfing access: Ephrata RV Park & Campground features an adjacent golf course with tennis courts and a swimming pool for cooling off during summer heat. "Very well kept campground. They have a pool, a dog run at the front, tennis court, and more," notes a visitor about the amenities.
**Water recreation: The Columbia River provides multiple access points for boating and swimming near Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. "Dramatic cliffs make the perfect backdrop for a week of fun on the water. Tire yourself out on the river, find a sandbar and post up for the day, maybe surf down some dunes into the river," shares one camper about the river activities.
**Winter sports: Winter camping options remain available at select parks like Thousand Trails Leavenworth where snow activities become the focus. "October is perfect time. So quiet, leaves changing, crisp weather. Just make sure you have heated water hose," advises one winter visitor.
What campers like
**River proximity: Many campgrounds offer direct water access despite the arid climate. At Blu-Shastin RV Park, "Creek right out the back of our site. No cell service with T-Mobile. WiFi at the clubhouse. Stay here. Best price only 45 a night full hookups," according to a satisfied guest.
**Spacious sites: Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort provides exceptionally large camping spaces. "Never been to an RV Park where all the sights r 50' plus and pull-thrus. We will be backed a lot more," reports one RVer impressed with the site dimensions.
**Pool facilities: Many parks offer swimming options during hot summer months. At Smokiam RV Resort, one visitor noted, "The swimming pool, hot tub and clubhouse are immaculate. If you're tent camping, no worry - bathrooms have showers and are extremely clean."
What you should know
**Seasonal operations: Many facilities reduce services during winter months. At Smokiam RV Resort, "Sites have full hookups 30/50 amp and heated coils to prevent any water freeze," which allows for comfortable off-season camping.
**Water quality concerns: Water quality varies considerably between parks. At Ephrata RV Park, campers should be aware that "During the winter months while traveling construction workers stay here and work long days and hours the ownership does not allow large propane tanks for residents."
**Spacing variations: Site proximity differs dramatically between parks. One camper noted about Smokiam RV Resort, "The sites are pretty close together, but not too close to be uncomfortable. Nice big area for dogs by the store and pool."
Tips for camping with families
**Activity options: Parks with multiple recreation choices keep children engaged. At Thousand Trails Leavenworth, "For the grandkids there is a lot to do and that was the draw for us this time. We prefer disbursed off grid most of the time to this type of campground."
**Swimming alternatives: Many parks offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. "My children love swimming in the pool to cool off after warm day easy access to the campground they also had a play area," notes a visitor to Ephrata RV Park.
**Weekend events: Icicle River RV Resort provides structured activities during peak season. "Take in one of several musicals that play throughout the summer. Make sure and see and hear the alpenhorn played daily at noon in downtown Leavenworth," suggests one visitor highlighting off-site entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
**Winter preparation: When camping during colder months, water systems need protection. "We have stayed here for many years to enjoy the Chelan WinterFest Festival in January. The park is within walking distance of town and is perfect for the festival weekend," notes a visitor to Lakeshore RV Park.
**Site selection strategy: Choosing the right site location affects camping quality. One camper at Thousand Trails Crescent Bar suggests, "We may have lucked out because it is the end of the season, but very happy here."
**Extended stay options: Some parks accommodate longer-term visitors with special rates. At Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort, "They offer daily and MONTHLY RATES which all INCLUDE Electric in the pricing!!!"
