The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Mattawa, Washington

Riverside camping in Mattawa puts you right next to the Columbia’s winding banks, with over 160 options tailored for campers who want water in their backyard. You’ll find spots where you can cast a line, jump in for a swim, or watch herons glide over the current. Sites like Masabaje Camp (178 reviews), Buck Meadows (99 reviews), and River's Edge Escape & Fish Camp (70 reviews) are favorites for easy water access and a laid-back atmosphere. Most sites include basics like toilets, showers, and campfire rings—no need to rough it unless you want to. Nightly prices average $50, but you can snag a riverside spot for as low as $30. Pack your rod, bring your binoculars, and get ready for days filled with fishing, wildlife-watching, and cool river swims.

92% (544)

Top-rated campgrounds

Riverside camping in Mattawa puts you right next to the Columbia’s winding banks, with over 160 options tailored for campers who want water in their backyard. You’ll find spots where you can cast a line, jump in for a swim, or watch herons glide over the current. Sites like Masabaje Camp (178 reviews), Buck Meadows (99 reviews), and River's Edge Escape & Fish Camp (70 reviews) are favorites for easy water access and a laid-back atmosphere. Most sites include basics like toilets, showers, and campfire rings—no need to rough it unless you want to. Nightly prices average $50, but you can snag a riverside spot for as low as $30. Pack your rod, bring your binoculars, and get ready for days filled with fishing, wildlife-watching, and cool river swims.

92% (544)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Masabaje Camp

96%

(233)

44mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ellensburg, WA

Purchased in 2013 after a fire came through the area. We've spent the last 7 years regenerating the land, planting trees, building our house and collecting places for people to rest their heads. Masabaje is the first two letters of each of our parents names (Margaret, Sandy, Barry, Jerry). We offer five listings - a converted schoolbus, an Airstream, retro trailer, truck bed glamp pod and tent spot. Meet Birdy, a semi-converted Blue Bird school bus with a comfortable queen mattress, couch, two recliners, dry kitchen, cooking utensils, and camp stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 4 minute walk). Birdy sits at "Top Pond", farthest from the house in a super quiet and private spot. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). There is no electricity available in Birdy. Devices can be charged up at the house. There is also no heater in Birdy, overnight temperatures in September and October can dip down into the mid-low 40's or lower. Meet Tin Man, we found him after he had been in an accident. We bandaged him up and he became the first place to sleep when we bought our empty land. He has a comfortable double mattress, couch, chair, kitchen, cooking utensils, and two burner stove. There is access to a toilet, shower and sink (clean up area) in back room of main house (about a 30 second walk). Tin Man sits on our driveway round-a-bout and is closest to the house. You must bring your own bedding or sleeping bags, pillows, etc. (available here for an additional fee). Ellensburg is known for its wind and our land is just down from a wind farm. We cannot control the wind, but Birdy sits in a pretty wind protected oasis. Masabaje is a clothing optional space. We are less than 2 hours from Seattle, 1 hour to Yakima wine country, 40 minutes to Vantage, 40 minutes to Leavenworth, 50 minutes to Snoqualmie Pass, 15 minutes to Ellensburg, 25 minutes to Roslyn, 25 minutes to Yakima River Canyon for floating and hiking, and so much more!

2. Buck Meadows

99%

(208)

45mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Thorp, WA

This property has been in the Buck family for 70+ years and has always been a great place for our family to come and work, relax and enjoy ourselves. We decided to start sharing this beautiful land with people wanting to “get away from it all”. This land has great sentimental value and is shared with an abundance of wildlife. Please enjoy your stay but respect our family home.

3. 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.

4. Yakima Sportsman State Park

50%

(3)

71 sites · Terrace Heights, Washington

Take the kids birdwatching at this isolated gem in the Eastern Washington desert.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

90%

(104)

3358 sites · Marblemount, Washington

The largest national forest in the Pacific Northwest is a vast and varied haven for recreation.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Pirate River

98%

(62)

39mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Richland, WA

Grassy area with trees on the bank of the Yakima River. Quiet and peaceful. Fully functional air conditioned restrooms. Private outdoor shower. Complimentary coffee and hot chocolate station on site. Small campfires are allowed all year in designated spots. There are mosquitos so be prepared for that! During the summer months, the Yakima River is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, float tubes, or just swimming. Catfish and bass are the main fish here and fishing is good most of the time. Here's a video to help you arrive! https://youtu.be/ZBGlRC84p7g?si=UX2YKyVP0YEft4GF

7. The Hay Farm

95%

(32)

32mi from Mattawa · 5 sites · RVs · Ellensburg, WA

Located on a small active hay farm these RV sites are placed in a beautiful setting along the creek with power and water hookups. Enjoy the calmness of the country, yet still be close to all the downtown activities. We also offer RV Rental Via Outdoorsy.com Search Sonic 211VDB Ellensburg WA for details and booking fees. Large area for ease of backing into RV spaces. 50 Amp electricity and fresh water hook-ups are Included in the daily price! On-site Private creek fishing, along with public fishing at the Fiorito ponds. Easy walk to the Fiorito ponds for a nice morning or evening walk, bike ride, fishing, and paddle boarding access. There is a communal fire pit with firewood provided. (Burn-ban permitting/weather permitting)

8. River's Edge Escape & Fish Camp

94%

(87)

44mi from Mattawa · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Ellensburg, WA

With 300ft of private waterfront river access across 4 acres, River's Edge provides easy access to the best fly fishing in Washington state. There are endless opportunities to relax, fish and enjoy a quiet stretch of the Yakima River. Complete with 4 RV hook-ups offering 30/50 AMP + water service and 4 tent only sites, you can enjoy this slice of unique Washington wonderland with your whole family. Rustic and remote, you will feel instant peace and relaxation as you arrive. Just over an hour east of Seattle sits our beautiful property. It's an easy and beautiful drive on I-90 all the way, then a short drive to the property. Being on the east side of the Cascades, this campground is almost always sunnier than the city, warmer in the summer, and snowier in the winter. But the riverfront is where the true magic is. Fly fishing and bird watching heaven! Many hours have been spent relaxing in, on, or near the river with friends, family, and dogs. It's always changing, always alive, and that's why we love it. If you need supplies, groceries or a restaurant, the town of Ellensburg is just 13 minutes away, and the fun town of Cle Elum/Suncadia resort with its restaurants and the Swiftwater Winery, is about 22 minutes away. Remote yet connected! Our property amenities include a shared, central fire pit & gazebo/table/chairs for all guests to use. There is a flush toilet available on site (however no shower or laundry access). Our site is intentionally rustic and we can't wait to share it with others who love being outdoors with nature. Suggested Packing list: River shoes, bug spray, sun hat, suncreen, camping chairs, binoculars, layers (it can go from chilly to blazing and back again), a good book, board games, s'more supplies, floaties/life jackets, leashes/poop bags.

9. Eagle Rock Resort Campground

83%

(56)

49mi from Mattawa · 5 sites · Tents · Naches, WA

This property has so much to offer. Located on the banks of the Naches river and views of the surrounding mountains. Onsite there is a grocery store, restaurant, lounge, gas station and so much more. Nearby there is hiking, fishing, hunting, jeeping, snow mobiling, etc. Always something to do at the Eagle Rock Resort.

10. 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.

11. Currier Creek Camp

96%

(23)

38mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · RVs · Ellensburg, WA

Located near the gateway to Cascades, Currier Creek Camp has easy access to all your favorite activities. 50 min. from the George Amphitheater, 30 min. from Cle Elum, 65 min from Leavenworth, and hundreds of hiking, biking, and other trails. Come camp and enjoy the Ellensburg rodeo, or visit your student at CWU. This site has fresh water hook-up and can accommodate most any size RV. $10 off Winter Stays With Code: EASRMJAZ

12. 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).

13. RV on the River Unit A - Gorge

63%

(4)

24mi from Mattawa · 3 sites · RVs · Quincy, WA

Riverfront RV Spot in Sunland (RV Not Included) No tents or campers. Must have an RV with working bathroom to stay here. This is an RV spot to park an RV. Enjoy Sunland and our riverfront property. Perfect for relaxing getaways or concert weekends! 🛠️ Site Features: Full hookups: Water & power dump available 1 RV per spot 🚫 Important Notes: No on-site bathroom — RV required No cars allowed (Limited parking may be available by special request) 🏞️ Location Perks: Walk to the park, community store, and the popular Riverside Pizza Great spot for concert-goers! 🚐 Need a Ride? Local shuttles available by appointment To and from the Gorge approx $40 pp per day ➕ Need More Space? We have up to 3 RV spots available (Check out our other listings – subject to availability)

14. Bighorn Campground

30mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · Ellensburg, WA

Discover the unparalleled charm of Bighorn Campground, nestled in the stunning Yakima Canyon. This unique destination offers an exceptional opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. With exclusive private tent camping sites shaded by towering trees, you can enjoy a serene environment while having convenient access to the picturesque riverside. Bighorn Campground is designed for those seeking a safe and secure getaway, featuring a gated community that ensures your peace of mind. Here, you can partake in exciting outdoor activities, explore scenic views, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Please note that all campsites at Bighorn Campground are designated for dry camping only, meaning there are no water, power, or sewer facilities available. Embrace the simplicity of camping and the beauty of the great outdoors. Book your stay at Bighorn Campground today and experience the tranquility that awaits you!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

15. 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!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Mattawa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Eagle Rock Resort Campground

83%

(56)

49mi from Mattawa · 5 sites · Tents · Naches, WA

This property has so much to offer. Located on the banks of the Naches river and views of the surrounding mountains. Onsite there is a grocery store, restaurant, lounge, gas station and so much more. Nearby there is hiking, fishing, hunting, jeeping, snow mobiling, etc. Always something to do at the Eagle Rock Resort.

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.

Currier Creek Camp

96%

(23)

38mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · RVs · Ellensburg, WA

Located near the gateway to Cascades, Currier Creek Camp has easy access to all your favorite activities. 50 min. from the George Amphitheater, 30 min. from Cle Elum, 65 min from Leavenworth, and hundreds of hiking, biking, and other trails. Come camp and enjoy the Ellensburg rodeo, or visit your student at CWU. This site has fresh water hook-up and can accommodate most any size RV. $10 off Winter Stays With Code: EASRMJAZ

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).

RV on the River Unit A - Gorge

63%

(4)

24mi from Mattawa · 3 sites · RVs · Quincy, WA

Riverfront RV Spot in Sunland (RV Not Included) No tents or campers. Must have an RV with working bathroom to stay here. This is an RV spot to park an RV. Enjoy Sunland and our riverfront property. Perfect for relaxing getaways or concert weekends! 🛠️ Site Features: Full hookups: Water & power dump available 1 RV per spot 🚫 Important Notes: No on-site bathroom — RV required No cars allowed (Limited parking may be available by special request) 🏞️ Location Perks: Walk to the park, community store, and the popular Riverside Pizza Great spot for concert-goers! 🚐 Need a Ride? Local shuttles available by appointment To and from the Gorge approx $40 pp per day ➕ Need More Space? We have up to 3 RV spots available (Check out our other listings – subject to availability)

Bighorn Campground

30mi from Mattawa · 6 sites · Ellensburg, WA

Discover the unparalleled charm of Bighorn Campground, nestled in the stunning Yakima Canyon. This unique destination offers an exceptional opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. With exclusive private tent camping sites shaded by towering trees, you can enjoy a serene environment while having convenient access to the picturesque riverside. Bighorn Campground is designed for those seeking a safe and secure getaway, featuring a gated community that ensures your peace of mind. Here, you can partake in exciting outdoor activities, explore scenic views, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Please note that all campsites at Bighorn Campground are designated for dry camping only, meaning there are no water, power, or sewer facilities available. Embrace the simplicity of camping and the beauty of the great outdoors. Book your stay at Bighorn Campground today and experience the tranquility that awaits you!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Mattawa

50%

(3)

Yakima Sportsman Campground

28mi from Mattawa · 71 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yakima Sportsman State Park

Indian Creek Campground

38mi from Mattawa · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Windy Point Campground

48mi from Mattawa · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Jessica

October 2025

21 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hay Farm

My husband and I are doing a cross country trip with our dog in an RV and this was a great first stop! Plenty of parking space and great practice for my husband driving the RV for the first time. The area was quiet and the walking path was perfect for our dog.

Trudy

October 2025

20 ft Class B

1 night at The Hay Farm

So many stars! Quiet and fields and big black cows! Easy to find! Perfect for our needs.

T

Tara

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Masabaje Camp

Staying in Birdy was such a great experience! It’s set up so comfortably & it was very private. The dogs were so sweet (with us & our pup). The town is also a perfect setting for a little day adventure. We would certainly stay here again.

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!

J

Jeremy

September 2025

25 ft Class A

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Buck Meadows

Such a beautiful place, very well maintained and Brynn is very friendly and welcoming!

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.

G

Greg

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pirate River

Great option when in Richland. Roger was a terrific host.

D

Dina

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pirate River

We loved our tent camping experience here — the photos don’t do it justice! The site felt very private, and the trees around our campsite provided great shade while we were sleeping, cooking, and even sheltering from some light rain. The campsite is well equipped with everything you could need: bathrooms, shower, picnic table and a fire pit. We especially enjoyed the abundance of birds along the river — their songs and the sounds of wildlife at night were so calming. We’re very grateful for this experience. Thank you, Roger!

A

Austin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pirate River

The owner was very nice, and had a lot of extra amenities available for you.

Marissa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Pirate River

The spot was amazing and well taken care of. We had a wonderful family time and the hosts were super helpful with anything we had questions about or needed. Would definitely go back again. My kids are still talking about Tina and how our family needs a pug as well.

Gerald

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Eagle Rock Resort Campground

Unassuming. Cheap. In the heart of beautiful wilderness. Nice people.

J

Jack

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Pirate River

Been going out there for a month or so. I love this spot! Roger is awesome!

J

Jack

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Pirate River

Love the place I’ll be back next week. Roger got me up when you have a Chance! I’ll be back next week! Love you place!

Ione

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Masabaje Camp

Beautiful, quiet spot. A perfect overnight for me on my way to Seattle. Having access to a fridge, shower, and bathroom really elevated the experience. The shelter over the tent was a treat, too, and kept my tent totally dry from a surprise summer storm. The dogs were so sweet! Would stay again.

Another site. Super secluded. Beautiful!

Erika

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Buck Meadows

We love Buck Meadows and have been camping here for years. The site is private and picturesque yet located quite close to town. The sites are ready-to-go with a fire pit, table, garbage, and benches/chairs, so it is easy to roll in with your tent and enjoy the space immediately. Brynn is always very receptive and helpful, and we can't wait to come back again!

Dacia

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Group trip

4 nights at The Hay Farm

This was a perfect spot to enjoy the Ellensburg Rodeo! Shane was an awesome host and the camping area was really nice. We will definitely be back!

e

ecspmog

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pirate River

Lovely host, with nicest dogs. Shower toilet and amenities top notch. Nice huge grass lawn.

Bob

August 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pirate River

Really great spot on the Yakima River! Roger was amazing host and his property s beautiful! Restroom was SUPER clean and the new shower area was awesome to clean up, or cool down on a hot day.

K

Kiana

August 2025

3 nights at Buck Meadows

We loved camping in Boxcar Annie! It had all the modern conveniences and was sparkling clean. The land was well maintained, quiet, and a short walk from the river. The outdoor patio and propane fire pit was a wonderful surprise and put to use nightly. The host was very responsive and so nice. Would definitely come here again!