RV parks around La Center, Washington provide convenient access to the Columbia River region within 30 minutes of Portland. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations below 500 feet, with riverside locations offering water views and boat access. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-45°F while summer brings 70-90°F conditions with minimal rainfall between June and September.
What to do
River activities: 5 minutes from Columbia Riverfront RV Park where you can track passing ships. "The host told us about app vessel finder to track boats coming by the camp area," notes one visitor who appreciated this unique riverfront feature.
Mountain biking: Access Sandy Ridge Trail System across Highway 26 from Mt Hood Village Resort. A reviewer describes it as "some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System" with numerous trail options for different skill levels.
Kayaking: Launch directly from Bayport RV Park with its on-site marina. "Next to a marina on site," reports a visitor, while another mentions it has "great access to the water as compared to many other places where you have to drive à ways."
Wildwood recreation site: Walking distance from Mt Hood Village Resort with underwater salmon viewing. "There is a path that leads to the Wildwood recreation area and within the RV park itself there is access to the Salmon River for fishing/swimming," shares a camper who used this campground as a base for outdoor activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned at Portland Fairview RV Park where bathrooms get high marks. "The bathrooms and showers are clean," states one reviewer, while another mentions "the front office was clean and the manager nice."
Riverside walking paths: Popular at Bayport RV Park with paved trails. "Beautiful walking paths line the water," notes one visitor who enjoyed the waterfront access despite the campground's small size.
Privacy from mature trees: Despite close sites at Big Fir Campground, vegetation creates separation. "Spaces are close together but because of the mature Forrest you couldn't see your neighbors!" explains a camper who appreciated the natural screening between sites.
Modern amenities: Several parks offer recreation facilities beyond basic camping. At Mt Hood Village Resort, "the lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition," according to a long-term visitor, while another mentions "a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers."
What you should know
Noise levels vary significantly: Train tracks, highways, and flight paths affect some parks. Near Jantzen Beach RV Park, "one side is on a busy road and you can hear traffic from nearby I-5 as well as airplanes flying overhead," reports a visitor.
Water pressure issues: Check before arrival at Jantzen Beach RV Park where this has been reported. "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," explains one RVer who questioned if the island location might be the cause.
Dump station fees: Additional charges at some parks for waste disposal. At Bayport RV Park, "they do have waste of disposal for a fee" and "sewer dump station costs $15 per use," according to reviews.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Higher rates during summer months at most area parks. One camper found Portland Fairview RV Park "a bit much: $57.67 for full hook-ups, and that's after a AAA discount."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Important amenity for kids at several area parks. "The campground provides easy access to a number of nearby activities" at Mt Hood Village Resort, where there's also "a nice playground for kids. Very family friendly."
Pool availability: Indoor options at some parks extend swimming season. One family at Mt Hood Village Resort highlighted that "kids especially loved the pools and playground," while noting the diverse recreation options at the facility.
Security considerations: Varies between parks with some mentioning concerns. A visitor to Jantzen Beach RV Park mentioned "security could be improved, especially during late hours," noting "concerns raised by other visitors regarding theft and late-night disturbances."
Site selection: Request spots away from highways for quieter family camping. "The front office seemed a little disorganized. But straighten things out right away," reported one camper, suggesting that being specific about needs when booking can improve your stay.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Varies by park with some offering easier access. Portland Fairview RV Park offers "plenty of pull-though with decently wide streets to drive in," according to a reviewer who appreciated the easy navigation.
Long-term vs. short-term sections: Affects site quality and neighbors. At Columbia River RV Park, "there are many long-termers here, but due to their 10 or 15 year RV rule, all the RVs here were really nice and fancy," reports a camper who appreciated the well-maintained appearance.
Utility connections: Check location before parking to avoid extension cord issues. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, "you need a card to access the showers and bathrooms. They were out of cards for a couple days so ask when you check in," advises an experienced RVer.
Generator policies: Most La Center area rv parks prohibit generator use since they provide hookups. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches," notes a visitor to Mt Hood Village Resort, highlighting the full-service amenities that eliminate generator needs.
