Tent camping near Hood River, Oregon offers diverse experiences from lakeside sites at elevations of 3,000-4,500 feet to riverside camps in the Columbia River Gorge. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with cooler evenings at higher elevations. Most dispersed camping areas require campers to be self-sufficient with personal waste disposal systems and water filtration equipment.
What to do
Fishing at mountain lakes: Goose Lake Campground, about 30 miles from Hood River, provides excellent fishing opportunities. "The fishing is excellent. Quiet campground. Easy access on forest road- some potholes," notes Brian B. Motorized boats aren't allowed, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Swimming in alpine waters: Forlorn Lakes offers multiple small lakes perfect for summer swimming. "The smaller lake this site backs up to is great for swimming and kayak/paddle-boarding," explains Brian B. The campground features several small alpine lakes at approximately 3,800 feet elevation.
Hiking to waterfalls: Camp near Panther Creek Falls for easy waterfall access. "The hike down to Panther Creek Falls is literally right across the road and I think these falls may be the most beautiful falls I've seen in OR or WA," shares Sarah S. at Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls.
Stargazing: The open camping area above Panther Creek Falls provides excellent night sky viewing. "The stars were amazing. During the day we would go peek over the edge and could see people parking to go to the falls," reports Sarah S. Light pollution is minimal in these remote areas.
What campers like
Private lakeside access: Black Lake Campground offers secluded lake access with uniquely arranged sites. "4 camp sites surrounding a small lake. 1 and 2 are private while 3 and 4 are right next to each other," explains Ryan D. These sites aren't laid out in a traditional grid pattern.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites provide relief from summer heat. "Visited in late June, and the weather was amazing, 15 degrees lower than in town," notes Jonathan H. about Rainy Lake Campground, though he warns "the bugs and mosquitoes were overwhelming (even with deet)."
Secluded camping spots: Panther Creek offers riverside privacy. "This was an awesome stay right on the creek which was secluded and nice to hear the rushing water," says Bobby J. about Panther Creek Creekside Camp. The area features multiple turnouts along the road with immediate river access.
Uncrowded weekday options: Many campgrounds are less crowded midweek. "Quite campground midweek, there was only a handful of other campers spread out throughout the campground," writes Megan A. about Goose Lake Campground.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bring insect repellent during summer months. "Highly recommend yellow jacket traps this late in summer. Aggressive is an understatement," warns Michael H. about Goose Lake Campground in September.
Road conditions: Most forest roads require careful driving. "The road getting up to Rainy Lake wasn't the greatest (but totally fine with a Subaru) so you have to drive a bit slow and look for potholes," advises Sarah S. High-clearance vehicles are often recommended.
Campsite layouts: At Goose Lake Campground, "the campground is on a hill (but all the camping spots are flat) so you get a great view of the lake from most campsites," explains Sarah S. This terrain creates good views but impacts site selection.
Weather patterns: Mountain campgrounds experience significant temperature changes. "The day use area got windy everyday about 9-10 am and would last until sundown which made it a little chilly," notes Megan A. about Goose Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Goose Lake provides accessible fishing for children. "Nice spot. Has a boat launch, great sites to put up tents. Love fishing here," shares Samantha B. The lake is regularly stocked with trout.
Easy waterfall access: For families with children, Columbia Gorge Getaways offers structured camping with amenities. "The kids loved play area and fun lawn games! They have been hounding us to return," writes Amy C., noting the family-friendly environment.
Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends during peak season. "It's a good idea to arrive early on a Friday to get a spot," advises Natalie B. about Goose Lake, as many campgrounds fill quickly from Friday through Sunday.
Lakeside tent camping: Look for walk-in tent sites near water for family activities. "We stayed in 3, which was great, but I think 4 is the most private of the sites," notes Sarah S. about Rainy Lake, describing the campground layout for families seeking privacy.
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Most forest campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. "Trailer access limited to this area," notes Brian B. about the lower lakes section of Forlorn Lakes, one of the few areas accessible to small trailers.
Dust management: For dirt road camping in summer, prepare for dust issues. "We did dispersed camping off the road leading up to the lake. The biggest downside to camping here is the dust from the road," warns Tom W. about Goose Lake, suggesting position tents away from roadways.
Designated RV spots: For smaller RVs, look for designated sites. Chris H. notes about Black Lake Campground that "spaces are spread seemingly randomly on the hillside just next to the lake and connected by thin hiking paths. There is no vehicle parking, but I could see bicycles and motorcycles having easy access to each campsite. A 4-wheeled vehicle will not fit in here."
