RV Spotlight: Crow Butte Park

RV spot: Crow Butte Park

Location/distance from Vancouver: Along state Highway 14, 164 miles east of Vancouver. The closest town, Paterson, has very limited services.

Cost/reservations: $40/night with discounts available for veterans. Sites include 50/30 amp electric, water and sewer. Reserve online at crowbutte.com or call 509-940-7326.

Why go: This quiet, grassy campground, well-shaded by mature trees, occupies part of an island in the Columbia River. Enjoy all the water sports and use the boat ramp. This makes a good base to visit some excellent wineries, including Alexandria Nicole Cellars just up the hill.

But know: The campground faces the Washington shore, so you’ll see trains, but not barge traffic nor the freeway. Arrive with plenty of gas and groceries; it’s a long way to town. Cell phone reception is marginal.

Personal observations: This former state park is rarely crowded, and offers large, shady sites, most with a river view. The Port of Benton runs the campground, which has been there for almost 50 years. There’s a newish playground that is fully accessible for children (or adults) with disabilities.