RV camping near Randle, Washington offers sites between 125-150 feet elevation with access to surrounding mountain ranges including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. The region experiences distinct seasonal transitions from snowy winters to warm summers averaging 70-80°F. Cell service diminishes rapidly when traveling away from Highway 12 into more remote camping areas.
What to do
Fishing in stocked ponds: Thousand Trails Paradise RV Campground maintains fishing ponds where families can catch their dinner. "This campgrounds has an awesome swimming area with three pools, one 8ft deep, on 6ft, and one wading pool. Also has a large spa," notes a camper about additional water recreation options.
Mountain biking trails: The network of trails around Packwood connects to longer routes suitable for day trips. According to one visitor at Packwood RV Park & Campground, "We rode our mountain bikes up to Packwood lake one morning, which is 10 miles round trip. It's a great biking trail, but can also be used as a hiking trail if you are looking for a longer day hike."
Mt. St. Helens exploration: Campsites provide convenient access to volcanic landmarks within 1-2 hour drives. "My wife and I enjoyed the campground, we will be back the next time we want to hike at Mt. St. Helens," writes a visitor to Thousand Trails Paradise.
What campers like
Swimming pools and water features: Multiple RV parks offer swimming facilities that operate seasonally. "Kids are helping review campgrounds we visited this summer. They loved that there was scavenger hunts for pigs in morning, tractor rides in afternoon, face painting, slushees, movie in lodge, crafts, slushees, a great store, basketball court, pools and overall, the experience was phenomenal!" reports a family about their stay at Thousand Trails Chehalis.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites border meadows where elk and deer appear regularly. A reviewer at Elk Meadows RV Park shares, "Saw elk splashing through the meadow at night while we watched stars and satellites." Mountain views complement wildlife sightings in certain camping areas.
Varied site configurations: Campgrounds offer everything from secluded spots to more social arrangements. "Very private RV spots with thick trees around. Wonderful people working/owning this place," writes one camper about Elk Meadows RV Park, contrasting with more open layouts at other facilities.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Terrain grading varies significantly between and within campgrounds. A reviewer at Maple Grove RV Resort advises, "RV spots were mostly level with gravel pads and grass surrounding. The mature trees are nice shade but are large so maneuvering in ways that won't impede doors or awnings can be tricky."
Seasonal operation schedules: Several parks close during winter months due to snow and access limitations. Thousand Trails Paradise operates from "April 21 to October 31" while Elk Meadows runs from "April 15 to November 15," requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
Water and power inconsistency: Some campgrounds experience utility fluctuations during peak usage periods. One camper notes about Thousand Trails Paradise, "We spent a number of minutes testing pads that were at best poor, for power. A number of the sites did not have power and were not marked as such."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with scheduled children's programs. "Extended our stay because there was so much to do for the kiddos. Staff here are amazing and fellow campers a delight," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Chehalis.
Swimming options: Multiple pools with varying depths accommodate different ages and swimming abilities. A Thousand Trails Paradise visitor reports, "This campgrounds has an awesome swimming area with three pools, one 8ft deep, on 6ft, and one wading pool."
Budget-friendly alternatives: Tent camping spaces often cost significantly less than RV sites. At Packwood RV Park & Campground, "Tent lot was $10 per person per night. There's a lot of things around walking distance (all within a couple min walk). Also has great showers bathrooms and laundry."
Tips from RVers
Power management: Bring surge protectors for sites with electrical fluctuations. "Sometimes it would spike to 130 volts and then drop suddenly to 110. Luckily we have a great EMS and it alerted us to the problem," warns a camper about inconsistent electricity at some parks.
Site selection strategies: Corners and end spots typically offer more room for larger rigs. "The site for travel trailer was good. The Wi-Fi sucked, never could hook up," notes one RVer about connectivity challenges at Packwood RV Park & Campground.
Tree clearance considerations: Mature trees create shade but may interfere with slide-outs and satellite reception. "The mature trees are nice shade but are large so maneuvering in ways that won't impede doors or awnings can be tricky- just know your equipment and double check before you level and settle in," advises an experienced RVer.
