Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Lost Lake Resort and Campground's cabin accommodations welcome pets throughout their Columbia River Gorge property, providing convenient access to hiking trails and water recreation with dogs. Cascade Locks KOA similarly allows pets within tent sites, RV spaces, and select cabin units. Leashed pets are permitted at most gorge campgrounds including Tucker Park, Ainsworth State Park, and Viento State Park, with specific pet areas designated at Timberlake Campground and RV. Most locations require dogs to remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet when outside vehicles or tents. Pet waste disposal stations are provided at larger campgrounds, while remote sites expect campers to pack out pet waste. No breed restrictions apply at any of the listed campgrounds, though barking dogs that disturb other campers may result in being asked to leave.
Numerous hiking trails accessible from Wyeth Campground accommodate leashed dogs, with the connecting historic Columbia River Highway Trail offering 6 miles of paved, pet-friendly pathways perfect for walking dogs between campgrounds. Panther Creek Campground provides shaded sites that protect pets from summer heat, particularly important during warmer months when ground temperatures can exceed 100°F. Campers report that Home Valley Campground offers excellent river access for dogs who enjoy swimming, with a protected beach area adjacent to the campgrounds. Wildlife encounters are common throughout the region, so campers should keep dogs properly secured, especially during evening hours when deer and smaller mammals are active. Portable water bowls are recommended as not all sites offer consistent water access for pets.
