Best Campgrounds near Klickitat, WA
Campgrounds near Klickitat, Washington cluster along the Klickitat River and Columbia River Gorge, providing access to diverse terrain and water features. Mineral Springs Campground offers riverside camping with dispersed sites suitable for tents and RVs, while Turkey Hole provides similar access to the Klickitat River with basic amenities. The region includes both established campgrounds with designated sites and dispersed camping areas on Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife lands. Most sites feature fire rings and pit toilets, with varying levels of accessibility for larger vehicles and trailers.
Road conditions and seasonal considerations affect camping experiences throughout the area. Several campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles to navigate dirt roads with steep sections and switchbacks. A visitor noted, "The dirt road in is about a mile long and washboard. There are very steep sections and switchbacks to get down to the camp." Many sites operate year-round but experience different usage patterns seasonally, with fishing activity driving peak visitation during salmon and steelhead runs. Discover Passes are required for camping on Washington state lands, including several of the riverside campgrounds. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage in areas closer to the Columbia River Gorge.
Riverside camping represents the primary draw for visitors to the Klickitat area. Campers consistently mention the peaceful sound of the Klickitat River as a highlight of their stay. According to one visitor, "Nice quiet campground right on the Klickitat river. The sites are nicely spread out with lots of surrounding trees, but not so many that you don't get the sunshine in." Many campgrounds provide boat ramps or water access for anglers and paddlers. While some sites accommodate larger RVs, others are better suited for tents or smaller trailers. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for hiking on the Klickitat Trail, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Proximity to Mount Adams and Mount Hood provides scenic views from many camping areas, with several reviewers noting the spectacular drive through the region.
