Best Campgrounds near Dallesport, WA
The Columbia River Gorge surrounding Dallesport, Washington features diverse camping opportunities spanning both Washington and Oregon sides of the river. State parks and established campgrounds dominate the landscape, with Maryhill State Park and Columbia Hills Historical State Park providing year-round access to campers. Within a 30-minute drive, visitors can access Memaloose State Park across the river in Oregon, offering riverside camping from March through October. The camping landscape includes full-hookup RV sites, primitive tent camping areas, and several boat-in locations along the Columbia River. Dispersed camping options exist at areas like Avery Recreation Area, while private operations such as Peach Beach RV Park and Roots Rise Family Farm provide alternative accommodations.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. The Columbia Gorge is known for strong winds, particularly during spring and fall months, with campers reporting the need for secure tent setups. As one visitor noted, "It is very windy due to its location in the gorge." Many campgrounds near highways and railroad tracks experience noise disruption, with reviewers recommending riverside sites at Memaloose State Park where "the sites on the lower part of the campground against the river are quieter and have a wonderful view." Most developed campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Winter camping options are limited primarily to year-round facilities at Maryhill and Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Riverside camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, though proximity to water comes with tradeoffs. Campers frequently mention the spectacular Columbia River views as a highlight, with one regular visitor noting, "Wonderful view of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the river." Sites near the water tend to fill quickly during summer months but offer more solitude during shoulder seasons. Highway and railroad noise affects many campgrounds in the region, with several reviewers mentioning trains "thundering past on the adjacent tracks." Cell service varies throughout the area, with stronger signals at campgrounds closer to The Dalles and more limited coverage in outlying areas. Most established campgrounds provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while full-service sites with hookups are available at select locations.
