Dispersed camping near Goldendale, Washington encompasses sites ranging from riverside locations along the Klickitat to open areas with Mount Hood views. The region sits at approximately 1,600-2,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Wind conditions remain a significant factor year-round, with gusts frequently exceeding 20 mph near the Columbia River.
What to do
Hiking and trail access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct trail access for day hiking. At Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground, campers can explore nearby petroglyphs and hiking trails. One visitor noted, "There's also a lake for swimming which is awesome because it gets super hot here in the summertime."
Boating and water activities: The Columbia River provides boating opportunities, particularly at Maryhill State Park Campground, which has a protected beach swimming area. A camper shared, "Great place to camp and boat! the water is excellent in the mornings. just like glass!"
Fruit stands and wineries: Several campsites near Goldendale are located near local agriculture attractions. A visitor at Peach Beach RV Park mentioned, "peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campsites feature direct river access. At Lepage Park Campground, campers appreciate the location where the John Day and Columbia Rivers meet. A reviewer described it as, "Like a gem, it's small, simple and stunning. At the confluence of the John Day and Columbia Rivers, you can swim, fish, and boat."
Stargazing opportunities: The area's dark skies make for excellent night viewing. At Avery Rec Area, a camper observed, "At night it is incredibly dark. This was the best part! You can almost forget that there is an RV 5' away. Open sky and the stars are beautiful!"
Historical sites: Unique historical attractions near camping areas include the Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge replica. A visitor to Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia recommended, "other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge replica."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run along both sides of the Columbia, affecting many campgrounds. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, a camper warned, "Great park...clean, easy access, good hiking, good fishing, beautiful scenery, sites are flat and not jamb packed. Only problem is trains go by at night and blow their noisy, loud horns."
Wind conditions: Strong winds affect camping experiences, particularly tent camping. At Columbia Hills State Park, one visitor cautioned, "It is windy! I love the wind so I found it invigorating - but it was even a bit too much for me at times. Winds hit 29 MPH at some points of our stay."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds have limited seasonal availability. Rufus RV Park, for instance, operates with restricted hours. A camper reported, "Big sign says closed right now," referring to their winter closure from November through March.
Algae blooms: Water quality issues may affect swimming during warmer months. A visitor to Columbia Hills noted, "The lake was closed due to an algae bloom so we weren't able to swim or kayak."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming spots for safer water access. A visitor to Lepage Park described, "There is a fabulous roped off swimming area and plenty of space for grass games and a nice play structure for kids."
Campground activities: Some sites provide recreational facilities for children. At Mineral Springs, the riverside setting offers natural play opportunities. A camper shared, "We stayed here one night and really wished that we had time to spend more nights because it was so quiet and peaceful."
Goatheads warning: Be aware of these painful thorns at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Lepage Park warned, "We visited during the last weekend of July and it was HOT! It was great to be able to jump in the river to cool down but make sure to bring thick water shoes as the goat-heads have taken over!!!"
Day use alternatives: Some sites have day use areas that may be preferable to overnight camping with children. At Lepage Park, a camper noted, "There is a huge grassy area for tents and pavement sites for RV's."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Certain campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. A camper at Giles French Park observed, "Lots of paved pullouts with trees, garbage and vault toilets at the western end. Only about 1/3 full on an early Sunday morning in September."
Hook-up options: Water and electric connections vary widely between sites. At Rufus RV Park, a visitor noted, "Separate sections for short- and long-term guests. Level pull-through sites with gravel and well-kept grassy areas in between."
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on larger rigs. Columbia Hills State Park has limited spaces that accommodate large RVs, as noted in camper reviews mentioning "back in sites" that require maneuvering.
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer this service. A visitor to Memaloose State Park Campground mentioned, "We stayed in the T loop in our truck camper, no hookups in this loop. But they have them in the A loop."
