Camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Cheatham Lock and Dam campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Cheatham Lock and Dam and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Cheatham Lock and Dam (130)

    1. Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    29 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 773-4927

    $40 - $45 / night

    "It was during the major fires in Oregon so most of the time it was socked in by thick/heavy smoke.  Like brown fog.  Not at all the fault of Peach Beach. "

    "peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground. other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge"

    2. Deschutes River State Recreation Area

    33 Reviews
    Wishram, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-2322

    $13 - $74 / night

    "It's the perfect spot if you are traveling across Oregon and need a nice place to stop before continuing to another state, or eastern Oregon. 

    The campground is relatively small."

    "Found this place on the map while searching for a place to camp at the Washington/Oregon border."

    3. Maryhill State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Wishram, WA
    5 miles
    Website

    "Just a brief stop overnight en route to the Oregon Coast."

    "This is along the river bordering WA & OR. There are some nice parks, museums, etc. to explore in the immediate area. The campsite itself is just ok...a little too urban for our tastes."

    4. Lepage Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Wasco, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-1135

    $15 - $35 / night

    "The pull-through sites run along the water’s edge, offering water views but smaller pads and tragically, blocking my view. There’s no shade but the breeze kept things cool enough."

    "The edge of the pull-through RV spots follows the river and most spots have easy access to the 10-foot rock access to the water. We visited during the last weekend of July and it was HOT!"

    5. Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park

    28 Reviews
    Mikkalo, OR
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 394-0002

    $13 - $74 / night

    "I wasn't sure what to expect at this high desert park, but situated deep in a canyon on a once working cattle ranch, this park is poised to become one of Oregon's top state parks."

    "Its also a rattlesnake habitat in Eastern Oregon's high desert biome, within 30 miles or so of The Dalles, a city marking the change in the Columbia River Gorge from high desert to wooded mountainsides"

    6. Giles French Park Primitive Camping

    7 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-1135

    7. Rufus RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-2272

    "Dog-walking area. Distant traffic noise from I-84. I would stay there again in a heartbeat."

    8. Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    10 Reviews
    Wishram, WA
    15 miles
    Website

    "Great little swimming spot steps from our spot. Trains will come every hour and tracks are close to sites. A few wineries within a mile and one about .5 miles from spot."

    "Parking next to water seemed like a dream, until your are awaked by the sound of a screaming train in your ear. For last minute locations, I would stop here again."

    9. Sherman County RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Moro, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 565-3127

    "The surrounding landscapes are ‘stunning’ and the peace and quiet, absolute.

    While old, the restrooms and showers were very well maintained and absolutely immaculate."

    "After 10 hours driving, I just wanted a quiet place to sleep. This was exactly that. I paid $35 for a pull through and a 30amp hookup for my teardrop."

    10. Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Dallesport, WA
    18 miles
    Website

    "Cute little campsite just off the highway tucked away next to Horse-thief lake. It is very windy due to its location in the gorge. The lake access and surrounding land is beautiful."

    "This was a great location for loads of hikes in the area."

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Recent Reviews near Cheatham Lock and Dam

592 Reviews of 130 Cheatham Lock and Dam Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    Great park

    This is a wonderful park with great spots, access to the river and is close to Biggs Junction and The Dalles.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Tucker Park Campground

    Perfect getaway!!!

    I decided last minute to go camping. Searching I found this place not far from the city . It’s so unexpected. It was a great decision!! Hear the river, which I love. Clean bathrooms, water and even showers available!!

    It’s a perfect getaway!!! 10 out of 5!!!!

  • Richard H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Elk Meadows RV Park

    Nice campground and facilities.

    Great view of Mt Adams if you can get one of the premium sites. Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow. Very quiet and relaxed.

  • Marasha L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Quiet and peaceful

    Perfect to boondock and have space to yourself with excellent views and hiking. Love this spot.

  • smittie The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    very relaxing campground on columbia river

    peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground. other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge replica.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Wind Mountain RV Park

    Rustic, clean and safe! Wonderful getaway !

    Got here and loved the place. Some camp spot are pretty close but you have amazing views! Not far from the city.
    I love this place!!

    The camp host Chris is awesome ! Straight forward kinda guy and takes great care of this place!! Will definitely be back!!

  • angelina H.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    Beautiful, serene location.

    Stayed here on a job for at least some 6 months, absolutely loved it. The hostess was very friendly, the adjoining small state park I believe it is is very convenient for pet owners, and the location is overall gorgeous.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    Oasis on the Gorge

    Clean, cute and well cared for park on the Columbia river. Rolled in at 11:30pm to a quiet park with well laid out directions and fresh peaches in our welcome bag. Called ahead letting them know we’d be super late with no problems, very accommodating. Nicely spaced, clean sites. No sewer hookups if on the river side but the view we woke up to was well worth it. The park is in the dryer part of the Gorge but this park surrounded by lush fruit orchards made it feel like an oasis. Definitely would stay here again.

  • Greg W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Wind Mountain RV Park

    Grest place

    This is a great RV park with short and long-term camping. It's perfect for the traveling worker, fisherman or people who want enjoy all the outdoor activities in the Gorge.


Guide to Cheatham Lock and Dam

Camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. A review for Maryhill State Park Campground states, "Beautiful place with large grass areas," making it a favorite for those who appreciate nature.
  • Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "Very clean bathrooms, full hook up sites for $30 with a view," which is a great deal for families.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peaceful environment. A visitor at Giles French Park Primitive Camping said, "It’s a quiet little oasis on the lower Deschutes," perfect for those looking to escape the noise of the city.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise. A camper at Maryhill State Park Campground noted, "If you don't mind the sound of trains every few hours, this is a great campsite," so light sleepers might want to consider this.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have fewer amenities. A review for Giles French Park Primitive Camping mentioned, "No services except some trash bins throughout and pit toilets," so plan accordingly.
  • Weather Conditions: Wind can be a factor, especially at Cottonwood Canyon State Park. One camper warned, "The only downside is how windy this canyon can get," so be prepared for breezy nights.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Space for Kids to Play: Look for campgrounds with open areas. At Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia, a reviewer mentioned, "The wind can be a factor," but the park has plenty of space for kids to run around.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose a campground with activities for everyone. A visitor at Deschutes River State Recreation Area said, "Great for birdwatching, & swimming," making it a fun spot for families.
  • Safety First: Ensure the campground has good facilities. One camper at Lepage Park Campground noted, "The park is well-maintained," which is reassuring for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Bridge RV Park Campground mentioned, "Full service hook ups including sewer," which is essential for longer stays.
  • Road Conditions: Be aware of the roads leading to the campgrounds. One reviewer warned about the "narrow bridge with a $2.00 toll" when heading to Gorge Base Camp RV Park, so plan your route carefully.
  • Noise Management: Bring earplugs if you're sensitive to noise. A visitor at Gorge Base Camp RV Park noted, "Trains come by every hour or so," which might be bothersome for some.

Camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam, Oregon, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cheatham Lock and Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cheatham Lock and Dam offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Cheatham Lock and Dam and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cheatham Lock and Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cheatham Lock and Dam is Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia with a 4.1-star rating from 29 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Cheatham Lock and Dam.

What parks are near Cheatham Lock and Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Cheatham Lock and Dam that allow camping, notably John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.