The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area surrounds Troutdale, Oregon, with steep basalt cliffs rising 4,000 feet above river level. This gateway to the Gorge sits at 40 feet elevation where the Sandy River meets the Columbia River, creating a natural transition between the Portland metropolitan area and Mount Hood National Forest. Camping options include both full-hookup rv campgrounds near Troutdale and riverfront sites with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
**Salmon fishing: Access the Sandy River directly from Sandy Riverfront RV Resort where the park sits between the river and a creek. "We rolled in after hours, office closed but they are so organized, available spots are clearly indicated with specific instructions. Bike into cute town of Troutdale very close. Right on the river," notes Val R.
**Mountain biking: Visit the Sandy Ridge Trail System across Highway 26 from Mt Hood Village Resort. "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," according to Joel H., who specifically mentions the Sandy Ridge trails as "some of the best Mountain Biking in the country."
**Swimming: Cool off in the river when temperatures rise in summer months. "The absolutely best part about this park is that it's across the street from Sugarpine Drive-in. Somewhat expensive (for a drive-in) but oh-so-delicious food. It's also right on the Sandy River where you can enjoy the beautiful views and swim (very carefully...bring life-vests to be safe)," advises Corinna B.
What campers like
**Concrete pads: Many sites at RV parks near Troutdale feature level, concrete parking areas. Wes B. explains that Sandy Riverfront RV Resort offers "concrete pads with extra parking space make for level camping. Book early to enjoy the spaces that overlook the Sandy River, otherwise you'll just be looking at other RVs."
**Riverfront views: Sites overlooking water are highly sought after but fill quickly. "The park sits directly on the Sandy River. Between the Sandy River and a creek. You do hear noises from the distant freeway and airport. There is a train bridge visible from the park, which is both entertaining and a bit noisy at times," reports Alene D.
**Proximity to local dining: Clackamette RV Park provides convenient access to local restaurants. "Just a gravel parking lot with hookups. But conveniently located right off of 205 and close to a lot of amenities in the suburbs of Portland. Dog friendly too as there is a park with walking paths," writes Mary F., noting the scenic views of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers.
What you should know
**Train noise: Railroad tracks run through the area, affecting some campgrounds more than others. At Portland Fairview RV Park, Derek & Alex W. advise: "Our Verizon phones and T-Mobile hotspot had great signal here and the park offered free cable service. The spaces are pre-assigned but very tight. The train next to the park is regular so be prepared for consistent train noise."
**Age restrictions: Some RV parks limit older vehicles. Becky S. explains, "They also have RV age limit of 2010 but they allowed pictures before turning me down. Yay we got approved!"
**Variable water pressure: Infrastructure issues affect some facilities seasonally. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, Jennifer H. noted: "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same. Maybe because we're on an island?"
Tips for camping with families
**Indoor swimming option: For families with children, Columbia River RV Park offers amenities for all ages. "The park has two off-leash dog areas, two shower facilities, a community kitchen, a rec room that you can use for gatherings, a free table for giving away things that you don't need or taking things you want, a laundry facility, and a workout room," explains C H.
**Playground access: Several parks feature play equipment for children. Tyson C. shares that Mt Hood Village Resort is "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."
**Rock hunting spots: The confluence of rivers creates opportunities for children to explore. Brian C. describes Clackamette Park: "The river and park around it, however, where the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers meet, is pretty cool. Great for looking for rocks."
Tips from RVers
**Site selection strategy: For more privacy at Mt Hood Village Resort, Joel H. recommends: "The sites are typically close together, but some have more separation than others. Most sites are pull through. Full hookups worked well for us."
**Off-season availability: RV parks in the Troutdale area have varying seasonal traffic patterns. Gregg K. notes: "Great restaurant, good sized spaces and a nice country store. Unfortunately some amenities still closed due to Covid!"
**Dump station access: Roamers Rest RV Park provides full hookups including sanitary dump access. According to C.W., "It's clean but a bit close to other sites. Paved sites, have restrooms. Needs a little TLC as road is a bit dated."
