Hood Park
4.03246 reviewsBURBANK, WA 99323, USA
Hood Park
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $30 to $35 for standard electric sites and $110 for the group shelter. Out-of-season booking is unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of Lake Wallula in eastern Washington, Hood Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront camping and endless recreation. This beloved campground serves as your gateway to adventure, where days are filled with fishing for trophy walleye, launching boats into crystal-clear waters, hiking scenic trails, and cooling off with refreshing swims. Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or an extended stay, Hood Park delivers the quintessential Pacific Northwest camping experience with a warm, high-desert twist.
Hood Park offers accommodations for tent camping, RV camping, and group shelters. Sites are equipped with electricity but lack water and sewer hookups.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history was made – Hood Park sits near one of the most significant locations in American exploration history. Just a stone's throw away at what is now Sacajawea State Park, the legendary Lewis and Clark expedition made camp at the dramatic confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers. As you explore the area, you're literally following in the footsteps of these intrepid explorers who first mapped this rugged landscape over two centuries ago, adding a profound sense of connection to the American frontier story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of eastern Washington's seasons at Hood Park, where each time of year paints a different picture. Summer brings intense heat that can soar above 100°F during July and August – perfect for water activities but requiring plenty of shade and hydration. Spring awakens the landscape with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, while early fall offers golden days ideal for hiking and fishing. Late summer visitors should note that the warm weather brings out local wildlife, including harmless but numerous spiders and earwigs that share this natural habitat.
ElevationSpecific elevation information for Hood Park is not currently available. The campground sits at river level along Lake Wallula, providing easy water access and gentle terrain suitable for all camping styles.
Natural Features and SceneryHood Park's landscape offers a stunning tapestry of natural beauty that changes with every glance. Towering mature trees provide welcome shade canopies over emerald grass meadows, creating perfect spots for picnics and relaxation. The star attraction remains the sparkling expanse of Lake Wallula, where water meets sky in endless blue horizons. From your campsite, watch golden sunrises paint the water, observe waterfowl skimming the surface, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding high desert hills that frame this aquatic oasis in eastern Washington's dramatic terrain.
Geological RegionHood Park occupies a fascinating geological setting along Lake Wallula, a magnificent reservoir created by the engineering marvel of McNary Lock and Dam on the mighty Mid-Columbia River. This convergence of human ingenuity and natural forces has transformed the ancient river canyon into a 38-mile-long recreational paradise. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where basalt cliffs and rolling hills reveal the volcanic history of the Columbia River Basin, creating a dramatic backdrop for your camping adventure in this unique corner of eastern Washington.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHood Park includes accessible sites and pathways, though there are no specific mentions regarding scooters or other mobility aids for disabled campers.
Sites SizeCampground offers generally spacious sites, though site-specific reviews indicate variability. Some sites are especially tight for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy; some are widely spaced while others are noted as being closely clustered. Shaded areas provide some screening.
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites with less exposure to the lake to avoid bugs and geese droppings.
Best CampsitesSites near the waterfront, such as #50 and #63, are often praised for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Individual sites have varying guest limits.
Groups
The group picnic shelter accommodates larger gatherings and includes electric hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized into loops near either the waterfront or shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 through September 1 during peak season. Reservations start June 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, phone apps, or contact centers.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability isn't explicitly stated; reservations are recommended due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified after arrival through self-service. Changes incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations subtract the first night's fee. Day-use fees are forfeited if canceled within 14 days of arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Hood Park can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The nearby McNary National Wildlife Refuge provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature exploration. However, seasonal challenges such as spider infestations and goose droppings may detract from certain activities.
Hiking
The park and adjacent McNary National Wildlife Refuge offer nature trails suitable for casual hiking. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with salmon and steelhead noted as key catches in Lake Wallula.Swimming
Swimming is available, though water quality concerns due to algae and geese droppings in certain seasons are noted by users.Boating
Boating is supported by a dedicated boat ramp for campers. The park's location along the Snake and Columbia Rivers provides ample opportunities for watercraft activities.Wildlife viewing
The adjacent McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a highlight for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, with opportunities to see migrating waterfowl, eagles, and shorebirds.Beach activities
Beach activities are available, though seasonal geese droppings and algae may detract from the experience. Life jackets are available at the roped-off swimming area.Winter Activities
No winter activities are noted as the park is typically closed during colder months.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted unless a fire ban is in effect. Visitors are advised to buy firewood locally.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSpider infestations are significant in late summer. Geese droppings in the swim area may pose hygiene concerns. Sloped tent sites limit setup options.
Active alertsRecurring spider infestations and power outages during peak season have been reported.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Pasco, WA, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments (~20 minutes).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 1.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are noted as well-maintained. Some reviews highlight the cleanliness of the park and its systematic waste management practices.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Lake Wallula and the Snake River. Swim area is available.
Common complaintsSpiders, geese droppings, and noise from nearby industrial areas and highways are frequent complaints.
HostHosts vary in demeanor, with some being described as helpful and others overly strict.
Campground Map
BURBANK, WA 99323, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pasco, Washington, take Highway 12 east. After crossing the Snake River Bridge, take the next exit and continue to State Route 124. The park entrance is on the left just after the roundabout.
The park is accessible via Highway 12 and State Route 124. Roads leading to the campground are paved and well-maintained.Nearby places
Pasco, WA (~15 miles, ~20 minutes)
Kennewick, WA (~20 miles, ~25 minutes)
Richland, WA (~25 miles, ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Pasco, WA (~15 miles), which has grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.0
246 reviews
Hood Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hood Park are highly polarized, with some praising the park's cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly staff while others highlight severe spider infestations, geese droppings, and noise from nearby industrial areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 246 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the park's clean facilities, well-maintained grounds, spacious sites, and shaded areas provided by mature trees. Free showers and electricity hookups are noted as valuable amenities.
Based on 246 reviewsCommon Concerns
Numerous reviews highlight issues such as spider infestations, geese droppings, noise pollution from nearby factories and highways, tight site layouts, and occasional rude or unhelpful staff....
Based on 246 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray and avoiding sites near the water during late summer due to spider issues. Using earplugs to offset noise from nearby industrial areas is also suggested. Early...
Based on 246 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spider infestations and geese droppings are noted mainly during summer months. Early-season openings sometimes experience maintenance delays with electricity and water systems, which frustrate...
Based on 246 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes from users include: "SPIDERS EVERYWHERE!!! And not just a few, I mean ALOT!" (James L.), "Beautiful park along the Snake River" (Suzy D.), "Park staff was very friendly and respectful....
Based on 246 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback varies: Site 68 is frequently mentioned for extreme spider infestations, while site 33 is praised for its spacious layout and shade. Site 56 offers great views of the water but...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are generally appreciated, though specific feedback from disabled users is sparse beyond concerns about scooter usability.
Based on 246 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies require leashes at all times. Some users expressed frustration with loose pets, while others noted the park's dog-friendly areas and river access for cooling off.
Based on 246 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025