Wapato, Washington sits in the Yakima Valley at an elevation of 860 feet with a desert climate that produces hot, dry summers and cold winters. The camping area receives only around 8 inches of annual precipitation, creating ideal conditions for summer outdoor activities. Road noise can be an issue at several campgrounds near Highway 12, where passing trucks are audible day and night.
What to do
Watersports on Rimrock Lake: At Rimrock Lake Resort, visitors can enjoy kayaking in calm waters. "The lake itself is rather sparsely used (one or two boats or a jet ski way off in the distance). We had three very friendly chipmunks who visited our site often and were happy to sit on the old stump and join our camp," notes Jason R.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent birdwatching and small animal observation opportunities. At Yakima Sportsman State Park Campground, campers can spot various wildlife. "There is plenty of space for kids to play and visibility is high for bike riding... There are tons of hikes and a small pond to explore...with turtles!" says Mary C.
Winter recreation: During colder months, the area transforms into a snow sports destination. "During the winter months Windy Point offers excellent skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Hikers and backpackers are especially fortunate to have access to a variety of spectacular trails near the campground," explains Deborah W.
What campers like
River access: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for cooling off. At Windy Point Campground, "The river is so beautiful with the waterfall cascading down into the river directly across from the campsite. There is a shallow part near the shoreline where the kids had a great time playing in the river," according to Jason S.
Proximity to wineries: The Wapato area provides glamping options with easy access to local vineyards. "This could be a nice basecamp spot for people who love exploring wineries. The small town of Prosser has almost 30 wineries and tasting rooms in the immediate area and this park is in the midst of them all," writes Kristin S. about Wine Country RV Park.
Clean facilities: Even basic campgrounds maintain good hygiene standards. "The bathrooms are clean and stocked. I enjoyed my time there and recommend it for a peaceful camping experience," reports Sue H. about their stay at Windy Point Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water levels at reservoirs fluctuate significantly throughout the year. "Campground is deserted. Lake is only 10% full. This is normal for this time of year," warns Matthew W. about Rimrock Lake Resort in October.
Highway noise: Several campsites near roads experience traffic noise. At Hause Creek Campground, "Highway noise was pretty loud in some of the upper sites. Bathrooms (pit toilets) were very clean and the camp host was lovely! Nice recreation area nearby," reports Olivia.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is nonexistent at many sites. "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," notes Cande D. about Squaw Rock RV Resort. For remote workers seeking glamping in Wapato, Washington area, this is an important consideration.
Tips for camping with families
Riverside glamping spots: Select sites where children can safely access water. "The campsite we stayed in was fairly close to the next one, but we were camping with friends in the next one so it was fine. But be aware, some campsites are very close together," Jason S. cautions about Windy Point.
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn wildlife encounters into learning experiences. "The surrounding grounds is a park with playground equipment and a huge field. There are tons of hikes and a small pond to explore...with turtles!" enthusiastically notes Mary C. about Yakima Sportsman State Park.
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Crow Butte Park, you'll find "fun little park for the kids and nice little beach for swimming," according to Ben B.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configuration: Check utility layouts before arrival. "Single utility service serves two sites. The water spigot has a Y splitter to share a single water connection. Power has one 30 Amp and one 50 Amp socket. The first rig arriving gets to choose which one they want to use," explains Cande D. about RV setups at Squaw Rock RV Resort.
Size limitations: Some glamping sites in the Wapato, Washington area restrict vehicle size. "This is NOT a secluded wilderness campground where you will have an epic back to nature experience. Having said that, if you want a place to park your RV with full hook ups while you explore the local wineries, with a pool and a shuttle van, then this place is amazing," notes Russ H. about Wine Country RV Park.
Bring extension hoses: Water connections may be positioned inconveniently. "Bring an extra hose because your connection may be at the front right of your camper," advises Thomas M. about utility configurations at Squaw Rock.
