270 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Deschutes River corridor anchors the camping landscape around Dufur, Oregon, with several established campgrounds and dispersed options scattered throughout this eastern Oregon region. Dufur City Park Campground provides full hookup sites for both tents and RVs with 14 spaces backing to a creek near the town's baseball diamond. Along the Lower Deschutes River, BLM-managed sites like Beavertail Campground, Twin Springs, and Rattlesnake Canyon offer more primitive camping experiences. The terrain transitions from the agricultural landscapes around Dufur to the dramatic river canyons that characterize the lower Deschutes area, with camping options ranging from developed sites with amenities to basic dispersed areas.
Many campgrounds in the Dufur area operate seasonally, with peak visitation occurring from late spring through early fall when weather conditions are most favorable. Access to riverside campgrounds requires navigating gravel roads that can be rough and dusty, particularly those leading to sites along the Deschutes. One camper noted, "The road to get there was bumpy gravel, but pretty easy even for our small RV. It's an investment to get there, but worth the trip." Summer temperatures frequently climb into the 90s, while strong winds can affect camping along the river canyon. Most BLM sites have vault toilets but limited or no potable water, requiring visitors to bring their own supplies. Cell service is generally unavailable at the more remote riverside campgrounds.
The Deschutes River provides a scenic backdrop and recreational focus for many camping areas near Dufur. Visitors consistently mention the dramatic canyon views and stargazing opportunities as highlights of their experience. A reviewer described Macks Canyon Recreation Site as "minimal people, desert, fishing" with "fantastic weather" despite experiencing "high winds in the canyon" during their stay. Sites along the river are popular with anglers, rafters, and those seeking water access. The surrounding high desert environment offers hiking opportunities along old railway lines and up canyon walls. Campers should be prepared for train noise along portions of the Deschutes, as active rail lines run parallel to the river in several sections. The more developed campgrounds closer to town provide better amenities and hookups but less solitude than the remote river sites.
"It's the perfect spot if you are traveling across Oregon and need a nice place to stop before continuing to another state, or eastern Oregon. The campground is relatively small."
"Found this place on the map while searching for a place to camp at the Washington/Oregon border."
from $15 - $119 / night
Check Availability"5th wheel traveling with big family and multi age group kids: I was able to reserve a spot in the B loop last minute to breakdown our trip to the Oregon coast and we were very pleased with our experience"
"Yes, there is highway noise, and some train noise, but there is basically no avoiding either one in the Oregon state parks in the Columbia River Gorge. "
from $25 - $38 / night
Check Availability"Cute little campsite just off the highway tucked away next to Horse-thief lake. It is very windy due to its location in the gorge. The lake access and surrounding land is beautiful."
"This was a great location for loads of hikes in the area."
from $12 - $46 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $35 - $80 / night
Check Availability"It was during the major fires in Oregon so most of the time it was socked in by thick/heavy smoke. Like brown fog. Not at all the fault of Peach Beach. "
"peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground. other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge"
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"We turned right and drove to the very end next to a picnic table. There was no one else nearby. There is a bathroom and a boat launch."
"Great little swimming spot steps from our spot. Trains will come every hour and tracks are close to sites. A few wineries within a mile and one about .5 miles from spot."
"The campsites are relatively close but not so much that you’re walking over each other we camped in our RV and secured a second spot so we could have the space between the campground is very close to the"
"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."
from $25 - $60 / night
Check Availability"Fourteen spaces with full hookups back up to a small creek and surround the city baseball diamond. It's $40 per night, and Maria was so friendly! Came out to greet us when we pulled in."
"The campground surrounds a ball field and city pool. We stayed here for the Gravl Grinder and enjoyed the full hookup. Great location in an historic Oregon town."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"A gloriously tucked away, all-year campground on the confident, adventure-inducing Deschutes River."
"It’s worth the drive down the never ending gravel road. A quiet little oasis on the lower Deschutes surrounded by beautiful rock. 15 or so campsites and was surprised by how big the sites were."
"Just a brief stop overnight en route to the Oregon Coast."
"This is along the river bordering WA & OR. There are some nice parks, museums, etc. to explore in the immediate area. The campsite itself is just ok...a little too urban for our tastes."
from $12 - $68 / night
Check Availability
TravelerThis camp is right between I84 and the train tracks. Noise from 84 is a lot… the spaces are small and at night it is pitch black. It seems to have a lot of availability because it’s not very popular. No Ranger presence… lots of mosquitoes.
TravelerThe train came through. It was noisy boy they were not kidding. Small spaces.
ScoutAs of July 27th the road is closed due to wildfire! Take care of yourselves
TravelerAnother great little campground soon to taken back by Mother Nature. Highly suggest 4x4 rig to access the site down a narrow single track road. Only three spots.
TravelerIf you want to be high up and as close to the Timberline lodge as possible for an early start on the next day’s adventure, then this is the place for you! Outhouses and dumpsters on site, but no water. I arrived at 4 pm on a Saturday in July and there were plenty of sites available.
TravelerGood weekend getaway. Sites are spaced nicely. Is an older campground that got washed out years ago. Was reopened fewer sites. Good place for kids to play in the creek and adults to chill.
GuideVery nice free camping for 7 days. There's vault toilets and trash dumpsters. Looks like it was a paid campground years ago. Easy access to river and gorgeous views. A few "longggg" term campers but still nice.
GuideBig and open area, lots of trees, no real views of Hood. It was very quiet and campers were all spread out for great peace and privacy. There are no trash bins, so please remember to take out what you bring in. Shamefully, some people are pigs and have left trash. We chipped in and picked up to help out.
Great to have such places to camp, take care of them!
TravelerGreat for a few days but it is very hot in the gorge in july. Great signal. Gas station that closes at 10pm and i think bar across the street. More social of a spot than the woods. There is some sand at few vans got stuck in at one spot near the no camping sign at end.
Dispersed camping near Dufur, Oregon extends beyond the Deschutes River corridor, with several lesser-known sites offering unique advantages for outdoor enthusiasts. The eastern Oregon high desert climate creates summer daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F, while nights can drop below 50°F even in July and August. Camping options near Dufur range from primitive riverside spots to established sites with hookups, all positioned within the transition zone between Mt. Hood's forested slopes and the Columbia Plateau's arid landscape.
Fishing access points: Beavertail Campground offers excellent riverside spots for anglers. "Beautiful riverside campsites, open, come prepared with camping stove since it's dry season," mentions Claudia D., highlighting the campground's proximity to the Deschutes River fishing opportunities.
Historical exploration: The area around Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground features unique archaeological attractions. "One of the best aspects was the petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground. This was a great spot and I highly recommend it!" shares Mary C., who enjoyed the cultural aspects of camping in the area.
Water recreation: Toll Bridge Park Campground provides river access for summer cooling. "Hear the river, which I love. Clean bathrooms, water and even showers available!! It's a perfect getaway!!!" notes S. Renae M., describing the water recreation possibilities within minutes of camp.
River views: Campers at Deschutes River State Recreation Area consistently praise the water proximity. "The facilities are great! If you're looking to do activities along the Deschutes River this is a great spot to call home!" writes Terésa M., emphasizing the park's connection to water-based activities.
Stargazing opportunities: Sites at Avery Rec Area offer exceptional night sky viewing. "At night it is incredibly dark. This was the best part! You can almost forget that there is an RV 5' away. Open sky and the stars are beautiful!" describes Adalia C., highlighting the celestial benefits of camping in this relatively remote location.
Proximity to wineries: Camping near Dufur provides easy access to regional wine tasting. "Peaceful and quiet. Beautiful shaded campsites along the Columbia River. Some train traffic but generally not bad. Close to some fantastic wineries and Maryhill museum," notes Steven G. from Peach Beach RV Park, pointing to popular off-site activities.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season varies significantly by location and elevation. "Summer temperatures frequently climb into the 90s, while strong winds can affect camping along the river canyon," warns a reviewer at Dufur City Park Campground, suggesting spring and fall visits for more moderate conditions.
Train noise impacts: Many riverfront campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "Great park...clean, easy access, good hiking, good fishing, beautiful scenery, sites are flat and not jamb packed. Only problem is trains go by at night and blow their noisy, loud horns," explains Rich J. at Memaloose State Park Campground.
Insect activity: The dry climate doesn't eliminate all pest concerns. "The major downfall was that our camp was infested with flies and earwigs which did not provide a good experience. Train does come by often but I knew that before," notes lauren C., describing conditions at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
River safety protocols: Fast currents require adult supervision for children at riverside campsites. "There are sites right on the river which are lovely for quick water access but can be dangerous for small children due to current," cautions a family camper at Dufur area campsites.
Playground access: Dufur City Park Campground includes family-friendly features. "This is a small, but well maintained campground and city park. The campground surrounds a ball field and city pool," notes Ella T., highlighting amenities that appeal to families.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into camping trips with cultural sites. "Petroglyphs Galore!!! When we are in the area we normally stay near Maryhill State Park. This campground was a delightful change to our routine. The site is small but it offers quite a few different ways to camp: tents, RV, cabins even a teepee!!" advises Mary C., suggesting nearby educational activities.
Site selection strategy: RV campers should consider wind exposure when choosing sites. "Do not fall prey to a river view spot! There are no trees to provide shade or protection from the wind! There are burn marks on my tent from the polls rubbing together," warns Heather H. about windier campgrounds along the Columbia River.
Utility limitations: Water and electrical access varies widely between campgrounds. "Great spots on the river. Kinda limited shade. A hand pump potable water source. It's dry camping so no dump on site, no electricity so bring a generator if you're rv camping," advises Garett F. about Beavertail Campground.
Access road conditions: Several campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "The road to get there was bumpy gravel, but pretty easy even for our small RV. IT's an investment to get there, but worth the trip," relates Jennifer R., describing access to more remote camping areas near Dufur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots in Dufur, Oregon?
Dufur offers several excellent camping options. Dufur City Park Campground provides 14 full-hookup spaces surrounding the town's baseball diamond, with sites backing up to a small creek. For a unique private camping experience, Carbon Farm Yard is located just a few miles outside of Dufur on 100+ acres of explorable property. Other nearby options include Pebble Ford Campground on the east side of Mt. Hood and Macks Canyon Recreation Site at the end of Lower Deschutes Access Road. The surrounding Mount Hood National Forest also offers numerous camping opportunities within a short drive from Dufur.
What amenities are available at Dufur camping grounds?
Pebble Ford Campground offers first-come, first-served sites just off Forest Road 44/Dufur Valley Road. While amenities are basic, the small and sweet camping area provides a peaceful forest setting not far from Mount Hood. For those seeking more facilities, Macks Canyon Recreation Site at the end of Lower Deschutes Access Road offers riverside camping with more developed amenities. RV campers will appreciate Dufur City Park Campground's full hookups for $40 per night. Most campgrounds in the area provide at least basic facilities like toilets, while amenities like showers, electricity, and water hookups vary by location.
When is the best season for camping in Dufur?
Late spring through early fall offers the best camping conditions in the Dufur area. Mount Hood National Forest Rock Creek Reservoir Campground provides lovely camping conditions during summer months with intermittent cell service adequate for basic needs. Summer visitors to North Arm Campground enjoy warm lake temperatures and uncrowded conditions, making it ideal for swimming and water activities. While specific to Dufur information is limited, the area generally experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with occasional snow, making late May through October the most reliable camping season. Spring brings wildflowers but can be wet, while fall offers colorful foliage and fewer crowds.
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