Camping options near The Dalles, Oregon span both sides of the Columbia River with elevations ranging from 100 feet along the riverfront to 1,200 feet at higher campgrounds. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and August, with persistent winds creating challenging tent conditions. Camping facilities range from free dispersed sites with vault toilets to full-service state parks with showers and hookups, though several close seasonally from November through March.
What to do
Explore petroglyphs: Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground offers access to ancient rock art sites. "This campground was a delightful change to our routine... One of the best aspects was the petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground," notes Mary C., who recommends taking the guided tour that leaves just minutes from the campsite.
Visit local wineries: Multiple campgrounds provide easy access to nearby vineyards. At Peach Beach RV Park, campers receive a special welcome: "The host greets you with a bag of a couple peaches from the fruit farm next door," according to Marty S. The park sits adjacent to several tasting rooms.
Swim in Horsethief Lake: The small lake at Columbia Hills provides a welcome alternative to the often windy Columbia River. "There's a lake for swimming which is awesome because it gets super hot here in the summertime," writes Natalie G., noting the controlled environment makes it ideal for families.
Mountain biking access: Tucker Park Campground serves as a convenient base for cyclists. Located near popular mountain biking trails, one reviewer notes: "Toll Bridge is close to everything. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boardsailing, kite boarding... This area is a maca for all season sports."
What campers like
Riverfront tent sites: Tucker Park Campground offers premium waterfront locations. "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," writes Mackenzie H.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites. At Avery Rec Area, Sally L. notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer bird watching opportunities. Emma A. reports from Deschutes River State Recreation Area: "Lots of birds, gooses and goslings and great access to the river for a refreshing swim."
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard camping, some parks offer alternative options. Ashley B. tried the platform accommodations at Columbia Hills: "I later learned from the Park Ranger that the canvas on the tents had rotted out in May so he had built what I would call plywood cabins with canvas roofs. There were 2 cabins, each one had 2 windows, 2 sets of bunk beds, a weak light, and a latch secured door."
What you should know
Wind conditions: The gorge creates persistently strong winds that affect camping comfort. At Memaloose State Park Campground, Heather H. warns, "Do not fall prey to a river view spot! There are no trees to provide shade or protection from the wind! There are burn marks on my tent from the polls rubbing together."
Train noise: Railway tracks run alongside several campgrounds. At Avery Recreation Area, a reviewer cautions: "This is not for everyone. It literally is every half hour with the train blaring his horn."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Quinn Z. notes about Toll Bridge Park: "Alas, there isn't any Verizon service here, which I need to do work on the road, so I couldn't stay. Bummer too, because the area is gorgeous."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate limited schedules. Ryan L. advises for Deschutes River State Recreation Area: "If you like the desert and a little more solitude, come check out this site. The amenities are simple, be sure to bring plenty of water."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Toll Bridge Park Campground offers dedicated children's facilities. "We've camped here twice... The park, bathrooms and picnic areas all kept in tip top shape. The camp sites all had picnic tables and firepits," writes Christi C., who appreciated the playground during a heat wave.
Consider private farm options: Smaller, family-operated sites provide unique experiences. John H. found a great alternative at Roots Rise Family Farm: "There's a big field with play equipment for kids, and pine trees below, where we found a nice spot with half shade, picnic table, and fire ring."
Choose protected swimming spots: Finding safe water access matters for families. Marielle M. recommends Maryhill State Park: "This campground is wide and spacious, especially the group site. It has Columbia River access... There is a roped off swim area at the day use park."
Visit educational sites: The region offers learning opportunities for children. At Columbia Hills, Mary C. shares: "One of the best aspects was the petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground. This was a great spot and I highly recommend it!"
Tips from RVers
Select upper campground locations: Deschutes River State Recreation Area offers multiple camping areas with varying RV suitability. Mark A. advises: "We've only stayed in the 'T' loop, at the back of the campground... A loops has more trees, so I would suggest staying there when possible as it gets hot in the summer."
Check campground entry points: Some parks have challenging access roads. Melissa N. notes about Memaloose State Park: "Also, the entry to the campground is through a rest area and can be confusing when you're exiting the highway. Just go through the rest area but don't get back on the highway, the entry to camp is just passed through rest stop."
Consider site orientation: Positioning matters for comfort in hot weather. At Maryhill State Park Campground, Christina F. reports: "We are in a nice pull through site on the river side. About as close to being on the water as you can be from the campground. There are full hook-ups. Our site has no shade."
Book early for river views: Premium waterfront sites fill quickly. Donald R. shares about Memaloose State Park: "They had firewood on site and fire pits at every site. We had a site with full hookups, it seemed the lower ones only had water, check the map and make sure you get what you need."
