Camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (359)

    1. Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest

    54 Reviews
    Rhododendron, OR
    14 miles
    +1 (541) 386-6366

    $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."

    2. Tucker Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Hood River, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 386-4477

    $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."

    3. Cascade Locks KOA

    22 Reviews
    Cascade Locks, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 374-8668

    $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."

    4. Ainsworth State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    North Bonneville, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 695-2261

    $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."

    5. Viento State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 374-8811

    $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."

    6. Panther Creek Campground

    20 Reviews
    Carson, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $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."

    7. Eagle Creek Campground

    18 Reviews
    North Bonneville, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 308-1700

    $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"

    8. Toll Bridge Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Hood River, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 387-6889

    $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."

    9. Timberlake Campground & RV

    11 Reviews
    Keystone Harbor, WA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 427-2267

    "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."

    10. Wyeth Campground at the Gorge

    11 Reviews
    Carson, WA
    0 miles
    +1 (541) 308-1700

    $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."

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Recent Reviews near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

1879 Reviews of 359 Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Campgrounds


  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    Lots of spaces

    Came 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!

  • 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.

  • Emille R.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Oxbow Regional Park

    Most Beautifil Place Oxbow Regional Park

    https://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.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Green Canyon

    Unexpected serenity!!

    I 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!!!

  • Anna D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Good location

    Location 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!

  • Anna D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Eagle Creek Campground

    Great location and clean

    Bathrooms are clean, vaulted toilets. Water available. Site is level…camp host is really nice!

  • 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!!!!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Trillium Lake

    Nice place with a lake

    Easy access. Nice sites.

  • 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.


Guide to Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

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.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "Great 2-mile hiking loop around the lake. Beautiful view of Mt Hood" at Trillium Lake. Another noted, "The hike to middle and upper falls is great" at Lower Falls Campground.
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds have access to lakes. A visitor at Lost Lake Resort And Campground shared, "The lake is fun for fishing and renting a little boat or canoe to get onto the water."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers have spotted various wildlife. One reviewer at Oxbow Regional Park said, "I watched a woodpecker breaking open a log for over an hour."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Memaloose State Park Campground said, "Wonderful view of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the river."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A reviewer at Ainsworth State Park Campground noted, "Restrooms were incredibly clean and there are hot showers."
  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the space between sites. One camper at Tucker Park Campground mentioned, "Each site has plenty of room and a good layout."

What you should know:

  • Accessibility Issues: Some campgrounds may not be suitable for everyone. A disappointed visitor at Lost Lake Resort And Campground expressed frustration about the lack of accessible facilities.
  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. A camper at Trillium Lake mentioned, "Over the years, it has become too busy and lots of loud campers partying."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have few services. A reviewer at Clear Lake Campground said, "It has limited services, potable water, garbage, and pit toilets."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A camper at Mt Hood Village Resort noted, "Our kids love cruising the loops on their bikes and stopping in at the playground."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along games or crafts for downtime. One family at Tucker Park Campground enjoyed "sitting by a campfire pit in the evenings."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at Lower Falls Campground reminded others to "bring your own water" and be cautious of wildlife.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mt Hood Village Resort mentioned, "There are some parking lot style loops at this location but there are also a ton of excellent tree'd spots."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Take advantage of available facilities. One camper at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms were very nice and clean."
  • Plan for Power Needs: Some campgrounds offer electric hookups. A visitor at Ainsworth State Park Campground appreciated the "fifty amp hookups" available.

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 359 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and 59 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?

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.