Camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area campsites span across forested slopes ranging from near sea level to 4,000 feet in elevation, creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the region. Most campsites are tucked into Douglas fir and western hemlock forests that provide natural shade and wind protection. Several campgrounds remain open year-round despite the region's 70+ inches of annual rainfall concentrated between October and April.

What to do

Waterfall hikes from camp: Several trails lead directly from campgrounds to scenic waterfalls. At Eagle Creek Campground, "a trail and stream to explore right from the campground" make it easy to discover nearby cascades. One camper noted that Wyeth Campground provides "great access to hiking and biking trails" with "a short ways to Emerald Falls."

Water sports access: The Columbia River offers multiple water recreation opportunities. At Toll Bridge Park Campground, you'll find "many places to sit in the water and play and it doesn't move too terribly fast." The park's location makes it "close to everything. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boardsailing, kite boarding... This area is a maca for all season sports."

Mountain biking: The region offers extensive trail systems for cyclists of all abilities. Wyeth Campground features "a paved off-road bike trail. I took it 6 miles up to Venieto State Park. Along the highway, but still very pretty." Another camper noted that Timberlake Campground's camp host "noticed we were traveling with mountain bikes and was kind enough to lead us to some great trails just outside of Hood River."

What campers like

Tent-specific sites: Some campgrounds offer special accommodations for tent campers. Ainsworth State Park features "6 walk-in tent sites and a hiker/biker campground with no reservations required," which often remain available when other sites fill up. At Wyeth Campground, "the walk-in tent sites look nice" according to multiple reviewers.

River proximity: Many campers appreciate sites positioned near water. Tucker Park Campground offers riverside spots where "we spent two nights at one of the river sites with easy access to the river. The campsite was scattered with smooth rocks perfect for tanning and nice sandy beaches along the river for your fur companions to cool off."

Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas provide relief during summer heat. At Lost Lake Resort, "the lake is always cold no matter the season. Really easy fishing if you're just learning." Another camper explained that Tucker Park has "both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day."

What you should know

Train noise: Railroad tracks run alongside several campgrounds, creating significant noise disturbances. At Cascade Locks KOA, "the freight train runs about every 30 minutes including overnight. The first time was a big surprise, but we got used to it." The campground has adapted by providing "ear plugs" for guests.

Highway proximity: Many campgrounds sit close to Interstate 84, resulting in traffic noise. Viento State Park is "very close to I-84 and to a very active railroad, so it's pretty noisy." Another camper noted, "You can hear the highway from the sites" at Wyeth Campground, though they added there are still "lots of trees and lots of privacy."

Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Lost Lake Resort, "most day-use sites are first-come, first-served. By the time we arrived, all the sites that were accessible for someone with disabilities were occupied." Another camper advised, "DO NOT DRIVE YOUR RV DOWN TO THE STORE. Park at your site or somewhere near it and walk to the store. Not great for large equipment."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Panther Creek Campground offers "multiple access points to the creek" where families can explore safely. At Tucker Park, there's "a playground and well maintained showers and bathrooms (very clean). The real magic here though is the sound of the river as you drift off to sleep."

Swimming opportunities: Family-friendly water access points make hot weather more bearable. Toll Bridge Park has "a childrens park and covered picnic area. Nestled at the base of Mount Hood, this is an area not to be missed." Tucker Park features "many places to sit in the water and play" with relatively gentle currents.

Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer organized programs and amenities designed for children. At Cascade Locks KOA, "there's kids running absolutely everywhere. Pool and playground were fine, too." Another camper noted, "Bring your bike for riding around and you can also head into the nearby little town for plenty of good food and ice cream."

Tips for RVers

Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. At Timberlake Campground & RV, "Some of the sites are on the smaller side and a little tricky to back into but doable." However, "Don't be scared away because there are no pull through spots. The management can coach you into the site. They were great."

Hook-up availability: Electrical services vary widely between campgrounds. Toll Bridge Park offers riverside sites with electrical connections, where one camper "came here on a hot summer day when I wanted to plug in for A/C. This place was perfect." At Viento State Park, RV sites are better equipped than tent sites, though campers noted the "sites are small" overall.

Size restrictions: Many gorge campgrounds have specific length limitations. At Wyeth Campground, "The sign at entrance says 30 foot max length for trailers." Another camper with "a short bed truck and a 22' trailer" had "a very hard time getting into the spot we reserved (site 8)" because "the roads are very narrow and are lined with curbs."