Pet-friendly campgrounds near Yakima, Washington offer camping experiences in a semi-arid climate that averages less than 9 inches of rainfall annually. The region transitions between shrub-steppe desert terrain and higher elevation forests with temperature variations of up to 50°F between daytime and nighttime during spring and fall. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 1,200 and 2,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Look for bighorn sheep within Yakima River Canyon's steep basalt cliffs. At Big Pines Campground - Yakima River Canyon, visitors frequently observe diverse wildlife. "One of our favorites. Right on the Yakima river, fishing. Boating, floating the river. Watching Elk, Bighorn Sheep, Eagles and Pelicans," notes Theresa S.
Hiking: Explore desert trails with rock formations and spring wildflowers. The Umtanum Campground - Yakima River Canyon provides direct trail access. "The hiking is a pleasure in the area, with lots of wildlife. Many deer in the area, even walking through the campsite at times," shares Philip D. These trails range from easy river walks to moderate climbs with 500+ feet of elevation gain.
Water activities: Fish or float the Yakima River during summer when water temperatures reach the mid-60s. Roza Campground offers good river access. "Nice 'fee' campground on the Yakima River. This is an ending point for summer rafting trips that start near Ellensburg, WA and a great place for calm water fun," reports Garth B.
What campers like
River proximity: Camp within feet of water at several locations. Windy Point Campground sits beside water with scenic features. "We stayed in space 9 with a view of a waterfall. That was pretty great," writes Sue H. Several sites allow direct water access for both humans and pets.
Desert climate: Enjoy consistent dry weather from June through September when precipitation averages less than half an inch monthly. At Circle H RV Ranch, the reliable climate makes for dependable camping conditions. "Chill place," notes Brooke M., highlighting the relaxed atmosphere that comes with predictable weather patterns.
Accessibility: Find year-round camping options throughout the canyon. "The campground was quiet, many campers leaving during the day to go hiking or spend time on the river boating and/or fishing. We rode our bicycle on Canyon Road which at this time of the year was not busy," shares JP C. about the Yakima River Canyon Campgrounds, noting that even off-season camping provides good recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Temperature extremes: Prepare for significant fluctuations between day and night temperatures. "It got really windy at night. Quiet stay, not too crowded (but my stay was in the middle of the week in September)," mentions Christine D. about Big Pines Campground.
Water availability: Bring your own water to BLM sites. "There is no running water here," points out Ryan L. about Lmuma Creek Campground. Most sites along the Yakima River require campers to supply all drinking and washing water.
Security considerations: Be aware of valuables at less developed sites. "We stayed here 10 days or so. It is a nice split between towns, Ellensburg and Yakima," notes Philip D. about Umtanum, highlighting how camping between populated areas provides access to services while maintaining a natural setting.
Limited amenities: Expect basic facilities at many locations. "BLM used to let camping be free during the off season but now charges $15 per night, no matter the site type. And if your a tent camper like me, then you also get the short end of the stick because the walk in sites do not have any shade while most of the RV sites do," explains Ryan L.
Tips for camping with families
Shaded sites: Reserve spots with trees during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. "Spot 4 is very spacious, with a more private beach area. Bathrooms were clean and stocked," reports Cassandra C. about Windy Point Campground, highlighting how specific site selection impacts comfort.
Swimming access: Choose campsites with gradual water entry for safer water play. "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," writes Jason S.
Playground access: Camp near built-in entertainment for children. "There is a TV/play room that my littles loved but not as much as the heated pool, yes, they have a heated pool!" explains Mary C. about Ellensburg KOA, noting the structured activities available at developed campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: Visit geological sites with interpretive displays. "Visit the nearby Ginko Petrified Forest state park. Free, nice exhibits, and even some petroglyphs, which my older son especially loved," recommends Corinna B.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Know which utilities exist at each location. "We stayed at the campsite #1 which is adjacent to the boat launch. Given that was winter season, part of the campground is closed yet there were several RVs and a couple of tents in the one open loop," notes Emma A. about Big Pines.
Accessibility: Check for level sites and paved access roads. "Big nice full hook up developed campground. Upper loop is more sage brushy & less manicured lawn than the lower loop," explains Mels about Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Campground.
Reservation windows: Book early for summer stays from May through September. "And if you're a tent camper like me, then you also get the short end of the stick because the walk in sites do not have any shade while most of the RV sites do. Additionally, 90+% are reservable from ~Memorial Day to Labor Day, so don't plan on trying to get lucky unless on a first come first serve sure unless you can get there before 5 pm on a Friday," advises Ryan L.
