Camping spots near Richland, Washington primarily feature developed RV parks with limited primitive camping options. Located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers in the Columbia Basin, this desert region experiences summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, with significant cooling at night even during peak months. Most camping options remain accessible year-round despite the region's hot, dry summers and cool winters.
What to do
River recreation access: Hood Park offers direct access to the Snake River with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. "It's right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want. There is a connected wildlife preserve that you can walk around in and also fish in that is a separate area. Lots of birds to watch," explains Nathan B.
Golf course proximity: Campers at Horn Rapids RV Resort enjoy convenient access to the adjacent golf course. "Wow was this place fancy! If you're looking for a full-service sort of experience, look no further! Fantastic amenities and right across from a major golf course," notes Rachel A.
Family recreation: The region offers several family-friendly activities near campgrounds. "Nice campground for in the city. Well maintained. Friendly and helpful staff. The tent sites are pull through and small. All have electricity and water. Nice playground and RC track which our child loved," shares Lawrence L. about Pasco Tri-Cities KOA.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Pasco Tri-Cities KOA receives praise for its upkeep and amenities. "Sites are clean, level and well manicured. Showers are clean and spacious. Staff are friendly and very accommodating," writes Edward B. Another camper, Katie Z., adds, "The facilities are kept clean, the staff is friendly and helpful, every RV space has a pad of grass, which is nice. Lots of activities for the family."
Water features: Several campgrounds offer pools and water amenities that campers appreciate during hot summer days. "Very well maintained RV sites in the middle of town. Convenient for that weekend getaway. Hot tub and pool are amazing. Some of the sites now have patio and fire pit," notes Kurtis K.
Riverside camping: Beach RV Park provides shaded sites near water. "Park was full and office closed when we pulled in and manager Katie saw us drive through and flagged us down. She made space for us and even loaned a 30 to 50 amp adapter so we could hook up our 30 amp plug. Showers were nicer than any other on our 2800 mile trip from Arkansas and park is quiet and shaded right by the water," says Bud S.
What you should know
Road noise concerns: Several campgrounds experience highway noise due to their convenient locations. "Like others that have reviewed this campground I agree this is great for an in-city campground. Yes, you can hear the freeway it it becomes white noise at night," notes Christopher N. about Pasco Tri-Cities KOA.
Irrigation sprinklers: Columbia Sun RV Resort and other properties maintain their landscaping with irrigation systems that may affect camping. "Although you can hear the traffic going by still a nice park. This is the trade off with being close to town but being close to civilization allowed us to go get items we needed and not have to rely on the usually overpriced camp stores," explains David T.
Fire restrictions: Many campgrounds in this desert region restrict or prohibit open fires. "No wood fires allowed," notes Lawrence L. about camping at Pasco KOA, while other properties may offer alternatives like propane fire pits. "No firepits but we knew that before going - brought a propane fire pit with us," shares David T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "There is a really nice pool and hot tub, laundry room, showers, and a very nicely stocked store that includes hot food available," Jim J. notes about Horn Rapids RV Resort.
Educational opportunities: Franklin County RV Park offers proximity to sports and recreational facilities. "We stayed here during a baseball tournament and you couldn't beat the convenience of walking over to the Pasco sports complex. Plus we caught a dust devils game and just had to walk across the parking lot," shares Jennifer H.
Water safety: With multiple river access points, families should be aware of water conditions. "Decent swim beach area a lot of algae outside of swim area," notes Stephen L. about Hood Park. Another camper adds, "There is also a connected park that is only open during the day with a beach."
Tips from RVers
Laundry facilities: Several campgrounds provide on-site laundry options. "Laundry was coin-op, cheaper than the in-town laundromat, and very efficient," notes Wesley M. about Pasco Tri-Cities KOA. "Huge, clean hot shower/bathrooms scattered around."
Site selection advice: When booking, consider specific site locations within campgrounds. "I'd recommend any of the sites in the newer section," suggests Christopher N. about Pasco KOA, while another camper mentions, "Plenty of space in the new section between spots."
Long-term stays: For extended visits, Wrights Desert Gold Motel & RV Park and other properties offer monthly rates. "We had a family emergency and stayed at this RV resort for almost two months. Crista was very accommodating and helpful to find us a monthly spot," shares Tina M. about her experience at Horn Rapids RV Resort.
