Camping near The Dalles occurs at the transition zone between the damp western Cascades and the dry eastern plateau, with elevations ranging from 100 feet at river level to 3,000 feet in nearby highlands. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from July through September with minimal rainfall, creating dusty conditions at many riverside sites. Wind conditions intensify particularly at sites directly on the Columbia River, with sustained gusts of 20-30 mph common throughout the gorge.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Deschutes River State Recreation Area provides a 16-mile trail perfect for day hiking. "The Deschutes River Trail leaves from the campground, and it's a nice 16-mile-long bike ride, though it can get a bit rough. This area can get very windy," notes Mark A. from Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Visit local attractions: The region offers cultural sites within short driving distance. "Just a hop to wineries, Stonehenge and hikes. Right on the river. Really enjoyed this campsite and would definitely stay again," says Karinne C. about her stay at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways provide access to seasonal fishing. "The camp site is less than 10 minutes from Hood River. The location is on a tucked away bend of the Hood River and feels rather secluded. There is a gun club just down the river which may impede on the serenity, but only for a few hours in the early evening," shares Dennis H. from Tucker Park Campground.
What campers like
River access points: Many sites provide direct water entry for cooling off during hot days. "We got a spot backed up to the river and it's gorgeous. Friendly staff. Quiet here and amazing drive part way up Mt Hood to get here with views of the mountain peak," reports Marie D. from Toll Bridge Park Campground.
Cool swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature safe water areas for summer heat relief. "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," explains Mackenzie H. about Tucker Park Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear skies and minimal light pollution create excellent night viewing conditions. "Really quiet at night with great star gazing. Definitely recommend!" John H. mentions after staying at Roots Rise Family Farm, a pet-friendly camping option near The Dalles, Oregon.
What you should know
Train noise levels: Several campgrounds experience significant rail traffic throughout the night. "Great park...clean, easy access, good hiking, good fishing, beautiful scenery, sites are flat and not jamb packed. Only problem is trains go by at night and blow their noisy, loud horns. Suggest camping at the back of the park, the horn may not be as bad," advises Rich J. from Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Site selection strategy: Finding the right spot significantly impacts your camping experience. "If you can grab one of the maybe four sites on the river, this is a pretty little spot. Very easy parking for campers, great tent sites as well. Unfortunately it's only about 100 yards off a country highway; it is windy enough to block some of the traffic noise," explains Daniel H. about Turkey Hole.
Tent setup considerations: Wind conditions require proper equipment and technique. "Know how to set up your tent in the wind. The spot gets some healthy gusts of wind, so come prepared," recommends Carolyn P. from Memaloose State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play structures for children. "This campground was family-friendly and felt very safe. Some of the lower sites had views of the water which was lovely," shares Em M. about Memaloose State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow water areas provide safe recreation spaces. "The day use area is clean, accessible, and has lots of space for families to spread out. The river is perfect for kids to wade and play in during summer months," notes Quinn Z. about Toll Bridge Park Campground.
Family activity spaces: Certain campgrounds have dedicated areas for group gatherings. "Up where the house was the hosts had set up an awesome chill area with hammocks, playground, and just an awesome space for families to hangout," describes Stephani H. about her stay at Roots Rise Family Farm.
Tips from RVers
RV hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer various levels of service connections. "Our site had a beautiful view of the river. Campground is close to many hikes and wineries. We also checked out Ferment Brewing in Mount Hood, which was dog friendly and delicious," reports Caitlyn R. about pet friendly camping at Memaloose State Park.
Site accessibility: Some camping areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. "Large, well kept, full hookup and tent area, this State Park is a nice option for exploring the Gorge. Yes, there is highway noise, and some train noise, but there is basically no avoiding either one in the Oregon state parks in the Columbia River Gorge," explains Doug about Memaloose State Park Campground.
Dump station locations: Not all sites with hookups provide full services. "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. The only downside was we had to drive past to the next exit to come back because the only access is on the west bound side of the freeway," advises Donald R. about Memaloose State Park Campground.
