Best Campgrounds near Ritzville, WA

Camping near Ritzville, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique outdoor experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Fishing and Water Activities: Many campers enjoy fishing at places like Coffeepot Lake. One visitor mentioned, "The lake was so tranquil and the lake cliffs were pretty magnificent to boat up against." If you're into paddling, Hog Lake Campground is also a great spot for small boats and paddleboarding.

• Hiking and Wildlife Watching: The Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area is perfect for hiking. A reviewer shared, "We took a little hike and saw a buck with a big rack on it, other deer, and a coyote."

• Exploring Scenic Views: Palouse Falls State Park is a must-see. One camper described it as "a hidden high desert gem," perfect for photography and enjoying nature.

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers at Hog Lake Campground appreciate the spaciousness. A reviewer noted, "The spot was very spacious and felt private."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the peacefulness of Fishtrap Recreation Area. One camper said, "It's very quiet, open skies were good to recharge solar and stargaze."
• Wildlife Encounters: Campers often mention the wildlife. A visitor at Hawk Creek Campground shared, "The waterfall was about 30-40’ high and emerged from a rock crevice," highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Palouse Falls State Park, have limited facilities. A visitor mentioned, "Great place to visit but the campground is closed at the moment."
• First-Come, First-Served: Campgrounds like Hog Lake Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One camper noted, "We got there about 4pm and luckily found the last spot."
• Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a highlight, be cautious. A camper at Hawk Creek Campground warned about yellow jackets, saying, "Everyone at the campground was constantly being attacked by yellow jackets."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for spots like Potholes State Park Campground that offer fishing and playgrounds. A family reviewer said, "The kids loved the playground and there are community volleyball nets that are nice."
• Pack for Comfort: Bring bug spray and sunscreen, especially at places like Fishtrap Recreation Area, where mosquitoes can be a nuisance. One camper noted, "Lots of mosquitoes though!"
• Plan for Limited Facilities: Be prepared for basic amenities. A visitor at Coffeepot Lake mentioned, "There was no water available when we visited."

Tips from RVers:

• Look for Big Rig Friendly Spots: Campgrounds like Fishtrap Recreation Area are big rig friendly. A reviewer said, "Some larger sites able to accommodate bigger rigs (25' at least)."
• Check for Dump Stations: Make sure to find campgrounds with dump stations, like Tucannon River RV Park, which has full hookups and is well-maintained.
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds, such as Four Seasons Campground & Resort, are near busy roads or railroads. A visitor noted, "There is a loud train that goes by that we heard maybe 3-4 times through the night."

Camping near Ritzville, Washington, offers a variety of experiences, from quiet retreats to family-friendly spots. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!