Camping near Winthrop sits in Washington's Methow Valley at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature patterns with summer highs in the 90s and winter lows well below freezing. Located in the rain shadow of the North Cascades, the area receives only 15-20 inches of precipitation annually, making it notably drier than western Washington. Most campgrounds open from mid-May through October, with many closing after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: Early Winters Campground sits alongside a creek with easy water access. "The river that meanders along the back of the campground is the stopping point for tube rentals. The river is very rocky so not enjoyable to walk along but apparently good for fishing," notes Shelly S. in her review of Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday.
Trail exploration: Klipchuck Campground connects directly to multiple hiking paths. "3 trails lead out of this campground making it the perfect setting for exploring, though the area does have bear awareness signs located throughout so it would be wise to come prepared for the possibilities of animal encounters," explains Crystal C. about Klipchuck Campground.
Water activities: Pearrygin Lake offers multiple water-based recreation options. "Good family park with fishing / swimming / boating possibilities," says Leonard H. Families can enjoy the beach area, though some campers note motorized boats travel quickly on the relatively narrow lake.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The KOA provides larger than average spaces. "The sites are HUGE for a KOA and very well maintained. Sorta a western vibe which goes along with Winthrop City," mentions Shelly S. in her review of Winthrop KOA.
Downtown access: Pine Near RV Park offers exceptional convenience to Winthrop's amenities. "Only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc," explains Scott-Christy B. in their review of Pine Near RV Park.
Natural surroundings: Sullivan Pond Camp provides more secluded camping experiences. "Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance," notes John T. about Sullivan Pond Camp. Many campers appreciate the wildflowers and natural setting available at this location.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Lake conditions fluctuate throughout camping season. "We took chairs down to the river which was pretty fun, but shallow and cold (not for swimming). There's a boat docking fee which I think is silly when we only have kayaks," reports Sarah H. about Early Winters Campground.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water. "We were scheduled to camp for 2 nights but ended up leaving after 1 night. It was very windy while we were there and the mosquitoes were everywhere. We drove in to town to get additional mosquito repellents and nothing worked," shares Jonah S. at Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground.
Campground crowds: Some sites experience high visitor volume during peak season. "This campground has nice facilities and is well maintained but it's definitely more toward the 'campground culture' crowd versus people looking for a quiet, peaceful escape. Lots of large groups playing music, rowdy kids having fun, generators running, etc," notes Meghan about Pearrygin Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverbend RV Park offers dedicated play areas away from other campers. "The kiddos were also welcome with their own play area that was well maintained and away from the other campers just enough to not disrupt the silence of the camp. This area had its own water fountain to assure hours of safe and hydrated play," notes Crystal C. in her review of Riverbend RV Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds provide additional recreational options. "Swimming pool, bike rentals, mining for gems, arrowheads and fossils; purchase from store, playground. Cabins are quieter than tent/RV sites," explains Shayna A. about Winthrop KOA.
Family-size accommodations: Cabin options work well for families with pets. "Great Cabin Bunk Bed Came With sheets pool is warm great air vent the cabin was the best I have seen in my life great staff the cabin holds 4 people and 1 Dog great playground made friends," shares Liam about the KOA's pet-friendly cabin options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pearrygin Lake offers varied loop options for RVers. "A and b loops are the best. C is run down and little hookup sites," advises Jeremy M. about Pearrygin Lake State Park Campground.
Utility considerations: Water and power access varies between campgrounds. "Good sized dog run and a lot of games for guest use. Really decent price for full hookups and site was pretty level," shares Mary F. about Riverbend RV Park, noting its competitive pricing for services.
Location logistics: Strategic positioning helps maximize exploration. "The location was good for being able to just walk into town. The camp spots were just shared space in a grassy area," explains Jason G. about Pine Near RV Park, highlighting the tradeoff between convenience and privacy.
