Campers seeking glamping near Cascade Locks, Oregon can access sites situated at 150-200 feet elevation along the Columbia River Gorge. The area experiences mild winters and warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 45-80°F depending on season. Most Cascade Locks camping options remain open from April through October, with a few year-round alternatives available during winter months when temperatures typically stay above freezing.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Swim at Tucker Park along the Hood River where the water provides perfect cooling on hot days. The sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and pets. According to Mackenzie H., "The campsite was scattered with smooth rocks perfect for tanning and nice sandy beaches along the river for your fur companions to cool off."
Fishing access: Cast a line at Lost Lake Resort And Campground where multiple reviewers note the fishing is productive even for beginners. Eric P. shares: "There are nice size trout in this lake that can be caught from the bank if you don't have a boat." The lake offers both bank and boat fishing opportunities, with rentals available on-site.
Trail hiking: Explore the Eagle Creek Campground area with its trail access to the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. Mary G. notes: "The campground has ready access to the Eagle Creek Trail #440 that accesses the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness." While some trails were affected by past fires, many have reopened with spectacular gorge views.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Tucker Park Campground offer varying degrees of seclusion. Cerise D. explains: "Variety of sites from small and shaded to open and sunny. Both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day."
Forest setting: Black Lake Campground features a unique layout unlike conventional campgrounds. Chris H. describes: "Spaces are spread seemingly randomly on the hillside just next to the lake and connected by thin hiking paths. There is no vehicle parking, but I could see bicycles and motorcycles having easy access to each campsite."
Water proximity: Viento State Park provides river access despite some highway noise. Bjorn S. reports: "Plenty of tall trees. I grew up next to a freeway and I love trains, though the highway and train honks are substantial if your experience was to relax in nature for the weekend." The campground features trails leading to swimming spots on the Columbia River.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Consider site selection at Viento State Park Campground as it sits between the highway and railroad. Karinne C. advises: "It's right by I-84 and the railroad track so there was constant noise. Bring ear plugs and be prepared for the sound of cars, trucks and trains at all hours."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate limited seasons despite their proximity to Portland. Eagle Creek Campground operates from May through early October, while Tucker Park runs from April through October. Some sites like Port of Cascade Locks Campground operate year-round.
Accessibility challenges: Some locations have limited access for those with mobility issues. Jeremiah S. at Lost Lake notes: "The handicapped parking is inconveniently located nowhere near an ADA-accessible lakeside spot. We were forced to camp in the parking lot near a bathroom, which was hardly the experience we were hoping for."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Port of Cascade Locks Campground offers child-friendly amenities adjacent to camping areas. Meghan O. notes: "The adjacent park with a playground and plenty of room for kids to run loose" makes this location family-friendly despite being less wooded than other options.
Educational opportunities: Wildwood recreation area near Mt. Hood Village Resort features nature learning opportunities. Joel H. describes: "There is a path that leads to the Wildwood recreation area and within the RV park itself there is access to the Salmon River for fishing/swimming." The site includes underwater salmon viewing areas and naturalist-inspired boardwalks.
Camp store conveniences: Several glamping sites maintain on-site stores for last-minute needs. At Lost Lake Resort, Brian C. mentions: "There's a well-stocked general store that's got everything you need." This helps families avoid long drives for forgotten supplies or snacks for children.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Check campground roads before arrival at Oxbow Regional Park as some areas have restricted access. Marcus K. advises: "Nice regional campground. Has tent and RV spots. No hookups though. Mostly shady sites with just a handful having full sun."
Length restrictions: Several campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Tom N. at Lost Lake cautions: "Campground sites are large in loop A and I would recommend this end if pulling a trailer or driving a small RV, big RV's could have issues accessing these sites."
Utility availability: Verify hookups before booking as many glamping sites have limited services. Amanda M. surveying Viento notes: "When we drove through the camp loop, the sites looked a little on the small side, but clean and with good tree coverage for shade and wind break. We have a 36' bumper pull, and hubby said he wouldn't have had problems parking there."
