West Richland camping options extend beyond the city limits to nearby destinations within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences a desert climate with hot, dry summers reaching 90°F+ and mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Camping facilities stay open year-round due to these conditions, with spring and fall offering the most moderate temperatures for outdoor activities.
What to do
Water recreation access: Horn Rapids RV Resort offers proximity to boating opportunities. "The river is really close and the camp sites didn't seem to be too crowded but it was a slow time when we were there," notes one visitor. The site includes boat ramps and water access points.
Wine tasting excursions: Wine enthusiasts can explore local vineyards while staying at Wine Country RV Park. "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," explains one camper. The park offers a shuttle service for wine tours.
Horseback riding opportunities: Some campgrounds maintain horse trails for riding. "Horse trails and boat ramp" are available at Horn Rapids RV Resort, making it a good option for equestrians looking to combine water activities with riding opportunities.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Columbia Sun RV Resort maintains high standards for bathroom amenities. One visitor noted the "excellent bathroom facilities" while another mentioned the "gorgeous location on the outskirts of town" with "all the amenities and activities you want."
Landscaped grounds: Campers frequently comment on the maintained green spaces. "The whole park is beautiful and has a wonderful summer wind. Not far from stores and restaurants," writes one guest at Columbia Sun RV Resort. Another described the grounds as having "golf course quality."
Family-friendly amenities: Umatilla Marina & RV park offers activities for children. "There is a nice park and swimming area for kids," notes one visitor. Another mentions that "it's nice down by the water you can swim or fish. It also has a nice view of the sunset."
What you should know
Pet restrictions vary widely: Some parks have strict pet policies. Wine Country RV Park has a "40 POUND LIMIT" for dogs according to a reviewer who noted "these people must be into froufrou type dogs" and called it "shallow minded management."
Highway noise considerations: Traffic sound affects some campgrounds. At Umatilla Marina & RV Park, "you'll get a little truck noise" and one camper noted, "it is noisy with the bridge and Hwy right there beside the park." Consider site location when booking.
Seasonal water restrictions: During hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, water conservation measures may be in effect. "The sprinklers go on in the middle of the day. So if you are doing anything outside there is a good hour break to avoid the irrigation water," reports one camper at Horn Rapids RV Resort.
WiFi availability varies: Internet access differs between parks. One visitor to Columbia Sun RV Resort mentioned, "Wifi was being upgraded but cell service with Verizon wasn't an issue." Another camper at Umatilla Marina complained of "poor internet service" that "kept dropping."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access during hot months: When temperatures climb, swimming pools provide relief. Columbia Sun RV Resort features a "heated pool and hot tub" that families appreciate, according to reviewers who mention it has "all the amenities and activities you want."
Playground availability: Beach RV Park offers facilities for children. While primarily serving RVs, the park maintains tent sites with amenities. One camper noted they "were the only tent campers so we had a bunch of space. Fire rings and picnic tables at every site as well as a bunch of firewood."
Outdoor movie opportunities: Some locations offer special entertainment. At Umatilla Marina, a visitor shared this experience: "The field next to the campground set up an outdoor movie night with free popcorn. The kids loved it and it was a great memory maker."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Horn Rapids RV Resort provides comprehensive services. "It has a nice little mini mart, drive through spots, full hookups, playground for the kids, clean bathrooms/showers, and allows pets," according to one RVer who added it "is also close to Safeway and right outside the gate is a camper trailer friendly gas station with diesel."
Pull-through accessibility: Columbia Sun RV Resort accommodates larger rigs. "The pull through and back ins are perfect. Great hookups!" notes one visitor. The 145 sites include various configurations for different vehicle sizes.
Long-term vs. short-term considerations: Red Mountain RV park serves many permanent residents. "The park is almost entirely long-term tenants, and many of the rigs were quite old and had lots of 'accessories' outside them," reports one camper. This creates a different atmosphere than parks catering to short-term visitors.
