Recreational camping options near Vantage, Washington center around the dramatic Columbia River basin, with nearby facilities positioned along the eastern Washington plateau at elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach triple digits in this high desert environment, creating extreme seasonal contrasts with cold winters. Most campgrounds stay open from April through September with limited winter availability at select RV parks.
What to do
Water recreation access: Thousand Trails Crescent Bar offers direct Columbia River access with opportunities for waterskiing and river activities. "Dramatic cliffs make the perfect backdrop for a week of fun on the water. Tire yourself out on the river, find a sandbar and post up for the day, maybe surf down some dunes into the river," notes Jessica M. at Thousand Trails Crescent Bar.
Hiking trails: Explore riverside paths at Whispering Pines RV Campground with trails leading along the Yakima River. "There are 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," shares Patrick J. at Whispering Pines RV Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Warden Lake RV Resort provides dedicated trout fishing on their private lake. "A hidden gem near moses lake, wa. Easy to find from I-90. Very friendly staff. Good lake for fishing trout," reports Steve B.
What campers like
Pool and hot tub access: Smokiam RV Resort maintains year-round swimming facilities with regular maintenance. "The swimming pool, hot tub and clubhouse are immaculate. If you're tent camping, no worry - bathrooms have showers and are extremely clean. Sites have full hookups 30/50 amp and heated coils to prevent any water freeze," according to Kurtis K. at Smokiam RV Resort.
Cleanliness and maintenance: RV parks in Vantage, Washington prioritize cleanliness. "Immaculate and quiet except for the sound of I-90 in the background. This is a go-to place for us. Spots on the river are really nice but really all of the sites are lovely. Bathrooms are amazingly clean," notes Angie at Whispering Pines RV Campground.
Recreation facilities: Many campgrounds offer additional recreational amenities beyond nature access. "Very clean campground. Nice amenities for families. Put put golf swimming pool hot tubs basketball and volleyball court and nice playground. Paddle board kayak and paddle boat rentals as well," reports Justin M.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Service can be extremely limited in canyon areas and valleys. "You're in a valley with NO cell service. Wi-Fi in the park is non-existent. There's a weak signal near the office," warns Cande D. about Squaw Rock RV Resort and Campground.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some RV parks feature spacious sites while others position campers closely together. "The sites are very close together and you share the site utilities. It can get tight. Not all sites have sewer hookups," notes Cande D.
Water quality differences: Some lakes in the area have unique mineral content. "Soap Lake is interesting with a very soft muddy bottom on the CG side of the lake," reports Sarah about Smokiam RV Resort, highlighting the distinctive water composition.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Choose campgrounds with dedicated family facilities. "Great campground with lots to do. Very nice manager, open spots. Just south of the awesome town of Leavenworth nestled in the hills. Awesome coffee shop just south called the Rock. Our family loved this place," shares Brett T. about Blu-Shastin RV Park.
Playgrounds and facilities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated children's areas. "Huge lots for our ambo conversion and plenty of room to relax and unwind. Big play area for kids, lake looked big, same with dog park," notes Randy G.
Safety considerations: Some RV parks offer enhanced security features. "The gated entry provided extra sense of security and it was a very relaxing stay," mentions Steve B. about Warden Lake RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Golf course access: Consider golf-adjacent camping for dedicated players. "With gas prices out of control this was a perfect weekend getaway right off highway 17. Immaculately kept RV sites and 20 yards from teeing off. Full hookups, propane refill and a pool," notes Kurtis K. about Sage Hills Golf Club & RV Resort.
Hookup connections: Check utility placement before arrival as locations vary. "Bring an extra hose because your connection may be at the front right of your camper," advises Thomas M. about Squaw Rock RV Resort.
Pull-through availability: Several RV parks Vantage, Washington offer convenient site access. "Great location with awesome views of the Columbia River Valley. Well maintained grounds and amenities for a Thousand Trails campground," reports UnnamedAdventures about Thousand Trails Crescent Bar.
