Camping sites near Royal City, Washington often feature exposed terrain in a high desert environment with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. Many primitive camping areas lack natural shade, making summer camping challenging when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F during peak months. The region experiences significant diurnal temperature shifts with cool nights even after hot days.
What to do
Fishing at Potholes Reservoir: Potholes State Park Campground provides direct access to some of the best fishing in central Washington. "The campground is located on O'Sullivan Reservior in the middle of nowhere. It has excellent fishing and a plenty of room to boat to different areas to fish," according to one visitor who noted the diversity of fish species available.
Rock climbing at Frenchman Coulee: Frenchman Coulee Backcountry Campsites attracts climbers year-round. "Free (if you have the WA rec pass $30). Pit toilet is available, no water. Exposed and hot. BUT AMAZING access to climbing," reports one camper, highlighting the site's popularity among serious climbers despite minimal amenities.
Exploring petrified forests: Visit the interpretive center at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground to see fossils and learn about regional geology. "An easy 1.5 mile hike will take you past several nicely preserved examples of different types of petrified wood, including some whole logs where you can clearly still see the shape of the bark, rings, etc."
What campers like
Swimming beaches for hot weather relief: During summer heat, campers appreciate access to water at Mardon Resort. "Camp on the water on the beach or up higher. Tucked in right on Moses Lake. Good fishing & a beach with sand," notes a visitor who particularly enjoyed the sandy shoreline for cooling off.
Seclusion and wildlife viewing: Long Lake's dispersed sites offer privacy rare in established campgrounds. A camper reports, "I was one of only 3 campers in and around long lake. Lots of privacy," while another mentioned seeing "pelicans and weasels" along with "plenty of big fish in the lake."
Night sky visibility: Clear desert air creates prime stargazing conditions. At Sand Hollow Campground, one visitor noted their experience with "Beautiful sunset and INSANE stargazing," highlighting the exceptional clarity of night skies in this arid region despite proximity to highways.
What you should know
Weather extremes can be challenging: The region experiences dramatic temperature changes and strong winds. At Sand Hollow Campground, campers report that it "gets very windy and very cold at night. No coverage but good if you need to stop and rest for a night." Another noted that their site was "VERY dust! There was very little grass, odd for end of April, so the site was mainly just a dirt patch."
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to primitive sites often requires careful driving. For Long Lake, a camper warns "BOY was the road rough. No 4wd or high clearance needed, but you will be absolutely shaken and rattled on the way out to the lake."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for various wildlife interactions. Snakes are common in summer months, with one Potholes State Park camper reporting: "We did see two snakes. One swimming towards us while we were fishing on the boat, the other in our camp site. This was a baby rattlesnake, not a gopher snake."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with designated play areas: Mardon Resort offers family-friendly facilities including "a playground for kids along with a nice sandy beach." Another camper noted activities like "mini golf, boat & golf cart rentals" that keep children entertained.
Consider cabins during extreme weather: At Potholes State Park, "Mixed into the primitive sites are cute cabins with air conditioning, if you really want to get away from the heat!" This option provides comfort when tent camping might be challenging for families with young children.
Select sites with tree coverage when possible: At Sand Hollow Campground, a visitor recommended, "You can get out of the sun near the river," noting that while "there's not much shade at the sites," finding areas with natural coverage improves comfort for families during hot days.
Tips from RVers
Select appropriate hookup options: The Last Resort RV Park provides essential services while maintaining a more intimate feel. "Very quite and well shaded," notes one RVer, while another described it as "smaller, more inviting and neighbors were friendly and welcoming. Trees, shade, cozy community."
Be prepared for dust and wind: RV sites throughout the area can experience significant wind. Vantage Riverstone Resort campers warn about challenging conditions: "The wind was so. As we couldn't use our awning or slideout." Securing outdoor items and awnings is essential year-round.
Consider site location carefully: At Potholes State Park, "The RV sites have power, water, and sewer. They are arranged like a wheel, you drive around the small center and the other trailers are the spokes in the wheel. There is no barrier between you and your neighbor, but all the sites are grassy and the loops are surrounded by a ring of poplar trees."
