Columbia River campsites near Cheatham Lock and Dam offer primitive to full-service options in high desert terrain. Wind conditions can be significant across these riverside locations, with summer temperatures often reaching 90+ degrees. Most camping options sit between 100-300 feet of elevation with minimal shade across the landscape.
What to Do
Fishing at early hours: Lepage Park provides access to both the Columbia River and John Day River. "Being so close to the Columbia River made it very windy," notes one camper, but the park features "a fabulous roped off swimming area and plenty of space for grass games and a nice play structure for kids."
Hiking nearby trails: Lone Tree Campground at Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers access to multiple trail systems. "We did the Pinnacles Trail and Lost Corral Trail. Both of these hikes were moderate/difficult. They were both a little over 8 miles roundtrip. The scenery is gorgeous on both hikes - you follow along the river," shares a visitor who recommends bringing bikes as the trails accommodate cycling.
Visit local wineries: Avery Rec Area provides a base for exploring nearby attractions. One camper mentions it's "down the road from some wineries, and right on the river." Another notes nearby Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge replica as "must sees" for campers exploring the gorge region.
What Campers Like
River access: Deschutes River State Recreation Area offers direct river entry points. "We've camped here twice, and it's a fine campground. The Deschutes River Trail leaves from the campground, and it's a nice 16-mile-long bike ride," mentions one visitor who recommends staying in the A loop for better shade during summer months.
Affordable camping: Giles French Park provides free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "Lots of paved pullouts with trees, garbage and vault toilets at the western end. Only about 1/3 full on an early Sunday morning in September so I imagine it's usually possible to snag a spot," reports one camper who appreciated the easy pull-off from I-84.
Stargazing opportunities: Sherman County RV Park gets high marks for night sky viewing. "Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend. Adorable tiny town. Maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip," writes one camper, while another highlights the "peaceful and quiet, absolute" surroundings.
What You Should Know
Train noise: Many campgrounds in the area sit near rail lines. At Avery Rec Area, "the trains are no joke. They are seriously loud, do not underestimate this. This is not for everyone. It literally is every half hour with the train blaring his horn."
Limited shade: Most campgrounds offer minimal tree cover. One camper at Memaloose State Park warns, "Do not fall prey to a river view spot! There are no trees to provide shade or protection from the wind! There are burn marks on my tent from the polls rubbing together."
Seasonal considerations: Sherman County RV Park operates year-round while other parks like Memaloose State Park run "March 10 to October 31." Some parks, like Rufus RV Park, close completely during winter months with one reviewer noting, "Big sign says closed right now" during a November to March visit.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for swimming areas: Lepage Park features designated water access for children. A reviewer calls it "one of our family's favorite camping spots. Like a gem, it's small, simple and stunning. At the confluence of the John Day and Columbia Rivers, you can swim, fish, and boat."
Consider wind protection: Wind conditions affect tent camping significantly. One family at Memaloose State Park advises, "Know how to set up your tent in the wind. The spot gets some healthy gusts of wind, so come prepared."
Watch for hazards: Some areas have natural dangers to consider. At Cottonwood Canyon, a camper warns about wildlife: "As of this writing, the loud diesel pickup truck that came through to empty trash bins at 6am was jarring. It was followed by the back-up beeping of heavy machinery by 6:30am... This was so unfortunate, and I pity the folks that had hoped to sleep in."
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Rufus RV Park provides well-maintained spaces. "Separate sections for short- and long-term guests. Level pull-through sites with gravel and well-kept grassy areas in between. Modern bath house and laundry area," notes one RVer who would "stay there again in a heartbeat."
Hookup options vary: Confirm site amenities before booking. One RVer at Deschutes River State Recreation Area explains, "We stayed in loop T with our van. Only $10 per site plus $8 for the reservation online. They allow vehicles up to 24 ft in this primitive loop and in my opinion is the prettiest, most natural looking and furthest from the highway."
Dump stations limited: Not all parks offer full RV services. Celilo Park Recreation Area has "no sanitary dump" facilities, and a camper noted, "Half the parking lot is Day use, half overnight. Big grassy park that is clean, poorly maintained bathrooms."
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