Avery Recreation Area

Fishing and hiking draw campers to this Army Corps of Engineers site along the Columbia River, where sites sit just feet from the water's edge, with open sightlines toward Mt. Hood across the river. It's free, small, and fills slowly. Reviewers consistently note the area holds around eight spots, and on weekday evenings the site sees little competition, making it a workable overnight stop for anglers and those exploring the Columbia River Gorge corridor. Access is drive-in or boat-in, with RVs up to 30 feet accommodated along the narrow strip between the road and the riverbank.

The single biggest factor shaping a stay here is the train tracks running directly behind the camping area. Freight and passenger trains pass roughly twice an hour through the night, horns blaring within a few hundred feet of the sites. Brian B. describes the river breeze as almost ocean-like from 15 feet away, but light sleepers should factor the noise into their planning. Amenities are minimal: an outhouse and picnic tables, no trash service.

The site is open for overnight camping from April through October, with a seven-day maximum stay, and functions as day-use only outside that window. Nearby attractions include Maryhill Stonehenge and the Maryhill Museum, both within a few miles. Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground and Deschutes River State Recreation Area provide alternatives with more developed facilities. Avery works best for campers who prioritize river access and low cost over quiet nights.