Tent camping near Cascade Locks, Oregon offers camping options on both the Oregon and Washington sides of the Columbia River at elevations ranging from 100-2,500 feet above sea level. The area experiences significant temperature variations between riverside and mountain camping spots, with high-elevation sites often 10-15 degrees cooler than those along the Columbia. These climate differences create distinct camping environments within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Fishing at Goose Lake: Located 25 miles north of Cascade Locks in Washington, this lake is known for trout fishing with no motorized boats allowed. "We stayed in site 2 because we didn't want to pull up our big cooler up the steep hill that some of the other spots where on. We had a nice, but partially blocked lake view," notes Megan A. at Goose Lake Campground.
Swimming at Dougan Falls: This site on the Washougal River offers calm water areas perfect for swimming. "Bring an inner tube or lounger the creek is shallow and wide. Explore along the creek by taking one of the trails along the north side of the campground," suggests Kimberly L. The site has basic facilities including toilets and water at the host site.
Hiking to Alpine Lakes: Multiple trails connect camping areas to alpine lakes. "We hiked down to the lake and there are sites there. Beautiful, on the lake, first come first served," explains Katie B. about the area near Wahtum Lake. Most trails are accessible from May to October, with higher elevation routes sometimes requiring microspikes in early season.
What campers like
Private Waterfront Sites: Panther Creek Creekside Camp offers secluded camping along rushing water. "Always love spots by the river. There are several sights that get secluded from others with a very short drive off the main road," writes Joe M. The sites require no reservations and provide direct creek access.
Small Mountain Lakes: Black Lake Campground features a unique hillside layout with dispersed tent sites. "4 camp sites surrounding a small lake. 1 and 2 are private while 3 and 4 are right next to each other," reports Ryan D. The walk-in sites connect via hiking paths rather than a standard campground grid system.
Temperature Differences: Mountain locations offer relief from summer heat. "Visited in late June, and the weather was amazing, 15 degrees lower than in town, but the bugs and mosquitoes were overwhelming (even with deet)," warns Jonathan H. about Rainy Lake Campground. Higher elevations typically maintain cooler temperatures through summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal Weather Extremes: The Cascade Locks area experiences dramatically different conditions depending on season and elevation. "The camp is a close walk to many trails and other sites. The best campsites are those that are not crowded and you can enjoy the stillness during the day or night," notes Ryan D. about Black Lake Campground.
Road Conditions: Forest roads leading to remote sites often require careful driving. "The road getting up to Rainy Lake wasn't the greatest (but totally fine with a Subaru) so you have to drive a bit slow and look for potholes," explains Sarah S. Most high-elevation sites involve at least some gravel road travel.
Insect Preparedness: Forlorn Lakes and other mountain sites have significant mosquito populations in early summer. "Nice campground. I went mid-week in Sept. Only gave 4 stars because of the toilets. Highly recommend yellow jacket traps this late in summer. Aggressive is an understatement," warns Michael H. Bring appropriate repellent, especially for camping near lakes.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming Spots: Naked Falls provides family-friendly swimming areas. "The river was absolutely amazing and one of the best for swimming I've seen in the PNW! I'd recommend going on a weekday since the weekends get pretty busy from not only campers, but day use swimmers," advises Heather P. Sites closer to water tend to fill first on summer weekends.
Site Selection: Choose camping areas based on their layout and specific family needs. "If you have small children I'd not recommend this site since there is a drop off at the edge of the campsite that kids could fall down easily," cautions Heather P. about site 9 at Naked Falls. Research individual sites before booking.
Teenage Activity: Some sites near Cascade Locks attract local teenagers on weekends. "I've been here a couple of times and every Saturday night hordes of teenagers show up and party all night. Loud music, drunk driving, trash everywhere, reviving up engines and yelling all night," reports Jen about Black Lake Campground. Consider mid-week stays for quieter experiences.
Tips from RVers
Size Restrictions: Most campgrounds near Cascade Locks have limited space for larger vehicles. "The sites are not laid out on a grid. 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," explains Chris H. about Black Lake Campground.
RV-Friendly Options: Columbia Gorge Getaways offers some of the few established sites suitable for smaller RVs. "I stayed here during a two day ride through the Cascades on the Washington BDR. You can tell when the owners of a place like this really care," writes Michael K. The site provides water, trash facilities, and showers uncommon at most primitive camping areas.
Road Access Challenges: Access roads to many camping areas require careful navigation. "The road is a bit more than a gravel road, there are some large rocks and deep ruts to avoid," notes Phelan V. about Forlorn Lakes. Most campers recommend high-clearance vehicles for accessing remote sites.
