Mt Hood Village Resort in Welches operates year-round with full hookup RV sites situated under old growth timber. The resort lies at 1,300 feet elevation, making it accessible even during winter months when higher-elevation camping areas near Government Camp are snow-covered. Most RV parks in the Mt Hood area remain operational through winter, though amenities may be limited compared to peak season offerings.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Sandy Ridge Trail System is directly across Highway 26 from Mt Hood Village Resort, providing some of the region's best mountain biking. "Using this RV park as a jumping off point, there are endless hiking trails and lakes to paddle and explore in the Mt Hood wilderness. You will never get bored in the Mt Hood area," notes Joel H.
Water recreation: The Salmon River runs through Mt Hood Village Resort with access points for fishing and swimming. Nearby lakes offer additional water activities. "There is a path that leads to the Wildwood recreation area and within the RV park itself there is access to the Salmon River for fishing/swimming," according to a recent visitor.
Food destinations: Several notable restaurants operate near the RV parks in Government Camp. "Some great places to eat in the area are Koya Kitchen, that serves sushi and ramen with plenty of outdoor seating and a full bar. Also nearby and not to miss is the Skyway Bar and Grill with amazing BBQ," recommends a Mt Hood Village Resort reviewer.
What campers like
Indoor amenities: During inclement weather, facilities become important at higher-elevation RV parks. At Clackamette RV Park, "The confluence of the Clackamas and Willamette river's, this is a great spot with most amenities, still inside Portland metro, right off 205 but incredibly serene nonetheless," reports Pepper V.
Waterfront access: Many campers value river proximity when selecting RV parks near Government Camp. "The river is right there, bike trails, grass area, walk to town, everything. Prices are great in an area that doesn't have a ton of choices for RV's," according to Mike M. at Clackamette RV Park.
Recreation for children: Family-friendly facilities are available at select locations. "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," writes Tyson C. about Mt Hood Village Resort.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some parks experience water issues. At Spring Drive RV Campground near Maupin, "Electrical has been good so far, but the water is dirty and filled with what appears to be iron. It has gone through my filter. So carry some portable water," advises Ryan W.
Train noise: Several RV parks sit near active rail lines. At Sandy Riverfront RV Resort, "Train bridge across from the park so there is train noise," notes Kelly N., though most reviewers find the noise manageable with proper site selection.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the Government Camp region. Spring Drive RV Campground has "Virtually no cell service (one bar if you stood in just the right spot)," according to Leanne L., making it important to plan communications accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Indoor facilities provide weather-independent recreation. "We 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," explains Amy H. at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Nature activities: Educational opportunities abound near Government Camp RV parks. "Wildwood recreation site is right next door and boasts an underwater salmon viewing area as well naturalist inspired boardwalks and walking paths," according to a recent review.
Site selection for tent campers: When bringing tents alongside RVs, site location matters. At Columbia River RV Park, "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," warns a camper about layout challenges.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement challenges: Utility connections require extra equipment at certain parks. At Spring Drive RV Campground, "Our site was large and pretty level. Campground was once a single/double-wide trailer park for govt employees so the hook-ups are located in odd spots for RV. We used 20 ft. of septic drain hoses," explains Leanne L.
Size accommodation: Larger RVs find adequate space at several parks. At Bridge RV Park, "The park is paved in asphalt, and each site has grass that is well maintained. The spaces are pre-assigned but very tight," notes Jeremy J., highlighting the importance of advance planning for larger rigs.
Winter accessibility: Year-round operations vary by elevation. While Mt Hood Village Resort remains open through winter, campgrounds at higher elevations near Government Camp often close seasonally due to snow accumulation, requiring campers to select lower-elevation alternatives during winter months.
