Winthrop RV sites are nestled in the Methow Valley at approximately 1,800 feet elevation, with temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows well below freezing. Most RV parks in the area remain open seasonally from spring through fall, with the North Cascades Highway (Route 20) typically closing from November through April due to snowfall. Campers can access sites along the Methow River with varying degrees of shade coverage depending on location.
What to do
River activities: The Methow River provides recreation opportunities at Winthrop/N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday, where campers can rent kayaks and boats. "Swimming pool, bike rentals, mining for gems, arrowheads and fossils; purchase from store, playground. Cabins are quieter than tent/RV sites," notes one visitor.
Explore downtown Winthrop: The western-themed town is walking distance from Pine Near RV Park. "Only a short block walk into the heart of Winthrop which has all amenities, restaurants, micro brews, shopping etc," shares one camper. The town features boardwalks and old west architecture.
Fishing access: RV sites with river access provide fishing opportunities. "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," writes a KOA visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV sites near Winthrop offer room to spread out. At Riverbend RV Park, "The layout of the location was nice as it formed a large loop easy to access even by the largest of rigs." Sites provide ample space between neighbors compared to more crowded parks.
Pet amenities: Dog owners appreciate dedicated pet areas at several campgrounds. One camper notes Riverbend has "a large pet area for them to run free. Otherwise throughout camp they do ask you keep your pets on a leash, which seemed more than fair considering the large space they were given to enjoy free of burden."
On-site activities: Beyond standard amenities, some parks feature recreational options. The KOA offers "a nice outdoor space with patio chairs and umbrellas by the office" and "oversized brightly colored chairs which could fit the entire family." One camper highlights "yard games set up for anyone's use."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer brings high demand for Winthrop motorhome sites. "Book online in advance of your stay if you are wanting a tent site, they are more limited," advises one visitor to the KOA. Weekdays typically have better availability than weekends.
Weather considerations: The Methow Valley experiences significant seasonal changes. "It can get really windy. One of the nights we were there, we had to douse our campfire because embers were flying everywhere," notes a KOA camper. Summer temperatures can reach 90+ degrees while evenings cool significantly.
Connectivity: Cell service varies by carrier and location. At Bridgeport Marina RV Park, "Bathrooms clean hot showers and free Wi-Fi even if it's a bit spotty depending on your service. Att not the best but it still worked enough." The KOA has "wifi is sketchy and 4g is sub par."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several RV campgrounds near Winthrop feature play areas for children. "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 a Riverbend visitor.
Activity options: East Omak RV Park provides "RV sure aces and tent sites" with "showers and restrooms" and is "walkable to downtown area," making it convenient for families wanting both camping and town access.
Private accommodations: For families wanting more separation, some parks offer premium options. "We took the opportunity to secure one of the 'private' lots. Site S9 comes with a private fenced area, with fire pit, hot tub, seating and fully ready propane Weber," shares a KOA camper.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Larger motorhomes require careful site selection. "If you are a larger unit this is a great place to stay for amenities and size of spaces you will easily be able to pull in and get comfortable with your slides at this location," advises an RVer about the KOA. For Conklin Landing RV Park, "60 ft pull throughs, NO PROBLEM. Gorgeous 2 parks 1/2 mile apart."
Town access logistics: "If you are in a larger rig, bring a detachable vehicle to navigate in town as there are not a lot of places to park larger rigs in the community itself," suggests a KOA visitor. This allows more freedom to explore while keeping your RV at the campsite.
Hookup quality: Assess water quality when setting up. "Water came out brown each morning without a filter," warns a camper at Lakeshore RV Park. Most sites offer full hookups with water, electric and sewer, but quality can vary between parks.
