Avery Rec Area, near Lyle, Washington, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors without the fuss of reservations or fees. This area offers a laid-back vibe with first-come, first-served sites right along the Columbia River, making it a prime choice for a peaceful getaway.

Campers rave about the stunning views of Mount Hood and the easy access to the river, perfect for a refreshing dip or just soaking in the scenery. With picnic tables available and the option to have campfires, it’s an ideal setting for gathering with friends or family. One visitor noted, “Can’t beat a waterfront spot,” highlighting the tranquility of the location.

While there are no electric hookups or drinking water, the vault toilets and trash facilities keep things manageable. Just be aware that trains pass by frequently, which some campers find charming while others might notice the noise. If you’re into wine, you’ll be pleased to know there are a few wineries just a short drive away.

This area is all about enjoying nature, so if you’re looking for a simple, scenic place to unwind, Avery Rec Area is worth checking out. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.

Open to the public except during commercial treaty fishing seasons

Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

Wishram, WA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Wishram. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Wishram

The Best Camping Near Wishram, Washington

This was very pretty, down the road from some wineries, and right on the river. Only thing was that the recreation area had a sign that said it was closed for camping and only usable for day use because of covid. There seemed to be some people possibly camping, but I hate to break the rules so we left. There was another road that took you down along the train tracks to a tree lined area, on the river, but we weren’t sure if it counted as the day use only. Very pretty, and lovely views, just be aware and mindful of covid closures, would hate to direct someone to the wrong area!


Nice river location 

This is Army Corps of Engineers recreation site with dispersed camping, vault toilets and a boat ramp.  First come first served, $0 and you can stay up to seven days. I have a view of Mount Hood and am parked facing the river.   

The downside? Very close to the railroad tracks and there are a lot of trains, mostly during the day. There is also a lot of truck traffic during the day. It doesn’t bother me, but your mileage may vary.￼

Beautiful site on Columbia River

Nice small first come first 
service sites along the Columbia and free. We had a great spot on the River with beautiful views of Mt. Hood and the Gorge. Great little swimming spot steps from our spot. Trains will come every hour and tracks are close to sites. A few wineries within a mile and one about .5 miles from spot. We will be back to this great find.

Relaxing on the Coulmbia

Can’t beat a waterfront spot. So far no one else has shown up. It’s about 6pm but been dark for an hour and half. There is a restroom although I haven’t used it yet. I’d say there’s about 5 picnic tables but there’s probably between 7-10 spots if you really tried. 

Awesome spot right on the river 

Great spot right on the shores of the Columbia River. There’s a pit toilet, and a garbage dumpster on-site. Over half the “sites” are right on the water, while the others are less than 50 feet away. 

It is just a big gravel parking lot, so don’t expect any privacy, but it’s still a great spot with Mount Hood visible down the river. 

There are train tracks and a controlled crossing right beside the campground, which means it’s loud - and even through the night, trains do blow their horns at this crossing. I’m not a light sleeper, but it even woke me up a handful of times through the night. 

Aside from that, this spot is pretty fantastic though! 

If there wasn’t a train and if the sites were more private, this would be a 5! 

I mostly want to balance out these other reviews. No one said something that wasn’t true, but the weight that they seem to put on how disruptive the trains are surprising to me. You don’t just have trains passing, you have them blowing their horn multiple times a night, and they are close enough you can *feel* their vibration. If you are a very VERY deep sleeper, I’d say this is a 5 star stop. I wore noise canceling headphones and played a white noise machine in the background- and still had to take a sleeping pill at 3am after being woken up multiple times.

Do you like sleep?

The spot is not difficult to get to nor is it desolate. When we arrived there was trucks and rvs in the area. Parking next to water seemed like a dream, until your are awaked by the sound of a screaming train in your ear. For last minute locations, I would stop here again. 

Choo Choo Dream 

Not hard to get to and literally right on the Columbia River but a bit too windy for kayaking unless you're a pro. Vault toilet, clean, good cell service and fantastic views. Mount Hood in the distance as to the stunning scenery. 

Beautiful but very windy and many camping spots taken up by people leaving their boats 

This place is free for a reason. It has actually nice location, but the trains are no joke. They are seriously loud do not underestimate this. This is not for everyone. It literally is every half hour with the train blaring his horn.

TRAINS  No joke

Pull in parking areas.  Plenty of space.
No water.  Pit toilets and picnic benches.  Easy to find.

Overnight at Avery

Not many people, though some 'long-term' campers. The area is a bit messy as it is used for fishing net storage and old-boat storage, it seems. Nevertheless, it's pleasant and uncomplicated and right next to the road so easy-in, easy-out. I'll stop here anytime I'm going through the area.

Overnighter Perfect

This was an amazing find! The sign says US government property, open for camping April 01-October 31 so we were a little unsure if we’d get kicked out in the middle of the night. (we didn't) There were several trucks parked with a lot of gear - might’ve been commercial fisherman. 

We turned right and drove to the very end next to a picnic table. There was no one else nearby. 

There is a bathroom and a boat launch. We didn't see any trash cans or dumpster - maybe b/c it was not camping season?? 

The location is very close to the train tracks - we loved it, but if trains and horns are not your jam, it’ll probably keep you awake all night. 

We arrived after dark and didn't realize we’d enjoy such a beautiful view of Mt. Hood with our coffee at breakfast!!

Photos of Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

Real photos from real campers