Dispersed camping options near West Richland, Washington are limited due to the predominantly agricultural and developed nature of the immediate area. Most camping in this region occurs at established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of the city. The area sits at approximately 550 feet elevation in the Columbia Basin, characterized by hot, dry summers with temperatures routinely reaching 90-100°F from June through August. Winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures that can drop into the 20s.
What to do
Explore nearby wineries: Several campgrounds are located near Prosser's wine region, about 30 minutes from West Richland. Wine Country RV Park offers a convenient base for wine enthusiasts. "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," notes one camper. "Wineries in walking distance a huge plus. Loved Coyote Canyon!"
Access water recreation: Hood Park provides direct access to the Snake River with fishing and swimming opportunities. "It's right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want. There is a connected wildlife preserve that you can walk around in and also fish in that is a separate area. Lots of birds to watch," reports one visitor. The park also features "a connected park that is only open during the day with a beach."
Utilize urban amenities: While camping at Columbia Sun RV Resort, you can enjoy both outdoor and urban experiences. "Being close to civilization allowed us to go get items we needed and not have to rely on the usually overpriced camp stores," one camper mentions. Another adds that the resort has a "pool and event centers" plus is conveniently located near town services.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Horn Rapids RV Resort receives high marks for its cleanliness and upkeep. "This RV park is the best maintained park I have ever seen. The lots are not real big, but the landscaping is pristine (think golf course) and overall the park is meticulously maintained," shares one visitor. Another camper adds it has "50 amp hookups and plenty of space to enjoy yourself."
Green spaces: Many campgrounds offer landscaped areas that provide relief from the region's naturally arid environment. At Hood Park, campers appreciate "lots of wide green lawns with lots of space, camp sites end up pretty well spaced apart so you might only have 2 or 3 neighbors then a ton of lawn before another neighbor." The park features "mowed/irrigated lawns around the campground" which creates a comfortable setting.
Convenient overnight locations: Several campgrounds serve as good stopover points for travelers. Beach RV Park in Benton City is noted as a "great site off the freeway- but because it's close, you'll hear cars all night." Despite highway noise, it offers "fire rings and picnic tables at every site as well as a bunch of firewood" for tent campers. Another visitor mentions the "showers that look pretty new."
What you should know
Traffic noise: Many campgrounds in the area experience road noise due to their proximity to highways and urban areas. At Wine Country RV Park, while the noise rating is positive, its location near roads means some ambient noise can be expected. Columbia Sun RV Resort has similar conditions with one camper noting "you can hear the traffic going by still a nice park."
Seasonal considerations: The extreme heat makes late spring and early fall better camping seasons. At Pasco Tri-Cities KOA, a visitor noted the proximity to the freeway but said "it becomes white noise at night." Swimming facilities become essential during summer with one camper highlighting the "pool and hot tub" as "amazing" amenities that help beat the heat.
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary significantly between campgrounds. Wine Country RV Park allows fires, while many others prohibit them due to the dry conditions and fire risk. At Columbia Sun RV Resort, fires are not allowed, prompting one camper to note they "brought a propane fire pit with us" as an alternative. Beach RV Park provides both fire rings and firewood for campers where fires are permitted.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Franklin County RV Park offers easy access to sports facilities. "We stayed here during a baseball tournament and you couldn't beat the convenience of walking over to the Pasco sports complex. Plus we caught a dust devils game and just had to walk across the parking lot," reports one family. Another mentions it's "near playground if you have kids."
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Several campgrounds feature designated areas for children. Pasco Tri-Cities KOA has "nice playground and RC track which our child loved," according to one camper. Another visitor noted Horn Rapids RV Resort has a "playground for the kids" among its amenities.
Consider educational opportunities: Hood Park offers interpretive programs during summer months. "There is a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings. They even had some movies on the weekends," shares a camper. These programs can add educational value to family camping trips while keeping children engaged.
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited hookup options: Full-service sites can be limited in some campgrounds. At Hood Park, "no water or sewer hookups" are available, though electric is provided. One camper advises, "If you are a long rv, be cautious as the reservation line has little knowledge of sites."
Select newer sections when available: At Pasco Tri-Cities KOA, experienced RVers recommend specific areas. "I'd recommend any of the sites in the newer section," suggests one camper. Another mentions, "We stayed in the new section with full hook-ups. Plenty of space in the new section between spots."
Check site dimensions carefully: Horn Rapids RV Resort accommodates large rigs but site sizing varies. "We parked our Class A in a pull thru and they even guided us in and assisted with hookups," reports one RVer. At Wine Country RV Park, "Premium sites have concrete pads while the lower cost sites are just gravel" and "the pads are mostly level, but slope upwards in some spots so unhitching can be just a little tricky."
