The Columbia River Gorge area near Multnomah Falls offers camping at elevations between 100-1000 feet, with most campgrounds situated along the historic Highway 30 corridor. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with cooler nights. Fall camping often sees morning fog that burns off by midday, creating distinct microclimates throughout the gorge.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Eagle Creek Campground provides direct access to several trails. "This is a campground works with reservations but they have a few spots first come first serve so we decided to check it out... There are large spots and tiny spots with firepit and picknick table. There is camphost. There is Toilet building with 3 vault toilets and water points. A few hiking trails nearby," reports Martijn D.
Swimming in natural pools: The Lewis River near Sunset Falls Campground offers multiple swimming areas. "The pools above the falls, jumps into the lower pool and the falls themselves are amazing, mostly after Noon when the sun comes onto the river," notes Lucia J. The paved trail to the falls is easy for all ages to navigate.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "Two parties (all family) stayed the night Friday night. Additional family visited Saturday night... We all made s'mores and sang campfire songs together in the evening after our day of hiking to the horse camp and up to the bat haven (a nice long nature walk for the kids)," shares Melissa L. about Milo McIver State Park.
What campers like
River access: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers direct access to the Clackamas River. "We didn't stay even 24 hours. We only stayed for a place to sleep overnight, but I'm eager to return and stay longer. I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites. The tent sites were also secluded and flat... We drove to the boat launch area and it was easily accessible," writes Lindsey T.
Hot showers: After a day of hiking, several campgrounds provide shower facilities. "A centralized restroom and bath house was such a perk and justified the higher pricing of the site which I did feel was pretty high overall but somewhat fitting for the area. The showers were coin operated with every 3 minutes costing $0.50... The showers were hot, the pressure was good and the overall impact of this was game changing!!!" reports Crystal C. about Beacon Rock State Park.
Fire rings and picnic tables: Standard at most dog friendly campgrounds near Multnomah Falls. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches. Food was adequate. There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy," shares Amy H. about Mt Hood Village RV Resort.
What you should know
Train noise: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Multnomah Falls experience railway disruptions. "This is a nice little campground. I am writing as a person who camps in a tent so it may be a little different for RV. This campground is very close to a railroad that is used a lot. No matter what time of day,or more importantly Night, the trains go by with their horns blaring. At least every 2 hours at night," warns Sally C. about Cascade Locks KOA.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "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 Jason S. about Lost Lake Resort.
Early reservation requirements: During peak season (June-September), most sites fill quickly. "The hiker/biker sites are first come first serve, which was a little nerve wrecking.. We went late April though, to better our chances of finding a spot. We did and there was only one other person there," explains Ashley L. about Milo McIver State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Easy hiking options: Look for trails rated as "family-friendly" with minimal elevation gain. "The paved trail to the falls is so nice and a very easy walk. My 4 year old could also hike around the falls themselves just fine. Super fun for kids! Swimming/wading in the water was a lot of fun. Core memz were made," shares Beth L. about Sunset Falls Campground.
Playground access: Mt Hood Village Resort offers dedicated play areas. "Decent RV camping. Stayed 2 nights during last weekend of summer break. Packed a little tight but most people were outgoing and friendly while we visited. Very close to summer (and I'm assuming winter) attractions with Ski Bowl nearby. A few nice restaurants within a few minutes drive. Nice indoor pool and hot tub. Good playground for kids. Very family friendly," notes Jon F.
Dog-friendly swimming spots: Several campgrounds welcome pets at water access points. "We headed up hoping to score a campsite at dougan creek on an early sunday afternoon. We got lucky and scooped a very secluded camp spot close to the bathrooms... Dogs! They are welcomed with open and loving arms. Our lab had the best time roaming her site and playing in the water," writes Sarah J. about Dougan Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Beacon Rock State Park Campground offers various options. "Stayed at the Woodward full hook up sites. Only a small number of them so felt spacious and secluded. Close to a busy train track and you can here some highway noise but overall we felt secluded and enjoyed. Hikes are a short drive from the RV park," reports Joe C.
Site selection: Choose sites based on rig size and proximity to amenities. "We recently stayed in the RV area of Beacon Rock. There are 5 sites with hook ups. Sites 1-3 are very close together with 4 & 5 slightly more spread out. What we didn't know was the train runs directly behind the site multiple times an hour and is loud," advises Becky S.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "There are 40 full hook-up sites, 6 walk-in tent sites and a hiker/biker campground with no reservations required. The campground itself unremarkable, with a bathroom/shower house, dump station and play ground, but it is a great jumping off point for exploring all things Columbia River Gorge. Dump station and water available," explains Kathy B. about Ainsworth State Park.
Legend
