The Snake River Campgrounds

These are perfect campgrounds to do our thing: work, kayak, cook, and explore. What the area lacks in trails, it makes up for with water.

Hidden Oasis

As you travel westward up the Columbia Gorge, straddling the state line between Oregon and Washington, you cross the Cascade mountain ridge. The terrain changes dramatically from lush conifer forests and wet weather to a near-treeless desert region. It would be easy to overlook the agricultural fields and undulating hills as less exciting.

There are, however, hidden gems to discover.

 

Hood Park, Charbonneau Park, Fishhook Park

The Snake River winds through the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland and West Richland) region of Washington. Just outside of the cities are three Army Corp of Engineer campgrounds that are situated along the river. Surrounded by orchards, each has full utilities, hot showers, boat facilities, and swim areas. The river itself is quite active with boats of all calibers, from kayaks to mammoth cargo ships. If you are camping in the area between Memorial Day & Labor Day, you should consider reserving a site.

The Trifecta

We like to stay 3 days (or more) at each campground.

Our favorite one is Fishhook but they all offer their own charm. The best sites are directly on the river. The weekdays are delightfully deserted. These are perfect campgrounds to do our thing: work, kayak, cook, and explore. What the area lacks in trails, it makes up for with water.

The Tri-Cities are useful for groceries and that’s about it. But we’re not here for metropolitan pursuits. We’re camping. We’re here for sunsets and campfires, food and experience. Our goal is to return and continue camping up the Snake River into Idaho.