The Columbia River Gorge near Goldendale offers RV camping options ranging from 600-1,500 feet elevation, with temperature swings of 30+ degrees common between day and night. The area receives less than 20 inches of rainfall annually, creating semiarid conditions that contrast with the lush foliage along the river. Many campgrounds remain accessible through October, with several parks closing seasonally from November through March.
What to do
Winery tours: 3-5 miles from Peach Beach RV Park, where several campground visitors recommend exploring local vineyards. "Peaceful. Close to several wineries and farm stands. Especially recommend Gunnels fruit and Waving Tree winery - both within walking distance of campground," notes a camper from Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia.
Explore Maryhill Museum: 15-minute drive from most Goldendale campgrounds. "Other must sees are Maryhill museum and Stonehenge replica," adds another Peach Beach visitor who rated the experience highly.
Stargazing: Prime viewing from April-October with minimal light pollution. A visitor at Sherman County RV Park mentions, "Amazing little place with the nicest people. Clean and comfortable restrooms/showers. Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend. Adorable tiny town. Maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip."
River activities: Swimming and boating access available at select locations. "This was our first time ever camping with a tent trailer and it was a great first time. People were friendly and it was next door to a park where you could swim, launch a boat or fish," shares one camper who stayed near Goldendale.
What campers like
Mountain views: Multiple peaks visible on clear days. "Beautiful, serene location. The hostess was very friendly, the adjoining small state park I believe it is is very convenient for pet owners, and the location is overall gorgeous," writes a camper who stayed at Peach Beach for six months.
Quiet camping: Less crowded than Oregon-side parks. An Elk Meadows RV Park visitor notes, "Very quiet and clean. Spaces felt private. Awesome locations for Adams recreation."
Clean facilities: Modern restrooms at most developed sites. "Bathrooms are exceptional. Stayed in site 50. Beautiful view of mountain and meadow!!!" remarks another Elk Meadows guest.
Wildlife viewing: Elk and deer sightings common. "Great view of Mt Adams if you can get one of the premium sites. Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow. Very quiet and relaxed," shares a visitor who rated their experience five stars.
What you should know
Bridge crossing challenges: Hood River bridge has narrow 9-foot lanes. "If you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across," warns a visitor at Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Train noise: Several campgrounds adjacent to active rail lines. "This camp ground is fantastic, sites are very well maintained and level. Full service hook ups including sewer. The campground is very close to the main railroad tracks and trains come by every hour or so at all times of the day," notes a Gorge Base Camp reviewer.
Wind conditions: Consistent wind patterns, particularly in gorge areas. "The wind seems to never stop, though. Little shade," mentions a Sherman County RV Park visitor despite giving the park high marks overall.
Seasonal closures: Some parks have limited winter operations. "Big sign says closed right now," reports a visitor to Rufus RV Park during the November-March off-season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Limited playground facilities outside town parks. "This site is well manicured. Playground available. Dogs are not allowed in specific areas," notes a visitor at Port of Arlington RV Park & Marina, which offers family-friendly amenities along the Columbia River.
Swimming options: River access points vary in safety and accessibility. "This is a safe, clean, quiet overnight stopover. We found the same-day after hours check-in to be easy and clearly explained, prices reasonable, and restroom facilities exceptionally clean," shares a visitor about facilities in the area.
Fruit stands: Kid-friendly stops within walking distance of several RV parks. "Close to some fantastic wineries and Maryhill museum," mentions a Peach Beach visitor, with many fruit stands located along the same routes.
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, especially in spring and fall. "It was much too windy and cool here for my liking so we stayed in the lower FHU sites," notes one RV traveler.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most parks offer gravel pads requiring minimal leveling. "The sites are FHU and are level but a bit tight. We did get our fifth wheel in with careful maneuvering," explains an RV owner at Imperial River Co., where they enjoyed the river access.
Awning caution: High winds common throughout the gorge area. "We would advise getting your leveling jacks down without using Legos so as to have extra firm footing. Also, be careful not to leave your awnings out unattended," advises an RV camper.
Water pressure variations: Bring a regulator for hookup sites. "This is a nice, small park that is directly beside the Columbia River on the Gorge. The sites are FHU and are level but a bit tight," notes a fifth-wheel owner.
After-hours check-in: Many parks offer envelope systems for late arrivals. "Arrived late and found an envelope with all my check in details posted in front of the office, including park map with highlighted route to my site," shares a satisfied RV camper.
