Located along the Columbia River, The Dalles sits at 109 feet elevation with steep bluffs rising quickly to 300 feet. This creates dramatic temperature shifts between the river level and nearby ridges. Winter temperatures can drop to 20°F while summer heat regularly exceeds 90°F, with little rainfall throughout camping season.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Elk Meadows RV Park in Trout Lake, campers can access hiking trails just before entering national forest land. "Gorgeous view of Mt Adams if you can get one of the premium sites. Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow," notes Richard H. The park serves well as a base for outdoor activities.
River activities: Many campers enjoy swimming and fishing in the Columbia River. At Peach Beach RV Park, visitors appreciate the river access. "Clean, cute and well cared for park on the Columbia river," writes Angela S., who adds, "The park is in the dryer part of the Gorge but this park surrounded by lush fruit orchards made it feel like an oasis."
Local attractions: The area offers historical and cultural sites within driving distance. "Maryhill museum and stonehenge replica" are recommended by a reviewer at Peach Beach. Another camper mentions that it's "close to several wineries and farm stands" with some "within walking distance of campground."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many rv campgrounds near The Dalles maintain excellent bathrooms and shower facilities. At Sherman County RV Park in Moro, campers consistently praise the cleanliness. "The restrooms and showers were very well maintained and absolutely immaculate. And I'm an admitted and unabashed germaphobe," reports Tim T. Another visitor noted that the "restroom facilities [are] exceptionally clean."
Privacy between sites: Several parks provide good separation between camping spots. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park in White Salmon, "each site has grass that is well maintained." Jeremy J. explains, "The park is paved in asphalt, and each site has grass that is well maintained."
Natural surroundings: Many campers value the area's natural beauty. "Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend," says Emma R. about Sherman County RV Park, which she called "maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip." Another camper describes seeing "elk splashing through the meadow at night while we watched stars and satellites" at Elk Meadows RV Park.
What you should know
Weather conditions: The area experiences significant temperature variations and steady winds. "The wind seems to never stop" at Sherman County RV Park according to one reviewer. Prepare for hot summer days and cool evenings.
Train noise: Several campgrounds near The Dalles sit close to active rail lines. At Lewis & Clark Campground & RV Park, visitors mention "frequent freight trains throughout the night" as the "only downside" to an otherwise relaxing stay.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have issues with water quality. At Spring Drive RV Campground near Maupin, one camper reported "the water is dirty and filled with what appears to be iron. It has gone through my filter. So carry some portable water." Another noted a "boil your drinking water notice on each campsite" during their visit.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Several RV parks near The Dalles offer amenities specifically for families. At Mt Hood Village Resort, a camper noted it's 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."
Consider proximity to bathrooms: If tent camping with children, check bathroom locations. At Mt Hood Village Resort, one camper warned "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."
Schedule for regional attractions: Several family-friendly attractions operate seasonally. "The main attraction of this place is the nearby recreation," explains Joel H., noting access to the "Wildwood recreation area" and "easy bike riding in the RV park" at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions and access: Several RV parks in The Dalles area accommodate large rigs, but site specifications vary. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park, "the roads are at a higher elevation than the park," which helps with noise reduction. But be cautious with the Hood River Bridge which is "two lane, NINE FEET WIDE. Most RVs will have inches to spare," warns one RVer.
Water and hookup locations: Hookups in some older parks have unusual placements. At Spring Drive RV Campground, "the hook-ups are located in odd spots for RV. We used 20 ft. Of septic drain hoses." Another notes "Water hookups are at odd angles inside water meter boxes, so hooking up can be challenging."
Leveling requirements: While many sites are level, some require adjustment. At Peach Beach RV Park, "sites are on the smaller size but our 43 ft 5th wheel fit just fine." Another camper at Spring Drive mentioned their site was "large and pretty level," though other sites "had uphill or downhill entries."
