Camping options near Dufur, Oregon feature diverse accommodations with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 4,800 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F during July and August, while nights cool considerably to the 50s. Strong afternoon winds typically peak between 3-7pm, particularly in canyon and river areas where gusts can reach 25-30 mph.
What to do
Explore ancient petroglyph trails: Take a short walking tour at Macks Canyon Recreation Site where historical Native American rock art is accessible via riverside trails. "The campground was just what we were looking for. Minimal people, desert, fishing," notes James W., highlighting the relative seclusion perfect for cultural exploration.
Paddle on glass-like waters: Trillium Lake offers exceptional kayaking and paddleboarding on calm waters with mountain views. "The lake is picturesque! The drive to it was amazing too with breathtaking views," writes Molly H., though she warns, "We had trouble locating restrooms there," so plan accordingly for facilities.
Fish for native trout: Multiple waterways throughout the region provide fishing opportunities, particularly at Tucker Park Campground where river access points are well-maintained. One visitor noted, "Our neighbors were friendly and the white noise from the water helped hide the proximity of our fellow campers. One of the locals stopped by and said the salmon were biting - he even gave me a lure."
What campers like
Riverside swimming spots: During summer months, the river areas at Tucker Park Campground offer welcome relief from heat. Mackenzie H. shares, "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing at Lone Tree Campground. One camper described, "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!"
Hiking trail networks: Multiple well-maintained trails connect camping areas to scenic vistas. Julie P. writes about Cottonwood Canyon, "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. The scenery is gorgeous on both hikes - you follow along the river."
What you should know
Wind conditions affect site selection: At Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground, strong gorge winds can impact camping comfort. Ashley B. advises, "I arrived at dusk during what would be a very strong wind storm that would last all night and all the next day. I later figured out that when the door was open it created an arc of no wind right in front of the cabin which was nice to sit, watch, and relax."
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: Lakes and rivers in the region can change dramatically based on season. At Clear Lake Campground, one visitor observed, "When we arrived there in August the 'lake' was more of a river, which was perfect for all the splashing and playing that we wanted to do." Another noted, "The lake was low when we were there."
Train noise affects riverside sites: Campgrounds along river corridors often experience periodic train noise. At Maupin City Park, Rebecca L. warns, "Tracks are very close and trains pass every couple hours throughout the night. If I had known I would've gone elsewhere." Other campers describe the train sounds as "haunting and a bit romantic."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated kid-friendly areas: Lost Lake Resort offers glamping close to Dufur, Oregon with family amenities. A camper shared, "Great if you have a family or large group and/or are newer to the camping world! They got a range of options to dip into! The lake is always cold no matter the season. Really easy fishing if you're just learning."
Reserve water-adjacent sites early: Water access sites book quickly at most campgrounds. One visitor to Tucker Park advised, "Make sure to get there early, river sites go quick!" Waterfront sites typically cost $10 more but provide direct water access.
Prepare for bathroom distance: Some campgrounds have limited facilities situated far from certain sites. At Maupin City Park, one camper noted, "The tent camp runs along a river which is nice and there is grass and each site has a table. The problem is they pack the campground like sardines and only have one facility at one end of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited hookups: Most luxury glamping facilities near Dufur have partial hookups only. At Mt. Hood Village Resort, Steve R. notes, "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."
Confirm road conditions before arrival: Access roads to more remote glamping yurts can be challenging. Logan K. reports about Macks Canyon, "Really good spot to get off the grid while still having most amenities. About 20 miles of gravel road will take you here and some small Rockwall to semi-worry about." Another camper added, "I go off-road a lot. I have never experienced a washboard road as bad as this was for 6-7 miles."
Arrive with full supplies: Many glamping sites are distant from services. At Clear Lake Campground, visitors advise, "Have a full tank of gas there is no service and closest gas station is far away and closes at night" and "This is not a conveniently located spot for supplies if you need something it's a trek so come prepared!"
