Camping options near Mosier span Hood River County, with sites nestled between 80-4,000 feet elevation. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F and mild, wet winters with occasional snow. Tent sites typically cost between $12-30 per night while yurt camping near Mosier, Oregon provides protection from the area's frequent summer winds that funnel through the Columbia River Gorge corridor.
What to do
Paddle on calm waters: Trillium Lake offers an ideal setting for beginner kayakers with its small, still water that doesn't allow motor traffic. "The lake is warm enough to swim in the summer. It is a beautiful place and dog friendly as long as your dogs are leashed," notes Gayle K.
Explore historic petroglyphs: Take a short walk from Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground to view ancient rock art. "The petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground. This was a great spot and I highly recommend it!" suggests Mary C. Tours depart just minutes from the campsite.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer trout fishing accessible from shore. At Lost Lake Resort and Campground, "There are nice size trout in this lake that can be caught from the bank if you don't have a boat," reports Eric P.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Tucker Park Campground offers sites with natural separation. "Variety of sites from small and shaded to open and sunny. Both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day," shares Cerise D.
Overnight convenience: Eagle Creek Campground serves as an accessible stopover point. "Easily accessible from the interstate... If you just need a spot to get off the road for the night, this is pretty good," notes John B.
Mountain biking access: Campgrounds provide quick access to trail networks. Near Mt. Hood Village Resort, "right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System," explains Joel H. Many campsites serve as jumping-off points for mountain biking adventures.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep: Multiple campgrounds sit near active railroad tracks. At Viento State Park Campground, "The first night we stayed at Viento State Park I was unprepared for the very active, incredibly loud trains that ran ALL NIGHT! I was ready to pack up immediately until my family told me that they hadn't slept that GOOD in forever," shares Jill T.
Site reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. For Trillium Lake, "Reservations are hard to get we booked at 6am, six months out and felt very lucky to get three spots for our family Campout," reports Molly H.
Wind intensity: Many campgrounds experience significant wind, particularly those near the Columbia River. At Columbia Hills, "It is windy! I love the wind so I found it invigorating - but it was even a bit too much for me at times. Winds hit 29 MPH at some points of our stay," warns Adalia C.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible hiking trails: Choose campgrounds with easy walking paths for children. At Black Lake Campground, "The camp is a close walk to many trails and other sites," notes Ryan D. Many trails connect directly to camping areas.
Lakeside activities: Select sites with water access for cooling off. "The day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day," explains Cerise D. about Tucker Park.
Yurt options for comfort: Consider yurt camping in Mosier area when traveling with small children. Mt. Hood Village Resort offers "several yurts" which provide comfort without requiring tent setup. These structures withstand the area's strong winds better than tents.
Tips from RVers
Bridge crossing challenges: RVs face difficulties crossing the Hood River Bridge to White Salmon. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park, visitors warn, "If you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across," cautions Jim J.
Level site availability: Look for campgrounds with properly graded sites. Columbia Hills Historical State Park has "well maintained level sites of crushed gravel. The first time I haven't had to level the trailer side to side," reports Magnus S.
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly in spaciousness. At Mt. Hood Village Resort, "It's actually a pretty large park, but doesn't feel like it until you get out and explore a bit as the loops are pretty well disconnected. The sites are typically close together, but some have more separation than others," explains Joel H.
