Camping opportunities near Parker, Washington span from high-elevation forest campgrounds to riverside retreats in the eastern Cascades. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cool evenings even in July and August. Winter camping requires preparation for snow conditions at higher elevations, while spring and fall offer moderate temperatures with fewer crowds.
What to do
Swimming and cooling off: Yakima Sportsman State Park Campground provides easy water access for hot days. "There is a huge group campsite that has bathrooms near it. The surrounding grounds is a park with playground equipment and a huge field. There are tons of hikes and a small pond to explore...with turtles!" notes Mary C.
Fishing for all skill levels: Bumping Lake Campground offers both shoreline and boat fishing options. "There is a boat dock right near the campground. A small general store is open until 5pm," shares Keli S. The marina rents fishing boats for those without their own equipment.
Waterfall viewing: Spend time exploring the cascading waters near Windy Point Campground. "The river is so beautiful with the waterfall cascading down into the river directly across from the campsite. There is a shallow part near the shoreline where the kids had a great time playing in the river," says Jason S.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings and evenings present opportunities for spotting local fauna. "Down the street from the camping there is a park that is great for swimming in the colombia river," notes Daniel S. about areas near the Gorge Amphitheatre Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Walupt Lake Campground offers premium waterfront sites. "We camped on site #42 and it was perfect location. We didn't want to be right on the water as our dogs would be in it 24/7. This site you could still see the water and hear it," explains Erica B.
Mountain views: Several campgrounds feature spectacular vistas of nearby peaks. "From the top of the hike we were able to see Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier. It doesn't get any better than that!!" exclaims Sasha W. about trails accessible from Walupt Lake.
Privacy between sites: Hause Creek Campground provides separation at certain sites. "Site 9 is huge with room for several tents and hammocks. There's little to no vegetation between it and site 10, but the river drowns out conversation and music noise, so it feels more private," reports Stephanie S.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained campgrounds. "The bathrooms (glorified outhouse) were always clean and had toilet paper. There is no running water, so we brought our own. Everyone was pretty quiet and the hosts were wonderful," says Erica B. about Walupt Lake.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "Note: road to get here is entirely dirt; bring mosquito repellent," advises Noelle K. about Walupt Lake Campground.
Cell service limitations: Rimrock Lake Resort and surrounding areas have minimal connectivity. "Just beware of the lack of cell reception (no WiFi either) if you're working from the road!" warns reviewer JL.
Summer heat preparation: Temperatures frequently reach 90°F+ in July and August. "HOT! This place can get hot in the summer. Always a fun time at The Gorge. The views of the river can't be beat," shares Laura F.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate only from May through September. "The sites were clean and the park busy. Be prepared for road noise that drowns out the sound of the river," notes Eric H. about seasonal conditions at Hause Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming-friendly shorelines: Hause Creek Campground offers kid-appropriate water access. "Site 12 has the best privacy and easy, level beach access, with a large hill on one side and smaller one on the other," recommends Stephanie S.
Reserve shaded sites: Protection from summer heat makes a significant difference with children. "Sites were super shaded. Lots of trees for some privacy. Easy lake access close by," shares Jenna B. about Walupt Lake.
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Some locations offer dedicated recreation spaces. "This is a State Park that requires a Discovery pass for day use and parking. If you pay for a camp site the parking is included. The showers are by tokens 2 for $1, each token gives you 3 minutes of shower time," explains Jorge H. about Yakima Sportsman.
Check for bathroom facilities: Not all campgrounds have flush toilets or running water. "Bathrooms are Porta-Potties. They were kept fairly clean while we were there. The outside two 'filled' the fastest, the inner two have sinks with soap dispenser, running water activated with a foot pump," notes Stephanie S. about Hause Creek.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for availability: Wine Country RV Park often accommodates last-minute reservations. "This campground had availability when I called less than a week in advance and was not super busy when we were there," shares L & J L.
Water connection placement: Prepare for varying hookup configurations. "Bring an extra hose because your connection may be at the front right of your camper," advises Thomas M. about Squaw Rock RV Resort.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "I've got a crew cab long bed with a 26' trailer, little tight but had a little extra room," notes Sotirios B. about Rimrock Lake Resort.
Consider full-hookup options: Premium sites offer complete services. "Single utility service serves two sites. The water spigot has a Y splitter to share a single water connection. Power has one 30 Amp and one 50 Amp socket," explains Cande D. about RV setup at Squaw Rock Resort.
