RV sites near Heisson, Washington offer camping options within the Lewis and Columbia River watersheds at elevations between 400-1,200 feet. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round with increased occupancy from April through October. Winter visitors can find reduced rates at several parks but should prepare for seasonal closures of certain amenities.
What to do
Hiking at Mount St. Helens: Access trails and lava tubes from Cougar, about 45 miles northeast of Heisson. "There is easy bike riding in the RV park, and right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System. Using this RV park as a jumping off point, there are endless hiking trails and lakes to paddle and explore in the Mt Hood wilderness," notes a visitor to Mt Hood Village Resort.
Water activities on Columbia River: Fish, kayak, or watch river traffic from waterfront campsites. "The park is right on the Columbia river and this morning a giant cruise ship went by so it's a cool spot. The grass near the buildings are no pet zones but there is a massive area along the river for the dogs to explore," according to a camper at Columbia Riverfront RV Park.
Scappoose Bay exploration: Rent equipment or bring your own watercraft. "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay," reports a visitor to Bayport RV Park and Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Many parks provide quick access to Portland and Vancouver while maintaining natural settings. "This RV park is very well kept up. Location is close to town but still feels like you are in your own little world. Beautiful walking paths line the water," says a camper at Bayport RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever experienced. Beautiful flowers everywhere. Sites are a bit tight but totally have enough space," notes a visitor to Columbia Riverfront RV Park.
Tree coverage at select parks: Some parks offer more natural settings than others. "Spaces are close together but because of the mature Forrest you couldn't see your neighbors! It was beautiful," according to a camper at Big Fir Campground & RV Park.
What you should know
Site differences between parks: Quality and spacing vary significantly. "The spots are backed up against the road. Lots of trucks pass by and you feel like they are driving through your camping spot. On the positive side it has big beautiful trees and a playground for the kids," reports a visitor to Scappoose RV Park.
Noise considerations: Traffic and aircraft sounds affect some locations. "Located at the northern end of Portland not too far off the 1-5 freeway. Backs up to a busy road blocked by large bushes and under the pathway for the airport, so there's some noise but not horrible," notes a camper at Columbia River RV Park.
Water pressure variations: Some parks experience utility issues. "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same. Maybe because we're on an island?" reports a visitor to Jantzen Beach RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Some parks offer pools and playgrounds. "There is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids," notes a visitor to Mt Hood Village Resort.
Bathhouse proximity matters: Consider distance to facilities. "If you're tent camping the bathrooms are quite the hike, the tent sites are crammed together, there's only one working faucet in the entire tent camping area," cautions a camper at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Consider site location: Corner and perimeter sites often provide more space. "We ended up with a great site towards the back and on the side. It was quiet and peaceful. Although we enjoyed our stay, if the place was full, I can see it being a very different experience," reports a visitor to Cougar RV Park and Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site layout and accessibility: Pull-through availability varies by park. "Decent pull-thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers. Nice store for basic needs, nice laundry room," notes an RVer at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Full-timer considerations: Several parks have resident populations. "While there's definitely some long-term and month-to-month spots, most RVs aren't spilling over with 'extras' (extensive decorations/sheds etc.) like some places," reports a visitor to Portland Fairview RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all parks have on-site facilities. "There are a few grey water dump locations scattered throughout the campground, and a couple dump stations just a few miles away. In addition, it sounds like they're working on adding a full, automated, dump station," notes a camper at Bayport RV Park.
