Best Camping near Cougar, WA

Cougar, WA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Cougar, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Cougar. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Cougar, WA (272)

    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground

    1. Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    175 Photos
    392 Saves
    Heisson, Washington

    Battle Ground Lake State Park is a forested camping park in the Cascade Mountain foothills; its proximity to Vancouver and Portland and its cool green lake make it a great escape from the bustle of city and suburbs.

    Children play in the shallow swim area under the watchful eyes of their picnicking parents, anglers float on the lake, hikers and campers take quiet strolls in the woods. On sunny weekends, laughter fills the playground, lakefront and kitchen areas. Whether you've come for a rest or a family play day, time spent at Battle Ground Lake will leave you refreshed and ready to tackle your life once again.

    PARK FEATURES The 280-acre park offers hiking, biking, horse trails and a primitive equestrian camping area. The spring-fed lake is attractive to swimmers and paddlers and is stocked with trout, making it a favorite of anglers.

    The park has 35 standard campsites, six partial-hookups sites, 15 primitive sites that require campers to hike up to half a mile from the parking lot, two primitive equestrian sites, four cabins, one RV dump station, two restrooms and four showers. Maximum site length is 35 feet (may have limited availability).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seaquest State Park Campground

    2. Seaquest State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    118 Photos
    221 Saves
    Silverlake, Washington

    Far in the Northwestern corner of the United States lies a world of magic, splendor, and mystical beauty. Perched atop the historical Mount St. Helens, Seaquest State Park is the home-base for thousands of volcanic visitors year round. Most notable for its proximity to the Mount St. Helens Visitors Center, this park is the home base for hikers, explorers, tourists, and adventures alike. It’s not just the volcanic aftermath that makes this area so special. Even before the eruption, Gifford-Pinchot National Forest has always been known for its dense foliage, as well as its beautiful lakes, tributaries, and waterfalls.

    When it comes to nearby attractions, the area is packed with them. Miles and miles of trails fork and wind throughout the park. Beyond the confines of the park’s boundaries are numerous additional trailheads, all offering something unique to those seeking it. Perhaps the most popular trail nearby is the Monitor Ridge trail. This 10 miles round trip excursion will have you climbing 2,000 vertical ft. through grassy meadows and winding forest paths. The last 1,000 feet are especially difficult due to the volcanic debris and soot that cakes your clothes. However when you finally reach the domed summit, you’ll be pleased with your efforts. Massive and expansive, the St. Helens dome is unlike any other scenic viewpoint in the US. Nowhere else can you see the true force and impact of Mother Nature’s wrath.

    Nearby, the Mount St. Helens Ape Caves give visitors a chance to traverse through the labyrinth of volcanic caves left behind by magma runs during the the eruption. Today, the caves are a popular attraction for families and explorers. There’s two separate options, one which is well-lit and suited for families. The other option will send you through a pitch black adventure trekking the depths of the craggy, drippy tunnels. If planning to visit, be sure to bring a strong flashlight or kerosene lantern, as you’ll be unable to enter otherwise.

    Camping in Seaquest State Park is relatively painless thanks to the 52 standard campsites, 18 partial-hookup sites, and 15 full-service sites. RVers, tent campers, van travelers, and anyone else with a form of shelter should have no issues finding somewhere to stay here. Aside from standard camping accommodations, there are also full-service Yurts available for rental, complete with heaters to stay warm if you’re visiting in the chilly months.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Falls Campground

    3. Lower Falls Campground

    25 Reviews
    101 Photos
    382 Saves
    Trout Lake, Washington

    Overview

    Lower Falls Campground is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Visitors enjoy several waterfalls in the area and access to the Lewis River Trail. The campground is open from May through October.

    Recreation

    Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. There are hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horse trails, and motorcycle trails within 10 miles of the campground. The Lewis River contains rainbow, cutthroat, and bull trout as well as whitefish. The area is catch and release only.

    Natural Features

    The campground is just off the Lewis River at an elevation of 1,300 feet. The campground road is paved and shaded by large evergreen trees. There are trails down to the Lewis River and falls area.

    Nearby Attractions

    There are falls viewing opportunities at Lower Lewis River Falls, Curly Creek Falls, Big Creek Falls, and Middle Falls, all within 15 minutes of the campground. Hiking trails within 10 miles include trail #31 Lewis River, Trail #5 Quartz Creek, and trail #80 Wright Meadows.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Bay Campground

    4. Beaver Bay Campground

    15 Reviews
    21 Photos
    368 Saves
    Cougar, Washington

    If you’re thinking of visiting the pristine wilderness of Washington State, the emerald waters of Yale Lake and the surrounding St. Helens wilderness area will surpass your expectations. Beaver Bay Campground is a 65 site recreation area located along Yale Lake, in Cougar, WA. The campground consists of standard amenities including running water, showers, a boat launch, roped off swimming beach, and fire pits. There is also a day-use picnic area for those wanting to recreate here. While there are no RV hookups, there is a vehicle dump station for those who need it. Crowds can get tough here as this is one of the most popular campgrounds on Yale Lake. Subsequently, getting a good campsite can often require going during the off season (Spring/Fall) when crowds are not as common. Otherwise, smaller campsites can get cramped.

    Thankfully, you don’t need to hide out in your tent as local activities are plentiful. To start, just 15 minutes North-East, the “Ape Caves” of Mount St. Helens provide visitors a completely unique opportunity to tour the volcanic tunnels left behind by the infamous volcanic eruption of 1980. In addition, those willing to drive can travel through I-5N, east on HWY 504, to check out the Mount St. Helens visitor center. If you’re really adventurous, check out the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for amazing insight into to eruption, and panoramic views of the dome.

    On the lake itself, most forms of boating are common, as well as water skiing and wakeboarding during morning hours. Additionally, the lake is also a premier fishing spot known for its abundance of Kokanee and Cutthroat Coastal Trout. You’ll need a fishing license, which can be purchased on the way in the town of Woodland.

    If you have an interest in beautiful scenery, you’re going to feel right at home here. If your thing is fishing and boating, you’re still in luck! Whatever your intentions, Beaver Bay is a great option for those looking for a place to stay and recreate among Washington’s wild terrain.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $5 - $21 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground

    6. Sunset Falls Campground

    19 Reviews
    87 Photos
    231 Saves
    Yacolt, Washington

    Overview

    Sunset Campground is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Visitors enjoy scenic views of the river and a waterfall within the campground. The campground is open all year.

    Recreation

    There are several hiking trails nearby, including the Silver Star trail which offers excellent views of Portland, Oregon. The area is also popular with kayakers that visit the East Fork Lewis River.

    Natural Features

    The campground is just off the East Fork Lewis River at an elevation of 1,000 feet. The campground road and trail path to the falls are paved and shaded by large evergreen trees.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is located in between Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams, and only about an hour north of Portland, Oregon.

    Contact Info

    This location is staffed. Please call (360) 729-0018 to speak with local staff.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground

    7. Ainsworth State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    189 Photos
    210 Saves
    North Bonneville, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Swift Forest Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Campground

    9. Panther Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    60 Photos
    230 Saves
    Carson, Washington

    Overview

    The Campground sits along Panther Creek at the intersection of the Pacific Crest Trail. Driving on FR65, 4.7 miles upstream from the campground, visitors can enjoy an easy hike to Panther Falls. __Campers can enjoy the privacy provided by a variety of shade-loving plants and a thick forest of cedars, ash, firs and alder.

    Recreation

    Hikers have close access to the Pacific Crest Trail, which spans 2,663 miles from Mexico to Canada. Outstanding scenic views are available all along this trail.

    Natural Features

    Located in southwest Washington State, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest encompasses 1.3 million acres and includes the 110,000-acre Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument established by Congress in 1982. Panther Creek Campground is located in the Mt. Adams Ranger District. Elevations here range between 1,200 feet at the Wind River Work Center, 12 miles north of Carson, WA and 12,276 feet at the summit of Mt. Adams. The Mount Adams Ranger District offers a diverse array of habitats and natural features, from old growth to second growth forest, wetland areas, low and high elevation meadows, glaciers, and low and high elevation lakes.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (509) 427-3677 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    Panther Creek Campground makes a great base to explore Mount Adams and the Columbia River Gorge. The town of Carson is nearby, which is known for its hot springs. It also has a golf course, restaurants and shopping.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only

    10. Cougar Park & Campground - Tent Only

    9 Reviews
    26 Photos
    22 Saves
    Cougar, Washington

    45 tent camping sites NOTICE: Ground tents only (no tent trailers) Group camping facility with 15 tent camping sites and a covered picnic shelter with fireplace and sink NOTICE: Ground tents only (no tent trailers) Day use picnic area (see fees) Swimming beach Beaver Bay hiking trail accessed from this park. Water and restrooms provided Boat ramp Entrance gate closes at 9 p.m.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 272 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Cougar

Recent Reviews in Cougar

1457 Reviews of 272 Cougar Campgrounds


  • Nate B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Merwin Camper's Hideaway
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Lake Merwin Camper's Hideaway

    Sold me a cabin that is uninhabitable and refused to help

    Scammers and scumbags. I purchased a cabin here. When it came time to move in I discovered the fridge/freezer had gone out and rotten meat had festered there for weeks or months. It was completely uninhabitable. I spoke to the seller who was willing to void the transaction, but the sleazy salespeople at Camper Hideaway refused to give up their$8,000 commission. I'm talking to the Vancouver Free Legal Clinic to see if I can get my money back. Tread with caution.

  • Mike E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Anderson Park
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Anderson Park

    Looks like long termers, cluttered, run down

    I had researched this park quite awhile beforehand and was interested based on the reviews posted here. It looked pretty nice. Unfortunately when we were able to preview it by driving through I was surprised to find out it was not at all what I had seen in reviews. This place is on the edge of a small town and it looks like it is occupied by long term tenants with a lot of paraphernalia and personal belongings strewn about. For us, traveling for vacation and sightseeing it would not be a place we'd wanna stay. We did have dinner and really enjoyed it in the little town of Vernonia where it is located and that was great. The park is also adjacent to a fantastic walking biking trail and it's next to a city park.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayport RV Park and Campground
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Bayport RV Park and Campground

    Threatening and know it all owner

    I was contacted by the company who owns this site. Automatically the individual had threatening words to me as in, you need to go buy a tent now. We have the right to remove you from premises right now. Terrible customer service, and after spending money for the service they provide. They will just take away everything from you and kick you off the princess. The owner also likes to redefine what objects and vehicles are. Also, like to redefine vocabulary words. I would stay away from this place due to helter-kelter atmosphere.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Viento State Park Campground
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Viento State Park Campground

    the trains are brutal

    This was a very last-minute stop for us & we didn’t look up the reviews first. To mirror what the other reviews have said, the trains run all throughout the night. Because of that, plus the noise from the freeway, I was surprised by the 3-star rating, so gave my rating accordingly. We’ve been on a month-long trip & would not consider this place 3 stars. The location is convenient & the campground is nestled in the trees, but it’s not enough to offset the noise. Speaking of the trains again — we’ve stayed at many campgrounds where trains can be heard, but never like this… We were woken up by blaring train horns at least 8 times in the middle of the night. So if you value sleep at all, I would say there are plenty of other options in the area to choose from

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olallie Lake
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Olallie Lake

    Mt Adams views galore!

    The paramount feature of this campground is the beautiful Mount Adams directly across the lake. The sites are adequate, flat places to pitch a tent or park a small trailer, but the view of Mount Adams is magnificent. However, the lake is marshy and there's not really a good place for swimming. It's quiet and peaceful wilderness camping.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Council Lake
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Council Lake

    Beautiful lake, quiet and peaceful

    This is a lovely lake campground in the forest with gorgeous views of Mt. Adams. The campsites are private and separated. There was a few mosquitoes when we went, but not too bad. It's a quiet a peaceful location and is highly recommended. A jeep trail / atv trail goes steeply up council bluff to a beautiful view overlooking the lake and surrounding forest. Overall, a great location! We originally intended to camp at Lake Takh lakh but when it's already full, this place is an excellent backup plan.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Chain

    Marshy series of lakes

    We didn't camp here, but there's a couple nice campsites near these marshy lakes. Quiet and peaceful but beware the mosquitoes! Great place to fish or just paddle around. The road is pretty rough the last couple miles, not suitable for cars or big rigs or trailers.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Takhlakh Lake Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Takhlakh Lake Campground

    One of the most beautiful places in Washington

    We camped here for 4 days this summer. It was peaceful and quiet. The view from the camp site is simply stunning. The glassy smooth waters reflect Mt Adam's glacier like a mirror. The campsite we picked was large enough to accommodate our 22 ft trailer plus truck and a Jeep. The outhouse was cleaned daily but can get stinky at the end of the day. There is no official swimming area, but the shoreline has many great places to take a dip in the clear cold water. There was a few mosquitoes but not too bad. Best to go in late summer to avoid the mosquitoes. The road in from Randle is a bit rough at times for a car but doable.

  • Robert
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Resort
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Silver Lake Resort

    Wonderful family getaway

    The campground is easy to get to and thanks to the staff has a lot of unique amenities like you can fish in Silver Lake from your motel room or rent a variety of boats for the day.

  • Israel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Oldman Pass Sno-Park

    Nice camping spot

    Nice area to camp at, vault bathroom close by but there was no toilet paper so bring your own. Does feel like camping in a Parking lot. Trail close by.

  • Kevin W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Camp/Climbers Bivouac Dispersed Campsite
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Butte Camp/Climbers Bivouac Dispersed Campsite

    FR 81/Bivoiac Dispered Campsight

    Right off forest road 81. Group camping with 4-5 places for tents and 2 maybe 3 spots for travel trailers but will need to back in. 2 fire pits and a few walking trails. Solar friendly and level. No bathroom. 1-2 bars with Verizon.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Hood Village Resort
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Mt Hood Village Resort

    Great Location!!

    I really wanted to give 5 stars, but they have far too many permanent residents, which makes the campground look un-kept. The grounds were ok, bathrooms were clean, price was fair, large spaces , and very good customer service.

  • Lary
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Resort
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Silver Lake Resort

    Where beautiful scenery awaits you

    Easy to get to. Just 1 mile from the Mount St Helens visitor center. Right on Silver Lake with a perfect view of Mount St Helens. The place was clean and quiet. Employees were helpful and courteous. Lots of ways to stay. Motel rooms, cabins, RV and tent spaces.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from RV outdoor adventures and cabins
    Sep. 27, 2024

    RV outdoor adventures and cabins

    "Cabins" are glorified play houses and host is a nightmare

    The "cabins" are essentially shed conversions on a flatbed and wheels that rock and sway. Not ada accessible. They have electricity but no insulation and the water reeks of sulfur. The loft style beds seem like they are for children.

    The host Joann is money hungry and inflexible. Be sure to get travel insurance and read all rules and reviews on other platforms prior to stay to be well informed of issues and not be blindsided by uncharges here. She will enter your space as she sees fit. There are no boundaries for her but tons for guests with rule signage plastered everywhere on the grounds.

    Campground is covered in rabbit feces, so parents with small children beware. I would never stay here again. For the headache of dealing with the host alone it made the entire experience one of an utterly uncomfortable inconvenience.

    This place looks nice from an outside view but staying here is an entirely different story.

    Also the fact that a Joanna left a 5 star reviews here when all other platforms have complaints is a bit questionable.

  • Wood M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Beacon Rock State Park Campground
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Beacon Rock State Park Campground

    Nice trails nearby.

    If you enjoy hiking, this is a great campground with many beautiful trails to explore. The bathroom is clean and there's free hot shower.  There's a country store 2 miles west of here you can get firewood and some supplies. Sites are a little less private and occasionally I heard train passing by from the nearby railway (bring ear plugs if you are a light sleeper).  Check our videos for details: https://youtu.be/BrSpGhdefQ0?si=dVS7YPTZX8AplUVL

  • Mike E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from River bank
    Sep. 23, 2024

    River bank

    Peaceful, easy, relaxing

    This place is just off the interstate a couple minutes but you feel like you're out in the country. Hostess very accommodating. Riverfrontage is delightful. No hookups you must be self-contained. I have three bars of 5G Verizon. Owners very easy going. Allowed us to park on the grass just about anywhere we wanted to set up. Great views.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Viento State Park Campground
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Viento State Park Campground

    Easy highway access

    First time here, not particularly enamored with the campground for several reasons. 

    Nestled in the trees and between Hwy 84 and the Union Pacific Railroad, both are busy and can be heard all day and night. 

    No dump station anywhere in this campground, you can dump and either campground to the west or the east but not convenient. 

    Spaces are tight and we would not have been able to get into our spot if the person across from us did not kindly move her vehicle. Our rig is not that large, at 26'. 

    The good is the river which is an easy walk or e-bike ride. Lots of trails to ride but they say no e-scooters but okay for e-bikes. This was not enforced since my brother and sister in law rode their scooters all over the place. 

    RV camping is separated from the tent camping which would make it nice for tent campers. 

    Fun to ride the paved trails, go to the Columbia River and watch the sail boarders doing their thing.

  • Steve G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Falls Camp
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Dog Creek Falls Camp

    Homeless encampment

    Showed up here during the evening after a long day on the road and if I wasn’t so tired I would’ve kept going. There’s someone that obviously lives here in their RV with a lot of “stuff” scattered about.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Meadows RV Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Elk Meadows RV Park

    September camp

    Had a great few nights at this awesome campground with friends . All sites are very large, flat and most have bonus room for hanging out or visiting. The views of Mt Adams are just awesome. There are hiking trails and several places to enjoy trout lake while hiking. There were deer on the trail today. This campground is very clean and has ice available along with propane fill if you need it. We will return.

  • Zarek A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkamp Eastcreek
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Elkamp Eastcreek

    Best. Spot. Ever.

    Went here for a social event and had a blast. Big sites with lovely paths between, wonderful shop with firewood available at any hour (just square up when the place is actually open), clean plumbed bathrooms and a coin operated shower at $0.50/minute. There’s a beautiful meadow, a creek, huge trees. The owners are incredibly friendly and the place is very dog friendly.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Viento State Park Campground
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Viento State Park Campground

    Close to trains and traffic

    This is a nice campground with lots of trees and shade but it sits between I-84 and the Columbia River which has a major train line so it's not necessarily a quiet campground (trains run all night). No dump station available but we had electric and water. Not much grass anywhere and things were really dusty due to dryness and heat of the summer. You can't see the river from the campground but you can walk to it (or drive to it) and there are several picnic tables near the river. There is a nature trail but it is not marked well at all to find the beginning of it. Convenient to Hood River though and an easy drive to Cascade Locks for ice cream at the local dairy dine.

  • B K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Iron Creek Campground

    Beautiful and private

    Beautiful and private campground, we'll be back for sure. Honey hole type toilets and lots of water spigots around. We didn't hike but there seemed to be lots of hiking trails, plus the beautiful river! Despite there being a total burn ban (propane stoves only) there were SEVERAL fires happening all weekend which was disappointing.

    Most sites are really private which we loved. We walked through the three loops that were open and made note of the sites that looked most private/flat-ish for a tent/good location. In our opinion these were the best sites we could see: Loop B 24, 52, 47, 44, 39, 38, 36, 31. Loop C 56, 57, 60, 69. Loop D 78, 80, 84 (this one seemed to have an awesome trail leading right down the river!). No cell service so plan accordingly!



Guide to Cougar

Camping near Cougar, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the campfire, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the area. For example, at Lower Falls Campground, one camper mentioned, "The hike to middle and upper falls is great," highlighting the beautiful scenery.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, offer fishing opportunities. A visitor shared, "Fishing, hiking, sup or kayaking if you’re interested in it. The lake is small but awesome."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Oxbow Regional Park enjoyed the peaceful surroundings, with one reviewer noting, "I watched a woodpecker breaking open a log for over an hour."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campgrounds like Panther Creek Campground are appreciated for their spacious sites. A camper said, "Lots of privacy between camp sites," making it a great spot for those who want some solitude.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms. At Iron Creek Campground, one visitor remarked, "The vault toilets were spotless and smelled fine."
  • Scenic Views: Campers at Takhlakh Lake Campground love the views of Mt. Adams, with one saying, "A campground nestled in dense forest with a perfect view of Mt. Adam’s in the background."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Paradise Point State Park Campground, are close to busy roads. A camper noted, "It's I-5 which is right in your backyard," so be prepared for some noise.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds such as Lower Falls Campground don’t have cell service or potable water. One visitor advised, "Bring your own water."
  • Size Restrictions for RVs: At Paradise Point State Park Campground, a camper had trouble fitting their RV into the designated site due to tree placement. It's best to check site dimensions before booking.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Seaquest State Park Campground have playgrounds. A reviewer mentioned, "Kids enjoyed the junior ranger program," making it a fun spot for families.
  • Choose Private Sites: For more family privacy, opt for sites that are further apart. One camper at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground said, "Some private sites, lots of trees," which can help keep the kids contained.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. Campers at Ainsworth State Park Campground enjoyed the facilities, saying, "Hot showers and a nice amount of room around each site."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers at Iron Creek Campground recommend checking site dimensions. One RV owner noted, "Most sites are really private which we loved."
  • Bring Your Own Water: Many campgrounds, like Takhlakh Lake Campground, don’t have potable water. A visitor reminded, "No drinking water or electricity available."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds, such as Lower Falls Campground, have bumpy access roads. One camper warned, "The last 5 miles of road to the campground is a mess."

Camping near Cougar, Washington, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions