Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is located in Mattawa, Washington. The property is a few yards away from the Priest Rapids Trail and runs along the Columbia River and Priest Rapids Lake in Central Washington. Mattawa is a desert climate with very little rain and many hot days. The warm months have an average temperature of ninety degrees, while colder months reach the fifties. The riverside location of Priest Rapids Recreation Area is convenient for visitors during warmer months to cool down in the nearby river. Some snowstorms will sweep through the area, but the lake never freezes over in the Mattawa area.
The Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is bordered by tall trees for privacy. There is fencing surrounding three sides of the park, and gravel parking areas make it possible to park campers and unload equipment. Paved walkways and stairways lead to the lakeside for ease of access. The city of Mattawa has a population of around six thousand residents. The city is one of Washington's most rural communities. Most businesses throughout the city are agriculturally based. The Wahluke Slope AVA is a wine vineyard just outside of Mattawa and is a popular attraction among out-of-town visitors. The business flourishes in the dry climate where vineyards make it possible to produce a variety of chardonnay, merlot, sauvignon, and cabernet. There are multiple wildlife sanctuaries and a heritage center within the city boundaries.
Priest Rapids Rapids Recreation has fourteen separate RV and tent sites. All fourteen sites can be used to house RVs. However, some are small and unable to accommodate to larger RVs. Instead, smaller sites can be used as tent areas. There is not a store at the campground, but there is a small convenience store and gas station nearby. The property has vault toilets, multiple fire rings, grills, and picnic tables at each site. Because of its close proximity to the Columbia River and Priest Rapids Lake, there are numerous boat launch ramps and paved walkways along the shoreline. Some areas along the river are less rocky; these areas are popular for fishing and the occasional swim. The water in the Columbia River is quite chilly, but a refreshing dip in the shallow areas is typical during the summer months.
Near the Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is a newly developed area with a three-lane boat ramp, a loading dock, and a large parking lot. A three-mile trail weaves through the Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground. The route is designed for beginner hikers with an easy-to-follow pathway, winding through land overlooking the Columbia River and crossing through the desert-like areas and dense forest. The campground's close proximity to the Priest Rapids Trail, Priest Rapids Lake, and Columbia River make it possible for guests to have many things to do without leaving the area.
Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is open year-round. Summers sustain most RV and camping guests due to the warm weather and clear skies. Many of the site's most frequent visitors come from Seattle and neighboring cities in Washington. The campground and surrounding area provide a rural escape for those living in big cities. Most visitors come to spend time on the lake boating, fishing, kayaking, and other water play. Other common places to visit include the Wanapum Heritage Center, Turbine Park, and the Wanapum Recreation Area. Turbine Park has a culture center with bathrooms and a small gift shop. The grassy areas nearby are able to accommodate large group activities and games. The Wanapum Heritage Center showcases Wanapum culture, artifacts, and history. The Hanford Reach National Monument is also a popular wildlife refuge located nearby.
The Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground was created with the purpose of making a space where visitors can utilize the land and water in Central Washington. The creation of boat launches, parking lots, picnic areas, and grassy commons was to aid in creating a comfortable and enjoyable place for visitors to relax. Additionally, the staff strive to maintain clean RV sites and facilities in an effort to reduce any unwanted stress from the guests and their stay.
Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is known for its close proximity to the Priest Rapids Trail, Columbia River, and Priest Rapids Lake. The riverside location makes it convenient for fishermen and those wishing to take boats out on the lake for watersports. Located outside of Mattawa, the rural location allows a getaway for city residents and visitors from neighboring states and colder climates.
The environment of the property is primarily family-friendly. The larger camping areas are equipped with a grassy area, gravel walkways, picnic areas, and a fire circle. Many return guests visit the Priest Rapids Recreational Area Campground every year. One guest left this review on TripAdvisor, ''Warm weather, beautiful sunsets, spacious boat launch, and clean grounds.'' The campground is located in Central Washington and is near the Gorge Amphitheatre. The Gorge Amphitheatre is a popular concert venue where a variety of artists perform during the summer. This is a big draw to the campground during the summer months.
The Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground is located on public land and is government-owned. The boat ramps and parking lot were implemented over the past five years, while the area has been used for camping and parking RVs for over fifteen years. The toilets, picnic areas, grassy lawns, fencing, and gravel walkways were added over time. Anne Chamberlain and Brad Harshman are the current government employees running the Priest Rapids Recreation Area Campground. They both have over eight years of experience in the recreation business.
304 Desert Aire Dr. N
Mattawa, Washington 99349
United States
Campground
Public land
Government
