The Columbia River Gorge area near Lyle, Washington sits at elevations ranging from 200-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter brings freezing temperatures and occasional snow to higher elevations. Most campgrounds in this region require advanced planning as sites fill quickly during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Hiking the Klickitat Trail: Explore this 31-mile converted railroad corridor that follows the Klickitat River. "What a gorgeous place. Elk Meadows is far up a well paved road just before the entrance into national forest land. The spots at the northern edge of the park look out over a beautiful meadow backed up by astonishingly huge and beautiful Mt Adams," notes one visitor at Elk Meadows RV Park.
Wine tasting: Visit local wineries within walking distance of several campgrounds. "Peaceful and quiet. Beautiful shaded campsites along the Columbia River. Some train traffic but generally not bad. Close to some fantastic wineries and Maryhill museum," explains a camper about the area's attractions.
Fruit picking: Stop at local orchards for seasonal fruit. "They greeted me without reservations but with 2 nectarines from their orchard. Bathrooms and showers nice and ADA," mentions a camper who stayed at Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campers consistently mention the scenic mountain vistas. "Beautiful 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," writes a visitor about their experience at Elk Meadows RV Park.
Riverside relaxation: Many campgrounds offer direct river access. "Beautiful, serene location. Stayed here on a job for at least some 6 months, absolutely loved it. 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," shares a camper from Peach Beach.
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution offers exceptional stargazing. "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," writes a visitor at Sherman County RV Park.
What you should know
Bridge navigation: The Hood River Bridge requires careful planning. "A bit small but clean and quiet. Beware of the toll bridge across the river," warns a camper about Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run through the region affecting some campgrounds. "Easy and relaxed. Only downside is frequent freight trains throughout the night," notes a camper at Lewis & Clark Campground & RV Park.
Limited services: Some smaller campgrounds have restricted amenities. "This is a safe, clean, quiet overnight stopover (not a destination, nor advertised as one). We found the same-day after hours check-in to be easy and clearly explained, prices reasonable, and restroom facilities exceptionally clean," explains a reviewer about Sherman County RV Park.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water issues. "Electrical has been good so far, but the water is dirty and filled with what appears to be iron. It has gone through my filter. So carry some portable water," cautions a camper at Spring Drive RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with playground facilities. "This was a good family camping spot. Pros - there is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids," explains a parent who visited Mt Hood Village Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer wildlife viewing. "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. You will never get bored in the Mt Hood area," shares a visitor about day trips from Mt Hood Village Resort.
Indoor options for bad weather: Some parks offer indoor recreation spaces. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches. Food was adequate. There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy," notes a family that stayed at Mt Hood Village.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal operations: Not all RV campgrounds near Lyle, Washington operate year-round. "Decent RV camping. Stayed 2 nights during last weekend of summer break. Packed a little tight but most people were outgoing and friendly while we visited. Very close to summer (and I'm assuming winter) attractions," mentions a visitor at Timberlake Campground & RV.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the region require leveling. "Just got home from 5 days in site 009. Our site was large and pretty level. Campground was once a single/double-wide trailer park for govt employees so the hook-ups are located in odd spots for RV. We used 20 ft. of septic drain hoses," explains a camper at Spring Drive RV Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Upside: I loved this place! It was beautiful and peaceful. If you want to get away, this is the place. It's got full hook-ups, although there was a boil your drinking water notice on each campsite when I visited. Downside: No cell service at all," notes a visitor about Spring Drive RV Campground.
