Camping near Goldendale, Washington offers visitors access to diverse terrain where the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains transition into high desert plateau. At elevations ranging from 1,600-2,000 feet, the region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Wind patterns create challenging conditions for tent campers, particularly in canyon areas where gusts can intensify unexpectedly.
What to do
Hiking trails along waterways: Brooks Memorial State Park provides access to several walking paths through pine forests. "The site we stayed in had stairs that lead up to your vehicle. Beware of this if you need an ADA or stair free site," notes Mary C., who recommends checking accessibility before booking.
Stargazing in low light pollution zones: Takhlakh Lake Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "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!" reports one visitor who appreciates the astronomical viewing opportunities.
Water activities on multiple rivers: Macks Canyon Recreation Site provides river access for fishing and boating. "The view of the river was amazing and we watched lots of fishing boats and rafting boats go by. There is also a railroad track across the river and it was fun to watch the trains go by," shares Sarah S., who enjoyed the riverside setting.
What campers like
Wind-protected tent sites: Finding sheltered spots matters in this region's variable conditions. "The wind lasted about an hour and then things calmed down again," notes a visitor at Macks Canyon who suggests securing tent stakes with heavy rocks during gusty periods.
Clean restroom facilities: Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathroom buildings. "Restrooms and Showers are well maintained and clean. Watch out for the incredible amount of goose poop," warns Magnus S., highlighting both positives and potential drawbacks.
Reliable camp hosts: Visitors consistently mention helpful staff. "The campsite hosts were welcoming and provided local firewood for a small fee. It felt very safe," reports Adalia C., who appreciated the security and service during their stay.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat can be intense from June through September. "Since it was located away from the main camping area it was quiet with regards to hearing fellow campers, the downside is the spaces are closer to the Highway," explains Ashley B. about Brooks Memorial, noting the tradeoff between noise and privacy.
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campgrounds post rattlesnake warnings during warmer months. "Ccottonwood Canyon State Park Campground is a lovely, remote primitive camp experience... Its also a rattlesnake habitat in Eastern Oregon's high desert biome," explains Shawn M., reminding visitors to remain vigilant.
Limited cell service: Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park has minimal connectivity. "No AT&T phone service here," reports a camper who suggests downloading offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs. "There are hiking trails within the campground as well as trailheads around the perimeter. We brought our own bikes but if you don't bring yours, they offered loaner bikes," mentions Caitlin S., highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Consider noise factors: Transportation corridors impact many campgrounds. "Day and night, semis speed past the state park on either a downhill straight away or an uphill straight away, regardless it sounds like a freight train or military landing pad all night/day long," warns Ashley B., suggesting noise-sensitive families should research site locations carefully.
Swimming access: Tucker Park Campground offers water recreation for children. "The campsite was scattered with smooth rocks perfect for tanning and nice sandy beaches along the river for your fur companions to cool off," shares Mackenzie H., noting the family-friendly water features.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Many campgrounds have limited spaces for larger rigs. "Sites are back in and have well maintained level sites of crushed gravel. The first time I haven't had to level the trailer side to side," reports Magnus S., appreciating the well-designed parking areas.
Bridge crossing considerations: Access routes may include challenging passages. "If you're in an RV, be prepared for some SERIOUS white knuckle driving if you cross the Hood River bridge. It's two lane, NINE FEET WIDE. Most RVs will have inches to spare," cautions Robert R. about accessing certain areas near Goldendale.
Hookup availability: Glamping in Goldendale, Washington area offers varying levels of services. "Continuing past this main area and over a small hill is where the tent camping/sheep herders tents are located," describes Ashley B., noting how tent glamping accommodations are positioned separately from full-hookup areas.
