RV campgrounds near Thorp, Washington sit at elevations between 1,600-2,300 feet in the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with snowfall common between November and March. Most campgrounds in this area connect to hiking trails that lead into the surrounding national forests.
What to do
River access activities: At Whispering Pines RV Campground, trails connect directly to the Yakima River for fishing and kayaking. "There are paths that go to the Yakima river or along side it was nice," notes Patrick J. The river access provides opportunities for trout fishing during spring and summer months.
Mountain hiking: Within a 15-mile radius of Thorp, several trail networks accommodate various experience levels. "Enjoyed a lot of relaxing, hiking and mushroom hunting," reports Julie F. about her two-week stay at Whispering Pines. Multiple trails intersect with the John Wayne Pioneer Trail which runs through the area.
Winter activities: While most RV parks reduce services after October, some remain operational year-round. Squaw Rock RV Resort stays open through winter, with nearby access to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. "Well-Maintained campground with nice river sites, pool, restaurant, and store. Close to area fishing and hiking," states Terra D.
What campers like
Riverfront relaxation: Campers particularly appreciate sites that back up to water. At Icicle River RV Resort, "Loved our time here, clean campsite, beautiful spots on the river. Loved seeing black bears across the river," shares Amy. Riverside sites typically cost $5-10 more per night but offer direct water access.
Clean facilities: Many reviews specifically mention bathroom and shower quality. "The bathrooms are amazingly clean," notes Angie about Squaw Rock Resort. Similarly, at Whispering Pines, "Showers were AMAZING! Huge lots for our ambo conversion and plenty of room to relax and unwind," states Keelykee H.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer designated play areas. "The campground was very clean, the spots were spacious and tons of things for the kids to do. Highly recommend!" writes Nick C. about his experience at Whispering Pines. Most family-focused campgrounds include playground equipment and open recreation areas.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the region. At Blu-Shastin RV Park, "There is no cell coverage due to the mountains. Closest town is a 20 min drive away," notes Adam A. Several campgrounds offer WiFi near office buildings only, with limited range to individual sites.
Utility setups: RV sites often have unusual hookup configurations. "Single utility service serves two sites. The water spigot has a Y splitter to share a single water connection," explains Cande D. about Squaw Rock Resort. Bring extension cords and extra-long water hoses to accommodate variable hookup placements.
Noise considerations: Interstate proximity affects several campgrounds. "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," comments James W. about Whispering Pines. Sites further from highways typically command premium rates during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Look for interactive outdoor spaces: Lake Easton RV Resort connects directly to Lake Easton State Park through a dedicated access gate. "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," explains Greg K. This arrangement gives families easy access to state park facilities without paying separate entrance fees.
Consider pool availability: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making swimming facilities valuable. "Great campground with lots to do. Very nice manager, open spots," notes Brett T. about Blu-Shastin, which maintains a swimming pool open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures drop significantly even in summer. "We visited here in mid-july so it was very warm during the day and got cold at night so make sure to bring warm clothes for after gorgeous sunset," advises Ethan H. Temperature variations of 30-40 degrees between day and night occur regularly.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Most rv campgrounds near Thorp, Washington enforce strict check-in deadlines. "Campers must be checked in and through the gate by 9:30, and set up in their site before 10PM," mentions Loll T. about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. Late arrivals may need to make special arrangements or wait until morning.
Water pressure variations: Several campgrounds report inconsistent water pressure. "It is blazing hot here in summer with little to no shade. Nice walking path to the river and to the resort community near by," notes Gary K. about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. Consider bringing a pressure regulator to protect RV plumbing systems.
Space constraints: Site dimensions vary considerably between facilities. "The sites are very level and fairly well spaced. It is open in some areas, so not a ton of privacy in some of the sites," explains Julie F. about Whispering Pines. Most parks accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, but always verify specific site dimensions when booking.