Rv campgrounds near South Cle Elum, Washington provide varied options for travelers along the Yakima River corridor. Winter visitors should prepare for temperatures that can drop to 15-25°F at night with occasional heavy snowfall between December and February. Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with most sites closing during winter months except for a few year-round facilities.
What to do
River access activities: At Whispering Pines RV Campground, visitors can explore walking paths along the Yakima River. "Paths that go to the Yakima river or along side it was nice. Just on the other side of the freeway is the town of Cle Elum. Nice bakeries and breweries is what attracted us," notes Patrick J.
Explore nearby towns: Blu-Shastin RV Park provides a base for exploring Leavenworth's Bavarian village. "Great campground. Easy check-in after hours and tons of things for everyone in the family to do. Close to the highway but wasn't loud at night," says Bradee A. Another reviewer mentions, "Just south of the awesome town of Leavenworth nestled in the hills. Awesome coffee shop just south called the Rock."
State park access: Lake Easton RV Resort connects to Lake Easton State Park through a convenient access point. Greg K. explains, "This park has an agreement with the State Park which allows access through a small gate in the chain link fence, right into the park. Access to the State Park, and Lake Easton by vehicle by driving the frontage road for about 1,000 feet, to the entrance."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites. At Whispering Pines RV Campground, "The camp was not full, and we were nicely spaced with other campers leading to lots of privacy," according to James W. Another camper notes, "They have some brand new dry camp sites set up by a pond down the road that we spent a couple of nights at and thoroughly enjoyed the privacy."
River views: Campsites along the Yakima River are popular. Jim J. at Blu-Shastin RV Park shares, "We got a decent full hookup site that was backed up to the Peshastin river. Many sites have access and viewing of this small river and we really enjoyed the peaceful sounds."
Clean facilities: Icicle River RV Resort maintains high standards for their facilities. "Overall nice campground," mentions David E. Matthew R. adds, "Well equipped and managed ground with some lovely riverside pitches. Pitches are close but some thoughtful touches to retain a little privacy."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. At Blu-Shastin RV Park, "There is no cell coverage due to the mountains. Closest town is a 20 min drive away," reports Adam A. Another reviewer notes, "No cell service with T-Mobile. WiFi at the clubhouse."
Highway noise: Thousand Trails Crescent Bar and other rv sites near South Cle Elum have varying noise levels from nearby roads. "It is close to I-90, so there is road noise, but it did not bother us as much as some of the other reviewers. There are also trains, but again, we did not really notice them," states James W. from Whispering Pines.
Seasonal weather preparation: The eastern Cascade region experiences extreme temperature variations. One Whispering Pines visitor suggests, "If you like hot dry weather, tall pine trees and not much grass this is a great spot." For fall camping at Thousand Trails Leavenworth, Kurtis K. advises, "Just make sure you have heated water hose."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Thousand Trails Leavenworth offers multiple activities for children. "For the grandkids there is a lot to do and that was the draw for us this time," says James W. Another reviewer elaborates, "For the kids the pool, lake, miniature golf, game room etc. was fun."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools for summer recreation. At Whispering Pines, Nick C. reports, "The campground was very clean, the spots were spacious and tons of things for the kids to do. Highly recommend!" Kimberly E. adds, "Great trails along the Yakima River and a fun little playground for the kiddos."
Space for group camping: Campgrounds in the area can accommodate family gatherings of various sizes. At Whispering Pines, Randy G. shares, "The campground itself was pretty big...like it was a little town...big play area for kids, lake looked big, same with dog park."
Tips from RVers
Septic system limitations: At Squaw Rock RV Resort and Campground, note the utility arrangement. "Single utility service serves two sites. The water spigot has a Y splitter to share a single water connection. Power has one 30 Amp and one 50 Amp socket. The first rig arriving gets to choose which one they want to use," explains Cande D.
Parking restrictions: Many rv sites near South Cle Elum enforce strict vehicle limits. C.J. M. notes about one campground, "They are sticklers on the parking situation so don't expect any leeway. I believe it was 2 cars max with one boat and camper."
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on seasonal conditions. Derek B. at Thousand Trails Crescent Bar observes, "Sprinklers were busted in most of the park which created unpleasant dust storms." For RV sites with better access, Rick S. advises, "Up in this area, the road is paved but lots 76-87 are gravel. Not a big deal unless it rains as those are on the lower end of a slope."
