The best desert campgrounds near Mattawa, Washington

Camping in Mattawa’s desert puts you right where the Columbia Basin’s bare cliffs meet sagebrush flats. With over 190 desert camp spots, you’ll find everything from wide-open gravel pads to sites tucked behind basalt outcrops. Average nights run $55, but you can snag a basic spot for $30. Bring your dog—most campgrounds are pet friendly. Showers and toilets show up at plenty of sites, but double-check before you book. Fishing, climbing, and wildlife-watching are the main draws. If you want a local favorite, Whimsy Rock Homestead (76 reviews) puts you close to open sky and boulders. For even quieter terrain, sagebrush scablands (11 reviews) and Flying Z Farm (6 reviews) keep you away from the crowds. Expect red sunsets, distant thunder, and more jackrabbits than people.

99% (101)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping in Mattawa’s desert puts you right where the Columbia Basin’s bare cliffs meet sagebrush flats. With over 190 desert camp spots, you’ll find everything from wide-open gravel pads to sites tucked behind basalt outcrops. Average nights run $55, but you can snag a basic spot for $30. Bring your dog—most campgrounds are pet friendly. Showers and toilets show up at plenty of sites, but double-check before you book. Fishing, climbing, and wildlife-watching are the main draws. If you want a local favorite, Whimsy Rock Homestead (76 reviews) puts you close to open sky and boulders. For even quieter terrain, sagebrush scablands (11 reviews) and Flying Z Farm (6 reviews) keep you away from the crowds. Expect red sunsets, distant thunder, and more jackrabbits than people.

99% (101)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

93%

(14)

36mi from Mattawa · 1 site · Lodging · Yakima, WA

This 1950s picker's cabin is located in Naches Heights among orchards and vineyards. Cowiche Canyon and hiking trails adjacent. Close to White Pass and the Tieton, Naches and Yakima rivers. The cabin is part of our local agricultural history. It was built by my grandfather to house migrant workers during apple picking season and that is how it was used until the late 1980s. It is not fancy, but it is cozy. Filled with books from local authors (Raymond Carver, Justice William O'Douglas, etc) and on local topics including tribal and labor history. Goats, alpacas, chickens on site. Free range cats. Wineries next door. Brewery closeby. Close to town but peaceful and quiet. Host is a bioregional herbalist and can offer advice for seasonal foraging options. You are likely to see us working in the shop and on the grounds. We will also do our best to give you your privacy. Composting toilet, refrigerator, cold potable water sink available outdoors.

2. Whimsy Rock Homestead

96%

(139)

41mi from Mattawa · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Moses Lake, WA

Learn more about this land: Horses Welcome with no extra charge (bring your own corral). Plenty of space to ride. Come and enjoy the big sky and open spaces on our Central Washington homestead. From your campsite, you will be able to sit and enjoy the breathtaking sunsets and view of the Cascade Mountains to the West. At night you will only need to look up into the sky to clearly spot millions of stars. You will also be given farm fresh eggs to enjoy with a meal. On our homestead, you will see chickens and goats. If in season, you can explore the garden. Enjoy the walking trail right on our property or ride your bikes. Kids will have plenty of room to run, play, and picnic. Children are also welcome to set up their own tent for a night of parent-free fun. Make sure to check out all the extras we offer by clicking on a campsite for those details. From feeding and cuddling goats to star gazing with cocoa. There is plenty of space if you bring your equestrian friends with you. Just bring your portable corral with you. :) With a short drive, you will find seasonal hunting, fishing, biking, hiking (Beezley Hill) , lakes, golf, mini golf, water park, bowling, and a good selection of restaurants. There are also two Walmarts nearby for any of your needs. A little farther and you will find natural pools at Potholes State Park, Soap Lake, Coulee Dam, and Lake Lenore Caves. Interesting fact: Our homestead is located on the McConihe Flats. 1200 years ago the Sinkiuse Indians would meet on the McConihe Flats and trade. They would also collect things along the shore of the lake such, as duck eggs and reeds, which are still around today. We are conveniently located between Moses Lake and Ephrata Washington. Only 12 minutes from either town where you can find Walmart, other stores, and resturants for all your needs.

3. Camp Cowiche - Orchard Getaway

100%

(6)

39mi from Mattawa · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cowiche, WA

Explore the abundance of offerings at our site! In addition to our tents and vintage Aristocrat camper, we host events, providing you with indoor and outdoor spaces to suit your preferences. Dine on the patio, engage in card games within your designated space, relax in the hammock, or swing to your heart's content while enjoying views of the Eastern slopes of the Cascades. Each space comes equipped with a firepit stocked with plenty of wood. Additionally, a flat-top grill and BBQ are available for your culinary adventures. The farmhouse provides convenient access to restrooms and showers. At our site, we tailor every experience to be unique and centered around our guests. Situated close to hiking, fishing, wineries, breweries, restaurants, and nightlife, there's something for everyone. Guests will enjoy full access to all outdoor spaces, including leisurely walks among the orchards for a truly immersive experience.

4. Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

93%

(7)

50 sites · Vantage, Washington

A petrified forest awaits the geologically curious at this state park and campgrounds.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Potholes State Park

50%

(4)

121 sites · Cascade Valley, Washington

Explore 6,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on ancient pothole lakes

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Tiny Home & Bell Tent Village

100%

(1)

37mi from Mattawa · 5 sites · Lodging · Naches, WA

With just under 200 sq. ft. of cozy indoor space and 550 sq. ft. of outdoor living on our 35-acre estate, this is the perfect getaway. Unwind in the cast iron tub, sleep soundly in the loft & enjoy the comfort of heated floors. Step outside to the Trex deck patio, dip into the 8-ft. stock tank pool, or simply relax in nature’s embrace. Ample parking is available, with options for Glamping add-ons for extra guests.

7. Sagebrush Ridge

44mi from Mattawa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ephrata, WA

Escape to 40 acres of raw, undeveloped mountain desert land offering total peace and wide-open skies. This off-grid retreat is perfect for campers looking to disconnect and experience nature in its purest form. With no water or sewer on-site, it's a true primitive camping experience — bring your own supplies and enjoy the quiet beauty of the land. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises and end your day with incredible sunset views over the high desert landscape. Whether you're stargazing under a vast, unpolluted sky or simply soaking in the stillness, this land offers a rare sense of solitude. Conveniently located: • 5 minutes from grocery stores • 10 minutes from Soap Lake • 30 minutes from Moses Lake • 35 minutes from The Gorge Amphitheatre — perfect for concert-goers looking for a peaceful place to stay before or after the show Bring your tent, camper, or van and enjoy this beautiful, wide-open space. No frills, just freedom. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended if towing a heavy trailer.

8. Otherwise Farm

100%

(1)

47mi from Mattawa · 1 site · RV · Wenatchee, WA

RV spot up to 40' with hookup for water, septic and power. Located above Wenatchee with open vistas of the Cascades. Nearest neighbor 1/4 mile away. Wenatchee is 12 miles away, 35 miles to the Gorge Amphitheater, 30 miles to Leavenworth and 45 miles to Lake Chelan. This is an farming area with cherry orchards 200 feet from the site. It is busy during cherry harvest (4th of July through end of July) with regular chemical sprays being applied by our neighbors from April through September so if you are sensitive to agricultural chemicals this site is not recommended. Also be advised we're on top of a mountain and can get quite breezy at times. Pets are welcome but should be supervised due to predators (primarily coyotes and various birds of prey). And the chickens, I have a friend raising chickens on the upper part of the property where they mostly just make routine chicken noises but there are some roosters that seem to be nocturnal which some folks can find annoying. We also have varying numbers of snakes as the weather warms up some years they are more prevalent than others (contact me if you are concerned for a snake report). On the bright side we don't have any wasps or mosquitoes. This site is available once the snow melts and the mud dries up, typically mid-March until it begins freezing on a regular basis which varies but not much past mid October. This spot is also available for longer term rentals.

9. Mattawa RV Glamping

100%

(5)

3.1mi from Mattawa · 3 sites · Lodging · Mattawa, WA

Lovely 31 ft RV trailer available. A perfect couple’s camper with a queen size bed, dinette, two comfy chairs, tv, electric fireplace, A/C, kitchen, and bathroom. Dinette converts to an additional twin bed. We’re across from the Columbia River - take a walk for swimming, paddle boarding, or walking along the path. Plenty of room to park your trailer - Priest River Boat Launch is 4 miles away or small boats can launch at Buckshot Public Access (1 miles away).

10. Engevik Point

100%

(1)

38mi from Mattawa · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Moses Lake, WA

There are four (4) - 50 amp and water hook ups on the eastside of our property. One spot has a furnished old trailer sleeps 4. One spot occasionally has a class A on it and it sleeps one couple. The spots are graveled with partial view of the lake. The owners have a private residence on the location and guests are welcome to use the lakefront property. Engevik Point has a dock and water entrance. Guests are welcome to use the grassy area closest to the lake. There are amazing sunsets to watch and wildlife to see. Kayaks are available to rent as extras if the owners are on the property.

11. Sunland Paradise

24mi from Mattawa · 1 site · RV · Quincy, WA

With in 15min of The Gorge Amphitheater. A lot with 2 gravel parking strips on either side with grass between and behind. Each are gated and have full hookups. The neighborhood has a park, river access and a boat launch. A small store and restaurant are also blocks away.

12. Vantage Riverstone

15mi from Mattawa · 112 sites · Vantage, WA

Vantage Riverstone stands out as a premier camping destination in Vantage, Washington, offering a unique blend of tent camping and full RV hookups with both 30 and 50 amp options. This campground is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience, whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the convenience of RV amenities. For guests looking for more spacious accommodations, Vantage Riverstone also features rental houses. Each house is equipped with two to three beds and includes a full kitchen or kitchenette, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the renowned Gorge Amphitheater, Vantage Riverstone is open year-round, providing easy access to a variety of activities. Enjoy concerts, fishing, hunting, hiking, and more, all within minutes of your stay. Come and explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Vantage Riverstone has to offer!

Camper favorites near Mattawa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tiny Home & Bell Tent Village

100%

(1)

37mi from Mattawa · 5 sites · Lodging · Naches, WA

With just under 200 sq. ft. of cozy indoor space and 550 sq. ft. of outdoor living on our 35-acre estate, this is the perfect getaway. Unwind in the cast iron tub, sleep soundly in the loft & enjoy the comfort of heated floors. Step outside to the Trex deck patio, dip into the 8-ft. stock tank pool, or simply relax in nature’s embrace. Ample parking is available, with options for Glamping add-ons for extra guests.

Sagebrush Ridge

44mi from Mattawa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ephrata, WA

Escape to 40 acres of raw, undeveloped mountain desert land offering total peace and wide-open skies. This off-grid retreat is perfect for campers looking to disconnect and experience nature in its purest form. With no water or sewer on-site, it's a true primitive camping experience — bring your own supplies and enjoy the quiet beauty of the land. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises and end your day with incredible sunset views over the high desert landscape. Whether you're stargazing under a vast, unpolluted sky or simply soaking in the stillness, this land offers a rare sense of solitude. Conveniently located: • 5 minutes from grocery stores • 10 minutes from Soap Lake • 30 minutes from Moses Lake • 35 minutes from The Gorge Amphitheatre — perfect for concert-goers looking for a peaceful place to stay before or after the show Bring your tent, camper, or van and enjoy this beautiful, wide-open space. No frills, just freedom. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended if towing a heavy trailer.

Otherwise Farm

100%

(1)

47mi from Mattawa · 1 site · RV · Wenatchee, WA

RV spot up to 40' with hookup for water, septic and power. Located above Wenatchee with open vistas of the Cascades. Nearest neighbor 1/4 mile away. Wenatchee is 12 miles away, 35 miles to the Gorge Amphitheater, 30 miles to Leavenworth and 45 miles to Lake Chelan. This is an farming area with cherry orchards 200 feet from the site. It is busy during cherry harvest (4th of July through end of July) with regular chemical sprays being applied by our neighbors from April through September so if you are sensitive to agricultural chemicals this site is not recommended. Also be advised we're on top of a mountain and can get quite breezy at times. Pets are welcome but should be supervised due to predators (primarily coyotes and various birds of prey). And the chickens, I have a friend raising chickens on the upper part of the property where they mostly just make routine chicken noises but there are some roosters that seem to be nocturnal which some folks can find annoying. We also have varying numbers of snakes as the weather warms up some years they are more prevalent than others (contact me if you are concerned for a snake report). On the bright side we don't have any wasps or mosquitoes. This site is available once the snow melts and the mud dries up, typically mid-March until it begins freezing on a regular basis which varies but not much past mid October. This spot is also available for longer term rentals.

Mattawa RV Glamping

100%

(5)

3.1mi from Mattawa · 3 sites · Lodging · Mattawa, WA

Lovely 31 ft RV trailer available. A perfect couple’s camper with a queen size bed, dinette, two comfy chairs, tv, electric fireplace, A/C, kitchen, and bathroom. Dinette converts to an additional twin bed. We’re across from the Columbia River - take a walk for swimming, paddle boarding, or walking along the path. Plenty of room to park your trailer - Priest River Boat Launch is 4 miles away or small boats can launch at Buckshot Public Access (1 miles away).

Engevik Point

100%

(1)

38mi from Mattawa · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Moses Lake, WA

There are four (4) - 50 amp and water hook ups on the eastside of our property. One spot has a furnished old trailer sleeps 4. One spot occasionally has a class A on it and it sleeps one couple. The spots are graveled with partial view of the lake. The owners have a private residence on the location and guests are welcome to use the lakefront property. Engevik Point has a dock and water entrance. Guests are welcome to use the grassy area closest to the lake. There are amazing sunsets to watch and wildlife to see. Kayaks are available to rent as extras if the owners are on the property.

Sunland Paradise

24mi from Mattawa · 1 site · RV · Quincy, WA

With in 15min of The Gorge Amphitheater. A lot with 2 gravel parking strips on either side with grass between and behind. Each are gated and have full hookups. The neighborhood has a park, river access and a boat launch. A small store and restaurant are also blocks away.

Vantage Riverstone

15mi from Mattawa · 112 sites · Vantage, WA

Vantage Riverstone stands out as a premier camping destination in Vantage, Washington, offering a unique blend of tent camping and full RV hookups with both 30 and 50 amp options. This campground is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience, whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the convenience of RV amenities. For guests looking for more spacious accommodations, Vantage Riverstone also features rental houses. Each house is equipped with two to three beds and includes a full kitchen or kitchenette, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the renowned Gorge Amphitheater, Vantage Riverstone is open year-round, providing easy access to a variety of activities. Enjoy concerts, fishing, hunting, hiking, and more, all within minutes of your stay. Come and explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Vantage Riverstone has to offer!

Public campgrounds near Mattawa

93%

(7)

Wanapum Campground

12mi from Mattawa · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

50%

(4)

Potholes Campground

31mi from Mattawa · 121 sites · Tents, RVs · in Potholes State Park

Stories from the community

Neci

November 2025

6 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Whimsy Rock Homestead

They communicated with us very well, giving clear instructions on how to get there and what to expect. The land was beautiful and we were able to get a good nights rest, as we were just passing through! The out house was cool and clean. We would definitely stay there again!

R

Randy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Engevik Point

Shannon was a great host. The property and view was pretty and peaceful. I look forward to staying there again next year when I return!

S

Steve

October 2025

2 nights at Mattawa RV Glamping

Cozy and clean, great communication with hosts, close to the river. Def recommend.

Ben

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mattawa RV Glamping

Great place to stay for a fishing trip with fam. Maggie was an awesome host. Highly recommend the staying in the camper!

T

Tiffany

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

I really enjoyed the space. This was a halfway point to get to Great Prosser Balloon Festival by 6a Saturday morning. I picked up a Walmart order then straight to the Cathaus. (We didn’t see the cat). I pulled together a little dinner. Maria had some dishes and utensils but I’d brought my own. I went and sat on the covered area overlooking the apple orchard with my dog. The local winery next door had an evening concert going, so even had a little entertainment. The workers cabin was cute. Nothing too fancy or too shabby. The full size bed was cozy. I’m not a huge fan of foam form pillows but at 4a I discovered one of the bunk beds had a fluffy pillow. Too bad I didn’t check around 9p when I turned in. 🙂 My border collie did well. There was ample lighting once dark to see the path to the outhouse. Plenty of books to browse or read if any guest wants to fill downtime. I enjoyed the location and the basket of homemade goodies to purchase. I guess if I had to provide any feedback, it might be to add some fairy lights maybe around the “kitchen” area. Everyone’s opinion will be different. I tend to like just a little light at night, typically in another room. The cabin was pitch dark when lights were out. I had brought some usb fairy lights with me and honestly I should have left them behind as a gift. Maybe I’ll throw my extra string in the mail to Maria. Thanks for the hospitality! Hope I have the opportunity to visit again.

F

Francesco

August 2025

3 nights at Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

Maria is a great host and her place as well! We loved our stay and we would love to come visit again :) (Plus bonus walking distance winery)

M

Maggi

August 2025

With pets

11 nights at Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

Lovely spot nestled in an orchard! I enjoyed the outdoor spaces and the bed was very comfortable. Kind hosts and adorable cats, goats, and alpacas made for a peaceful stay.

C

Cailyn

August 2025

1 night at Tiny Home & Bell Tent Village

Staying in the tiny home was such a wonderful experience! The space is super cute, and the bathtub was a charming little touch. We loved waking up to the beautiful view in the morning—it was the perfect spot to sip tea and take it all in. On top of that, Mary Jo went above and beyond. My friend and I accidentally left our coats behind, and she kindly reached out to let us know before we even realized. She even offered to mail them back so we didn’t have to make the long drive. That thoughtfulness and kindness made our stay feel even more special. Highly recommend!

R

Ren

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

We loved our stay. Rustic, beautiful property, had everything we needed. The piano was a lovely surprise for my partner. Bought some jam from the farm. Friendly communicative host. Lovely all around, can't wait to come back!

K

Kristie

August 2025

3 nights at Mattawa RV Glamping

We rented Maggie's trailer for Watershed weekend and it worked out great. They were very responsive with any questions we had, it was very clean and comfortable. Great location not only from the ampitheater but the river is across the street and the trailer is on a quiet road very peaceful.

s

scott

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

Day trip down the Yakima river was planned, and we needed lodging for Friday night. Most hotels in Yakima are kind of sketchy, and campgrounds were full. We stumbled on this one through HipCamp. Be prepared for a rustic outhouse experience for toilet needs, and running water has three steps for accessing the faucet. (It works but isn't easy.) The cabin is an old pickers shed, and the hosts have made it very comfortable for people needing short term lodging. One double bed, and two bunk beds could sleep 4. Room had a working air conditioner and a microwave, and I believe that a refrigerator outside of the cabin could be used for food storage. (We had our food in an ice chest.) There is a little sitting area that looks out over an orchard, and we enjoyed our evening watching sunset over the orchard. It was quiet and pleasant, but be prepared to get a little dusty sitting out there. Completely worth it. A little tricky to find, but screenshot the directions when Maria sends the message to you. Internet is hard to access from the road, so make sure that your directions are available offline.

J

Joel

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

Quiet and simple, good stop close to the Cascades.

l

luca

July 2025

1 night at Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

cozy and quirky spot! charming little rustic farm cabin. not for those looking for an ultra modern space, but for the romantics like me who love the little thoughtful touches - homemade jams and herbal things for sale, farm cats, a composting toilet, magnet poetry on the outside of the cabin. the air conditioner was effective and basic needs were met in simple ways. would stay again.

C

Cam

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

What a beautiful view and a wonderful sunrise!! Perfect with a three year old, thank you.

Renee

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

What an amazing little orchard getaway! Maria's property is stunning and she has put a lot of thought into making sure everything is comfortable for guests!

G

Gherghel

June 2025

With kids

2 nights at Mattawa RV Glamping

The campsite was quiet and peaceful, offering the perfect escape. The camper was spotless, well-maintained, and had everything we needed right at hand. The cozy interior slept two comfortably, with a comfy bed and a small but functional kitchen for camp meals.Highly recommend this clean, cozy camper for a serene adventure

D

Danny

June 2025

2 nights at Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

I had a really relaxing stay. It’s peaceful and the views are amazing. The cabin had fresh flowers and wild strawberries when I arrived…!! It has lots of other great details like books to read, nice bedding, a good ac unit, and a covered outdoor lounge that faces the sunrise. I would definitely stay again.

S

Shin-Chih

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cowiche Canyon Orchard Cabin-Heated

Nice cozy cabin with electricity and basic supply, the kids love the animals very much!