Wanapum State Park

Star4.31
400 reviews
Wanapum State Park
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

640 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

55 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Washington State Parks site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Wanapum State Park
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.31

Satisfactory

Based on 400 reviews

335 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshowersrestrooms

Some mention

noise

"Reviewers praise the park for clean facilities, excellent Columbia River views, spacious full‑hookup sites, and easy river/boat access. Common negatives are strong, gusty winds, summer heat and limited shade, occasional highway noise, and recommendations against tent camping in exposed conditions."

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Campground Map

Wanapum State Park

Wanapum State Park

46.9041, -119.9899

Easy access from Interstate 90; park is just off I‑90 near Vantage.
Nearby supplies
Chevron convenience/gas station nearby (Vantage) for basic supplies

Best Time to Camp at Wanapum State Park

Summer here means serious heat and wind—this is true high-desert camping where temperatures can soar past 105°F and gusty winds regularly sweep across the open terrain at 15-28 mph or more. Shade is limited at many sites, so plan accordingly with awnings, plenty of water, and secure tie-downs for tents and gear. Spring and fall offer gentler conditions, but whenever you visit, come prepared for the elements and you'll be rewarded with uncrowded sites and stunning sunsets over the water.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, boating and RV camping despite high heat and strong winds.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Likely milder temps and good water access make fall very pleasant and less crowded.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 23% in WA

Spring likely offers comfortable weather and active river recreation before peak heat.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Winter camping possible but water activities limited; no winter-sport infrastructure.

Planning Tips

    About Wanapum State Park

    Perched on a bluff above the shimmering expanse of Wanapum Lake, this high-desert oasis welcomes you with sweeping river views and the raw beauty of Washington's shrub-steppe country. RV travelers especially love the generous full-hookup sites and easy access to sandy beaches below, though the Columbia River Gorge winds and summer sun remind you that this is authentic desert camping—bring your sunscreen and stake down your gear.
    Developed state park campground with a mix of RV and tent sites; many sites are full‑hookup pull‑throughs and some interior grassy sites suit tents or smaller rigs. Not described as primitive camping or cabin lodging in available sources.
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    Amenities available

    Showers
    Potable water
    Electricity hookups
    Flush toilets
    Picnic tables
    Water hookups

    Activities you can enjoy

    Activities center on the Columbia River/Wanapum Lake — swimming, boating, fishing, and scenic viewing are primary draws. Nearby interpretive trails at Ginkgo Petrified Forest provide short hikes and geology/natural history interpretive opportunities.
    HikingNearby Trees of Stone interpretive trail (~1 mile) and Ginkgo Petrified Forest trails and exhibits offer short hikes and interpretive viewing of petrified wood and geologic features.
    FishingFishing along the Columbia River/Wanapum Lake is noted as an activity available from the park and shoreline.
    SwimmingA sandy beach and a designated swimming/wading area below the campground are frequently mentioned; reviewers note swimming and wading are common but advise caution with river currents.
    Boating
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsStrong winds (capable of shaking RVs and making tent camping hazardous), heat/exposure, occasional falling debris from shade trees, and rattlesnakes have been reported or warned about in the area. Use caution when swimming and be aware of river currents near the recreation area.

    Weather at Wanapum State Park

    Reviews

    4.3
    400 reviews
    Satisfactory
    Satisfactory
    Wanapum State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviewers praise the park for clean facilities, excellent Columbia River views, spacious full‑hookup sites, and easy river/boat access. Common negatives are strong, gusty winds, summer heat and limited shade, occasional highway noise, and recommendations against tent camping in exposed conditions.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 400 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Consistently noted positives: scenic river views, clean restrooms and showers, spacious sites (including long pull‑throughs), beach and boat launch access, and generally well‑maintained grounds.
    Based on 400 reviews

    Common Concerns

    • **Wind:** Repeatedly cited as a main downside; some campers experienced 15–20 mph winds for extended periods, making it challenging for tents and awnings.[1][2] • **Heat and limited shade:** Summer...
    Show more
    Based on 400 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Reserve ahead in summer; choose back/outer loop pull‑throughs for river views (sites 6, 10–17 often recommended); secure tents and awnings against frequent winds; bring shade and water for hot summer...
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    Based on 400 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "Very clean. Wind was roaring."; "Beautiful and WINDY."; "Definitely don’t recommend tent camping."; "Clean and quiet campground with a nice beach, showers, and hookups."
    Based on 400 reviews

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    Last updated February 2, 2026
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