The Columbia River region near Ariel offers convenient camping access to southwest Washington attractions with elevations ranging from 200-600 feet. Seasonal variations impact campground availability, with more limited options during winter months. Most campsites in the area require advance planning during peak summer weekends when temperatures typically range from 70-85°F.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: Columbia Riverfront RV Park provides direct river access for boaters and fishing enthusiasts. "The views, Columbia River waterfront, and open spaces were wonderful. We only stayed a couple of days... It's close to home, so we will definitely be back," noted one visitor at the Columbia Riverfront RV Park.
Mountain exploration: Campers use Cougar RV Park as a base for exploring Mount St. Helens and local forests. "This is a great spot to drop your RV and head up to the mountain! Full hookup spots did seem close together and it was a tad busy being summer and all!" according to a camper at Cougar RV Park and Campground.
Kayaking opportunities: Bayport RV Park offers direct water access for paddlers. "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay," mentions one reviewer who enjoyed the convenient water access.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds prioritize cleanliness in shared areas. "The front office was clean and the manager nice. While there's definitely some long-term and month-to-month spots, most RVs aren't spilling over with 'extras' like some places," notes a camper at Portland Fairview RV Park.
Riverfront locations: Sites along the Columbia River provide scenic views and water activities. "We stopped here overnight up to Olympic National Park. So glad we did. Cool setting right on Columbia River. The host told us about app vessel finder to track boats coming by the camp area," shares a camper who appreciated the unique river location.
Convenient access to towns: Many campgrounds offer proximity to services while maintaining natural settings. "Good location—right by the river. We arrived late in the evening, and the staff met us and showed us to our room, which was especially helpful in the dark," reports a camper at Columbia River RV Park.
What you should know
Spacing and privacy varies: Site density differs significantly between campgrounds. "The spaces are backed up against the road. Lots of trucks pass by and you feel like they are driving through your camping spot. On the positive side it has big beautiful trees and a playground for the kids," notes a camper at Scappoose RV Park.
Seasonal restrictions: Verify amenities available during your visit timeframe. "Most sites have water year round except the center ones. Decent showers but it costs $0.25 for 2.5 minutes. Sewer dump station costs $15 per use," reports a camper at Bayport RV Park and Campground.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds implement varying reservation systems and stay limits. "2 week at a time limit. Total 60 days a year limit," explains a camper regarding Bayport RV Park rules. Several campgrounds limit duration to prevent permanent residency.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy," mentions a visitor at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Spacing considerations: Some family sites offer better privacy and room. "The tent sites are very large however they have minimal grass or shade. RV sites are very close to each other," advises a camper about site selection at Cougar RV Park, suggesting families request specific sites when possible.
Bathhouse proximity: Check bathroom locations when traveling with children. "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 family who stayed at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accommodations: Several rv sites near Ariel, Washington accommodate larger vehicles. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," shares an RVer at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity impacts several campgrounds. "Not really our style, since we travel with kids and are looking for things to do, but for what it is, this is a decently priced, clean, basic RV Park... Location is literally right on the freeway. Plenty of noise, but not as bad as it could have been," notes a camper at 99 RV Park.
Spacing between sites: Site dimensions vary widely between parks. "Spaces are close together but because of the mature forest you couldn't see your neighbors! It was beautiful. Hookups for the trailer were convenient and easy," reports an RVer who appreciated the privacy at Big Fir Campground despite relatively tight spacing.
