Campsites in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area sit between 100-800 feet elevation with access to the Columbia River's 80-mile stretch through the Cascade Mountains. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak season, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for rainfall averaging 2-3 inches monthly. Most Columbia Gorge campgrounds remain open April through October when conditions are most favorable for tent and yurt camping.
What to do
Water activities on Columbia River: Access the river from Viento State Park Campground where visitors enjoy paddling, swimming and fishing. "We stopped for a picnic lunch as we were passing through with our camper. We enjoyed watching the wind surfers, and wading in the river as we ate our lunch and allowed the kids to exert some energy," notes Amanda M.
Hiking the Eagle Creek Trail: Located near Eagle Creek Campground, this trail accesses the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. "Eagle Creek is a small campground located high above the Columbia River. Great jumping off point for the various hikes and falls located in the gorge. Multnomah Falls, Larch Mountain, Eagle Creek Trail among others are all located nearby," shares Darin D.
Mountain biking at Sandy Ridge: Camp at Mt Hood Village Resort and access premier trails just across Highway 26. "Right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System. Using this RV park as a jumping off point, there are endless hiking trails and lakes to paddle and explore in the Mt Hood wilderness," reports Joel H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lost Lake Resort And Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel. "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents. There is no Wi-Fi, Veriton was there but I don't know where. Not at the site," notes Jason S. Another camper adds, "The sites are large and private, lots of amenities such as trails, boat rental, well equipped store, picnic tables and much more."
River access at affordable rates: Tucker Park Campground offers budget-friendly access to water recreation. "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," says Mackenzie H.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds offer multiple features for family comfort. "Good sized spaces and a nice country store," reports one visitor about Mt Hood Village Resort. Tucker Park gets praise for its "sites from small and shaded to open and sunny. 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 affects certain campgrounds: Several sites along the Columbia River sit near active railroad tracks. At Cascade Locks Marine Park, "Trains are only 20 yds away though and go by all through the night. If you're a light sleeper I do not recommend this campground," warns Maggie. Similarly, at Viento State Park, "The first night we stayed at Viento State Park I was unprepared for the very active, incredibly loud trains that ran ALL NIGHT!"
First-come availability varies: Secure your campsite by understanding reservation systems. "When we drove through the camp loop, the sites looked a little on the small side, but clean and with good tree coverage for shade and wind break," reports one camper. Another visitor notes, "Campsite 2 is on the way to 3 and 4 so not too private. The best campsites are those that are not crowded and you can enjoy the stillness during the day or night."
Limited facilities at remote sites: Black Lake Campground offers a more primitive experience. "4 camp sites surrounding a small lake. The camp is a close walk to many trails and other sites," explains Ryan D. Be prepared for basic amenities as another camper notes, "Unlike most campgrounds, the sites are not laid out on a grid. Spaces are spread seemingly randomly on the hillside just next to the lake and connected by thin hiking paths."
Tips for camping with families
Consider yurt options for comfort: Columbia Gorge yurt camping provides shelter from unpredictable weather. Columbia Gorge Getaways offers "Bell tents and I have never slept so soundly as I did for this cozy glamping weekend. The bathrooms have everything you need and being amongst friends and family in such a gorgeous space was pure bliss," shares Amy C.
Playground access matters: Choose campgrounds with activities for children. "There is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers and activities during the day for kids," reports one visitor about Mt Hood Village Resort. Similarly, another camper notes Cascade Locks "has a playground and plenty of room for kids to run loose."
Swimming spots for hot days: Identify campgrounds with safe water access for children. "The lake is warm enough to swim in the summer," notes one visitor about Trillium Lake. At Tucker Park, campers appreciate that "the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges for larger vehicles: RV campers should research approaches carefully. "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," warns Jason S. about Lost Lake Resort. For Gorge Base Camp RV Park, "if you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across."
Hook-up availability varies: Know which parks offer full services. "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling of seclusion. The lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition," notes Jack B. about Mt Hood Village Resort. In contrast, another visitor reports about Trillium Lake, "You are pretty close to your camping neighbors, but we still loved this spot because there were trails that led to the water."
Site spacing impacts privacy: Consider how close neighboring campers will be. "The sites are very nicely spaced out. There was some noise from the interstate, but the location was very convenient," notes one camper. Another adds, "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers."
