Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground sits at about 1,000 feet elevation within the dramatic transition zone between moist western forests and the eastern Washington high desert. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with summer highs reaching 90°F. The park's proximity to the Columbia River creates frequent high winds, particularly during summer afternoons when thermal differentials generate 20+ mph sustained gusts.
What to do
Hiking trails at Tucker Park: Located along the Hood River, Tucker Park offers riverside trails with swimming access points. "We had a blast! So green and beautiful. Not far from downtown. Lots of space/areas for our kids to run to climb big rocks," noted Ketra I., who visited Tucker Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The John Day River at Cottonwood Canyon provides excellent fishing access. "The gorgeous John Day River was perfect for fishing, swimming, floating. There was several trails within the campground as well as trailheads around the perimeter," according to Caitlin S. about her stay at Lone Tree Campground.
Winter recreation: While many campgrounds close seasonally, Brooks Memorial State Park remains open year-round, serving as a base for winter activities. "Lots of things to do and see in the area and this is a nice place to rest as it's very quiet but easy to get to," explains Garth B. about the park's convenience.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Trillium Lake offers tent sites with mountain views. "Each has a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table. Some are definitely more private than others. The views here are what makes it awesome. Right on the Columbia River and it was GORGEOUS!" reports Natalie G. about Trillium Lake.
Private campsites: Lost Lake Resort provides secluded options for those seeking privacy. "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents. There is no Wi-Fi, Verizon was there but I don't know where. Not at the site," notes Jason S. about his experience at Lost Lake Resort.
Stargazing conditions: The eastern Washington climate creates excellent night sky viewing. "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!" explains Adalia C. about her stay near the Gorge.
What you should know
Seasonal winds: Strong winds affect many campgrounds in the Columbia Gorge area. "It was 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," warns Nathan G. from his Tucker Park experience.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "There is no Wi-Fi, Verizon was there but I don't know where. Not at the site. But as we walked around the phone would connect in my pocket," reports Jason S.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas, especially near Takhlakh Lake Campground. "I expect bugs to be present while camping, but we all left with at least 20 mosquito bites (even after going through 4 bottles of bug spray)," warns Erica T. She recommends avoiding July visits due to insect pressure.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Some sites offer dedicated children's facilities. "The first day use area had a little play structure, the river access day use area was large enough for a handful of vehicles," notes Amanda M. about her visit to Viento State Park.
Consider accessibility needs: Family-friendly parks should accommodate various mobility levels. "The park has almost new bathrooms and laundry facilities, it is well maintained and very clean," explains David & Sue C. about Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Try yurt camping in Klickitat: For families new to camping, yurt rentals provide comfort without tents. "The site is small but it offers quite a few different ways to camp: tents, RV, cabins even a teepee!" shared one visitor about Columbia Hills State Park. Yurt camping near Klickitat, Washington offers the perfect middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
Tips from RVers
Bridge clearance awareness: The narrow Hood River Bridge presents challenges for RVs. "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 White Salmon from Oregon.
Campsite levelness: RV sites at Hollenbeck Park feature level parking with hookups. "We come back every year. The view is amazing. RV or tent camping. And did I mention the view. Power and water at every spot," notes Jill about Hollenbeck Park.
Seasonal access restrictions: Some parks have limited RV access during winter months. "We camped here for 4 days this summer. The campsite we picked was large enough to accommodate our 22 ft trailer plus truck and a Jeep," reports Jason S. about his summer visit to Takhlakh Lake, noting that roads might be impassable during winter.
