Cabin camping near Vantage, Washington offers a mix of desert landscapes and water views within the Columbia River Basin. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter lows can drop below freezing, requiring proper preparation for seasonal extremes. The region sits at approximately 600-1,200 feet elevation with basalt cliffs and open shrub-steppe terrain surrounding most camping areas.
What to do
Water activities at Potholes State Park Campground: Access the O'Sullivan Reservoir for fishing, boating, and swimming during summer months. "The park has a fish cleaning station and a shower, restroom area near the docks. Fish that can be found are: Walleye, Crappie, Bass, Trout," notes one visitor, making it popular with anglers.
Hiking nearby trails: Lincoln Rock State Park Campground provides walking paths with views of the Columbia River Valley. "There are boat launches for kayaking or motorboats and jet skis, with miles of water to explore. And fishing galore!" explains a camper who visited the park.
Golfing access: Campers staying at O'Sullivan Sportsman Resort can enjoy proximity to golf facilities. "This has to be the largest, fanciest site we've ever stopped at to date. It's right next to a golf course, it's absolutely gigantic and incredibly well manicured," reports one reviewer.
Concert attendance: Many cabin campers use accommodations as base camps for shows at the Gorge Amphitheatre. "Some of the absolute best musical acts in the country stop here, probably one of the top ten outdoor venues. The views are incredible, and it's worth the trip," writes one concert-goer.
What campers like
Off-grid options: The Cottonwood Retreat offers a heated "Glabin" cabin without utilities for those seeking minimal accommodations. "Perfect spot for privacy and a great night's sleep. Plenty of space," notes a visitor who appreciated the seclusion.
Riverside settings: Many cabins feature water views, especially at Thousand Trails Crescent Bar. "We have a beautiful spot with a view of the water, surrounded by green grass, a willow tree and pickle ball court. There are a lot more trees and privacy in this campground compared to the other one," reports a satisfied camper.
Clean facilities: Cabins at Ellensburg KOA receive positive reviews for cleanliness and maintenance. "Very well kept campground. There are bathrooms with showers right in the center of the park," states a reviewer about the overall property condition.
Swimming options: Many cabin accommodations include pool access. At Ephrata RV Park & Campground, visitors appreciate the swimming amenities during hot weather. "Has shaded camping sites my children love swimming in the pool to cool off after warm day easy access to the campground," notes a family who stayed there.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities have limited availability during winter months. Lincoln Rock State Park Campground operates from March through October, closing completely during the coldest months.
Reservation requirements: Gorge Amphitheatre Campground cabins require advance booking, especially during concert season. "Your car will queue up to be sniffed by some sniffer dogs and then if you get the go ahead you will be directed to your site sandwiched in between the other cars that are arriving at around the same time as you," explains a visitor about the check-in process.
Pricing variability: Cabin rates increase significantly during peak summer months and event weekends. "She wouldn't give us our discount because it was an even weekend although the sites were mostly empty," noted one visitor at Vantage Riverstone about weekend pricing policies.
Weather extremes: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter conditions can be harsh. "During the winter months while traveling construction workers stay here and work long days and hours," reported a long-term cabin user at Ephrata RV Park, highlighting the year-round occupancy despite seasonal challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Vantage Riverstone Resort Campground provides play areas for children. "Location has trees, grass, picnic tables, full hook ups, basic and premium rates, showers (3 minutes hot water for .50, buy 2 tokens at a pop), you can walk down to the river," notes a visitor, highlighting the mix of amenities available.
Swimming safety: The Columbia River has strong currents in certain areas, requiring close supervision of children. "The shore is mud so swimming also isn't ideal either. There is a good playground for kids and a short walking trail," cautions one Potholes State Park visitor about water access.
Store provisions: Most cabin locations stock essential supplies but at premium prices. "They have a great little front store that you can grab necessities from, and you can rent stuff for activities around the campground as well," explains an Ellensburg KOA visitor.
Sprinkler schedules: Some parks water grass regularly, which can affect tent placement near cabins. "Those who are critical of this campground are annoyed with the sprinkler schedule which goes off at a certain time in each campsite, Monday-Friday, regardless of tents and things laying around," explains a Lincoln Rock State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: For RV travelers, Mardon Resort provides both cabin and full-hookup options. "If you're fishing, this is the perfect spot. But this is an RV review. Nice view on the lake, extremely convenient - just not my ideal RV spot. But this is a 5 star if you're fishing," reports an RV traveler who stayed there.
Dump station locations: Limited sewer access exists at some cabin locations, requiring planning for RV waste disposal. "The campground has a number of pull in/plug in sites, with restrooms, but also has more rustic, off the beaten path sites towards the back of the park," notes a Potholes State Park visitor about the varying levels of hookups.
Generator restrictions: Policies on generator use vary significantly between parks, with some strictly prohibiting them. "Dry camping, bring a generator if you need power for A/C, in summer you will need A/C," advises a Gorge Amphitheatre camper about power needs during hot weather.
Wind exposure: RV awnings may be damaged by frequent high winds in this region. "The wind was so bad we couldn't use our awning or slideout," noted one visitor to Vantage Riverstone, highlighting weather considerations for RV equipment.