Wanapum State Park

Star4.31
400 reviews
Wanapum State Park
SwimmingSummer Destination
Featured in:RV Camping Washington#1

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

March 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

March 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

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.

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

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

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.

    Best Campsites

    Curated by campers, for campers
    Reveal picks

    Reserving a campsite

    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.
    Hiking
    Fishing
    Swimming
    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

    Trip Planning Tools

    Set an AlertGet notified when sites open upCheck WeatherHistorical weather dataGear for This TripMatched gear recommendationsPacking ListCustomizable checklist

    Reviews

    From Booking Sources
    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...
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    Based on 400 reviews
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    Last updated March 8, 2026
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