Glamping sites near Peshastin offer diverse accommodations within the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. The area experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F in July and August, while winter brings snow and temperatures below freezing. River access is most abundant between May and September when snowmelt has subsided but water levels remain suitable for recreation.
What to do
Hike mountain trails: Eightmile Campground serves as a starting point for numerous hiking opportunities in the Wenatchee National Forest. "This creek is what beautiful mountain dreams are made of! Been here a few times and loved it! Close to Leavenworth and so far away at the same time. Beautiful hiking! We'll be back again and again," notes one visitor at Eightmile Campground.
Float the Wenatchee River: The river provides numerous access points for tubing, kayaking and rafting during summer months when water temperatures are manageable. At Wenatchee River County Park, campers appreciate the direct water access: "Float the river, thrift for treasures or just relax. Very clean and well maintained. We'll be back," according to a recent review.
Visit Bavarian-themed attractions: The area's German heritage is on display year-round with festivals, shops and restaurants. "Leavenworth in washington is one of my favorite places to visit. One of the reasons I love coming here is because the hiking is incredible... This campground is close, so it was nice to have a place close by to sleep after that long day," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Leavenworth.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites directly on the water are highly sought after for their cooling effect and ambiance. A visitor at Beebe Bridge Park explains, "Such a lovely chilled site with lovely drive throughs that have unobstructed views of the Columbia River. So chilled that we booked another night more than we'd planned."
Family-focused amenities: Many campgrounds feature playgrounds, ball fields and organized activities. "The grounds are immaculately kept, the bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned everyday... There's a boat launch, playground, beach area with swimming area roped off, and a big open field to play any games you like," notes a camper at Beebe Bridge Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high among camper priorities. A visitor to Whispering Pines RV Campground shares, "Bathrooms are amazingly clean," while another notes "Showers were AMAZING! Huge lots for our ambo conversion and plenty of room to relax and unwind."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come systems while others require advance bookings. At Lake Easton State Park, "We arrived after the ranger shack at the entrance had closed for the day, but they have a really easy phone registration process if you arrive after hours but before 10pm. After 10 pm they say to just pick an unreserved spot and pay in the morning."
Highway noise impacts some sites: Many campgrounds sit close to major roads, creating ambient noise. Lake Easton reviews consistently mention this: "Nice state campground, well kept, beautiful lake if you can get one of the lakeside spots. We had site #11, and the road noise was just too too loud for me. Definitely try to get a spot away from the road."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Eightmile Campground operates from "April 15 to October 15" while Wenatchee River County Park runs "April 1 to October 31," making advanced planning critical for shoulder season visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Look for water play areas: Shallow entry points offer safer swimming for children. "The Columbia River runs right along the campground which helps to keep the air cooler; you get a nice breeze off the water. Most sites have trees for shade," notes a review from Beebe Bridge Park.
Consider structured activities: Campgrounds with organized programs keep children engaged. At Thousand Trails Leavenworth, families appreciate the options: "We take our kids on fancy vacations but their favorite stop every year is the Leavenworth KOA. There are events all weekend, a shuttle into Leavenworth, movie nights and a cheap pancake breakfast."
Choose mid-week visits: Weekends bring crowds and noise to popular sites. A Beebe Bridge Park regular advises: "It's constantly full in the summer for good reason. We try to arrive on Tuesday morning when most weekend people have cleared out."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure varies widely: Some campgrounds have inconsistent utilities. At Whispering Pines, campers should note: "Spots were paved and somewhat flat. We had a pull through, gravel site. Utilities were well placed. There was a note not to flush your tank due to their sensitive septic system."
Consider site dimensions carefully: Many RV sites have specific limitations. At Wenatchee River County Park, one RVer observed: "Good level asphalt roads and paved sites. Grounds/grass well maintained... Road noise during day. Was quiet from 10pm to 6am."
