The Columbia River Gorge near Cascade Locks sits at approximately 120 feet elevation with dramatic terrain rising to 4,000 feet within just a few miles. This unique geographic position creates a natural wind tunnel effect, making the area popular for wind and kite surfing during summer months when temperatures often exceed 90°F. Winter camping requires preparation for frequent rainfall, with the area receiving over 75 inches of precipitation annually.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Emerald Falls is accessible via a short trail directly from Wyeth Campground, offering an easy nature experience even for novice hikers. "I planned on a hike but really ended up taking a leisurely stroll a short ways to Emerald Falls. The area is regrowing after a 2024 wildfire. It's already lush and green but the trails running from the camp still haven't been cleared fully," notes Ryan W.
Fish local rivers: Hood River provides productive fishing spots accessible from Tucker Park Campground. "One of the locals stopped by to comment on my tent and said the salmon were biting - he even gave me a lure that he caught a fish on earlier that day," reports Nathan G. The river access points feature smooth rocks and sandy beaches ideal for relaxing between fishing attempts.
Explore historic sites: The park system includes numerous structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, particularly visible at Beacon Rock State Park. "The CCC built back in the 1930s some basic kitchen set-ups, bathrooms, and picnic tables," explains Corinna B., highlighting the area's preserved Depression-era craftsmanship.
What campers like
Protected camping areas: The natural landscape at several dog friendly campgrounds near Cascade Locks provides shelter from the region's strong winds. "The Gorge is famous for its wind, but here I was protected from gusts by the natural landscape. The sites all push up against the Cascades that hook around the camp," explains Ryan W. about Wyeth Campground.
Access to water recreation: The Columbia River's swimming and boating options remain a top draw for visitors. "The day use area was large enough for a handful of vehicles and our combined 58' of truck and camper. There were multiple picnic tables along the path to the river, and along the water access itself," reports Amanda M. about Viento State Park.
Biking opportunities: Paved off-road bike trails connect several campgrounds. "I was super stoked to find a paved off-road bike trail. I took it 6 miles up to Venieto State Park. Along the highway, but still very pretty," shares Kathy B. about the trail system accessible from Wyeth Campground.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep: Multiple campgrounds sit near active rail lines with frequent trains. "A train runs through the area. It can be quite loud, especially at first, but we found that we quickly got used to it," explains Royce C. about Cascade Locks KOA, where earplugs are provided to guests.
Road noise varies by site: Many campgrounds experience highway sounds from nearby I-84. "Road Noise and TRAINS. Clean, cheap $15, Location, all good," summarizes Rachel K. about Eagle Creek Campground, highlighting the trade-off between convenient access and ambient noise.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "We stayed in space 31 and didn't have very good reception for WiFi and Verizon was a bit sketch inside the trailer, outside was better," reports Rick S. about Timberlake Campground.
Seasonal water conditions: "The lake is always cold no matter the season. Really easy fishing if you're just learning," explains ChiAnn M. about Lost Lake Resort, providing important information for swimmers and anglers about water temperature expectations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots for hot days: Tucker Park Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day," says Cerise D., highlighting the temperature relief available during summer heat waves.
Playgrounds availability: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The first day use area had a little play structure," notes Amanda M. about Viento State Park, though families should know that not all campgrounds offer playground equipment.
Distance between sites: Consider privacy needs when selecting sites for family camping. "We had a great tent site and the place was pretty busy, so maybe a lot of people don't mind the blaring horns but I found them very annoying," warns Sally C. about noise at Cascade Locks KOA, suggesting families with young children may want sites furthest from train tracks.
Bear awareness: Some campgrounds require proper food storage due to wildlife. "This area is a bear zone however you will not find bear boxes like you will at other campsites in the area. For this reason you need to come prepared and make sure you are able to secure your items in a safe way," advises Crystal C.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many campgrounds feature narrow roads that complicate large rig positioning. "We have a short bed truck and a 22' trailer and had a very hard time getting into the spot we reserved (site 8). The site itself had plenty of room for us but the roads are very narrow and are lined with curbs, so there's not a lot of room to back into the sites," cautions Lanae about Beacon Rock State Park.
Maximum length restrictions: Campground entrances often display vehicle length limits. "The sign at entrance says 30 foot max length for trailers," reports Abby B. about Wyeth Campground, critical information for travelers with larger rigs.
Site leveling requirements: Uneven terrain affects setup at some campgrounds. "The spot is long, however #31 slopes at the back of the spot so it isn't as long as we'd like it to have been. But we made it work," explains Rick S. about Timberlake Campground, suggesting RVers bring adequate leveling equipment.
Hook-up availability: Pet-friendly campgrounds vary widely in available amenities. "No hookups for RVs but every site is big enough to accommodate my 21' travel trailer," notes Abby B. about Wyeth Campground, informing RVers about power and water limitations.
