338 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near White Salmon, Washington range from developed facilities to primitive sites along the Columbia River Gorge. The area includes campgrounds like Gorge Base Camp RV Park within White Salmon city limits and several options across the Columbia River in Oregon, including Memaloose State Park and Toll Bridge Park. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals or glamping options. The region's campgrounds typically provide picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hiking trails, while proximity to the Columbia River and Mount Hood National Forest creates opportunities for water and forest recreation.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Columbia River Gorge area. Many campgrounds operate from spring through fall, typically April to October, with limited winter options. The Klickitat River and Little White Salmon River provide popular waterfront camping destinations, though sites near water fill quickly during summer months. Visitors should prepare for the Gorge's famous winds, which can affect camping comfort and fire safety. As one camper noted about Oklahoma Campground near Carson, "It borders The Little White Salmon River which is a small trickle creek. Weather can change quickly here so plan accordingly."
Campers consistently highlight the scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region. The proximity to Mount Hood and the Columbia River creates diverse experiences ranging from riverside camping to forest settings with mountain views. Several campgrounds provide direct water access, making them popular for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Developed campgrounds with full hookups serve RV travelers, while tent campers can find more secluded options in the surrounding national forest lands. A review of Wyeth Campground mentioned, "The Gorge is famous for its wind, but here I was protected from gusts by the natural landscape." Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring the area's numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and windsurfing locations, with several reviewers noting the strategic location for accessing both Oregon and Washington attractions.
"The campsites are relatively close but not so much that you’re walking over each other we camped in our RV and secured a second spot so we could have the space between the campground is very close to the"
"Excellent faculties with easy access to amenities. Sat by a campfire pit in the evenings and went to sleep with the sound of the river surrounding us. What more could you ask for."
from $25 - $60 / night
Check Availability"Wonderful view of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the river. Easy drive to the Dalles to get anything you might need. Bathrooms are very clean, showers are hot and long."
"June 2021 this campground is full of trees that give shade all around most of the campsites."
from $25 - $38 / night
Check Availability"2 DOLLARS TO CROSS EACHWAY BETWEEN OREGON AND WASHINGTON BUT WELL WORTH THE VISIT."
"That’s what led us to Tollbridge, a lightly used campsite 15 miles south of Ukiah on Highway 325."
from $35 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Great location here in the gorge for hiking biking river access here at the park direct access to the bike trail. large sites, showers and bathrooms hiking trails in the park as well."
"Viento is a nice state park along 84 right outside of hood river. It is along the columbia river and has beach access."
from $24 - $31 / night
Check Availability"I have kind of a love/hate thing going on for Lost Lake Campgrounds. Pros: It is beautiful. There's a reason it's one of Oregon's most photographed sites."
"This campground is located on the shores of Lost Lake, with amazing views of Mt. Hood. "
from $45 - $125 / night
Check Availability"We picked this campground at the last minute as we were returning from a Christmas stay in central Washington. The reservation staff was very professional and helpful."
"The highway is at a higher elevation than the park, so that noise didn't particularly bother us either. Perhaps it is just that our van is well sound insulated or we're not light sleepers! "
from $30 - $60 / night
Check Availability"We are in spot 14 and have direct access to the creek following behind. Spot 13 and 14 are set off from the others down a hill so it’s very private. Campground was pretty empty on a Wednesday."
"It has a decent distance from other campers and I don’t feel like I’m crunched up in my camp ground. Water is around certain campsites. #3 unfortunately did not have running water near by."
from $21 / night
Check Availability"A bit of a drive to get there but worth it. Extremely well-run campground in a beautiful setting with good access to the town of Hood River."
"Important to know … it is situated on a hilly property, so it’s not an easy stroll to the restrooms and showers unless one is young/athletic."
"We also did the Historic Highway 30 and saw all the waterfalls. Stop in at Gorges Brewery, nice beer, I loved the Stout."
"This camp has RV sites, tent sites and beautiful cabins with porch swings and is located close to the Columbia River waterfalls."
from $27 / night
Check Availability"So unless you find a place away from the river and out of the gorge, you will just have to deal with that. So bring ear plugs if you're not a very heavy sleeper. The camp hosts were super friendly."
"Tons of boats here during spring salmon runs at Drano lake and the wind river but we would absolutely come back. "
from $20 / night
Check Availability
GuideThe most amazing view of Mt. Hood for free! Absolutely gorgeous. We'll worth the rough ride in but and car up can make it. I wouldn't advice anything about class and really comfortable in a van.
ScoutEasy access between attractions, right by (though above) railroad tracks - for those that don't like noise this is a problem. No power, just a small amount of running water and pit toilets. Not a bad place to stop off at. Entrance hidden behind Fish Hatchery parking lot
TravelerI will start with saying that I stayed here one night over 4th of July weekend so I’m sure it was busier than usual, but it sounds like it’s always busy. It’s a great, wide open area that I’d be fine at for a couple nights. You are pretty close to neighbors for dispersed camping though and more than a few look like they might’ve been there for more than 14 days. Saw one campsite with a big confederate flag. It’s definitely a mixed vibe. There are some areas that you can tuck in at least.
GuideI booked this site through the naked Falls Stevenson, Washington hip camp website with my friends. I got site number six and it was an amazing place with a gate that gave you the sense of privacy and also to make sure that your spot wasn’t going to be taken, we were able to pull our SUV to all the way to the side six and camp with plenty of space. Each site has a fire pit and make sure that you pack in and pack out as this place is beautiful and we did see some trash that we helped clean up and not only in our site but along the creek as well. It was only like $60 on hip camp, but it was July 2 so that might’ve been more expensive than other dates. Still not too bad if you split the cost with friends. Each site is definitely pretty far from each other and I know one site 10 is separate from the gate, but it’s closer to the creek and you were able to walk down to it all the other sides have a cliff that you really should not get close to as it’s a dangerous fall down towards the water. 10 out of 10 spot though and pretty close to Portland.
RangerNice little sports. Not big rig friendly. But I was able to find a nice spot for my van. Quite a few yellow jackets swarming. But the river sound is peaceful. Ground is very rocky so digging a hole isnt the easiest
ScoutThe road to the campsite was extremely rugged, challenging, and slow going. I feel 4wd is a must. Join arrival, the solitude settles in. There were a couple other groups of campers. It's absolutely worth the drive.
RangerThis was a last minute stay for us due to me booking a campground 4 hours away lol. But we stayed here for 2 nights. You can hear the cars on the highway and the train at night so it doesn’t feel “secluded” enough for the type of campers we are. But it is walking distance to the river which was awesome for the dogs and it had full hookup.
RangerIts pretty yes. Porta potties scatter throughout that are smelly. If you get a spot not near one you are good. Hot showers and toilets at the front of the campground with a code needed. Showers have great water pressure.
Trains went by all day and night.
Lots of trash cans all over.
Mostly annoyed with the camp host. He refuses to take cash so you have to make a reservation online. Causing 7$ in fees and taxes even though the sign says 20$ includes the tax. But online you are paying tax essentially a second time. He has 2 German shepherds he breeds at his site and you can hear them barking quite often.
RangerThis was the first time I was disappointed with a recommendation from The Dyrt. I read the reviews and looked at the star ratings before choosing Mt. Hood National Forest NF 2656 Dispersed Camping, and I was excited to check it out.
The positives: the campsite itself had a beautiful open sky, plenty of room, and a great dispersed camping feel. It looked like it could have been a wonderful spot to spend the night.
Unfortunately, shortly after arriving we heard people shooting guns just below our campsite. The gunfire was close enough that we did not feel safe or comfortable staying, so we packed up and left immediately.
We reported our concern to a ranger, who explained there wasn’t anything they could do and that recreational shooting does happen in this area.
I understand dispersed camping means sharing public lands with many different types of recreation, but I wish this had been mentioned more clearly in reviews so campers could make an informed decision. For anyone looking for quiet solitude, traveling with dogs, or uncomfortable camping near active shooting areas, this is something to be aware of.
Beautiful location, but sadly not the peaceful overnight experience we were hoping for.
Campgrounds near White Salmon, Washington sit along the Columbia River Gorge between elevations of 150-1500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter camping options remain limited with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer brings extended dry periods. Access to many sites requires navigating mountain roads or narrow bridges, with the Hood River Bridge spanning just nine feet wide.
Creek exploration: At Tucker Park Campground, visitors access shoreline areas for summer cooling. "Both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day," notes Cerise D. Tucker Park Campground offers multiple river entry points with maintained pathways.
Mountain biking: Within 20 miles of several campgrounds for riders of various skill levels. A reviewer at Toll Bridge Park Campground mentioned, "Toll Bridge is close to everything. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boardsailing, kite boarding... This area is a maca for all season sports."
Winter activities: Limited but available at higher elevations from December through March. "Timberline and Mount Hood Meadows are 33 and 20 miles south on hwy 35," reports one Toll Bridge Park camper, referencing nearby snow sport areas that remain accessible when valley campgrounds close.
Riverside camping spots: Sites adjacent to water fill quickly during peak season. At Oklahoma Campground, "Site 3 is non-reservable and HUGE. The riverfront was a bonus," states Heidi B., highlighting the premium nature of waterfront sites.
Shade coverage during summer heat: Critical when temperatures exceed 90°F. "The campground is rustic, but well maintained... the sites are very large," notes a visitor to Oklahoma Campground, with many reviewers appreciating tree cover for temperature management.
Proximity to fruit farms: Seasonal access to local produce stands. "Driving part way up Mt Hood to get here with views of the mountain peak. Walmart within 25 miles if you need supplies," explains Marie D. about Toll Bridge Park, referencing the agricultural areas known as the "Fruit Loop."
Train noise affects several campgrounds: Prepare for frequent disruptions if staying near tracks. At Viento State Park Campground, "The first night we stayed at Viento State Park I was unprepared for the very active, incredibly loud trains that ran ALL NIGHT!" warns Jill T.
Bridge toll costs: Budget $2 each way when crossing between states. "2 DOLLARS TO CROSS EACHWAY BETWEEN OREGON AND WASHINGTON BUT WELL WORTH THE VISIT," notes a reviewer about the Bridge of the Gods near Cascade Locks.
Limited winter availability: Most facilities close October through April. According to the information provided, Gorge Base Camp RV Park operates year-round while most other campgrounds have defined seasonal openings, typically from spring through fall.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Toll Bridge Park Campground, "This place is awesome for family camping. They have a playground and well maintained showers and bathrooms (very clean). The real magic here though is the sound of the river as you drift off to sleep," explains Jared L.
Swimming spots for kids: Identify safe water areas with gradual entry points. "The site we stayed at would have been sweet for ground camping as well. Will be coming here again," writes Nathan G. about Tucker Park, mentioning the water access points suitable for children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Prepare children for possible animal encounters. "I saw an elk cow and calf, and have seen deer as well. I heard that bear have also been seen in the area," reports a visitor to Moss Creek Campground, indicating the educational potential.
Bridge width challenges: RV drivers must navigate narrow crossings. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park, one camper advises: "If you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature sloped terrain. At Timberlake Campground & RV, a reviewer noted: "Some of the sites are on the smaller side and a little tricky to back into but doable. Quiet wooded are and staff was very helpful and friendly."
Seasonal water access: Check water hookup availability before arrival. "We had a site with full hookups, it seemed the lower ones only had water, check the map and make sure you get what you need," recommends Donald R. about Memaloose State Park, highlighting the importance of confirming utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is White Salmon from popular Washington camping destinations?
White Salmon is ideally situated near several popular camping destinations. Beacon Rock State Park Campground is approximately 20 minutes west, offering spectacular Columbia River Gorge views and hiking trails. Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground is about 30 minutes east, situated along Horse-thief Lake with beautiful surroundings despite gorge winds. Other nearby options include Oklahoma Campground (25 minutes), Memaloose State Park (35 minutes), and Ainsworth State Park (30 minutes). For those willing to drive further, Lost Lake and Trillium Lake are about 1-1.5 hours away, while Mount Hood camping areas like Toll Bridge Park are approximately 45-60 minutes from White Salmon.
Where are the best campgrounds near White Salmon, WA?
Oklahoma Campground is one of the best options near White Salmon, featuring 14 sites along the Little White Salmon River. It's particularly good for families with children as the shallow, narrow river is perfect for splashing around. The campground offers both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, fire pits with various grate types, and access to Monte Carlo Trail 52. Another excellent choice is Wyeth Campground at the Gorge, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. For a unique experience, The Klickitat Treehouse offers modern amenities in a natural setting with queen-sized beds, heating, and air conditioning.
What RV camping options are available in White Salmon, Washington?
White Salmon offers several RV-friendly options for campers. Gorge Base Camp RV Park is conveniently located near White Salmon with drive-in access, reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. Timberlake Campground & RV near Stevenson provides similar amenities with the added benefit of being within a short drive of White Salmon. For those seeking more of a state park experience, Memaloose State Park Campground offers clean facilities with hot showers, wonderful Columbia River views, and is a short drive to The Dalles for supplies. Most RV sites in the region fill quickly during summer months, so advance reservations are highly recommended where available.
Keep Exploring
