Best Campgrounds near Cascade Locks, OR

Camping near Cascade Locks, Oregon sits at the intersection of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood National Forest, providing a strategic base for exploring both natural areas. The town serves as a gateway to multiple camping styles, from full-service RV parks to basic tent sites. Notable options include the Cascade Locks KOA with family amenities, Eagle Creek Campground with forested sites, and the Port of Cascade Locks Campground with river views. The iconic Bridge of the Gods connects to additional camping opportunities on the Washington side of the Columbia River, including Beacon Rock State Park. Most campgrounds in the area are within 45 minutes of Portland, making them popular weekend destinations.

Most campgrounds in the Cascade Locks area operate seasonally from spring through fall, typically May through October. Summer reservations are essential, particularly for weekend stays, as sites fill quickly due to proximity to Portland. Train noise is a common factor at most Columbia Gorge campgrounds, as active rail lines run parallel to the river. According to visitors, sites farther from the tracks or positioned at the back of campgrounds experience less disruption. Interstate 84 also contributes to ambient noise at many locations. Fire restrictions are common during late summer months, and campers should check current regulations before arrival.

The camping experience varies significantly between riverside and mountain locations. Riverside campgrounds like Wyeth and Viento State Park offer convenient access to Columbia Gorge attractions but tend to have less privacy between sites. As one camper noted, "The river views make up for this not being a very woodsy campground." In contrast, campgrounds toward Mount Hood provide more seclusion and cooler temperatures. Most campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, though hookup availability varies. For Pacific Crest Trail hikers, the Port of Cascade Locks Campground offers dedicated hiker-friendly tent areas with communal facilities. Cell service is generally reliable near town but becomes spotty in more remote forest locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Cascade Locks, Oregon (349)

    1. Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest

    53 Reviews
    Rhododendron, OR
    13 miles
    +1 (541) 386-6366

    $45 - $125 / night

    "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."

    "Lost Lake Resort & Campground is somewhere we go at least once each summer. It has that nostalgic summer-camp vibe. A little more spendy than your typical Oregon campsite, but serene and private."

    2. Ainsworth State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    North Bonneville, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 695-2261

    $22 - $33 / night

    "All are very close to the highway so you will hear road noise and trains thundering past on the adjacent tracks."

    "Picture a hillside with a winding road surrounded by thick green trees. Ainsworth is that place. Absolutely gorgeous."

    3. Cascade Locks KOA

    22 Reviews
    Cascade Locks, OR
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 374-8668

    $27 / night

    "The town of Cascade locks is beautiful, the bridge of God's is very cool. The park for the kids on the camp site is lacking but the pool is nice."

    "We stayed at Cascade Locks KOA in June 2021. We were late booking so had to camp in a 30 amp pull-thru site."

    4. Beacon Rock State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    North Bonneville, WA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 427-8265

    "The climb up the rock is through a well-built trail. It can get narrow at spots and not for those who fear heights. The view at the top, however, is amazing."

    "We didn’t have any issues at the site, but noticed that spots RV4 and RV5 were relatively distanced from each other, while spots RV1-RV3 were pretty close to each other."

    5. Panther Creek Campground

    20 Reviews
    Carson, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Some camp sots are better situated then others, so do research before making reservation."

    "Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, just north of the town of Carson. Its about a 20 minute drive to the Columbia river, and 10 minutes to the small town of Carson."

    6. Eagle Creek Campground

    16 Reviews
    North Bonneville, OR
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 308-1700

    $15 / night

    "But nice hiking trails near by. Close to highway so can be kinda noisy. Very close to Portland. Camp host could pick up more garbage though."

    "Near the Hood River and a short distance to Mt Hood trails and surrounding"

    7. Tucker Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Hood River, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 386-4477

    $25 - $60 / night

    "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."

    "It's an hour drive from our house in portland and though you feel like your out in the middle of the woods your only 10 mins from hood river and most of what it has to offer."

    8. Wyeth Campground at the Gorge

    12 Reviews
    Carson, OR
    5 miles
    +1 (541) 308-1700

    $20 - $30 / night

    "She answered all of our questions about the Columbia River Gorge and even recommended some great spots to eat nearby in Cascade Locks."

    "So nice to have first come/first serve campgrounds so close to Portland. I arrived around 2 on a Wednesday in August and grabbed one of 3 open sites."

    9. Viento State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 374-8811

    $22 - $31 / night

    "Viento is a nice state park along 84 right outside of hood river. It is along the columbia river and has beach access."

    "Short, 5 minute walk to the river.

    A train track runs throught the middle of the campground. Trains run every hour or so. VERY loud.

    Tent spots were $8. Rv spots were $24."

    10. Timberlake Campground & RV

    11 Reviews
    Keystone Harbor, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 427-2267

    "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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 349 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cascade Locks, OR

1791 Reviews of 349 Cascade Locks Campgrounds



Guide to Cascade Locks

Camping near Cascade Locks, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and unique campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the two-mile loop around Trillium Lake, which offers beautiful views of Mt. Hood. One visitor mentioned, "Great 2 mile hiking loop around the lake. Beautiful view of Mt Hood."
  • Fishing and Boating: Lost Lake is a popular spot for fishing and renting boats. A camper shared, "The lake is fun for fishing and renting a little boat or canoe to get onto the water."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One reviewer at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground noted, "Bald eagles flying overhead."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A visitor at Memaloose State Park Campground said, "Wonderful view of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the river."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Milo McIver State Park Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper remarked, "Very nice and clean campground. Restrooms were incredibly clean and there are hot showers."
  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the space between sites. A reviewer at Trillium Lake mentioned, "Clean sights with good privacy between camp spots."

What you should know:

  • Accessibility Issues: Some campgrounds may not be suitable for everyone. A visitor at Lost Lake Resort And Campground expressed frustration about accessibility, stating, "This location is far from being accessible for handicapped visitors."
  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. One camper at Trillium Lake noted, "Over the years, it has become too busy and lots of loud campers partying."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lower Falls Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are vault toilets, and they do not smell pleasant, but that was to be expected."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. Mt Hood Village Resort has a playground that kids love. One parent said, "Our kids love cruising the loops on their bikes and stopping in at the playground."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along games or outdoor gear. A camper at Milo McIver State Park Campground enjoyed the wildlife, saying, "We saw so many elk, water birds, and at least 5 bald eagles."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can get loud. A visitor at Milo McIver State Park Campground mentioned, "Some group behind us blared heavy metal, yelled etc."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mt Hood Village Resort noted, "Many spaces are level dirt parking."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Take advantage of the facilities available. One camper at Ainsworth State Park Campground appreciated the hot showers, saying, "One of the best state parks in Oregon super hot showers reasonable prices."
  • Plan for Water Needs: Bring your own water if necessary. A visitor at Lower Falls Campground reminded others, "Bring your own water."

Camping near Cascade Locks, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's essential to know what to expect. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cascade Locks, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cascade Locks, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 349 campgrounds and RV parks near Cascade Locks, OR and 56 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cascade Locks, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cascade Locks, OR is Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 53 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cascade Locks, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 56 free dispersed camping spots near Cascade Locks, OR.

What parks are near Cascade Locks, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Cascade Locks, OR that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.