Sand Hollow Campground, near Royal City, Washington, is a straightforward spot that caters to those looking for a no-frills camping experience. With sites that come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, it’s perfect for enjoying a campfire under the stars.

The campground is right on the Columbia River, offering easy access for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. Visitors have noted that while the sites are relatively new and well-maintained, they can feel a bit tight, especially for RVs. As one camper mentioned, “Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, and path down to a rocky beach on the Columbia.”

Expect some wind and cooler nights, which can be refreshing but might catch you off guard. There are vault toilets available, but no running water or showers, so plan accordingly. The lack of shade can be a downside, but the beautiful sunsets and stargazing opportunities make up for it.

Located just off the highway, Sand Hollow is a convenient stop for those traveling through the area. It’s also close to attractions like Frenchman Coulee and the Gingko Petrified Forest, making it a great base for exploring the local scenery. Whether you’re just passing through or looking for a simple getaway, this campground has what you need for a solid camping trip.

Popular for its sandy beaches and warm summer weather, Sand Hollow Recreation Area is located less than two miles south of I-90 on the east side of the Columbia River. It features a campground, multiple days-use areas, a designated swimming area, and an abundance of shoreline access.

40 basic campsites (no water/sewer/electric connections)
Tents preferred (site pictures and descriptions here)
Small trailers (less than 20 ft) are permitted if they fit within campsite parking spot
Picnic tables
Fire rings
ADA vault toilets
No potable water
Fee: $15 per night (includes tax)
Checks or cash only for drop-in camping fees

Sand Hollow Campground

Join the fun near Vantage. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Vantage, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Vantage

The Best Camping Near Vantage, Washington

I give this campground 4 stars for being easy and convenient. It's right on the Columbia river and one of the few campgrounds that allow bonfires. Otherwise I'd give it 3 stars for no frills about the location. There isn't any privacy at the campsites due to it being the desert. The stars and moon gazing are excellent! 

Simple and easy

This spot is nice and easy since it's just off of I90\. The Columbia river is beautiful and the best part of this spot. Not much privacy and right next to the freeway but we always feel safe here.

Easy to get to and close to the River!

Dusty. Minimal to no shade. Walk in sites are really tight. Heavy winds at night.  No running water bathrooms. Noise from highway at night is very noticeable. No recycling option. Fire pits but there was a burn ban for wood (charcoal and propane are ok).

  

Bathrooms are much cleaner than most typical public bathrooms with good supply of purell and toilet paper. The car sites seem really new with fresh pavements. Lots and lots of rocks, helpful for holding things down in the strong winds Easy access to River activities (swimming, boating, fishing, rinsing dust off) with short, maintained pathways. Many ADA features: multiple sites are set up for wheelchair access, even some paths are wheelchair accessible.

Beautiful Dust

We arrived on a Thursday - only two other sites were taken.  We had site 8 - highly recommend.  It was REALLY windy at night, which made mosquitos not bad and the high temps feel downright pleasant.  The campsites are in great condition (gravel pad, picnic table) and the water access is great for kids - rocky coastline and calm water. We caught one fish and our 9 yr old caught minnows in a lagoon. Toilet (no water) was clean and serviced daily. FILLED UP on Saturday and we took off (too much noise).  The campsites have no shade, but by the water there are trees. Rocks at the water entrance are slippery - recommend some kind of water shoes or sneakers you want to get wet. Beautiful sunset and INSANE stargazing.

Hot, windy, and delightful

This campground seems almost brand new. There are no hookups and no water on site, though there are several vault toilets. 

Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, and path down to a rocky beach on the Columbia. The sites are definitely not large enough for most RVs, so I'd consider this tent or van camping only. 

There's not much shade at the sites, but you can get out of the sun near the river. 

The biggest drawback to this spot is that it's just of the highway. You can and will hear air brakes all night. For me, staying on the Columbia was worth it.

Right on the river... And the highway

Because of location it gets very windy and very cold at night. No coverage but good if you need to stop and rest for a night. 

Good for a night 

Nice campground, newly built and very nice quality roads/sites/bathrooms, with a few ADA-accessible sites as well. Not crowded at all toward the end of May. Right off the highway and on the Columbia River, but sadly the brush blocks any view of the water from our campsite. There is a small swimming beach and calm water which would be good for paddle boarding, but no docks or official put-ins. This site is pretty centrally located to some neat stops: Frenchman Coulee, Gingko Petrified Forest, Wanapam Dam, etc. 

Photos of Sand Hollow Campground

Real photos from real campers