Cabin accommodations near Dufur, Oregon range from 1930s fire lookouts to lakeside resort cottages. The region sits where Mt. Hood National Forest meets high desert terrain at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer months typically reach 85-95°F, with the camping season running primarily May through October at most locations.
What to do
Boat on a crystal-clear lake: Clear Lake offers non-motorized boating opportunities from May through October. "The lake is not stocked with fish or even water anymore. You can practically walk across. Kayaks and canoe are great. Nothing bigger," notes one visitor to Clear Lake Campground.
Explore historic petroglyphs: Located a short walk from camping areas at Columbia Hills, the Native American rock art provides cultural education. "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!" reports a camper at Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground.
Hike mountain trails: The region offers numerous hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "There are some really great hikes you can do nearby. We did the Pinnacles Trail and Lost Corral Trail. Both of these hikes were 'moderate/difficult.' They were both a little over 8 miles roundtrip," explains a visitor to Lone Tree Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While many campgrounds have close quarters, some offer more secluded options. "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents. There is no Wi-Fi, Verizon was there but I don't know where. Not at the site. But as we walked around the phone would connect in my pocket," reports a camper at Lost Lake Resort And Campground.
Year-round accommodations: The fire lookout towers provide unique lodging options regardless of season. "You can reserve the Lookout All Year! Only $50 a night! But it's sooo hard to get a reservation. If there's snow you have to hike up with all your gear on Eightmile Trail. If there's no snow you get a key to open the gate to drive right up to the place!" explains a visitor to Fivemile Butte Lookout.
Well-maintained facilities: Several cabin accommodations provide clean, functioning amenities. "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling is seclusion. The lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition. The campground provides easy access to a number of nearby activities," notes a guest at Mt Hood Village Resort.
What you should know
Train noise impacts some locations: Railroads run through the Columbia River Gorge area. "This is an absolutely beautiful park surrounded by a lake with lots of nearby opportunities for short hikes with amazing views of the mountains and water. The campsite hosts were welcoming and provided local firewood for a small fee. Unfortunately, freight trains run about every 30 minutes including overnight," cautions a visitor to Cascade Locks KOA.
Limited services in remote locations: Many cabin locations lack modern conveniences. "When you enter the gate for clear lake take your first right and follow the sorta still paved road you are on the dispersed camping side. Well worth checking this place out. Lots of spots with lake views and fire rings waiting for you. Toilets are only near fee area and day use area, bring a bucket! Oh also this is not a conveniently located spot for supplies if you need something it's a trek so come prepared!"
Seasonal water levels affect activities: Lake levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. "We came to lost lake with our adult kids and grandkids. The plan was to bank fish and kayak. Unfortunately the weather was kicking our butt and we went home a day early. Most of the sites are a good distance from the lake itself except the walk in tent sites."
Tips for camping with families
Resort-style options available: Some cabin locations offer numerous family amenities. "Just grab a tent and a cooler because this place has everything you need. There is a small store, arcade, restaurant with great pub food, ice cream, and a Bar Lounge with pool table. Rent a paddle boat or even a pontoon! In the overflow area you can play horseshoes," advises a visitor to Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort.
Plan for variable temperatures: Mountain elevation means significant temperature changes from day to night, even in summer. "The weather was very hot in the day, but got quite chilly at night," reports a camper at Tilly Jane Guard Station.
Search for sites with natural features: Look for locations with built-in activities. "There are also archaeological sites with artifacts and pictographs within walking distance of the campground. There was a small kayak/canoe rental place that is run by the super friendly camp host."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility varies significantly: Not all cabin locations accommodate larger vehicles. "If your traveling on Hwy. 30 also known as the Fruit Loop this campground is located on the northeast side of the base of Mt. Hood. It is a beautiful lake with views of Mt. Hood that make for a picturesque setting & there fishing too! Campground sites are large in loop A and I would recommend this end if pulling a trailer or driving a small RV, big RV's could have issues accessing these sites."
Some locations offer full hookups: Limited options exist for fully-serviced cabin camping. "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. Nice store for basic needs, nice laundry room."
Fairgrounds provide alternative options: County facilities offer basic amenities at lower rates. "This is a county fair grounds with lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot. Nice rest room and showers. Borders a large cattle ranch so you may hear cattle mooing but that's about it. Very peaceful!"
