Cabin camping near The Dalles offers access to both the arid eastern Oregon landscape and the wooded slopes of nearby Mount Hood. Located at the eastern edge of the Columbia River Gorge, this region experiences dramatic seasonal temperature changes with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Tent and cabin campers should prepare for strong winds, particularly along the Columbia River where gusts frequently exceed 25 mph.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Clear Lake Campground provides access to cold, clear waters popular with anglers. "Great fishing. They have a little restaurant where you can rent boats. Bathrooms are nice as well," notes a visitor to Clear Lake Campground. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting fishing conditions.
Hiking to petroglyphs: Columbia Hills Historical State Park features ancient rock art within walking distance of camp. A visitor explains, "There's also archaeological sites with artifacts and pictographs within walking distance of the campground. There was a small kayak/canoe rental place that is run by the super friendly camp host." The petroglyphs tour leaves just a 3-minute walk from the campsite at Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Multiple cabin locations offer water access for paddling and swimming. "The lake was perfect for all the splashing and playing that we wanted to do," reports a camper at Clear Lake. Boat rentals are available seasonally at several locations, though water temperature remains cold year-round.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Options range from basic structures to fully equipped retreats. "We stayed in one of the cabins very nice camp can purchase breakfast," shares a visitor at Cascade Locks KOA, which offers cabin accommodations with porch swings near Columbia River waterfalls.
Stargazing: The clear desert air provides excellent night sky viewing. At Lone Tree Campground, a camper notes, "At night it is incredibly dark. This was the best part! You can almost forget that there is an RV 5' away. Open sky and the stars are beautiful!"
Private camping spots: Many locations offer secluded sites despite developed surroundings. "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents," explains a visitor to Lost Lake Resort And Campground. The campsites at many locations are tucked among trees for additional privacy.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience frequent train traffic. A Cascade Locks KOA visitor warns, "What they don't tell you is the freight train runs about every 30 minutes including overnight. The first time was a big surprise, but we got used to it."
Wind conditions: Expect strong, consistent winds throughout the Columbia River area. A visitor to Columbia Hills notes, "The unrelenting Gorge wind is something to be prepared for!" Wind speeds regularly reach 29 mph during certain seasons.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin locations have limited or no connectivity. A Lost Lake camper shares, "There's 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." Prepare for disconnected stays at most cabin locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin campgrounds include dedicated play areas. At Mt Hood Village Resort, a visitor reports, "This was a good family camping spot. Pros - there is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids."
Wildlife awareness: Educate children about local wildlife including rattlesnakes. A Lone Tree camper explains, "It's also a rattlesnake habitat in Eastern Oregon's high desert biome, within 30 miles or so of The Dalles." Keep children on established paths and use flashlights after dark.
Bathroom proximity: Consider cabin location relative to restroom facilities. One Mt Hood Village visitor notes, "If you're tent camping the bathrooms are quite the hike, the tent sites are crammed together, there's only one working faucet in the entire tent camping area."
Tips from RVers
Limited access roads: Some cabin areas have restrictions on RV traffic. At Lost Lake Resort, a visitor warns, "DO NOT DRIVE YOUR RV DOWN TO THE STORE. Park at your site or somewhere near it and walk to the store. Not great for large equipment."
Full hookup availability: Specific sections at certain campgrounds provide complete services. An Mt Hood Village guest explains, "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling is seclusion. The lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition."
Advance fuel planning: Remote cabin locations may have limited service access. A Clear Lake visitor advises, "Have a full tank of gas there is no service and closest gas station is far away and closes at night." Plan accordingly when traveling to more remote cabin sites.
