Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oregon camping adventure.
$45 - $125 / night
"I have kind of a love/hate thing going on for Lost Lake Campgrounds. Pros: It is beautiful. There's a reason it's one of Oregon's most photographed sites."
"Lost Lake Resort & Campground is somewhere we go at least once each summer. It has that nostalgic summer-camp vibe. A little more spendy than your typical Oregon campsite, but serene and private."
$25 - $60 / night
"Excellent faculties with easy access to amenities. Sat by a campfire pit in the evenings and went to sleep with the sound of the river surrounding us. What more could you ask for."
"It's an hour drive from our house in portland and though you feel like your out in the middle of the woods your only 10 mins from hood river and most of what it has to offer."
$27 / night
"There is a train that runs along the back of the campground which can be loud if your site is close by. The train noise did not bother us in the center of the park where we were."
"This camp has RV sites, tent sites and beautiful cabins with porch swings and is located close to the Columbia River waterfalls."
$20 - $31 / night
"All are very close to the highway so you will hear road noise and trains thundering past on the adjacent tracks."
"Picture a hillside with a winding road surrounded by thick green trees. Ainsworth is that place. Absolutely gorgeous."
$20 - $29 / night
"Viento is a nice state park along 84 right outside of hood river. It is along the columbia river and has beach access."
"Short, 5 minute walk to the river.
A train track runs throught the middle of the campground. Trains run every hour or so. VERY loud.Tent spots were $8. Rv spots were $24."
$25 - $45 / night
"Some camp sots are better situated then others, so do research before making reservation."
"Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, just north of the town of Carson. Its about a 20 minute drive to the Columbia river, and 10 minutes to the small town of Carson."
$15 / night
"But nice hiking trails near by. Close to highway so can be kinda noisy. Very close to Portland. Camp host could pick up more garbage though."
"Near the Hood River and a short distance to Mt Hood trails and surrounding"
$35 - $80 / night
"The campground itself is quite small, with some sites closer together and not enjoying that much privacy, and others tucked further back with more privacy."
"That’s what led us to Tollbridge, a lightly used campsite 15 miles south of Ukiah on Highway 325."
"A bit of a drive to get there but worth it. Extremely well-run campground in a beautiful setting with good access to the town of Hood River."
"Important to know … it is situated on a hilly property, so it’s not an easy stroll to the restrooms and showers unless one is young/athletic."
$20 - $30 / night
"So nice to have first come/first serve campgrounds so close to Portland. I arrived around 2 on a Wednesday in August and grabbed one of 3 open sites."
"Easy access to biking along the Columbia River. Sites are well distance apart, some more private than others depending on trees and terrain.
Water, trash and toilets available."
ScoutLarge Gravel area. We’re here in mid October at 4:30 pm and no one else is here. Great views! Glad we came.
RangerNot many people, though some 'long-term' campers. The area is a bit messy as it is used for fishing net storage and old-boat storage, it seems. Nevertheless, it's pleasant and uncomplicated and right next to the road so easy-in, easy-out. I'll stop here anytime I'm going through the area.
TravelerUp to 7 days allowed in a 30 day period for free boondock/dry campingbetween April 1 and October 31. Open camping rock/gravel lot in designated areas. 1 pair of toilets available (His/Hers). I ran the generator in my class c rv all night without a problem but made sure I was away from other campers. There is a rule that it cannot annoy other people.
ScoutCame on a Sunday night so had lots of spots to choose from. Good camping for a quick stop. There are warning signs about potentially closing the campground cause people keep leaving trash. So if you come please LNT!
ScoutThis is a wonderful park with great spots, access to the river and is close to Biggs Junction and The Dalles.
Scouthttps://thecelebjackets.com/the-wrong-paris-movie-outfit-collection/
Recently i visit this place such a great experience, Nestled along the wild and scenic Sandy River, Oxbow Regional Park is a natural sanctuary offering a classic Pacific Northwest escape. The park's 1,200 acres of ancient forest are crisscrossed with hiking trails and provide habitat for elk, deer, and osprey. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and rafting in the river, or reserve one of its rustic campsites for a truly immersive experience in nature, all just a short drive from the Portland metropolitan area.
RangerI wanted to get away for the weekend and it was close. I arrived. Perfect camp spot. Close to the river. I heard it’s lullaby at night!! True therapy in its finest !!
The trail along the river was awesome. It’s now one of my favorite spots. Will definitely be back.
No cell service at all but it’s worth it!!! Great camp host!! Very friendly people there. Great memories!!!
TravelerLocation is great, road traffic is loud can hear the train as well. Most sites look good. I booked day of and it wasn’t level at all 🙂. Clean showers and bathroom!
TravelerBathrooms are clean, vaulted toilets. Water available. Site is level…camp host is really nice!
Camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and unique campgrounds. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just be sure to plan ahead and consider the unique features of each campground!
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits are required for camping in the Columbia River Gorge?
Camping permits in the Columbia River Gorge vary by location. Most developed campgrounds like Deschutes River State Recreation Area require standard campsite reservations through state park systems or recreation.gov. For day use at popular attractions like Multnomah Falls Parking Lot (Day Use), a $2 timed-entry reservation permit is required during peak seasons. Washington State Parks like Beacon Rock and Maryhill require Discover Passes for day use and separate camping fees. Some recreation sites along the Lower Deschutes River operate on a first-come, first-served basis. National Forest campgrounds typically require Northwest Forest Passes for parking and separate campsite fees. Always check the specific campground's website before your trip as permit requirements can change seasonally.
Where are the best camping spots in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
The Columbia River Gorge offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. Beacon Rock State Park Campground provides a popular base with amazing views and access to the iconic rock formation trail. For those seeking riverside camping, Macks Canyon Recreation Site offers primitive sites at the end of the Lower Deschutes Access Road. Water enthusiasts will appreciate Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground near Horse-thief Lake, though be prepared for gorge winds. Just outside the immediate gorge area, Trillium Lake provides stunning Mount Hood views across pristine waters. For convenient interstate access with full facilities, consider Cascade Locks KOA or Eagle Creek Campground.
What camping is available near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers a wide range of camping options, with 360 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and 60 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 54 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 60 free dispersed camping spots near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
What parks are near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area that allow camping, notably Mt. Hood National Forest and Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
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