Cabin camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam offers access to the high desert climate of north-central Oregon, where temperatures can fluctuate up to 40 degrees between day and night. The area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse camping experiences from riverside settings to mountain views. Winter cabin stays require preparation for overnight temperatures that frequently drop below freezing from November through March.
What to Do
Hiking the canyon trails: At Cottonwood Canyon State Park, visitors can access several trails along the John Day River. "The John Day River is easily accessible and swimmable just down from the campsite. It's great to fish, float, or hike the trails nearby," shares Shawna M., who makes annual summer trips to the park.
Explore ancient petroglyphs: Columbia Hills Historical State Park features significant Native American rock art within walking distance of the campground. "One of the best aspects was the petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground. This was a great spot and I highly recommend it," notes Mary C., who visited the park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early risers at Cottonwood Canyon might spot local wildlife. "I awoke just before dawn when my dog sat bolt upright and intently watched with me as an elk cow walked through our campsite," describes Shawn M., highlighting the park's natural setting.
What Campers Like
Solitude and dark skies: The remote setting offers exceptional stargazing conditions. "If you love truly getting away from it all, as I do, you'll appreciate the absolute peace at Cottonwood Canyon. The beautiful moonlight set one side of the canyon aglow and the clear sky was filled with stars," shares Shawn M.
Clean facilities: Even in more remote locations, campground amenities receive attention. "The campground is not large with only 4 regular campsites, 4 walk in sites, 8 partial hookups, a Teepee and 2 platform tents," explains Ashley B. about Columbia Hills Historical State Park, noting the variety of accommodation options.
Natural swimming spots: The rivers provide welcome relief from summer heat. "The lake is great for canoeing or paddle boarding," notes Mary C. about Columbia Hills Historical State Park, which sits on Horsethief Lake.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant in the Columbia River Gorge area. "It was SUPER windy, the bathrooms seemed pretty far from the tent camping sites, and there was a train track super close, but overall a good experience," explains Erin P. about her stay at Columbia Hills State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Take proper food storage measures at campsites. "Note, be careful about leaving food out, zipping your tent up, leaving car doors open. The mice were pretty bad and came out at night driving my dog crazy," warns Ashley B. about her experience at Brooks Memorial State Park.
Reservation timing: Booking well in advance is necessary for popular cabins. "I don't usually chat with other campers, but it was a bit like a big family as we were practically sharing one campsite. And happily, we had good neighbors," reports Adalia C. about her stay at Columbia Hills.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bike-friendly options: Some parks provide additional recreation opportunities. "We brought our own bikes but if you don't bring yours, they offered loaner bikes and there were little bike workstations on the grounds," notes Caitlin S. about Cottonwood Canyon State Park.
Pet accommodations: Verify pet policies before booking. "Pet friendly! Including a fenced in dog area (about an acre) and doggie poo bags readily available," adds Caitlin S. about Cottonwood Canyon's amenities for dog owners.
Cabin temperature management: Summer cabin stays can get warm. "Because it's so new the trees were still saplings and provide no shade from the hot sun or protection from the wind," notes Fay M. about Cottonwood Canyon State Park, highlighting the need for heat preparation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose your spot based on the type of experience you want. "The spots at the northern edge of the park look out over a beautiful meadow backed up by astonishingly huge and beautiful Mt Adams, snow covered now and towering over the green mountains around it," suggests Matthew about Elk Meadows RV Park.
Utility hookups: RV sites vary significantly in their offerings. "Large spaces, easy to drive through, 30 and 50 amp, most sites had full hookups with fire pits and picnic tables," reports Michell C. about Elk Meadows RV Park.
Seasonal considerations: Some RV parks offer different experiences throughout the year. "Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow. Very quiet and relaxed," says Richard H. about his fall stay at Elk Meadows RV Park.
