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."
$22 - $33 / 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."
$22 - $31 / 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."
$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."
$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"
"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."
"Yes, as stated, it is in a hill and there are areas that if you are walking could be an incline."
$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."
RangerWe actually left our Casita at the previous campsite to drive around and see if we could find some good gems and we sure did! Our rig mad it up to this flat spot on FR3540 about 2 miles up a nicely paved forest road. Now, there were some potholes but driving slow we were able to easily get our rig plus our Casita to this spot. We backed her up right by a little creek and the grounds seems pretty level for us. It’s quite from traffic and have only see 2 dirt bikes drives by. There are at least 7 van sites on the way up and maybe a site or 2 more (that we saw) where you fit a trailer…we just got lucky no one was here. But again plenty of site for vans or tints off this road.
RangerThis is an easy camping spot. A huge parking lot where everybody is respectful of each other space. It wasn’t too crowded when we went maybe about six other campers. There is a beautiful river that you can hike to and around and a few other trails here and there. The restrooms were Fairly clean. I would definitely come and stay here again.
GuideGot here and loved the place. Some camp spot are pretty close but you have amazing views! Not far from the city.
I love this place!!
The camp host Chris is awesome ! Straight forward kinda guy and takes great care of this place!! Will definitely be back!!
TravelerNice quiet campground along the Columbia river in Oregon. Minutes from Portland, with lots of fun farm stands and rural experience.
GuideI decided to go camping knowing that the next day would be potentially raining. Guess what it’s raining! For a couple more hours. But it’s all good I wanted to get out of the city and discovered this place. It’s kind of rustic. Most of the spots are right next to eachother. But people are respectful and it’s been an excellent experience! I get service decently I have Verizon.
There is access and a shower. And normal bathroom accessories. By the pavilion. The actual campground has Portl-potties. Each spot has a picnic table and fire pit and guess what??!!! You can have a fire!!! It’s a great escape!
A word of warning.!!!!!!!!
There is pitch on the trees. Bunches of it. My dog got into it and not fun. Bring some WD-40 incase. It helped a lot and dawn dish soap.
Enjoy!!
GuideI decided at last minute to get out of dodge! But didn’t want to go far. This campground was perfect. Super clean and close but giving you the feeling of being out deep in the woods. The only bummer is in my app. It said camp fires allowed. And they ARE NOT allowed at this time. The park rangers are super nice and friendly and definitely efficient. You feel safe at this location. Will be back!!!
GuideStayed here on a job for at least some 6 months, absolutely loved it. The hostess was very friendly, the adjoining small state park I believe it is is very convenient for pet owners, and the location is overall gorgeous.
GuideNot too far from the nearest town but you will feel totally immersed out here. My carrier is Verizon, I didn’t have any service whatsoever. Ice cold creek, towering trees. Seemed to be lots of sites off the road to pick from. A bit of trash but nothing crazy. Fantastic place to stop even just for one night. Would definitely visit again.
ScoutA great place to stop with a motorhome or tent, located on the banks of the Columbia River near Portland. The park is known for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and good amenities: paved parking, electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry facilities. There are also areas for pets and a place for dogs to run off-leash. Despite the close parking, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. An excellent choice for an overnight stay after exploring Portland!
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 358 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 53 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 59 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.
Keep Exploring
