Primitive camping near Mikkalo, Oregon centers on the Columbia River basin where dispersed sites provide basic accommodations in high desert terrain. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Most camping locations sit directly along the Columbia River, offering water access in an otherwise arid environment.
What to do
Fishing access: Three Mile Canyon Park provides direct Columbia River access for anglers. "We were able to back in and view the Columbia river from our dinette window," notes Kevin L., who stayed for three nights. The park's proximity to the water makes it convenient for both casual and dedicated fishing enthusiasts.
Boat launching: Rufus Landing accommodates larger vehicles with a boat ramp and sufficient space for trailers. "Open camping rock/gravel lot in designated areas," explains Kris O., who appreciated the straightforward setup. The site permits generator use when positioned away from other campers.
Wildlife viewing: The Columbia River corridor attracts numerous bird species and occasional wildlife. Three Mile Canyon Park has posted warnings about rattlesnakes in the area, though most visitors report no encounters. The river's edge provides opportunities to observe waterfowl and raptors throughout the year.
What campers like
Waterfront positioning: Avery Rec Area offers direct river access with impressive views. "Great spot right on the shores of the Columbia River. There's a pit toilet, and a garbage dumpster on-site. Over half the 'sites' are right on the water," reports Evan W., who appreciated the location despite some privacy limitations.
Convenience for travelers: Most dispersed camping sites near Mikkalo serve well as overnight stops during longer journeys. "Not hard to get to and literally right on the Columbia River," writes Steve M. about Avery Rec Area, noting the "fantastic views" with "Mount Hood in the distance."
Free accommodations: Boondocking opportunities throughout the region come without fees. "This is Army Corps of Engineers recreation site with dispersed camping, vault toilets and a boat ramp. First come first served, $0 and you can stay up to seven days," explains Sally L. about her experience at Avery Rec Area.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel the Columbia River, affecting many camping areas. At Avery Rec Area, Bruce S. warns, "This place is free for a reason. It has actually nice location, but the trains are no joke. They are seriously loud do not underestimate this. This is not for everyone. It literally is every half hour with the train blaring his horn."
Limited facilities: Camping near Mikkalo remains primitive with minimal amenities. Most sites feature vault toilets but lack potable water, hookups, or shower facilities. Expect gravel parking areas rather than defined campsites at most locations.
Seasonal closures: Water levels and weather conditions affect availability. Some locations close entirely during winter months, while others remain accessible with reduced amenities. Patterson Slough on Rock Creek received criticism from Steve M., who found it to be "a nasty old concrete slab with a no camping sign, a cruddy old boat ramp, and a nasty body of water."
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Children sensitive to sound disruptions may struggle with train noise at riverside locations. Tavi C. shares about Avery Rec Area: "I wore noise canceling headphones and played a white noise machine in the background- and still had to take a sleeping pill at 3am after being woken up multiple times."
Safety precautions: Keep children away from steep riverbanks and monitor for hazards. Three Mile Canyon Park posts rattlesnake warnings, and Julia F. notes, "Bathrooms did have toilet paper and warning signs about rattlesnakes but did not see or hear any, thankfully."
Weekend timing: Sites fill quickly during summer weekends. Henri H. arrived at Avery Rec Area during evening hours and reported, "So far no one else has shown up. It's about 6pm but been dark for an hour and half... I'd say there's about 5 picnic tables but there's probably between 7-10 spots if you really tried."
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Multiple sites accommodate RVs for brief stays. "For last minute locations, I would stop here again," mentions Dalen P. about Avery Rec Area, which works well for travelers needing a quick overnight option.
Generator guidelines: Most dispersed camping areas near Mikkalo permit generator use with consideration for neighbors. At Rufus Landing, Kris O. explains, "I ran the generator in my class c rv all night without a problem but made sure I was away from other campers. There is a rule that it cannot annoy other people."
Big rig access: Both Rufus Landing and Avery Rec Area can accommodate larger vehicles, though navigation requires caution. Kevin C. describes Avery as "pleasant and uncomplicated and right next to the road so easy-in, easy-out. I'll stop here anytime I'm going through the area."
