RV camping near Tonasket, Washington offers access to outdoor recreation along the Okanogan River. Situated in north-central Washington at approximately 900 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with seasonal road closures. Most campgrounds remain open year-round but with limited winter services.
What to do
Riverside exploration: At Riverbend RV Park, campers enjoy easy river access along the Methow. "Location of this campsite is key as it is close to town but also along the loop within driving distance of the North Cascades Park and also some of the Washington State Parks," notes Crystal C.
Outdoor games: Several campgrounds provide recreational amenities. "Riverbend has a lot of games for guest use. We had fun using corn hole game," reports Mary F., who appreciated the social atmosphere during her stay.
Pet exercise areas: When camping with dogs near Tonasket, designated off-leash areas provide needed exercise. "We appreciated the off-leash dog space!" says Marea about her stay at Riverbend RV Park, noting that pets must remain leashed elsewhere in the campground.
What campers like
Shade coverage: During hot summer months, tree cover becomes essential. "Lots of shade trees, level site, good spacing, places to access the river," reports Kelley about her experience at Riverbend RV Park, highlighting the importance of natural cooling.
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention bathroom cleanliness as a priority. "Very nice campground, bathrooms clean," notes Jodi S. about her stay at Winchester RV Resort & Campground, emphasizing basic but important amenities.
Proximity to towns: Many campers value the ability to walk to nearby communities. Ashley E. appreciated Pine Near RV Park because it was "super easy, nice showers, very close to town!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region, particularly in mountain areas and river valleys. "Rolling down the road on the Cascade Loop I took in all the scenery and enjoyed every moment. But something I noticed along the way was that cell signal was minimal," reports Crystal C.
Summer heat preparation: Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August. "A good, last minute get-away by the river and beautiful scenery," writes Marea about Riverbend RV Park, emphasizing how water access helps during hot periods.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds. "Traffic noise but did not bother us at all," notes Mary F., suggesting that site selection within campgrounds matters for noise-sensitive campers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children need dedicated recreation areas. Jennifer H. appreciated that at Riverbend "playground was older but did the trick for the kids, nice paved roads to scooter and skate," providing multiple activity options.
Alternative accommodations: Some families prefer camping without equipment. "Check out the Ti-Pi's too!" suggests Ashley F. about Gold Mountain RV Park, highlighting alternative sleeping arrangements for families without tents or RVs.
Walking distance activities: Sites near towns offer additional entertainment. "Tent camped here by myself with 3 kids. It was super easy, nice showers, very close to town!" shares Ashley E. about her family's experience at Pine Near RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Spacing considerations: Site dimensions vary between parks. "Would be tight when camp is full but it was not while we were there. Host did great job of spacing RVs throughout camp for optimal privacy," notes Mary F. about campground management.
Utility reliability: Water pressure and electrical service fluctuate seasonally. Les G. found Carl Precht RV Park to be "a comfortable park on the banks of the Okanagan River at the stampede grounds... Well maintained with large shade trees," suggesting consistent maintenance.
Laundry availability: Extended stays require laundry access. "Laundry facilities very dusty/dirty. One dryer (middle one) did not fry clothes well even though ran it twice," warns Mary F., suggesting checking equipment before use.
