Columbia River campsites near Vantage, Washington sit at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in a semi-arid desert environment where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. During summer months, daytime highs regularly exceed 90°F while dropping into the 50s after sunset. Many sites experience strong winds due to the gorge's natural wind tunnel effect, particularly in the afternoon hours.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Potholes State Park Campground, visitors access multiple fishing spots along O'Sullivan Reservoir. "There's great fishing if you have a boat, but with no easily accessible shore, it's not great for shore fishing. The shore is mud so swimming also isn't ideal either," notes Stephanie S. The park offers "a fish cleaning station and a shower, restroom area near the docks" where anglers can catch "Walleye, Crappie, Bass, Trout."
Stream exploration: The canyon at Douglas Creek features small waterfalls and natural pools. "Swimming In the pools is nice after hiking! I've been coming here since I was a kid and have hiked and camped all over Douglas creek," shares Allison B. The area requires preparation as "no amenities. Zero. You get a spot to put down a tent and water from the creek if you didn't bring lots of water," according to Jesse C.
Concert camping: The festival environment at Gorge Amphitheatre Campground offers concert-goers direct access to performances. "It is great being in on all the action," explains Ali D., though the "price and 'can of sardines' style camping" leads many to seek offsite alternatives. Sites range from basic to premium, with one camper noting "several different levels here from Standard (zero frills with gen pop) to Glamping ($$)."
What campers like
River access: Thousand Trails Crescent Bar offers direct Columbia River access via walking paths. "There is a walking path that you can access easily from the campground that goes to the end of Crescent Bar," notes UnnamedAdventures. The riverside location enables diverse water activities as "you can walk right down to the water. Bars are a 10-20 minutes walk depending on which one you go too."
Stargazing conditions: Douglas Creek's remote location creates ideal night sky viewing. "VERY private. About 30 minutes removed from cell signal," notes Jesse C., who adds that "the place really came to life around 11:30pm-12:00am" with wildlife sounds. This isolation from light pollution makes it popular with astronomy enthusiasts searching for dark skies in central Washington.
Beach camping: At Mardon Resort, visitors can camp directly on sandy shorelines. "Camp on the water on the beach or up higher. Tucked in right on Moses Lake," explains Shawn A. Long-time visitors appreciate the setting: "I love camping in the sand, we always stayed among the willow trees. Wake up hot and jump in the reservoir," shares Anna W., who notes "many of the sites in the willows provide a good deal of privacy."
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Desert climate conditions mean preparing for extreme heat during summer days and cool nights. At Blue Lake Resort, "The combination of RV spots, cottages, and even the unique sleeping capsules offered something for everyone," according to Aditya R., providing options for temperature-sensitive campers. Weather preparation is essential throughout the region.
Wildlife awareness: Ticks and snakes are common in desert scrub areas. "Ticks are everywhere out there though, don't forget repellent!" warns Allison B. about Douglas Creek. At Potholes State Park, one camper encountered "a baby rattlesnake, not a gopher snake. My husband noticed it as he walked by our picnic table because it hissed at him... Very angry with us and ready for a fight."
Site access limitations: Many off-grid camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Douglas Creek, "multiple water crossings" challenge drivers and "The road gets pretty narrow and rough the further in you go," according to Don, who advises "No problem in my Jeep, but I'd be hesitant to tow a trailer too far in here."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Wenatchee River County Park offers family-friendly amenities alongside river access. "Clean restrooms and pay 25 cents for four minutes clean showers," notes Leonard H. The park maintains "good level asphalt roads and paved sites" with "grounds/grass well maintained," making it accessible for families with strollers or young children.
Swimming areas: Potholes State Park provides designated swimming zones away from fishing areas. "There is a good playground for kids and a short walking trail," reports Stephanie S. The park includes a "huge tree filled lawn with picnic tables, and a pretty fun little play ground," making it suitable for families seeking day activities.
Noise considerations: Concert-adjacent camping requires planning around event schedules. At Gorge Amphitheatre, one experienced camper suggests, "You can go find the party - if you camp in the party you can't leave it," recommending premium sites where you'll find a "calmer vibe all the way around (quieter)."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Yakima Sportsman State Park provides amenities within driving distance of Vantage. "Some sites don't have any privacy but other have plenty," reports Jorge H., noting "The showers are by tokens 2 for $1, each token gives you 3 minutes of shower time." The park offers "plenty of spaces for tents and RVs" with "clean and well maintained bathrooms."
Site selection strategy: At Gorge Amphitheatre, site location significantly impacts the experience. "You're camping in a field, with thousands of other 'campers.' Be ready for wookies (depending on the show you're going to), dust, heat, wind," warns Brady W. For those seeking more space, "We typically pay up for Gold level RV camping even though we roll in with a tent, canopy, and SUV. Less riff-raff, closer to venue entry."
Heat management: The region's summer temperatures require cooling strategies. At Thousand Trails Crescent Bar, "It is blazing hot here in summer with little to no shade," according to Gary K., who suggests choosing sites with "beautiful views of the Columbia river from back row" that catch afternoon breezes.
