J
Jack O.
Traveler
TravelerTrillium Sno-Park
Lots of garbage, but close to hiking.
This area is covered with litter and is fairly noisy by the road. However, there is some nice secluded hiking trails nearby.
Best Campgrounds near North Bonneville, WA
Camping options around North Bonneville, Washington span from established campgrounds to primitive sites along the Columbia River Gorge. Beacon Rock State Park Campground provides year-round access with full RV hookups and tent sites, while Eagle Creek Campground across the river in Oregon offers a more rustic experience with tent and small RV sites. The area features a mix of accommodations including cabins at Cascade Locks KOA and Lewis & Clark Campground & RV Park, alongside tent camping at several Forest Service locations. Most campgrounds are situated within 20 miles of North Bonneville, providing convenient access to both Washington and Oregon sides of the Columbia River.
Road noise and trains are common issues for campsites in the region, particularly those close to Interstate 84 and the railway along the Columbia River. "Eagle Creek is a small campground located high above the Columbia River. The sites offer good privacy and are quite large," noted one camper, though they mentioned train noise occurring a few times during the night. Seasonal availability varies, with many campgrounds like Panther Creek operating from May through September. Several sites require reservations during peak summer months, while others offer first-come, first-served options during shoulder seasons. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the gorge, with strong winds common year-round and occasional winter snow at higher elevations. Cell service is generally reliable near major roads but can be spotty in more remote Forest Service areas.
Along the Columbia River, campgrounds provide strategic access to numerous hiking trails and water activities. Eagle Creek's proximity to the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness makes it popular despite highway noise. A visitor described it as having "secluded feeling" campsites that "more than made up for too much sun." Campgrounds on the Washington side like Beacon Rock State Park receive consistently positive reviews for their waterfront access and proximity to hiking trails. Higher elevation sites in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest offer cooler temperatures during summer months. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, though shower facilities are limited to larger operations like KOAs and state parks. Dispersed camping opportunities exist on nearby Forest Service and BLM lands for those seeking more primitive experiences.
Best Camping Sites Near North Bonneville, Washington (361)
1. Ainsworth State Park Campground
43 ReviewsNorth Bonneville, WA5 milesWebsite+1 (503) 695-2261$29 - $53 / night
"All are very close to the highway so you will hear road noise and trains thundering past on the adjacent tracks."
"Picture a hillside with a winding road surrounded by thick green trees. Ainsworth is that place. Absolutely gorgeous."
2. Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest
55 ReviewsRhododendron, OR12 miles+1 (541) 386-6366$45 - $125 / night
"I have kind of a love/hate thing going on for Lost Lake Campgrounds. Pros: It is beautiful. There's a reason it's one of Oregon's most photographed sites."
"This campground is located on the shores of Lost Lake, with amazing views of Mt. Hood. "
3. Cascade Locks KOA
23 ReviewsCascade Locks, OR5 milesWebsite+1 (541) 374-8668$27 / night
"We also did the Historic Highway 30 and saw all the waterfalls. Stop in at Gorges Brewery, nice beer, I loved the Stout."
"This camp has RV sites, tent sites and beautiful cabins with porch swings and is located close to the Columbia River waterfalls."
4. Eagle Creek Campground
18 ReviewsNorth Bonneville, WA2 milesWebsite+1 (541) 308-1700$15 / night
"But nice hiking trails near by. Close to highway so can be kinda noisy. Very close to Portland. Camp host could pick up more garbage though."
"Near the Hood River and a short distance to Mt Hood trails and surrounding"
5. Panther Creek Campground
20 ReviewsCarson, WA13 milesWebsite+1 (541) 338-7869$25 - $45 / night
"Some camp sots are better situated then others, so do research before making reservation."
"Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, just north of the town of Carson. Its about a 20 minute drive to the Columbia river, and 10 minutes to the small town of Carson."
6. Mt Hood Village Resort
43 ReviewsRhododendron, OR20 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy."
"Gas station (72) and great grocery store (thrift away) nearby )1.5 mi away)."
7. Upper Campground — Beacon Rock State Park
10 ReviewsNorth Bonneville, WA3 milesWebsite"Beacon Rock is an incredible, tall hill in the Columbia River Gorge and a Washington State Park. The climb up the rock is through a well-built trail."
"Campground Review: Beacon Rock State Park Beacon Rock State Campground is a very nice, small, looped campground located across the freeway and about a mile or two away from the amazing hike up Beacon"
8. Woodard Creek Campground — Beacon Rock State Park Campground
11 ReviewsNorth Bonneville, WA4 milesWebsite+1 (509) 427-8265"We didn’t have any issues at the site, but noticed that spots RV4 and RV5 were relatively distanced from each other, while spots RV1-RV3 were pretty close to each other."
"Not only is the campground itself a woodland wonderland with winding paths through tall old growth forest areas, but the surrounding area of the park itself is impressive with exciting things to do around"
9. Port of Cascade Locks Campground
10 ReviewsCascade Locks, OR3 milesWebsite+1 (509) 637-6911"They have a rail museum and access to a well manicured island. Close to town and the Bridge of the Gods, and a great restaurant with a nice view of the gorge."
"So does the adjacent park with a playground and plenty of room for kids to run loose. For the adults, Thunder Island Brewing is right there with delicious brews and sandwiches."
10. Tucker Park Campground
35 ReviewsHood River, OR19 milesWebsite+1 (541) 386-4477$25 - $60 / night
"Excellent faculties with easy access to amenities. Sat by a campfire pit in the evenings and went to sleep with the sound of the river surrounding us. What more could you ask for."
"It's an hour drive from our house in portland and though you feel like your out in the middle of the woods your only 10 mins from hood river and most of what it has to offer."
Recent Camping Photos near North Bonneville, WA
636 Photos of 361 North Bonneville Campgrounds
Rick N.
Eagle Creek Campground
Henry N.
Eagle Creek Overlook Group Campground
Corinna B.
Upper Campground — Beacon Rock State Park
Jenny R.
Port of Cascade Locks Campground
Christi C.
Woodard Creek Campground — Beacon Rock State Park Campground
Corinna B.
Skamania County Fairgrounds
Sally C.
Cascade Locks KOA
Brian C.
Ainsworth State Park Campground
Tzvi Y.
Naked Falls
Raphaela H.
Snag Creek Trailhead Dispersed
Lanae
Wyeth Campground at the Gorge
Chris H.
Rainy Lake Campground
Recent Reviews near North Bonneville, WA
1894 Reviews of 361 North Bonneville Campgrounds
Hana B.
GuideSandy Riverfront RV Resort
Clean & Friendly
This is a small and tightly-packed park with all amenities. Although the spaces are close, there is a nice plot of grass and a table. There are many full-timers here, and their spaces are nicely kept/decorated.
There are many places to eat, shop, coffee, etc. in the nearby downtown area and just beyond. It was a perfect stop for stocking up on supplies and enjoying the river, and only about half hour away from Portland.
The park is full of furry friends & friendly people, but we were disappointed that our dog was not allowed at the Glenn Otto park across the road. We walked up a couple of blocks and found a nice little trail behind the Harlow House Museum for an evening hike.
We didn't make reservations, but got lucky on arrival as there were only a handful of available sites. Ours was a pull-thru, and our 25' trailer fit easily, although it was a tight fit with our truck. There were many there with much larger rigs than ours, so it's obviously doable. This park has a lot of R&Rs, which isn't our favorite way to camp, but they were so friendly and gracious, that it gets 5 stars easily! It will be our go-to when visiting the Portland area!
- MMark M.Traveler
Elk Meadows RV Park
Most private RV park I have ever been to.
I cannot say enough good things about Elk Meadows. The park is laid out very well and the sites were deep and very private. We had site 50 and had no trouble getting our 36' class A in and out of the site. The view out our window was beyond description, absolutely gorgeous. Drinking coffee in the morning, looking at that view and listening to the Sand Hill Cranes was absolute heaven.
micheal W.
ScoutClackamas River RV Park
Wonderful place to stay or extended stay
This place is amazing as a location to stay. It’s 6 miles up river from town that has anything you need. Nestled in the mountains along an amazing river and lake for boating and fishing. Close to many mountain lakes as well and winter activities. The people here are great to work with and care that you are comfortable during your stay. With mail boxes and all deliveries go to the office so they are safe and secure having stuff delivered. The staff is very helpful and the showers and laundry facilities are clean and well kept. Great value for the money. Better than many I have seen.
Danny S.ScoutHome Valley Campground
Great campground
Loved our stay here. the trains were loud but didn't ruin our trip at all. Tons of boats here during spring salmon runs at Drano lake and the wind river but we would absolutely come back. The site that we were at was super private but not all the spots had as much room surrounding them as we did
Haary M.ScoutJantzen Beach RV Park
Jantzen Beach RV Park – A Real-Life World Tour Stop for Travelers
Jantzen Beach RV Park resembles a real-life destination reminiscent of a Subway Surfers World Tour—a vibrant, accessible, and colorful location where travelers can take a break, recharge, and appreciate the environment before resuming their journey. Situated just minutes away from downtown Portland, the park provides that exhilarating feeling of having a"new city unlocked," featuring clean facilities, spacious sites, and numerous modern amenities. Much like navigating a new map in Subway Surfers, visitors here experience a blend of enjoyment and relaxation: heated pools, ubiquitous Wi-Fi, a fitness center, billiards room, game room, playground, and scenic walking paths along the stunning Columbia River shoreline. The sites are spacious, tranquil, and well-kept, with many guests valuing the serene atmosphere despite the park's convenient access to the city. Although the park can become busy—akin to a crowded tv station—and some long-term residents reside on-site, the overall experience remains smooth and accommodating for travelers. With full hookups and 60’ pull-thru sites, as well as pet-friendly areas, it offers everything necessary for you to continue your real-life"world tour" in comfort. If you are passing through Portland or considering a longer stay, Jantzen Beach RV Park serves as an ideal checkpoint on your travel itinerary—clean, convenient, and filled with the essentials every traveler requires before embarking on the next adventure.
Charles R.TravelerGee Creek Rest Area I-5
The Dyrt description is deceptive
This is a rest area along I-5 in SW Washington, nothing more, nothing less. There are NO RV hookups for stays, just a tank dump area and a place to fill your fresh water tank. Restrooms are clean. RV parking is with the semi trucks, but the dump area is with the car parking (poor design), if you in with the trucks, you can’t dump. If you dump, then parking is a real problem. This is for the south bound rest area, don’t know about the north bound stop.
- NNicole C.Traveler
Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
Quiet spot near a waterfall
This location is private and near a beautiful waterfall. Like another review mentioned, you’ll take a right onto a road before the parking site for Panther Creek Falls. There is a gate that makes it look like the camp site is closed, but it’s not locked.
I was here for a few hours on a weekday. You can hear people coming and going from the trail parking, but it’s not too noticeable. Previous visitors have made a few makeshift fire pits. And the hum of the waterfall is lovely!!
- QQuincey H.Guide
Avery Recreation Area
Beautiful overnight spot
If you stay here beware the trains will wake you up. They blare their horns just a few hundred feet away. But the location it Fantastic with so much to do nearby including a small winery just above the campsite. There are bathrooms, no trash. It’s open for overnight camping from April to October for a 7 day maximum stay . It’s a day use only area the rest of the year.
Guide to North Bonneville
Dispersed camping options near North Bonneville, Washington are available across both sides of the Columbia River in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Hood National Forest. The area sits at approximately 100 feet elevation in the river gorge, with surrounding mountains rising to over 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F, while winter drops to 30-50°F with occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access numerous trails directly from Eagle Creek Campground, which serves as an entry point to spectacular gorge scenery. "This campground has ready access to the Eagle Creek Trail #440 that accesses the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness," notes one camper, highlighting its strategic location for waterfall exploration.
River activities: The Sandy River at Tucker Park Campground offers excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. A visitor mentioned, "The campsite was scattered with smooth rocks perfect for tanning and nice sandy beaches along the river for your fur companions to cool off," making it ideal for cooling down on hot days.
Mountain biking: For mountain bike enthusiasts, trails are accessible near several campgrounds in the region. "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," reports a camper about the area's recreational diversity.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Panther Creek Campground receives praise for its spacious layout. "This is a great campground in a nice forest setting. Nice big sites with a level tent pad. Multiple access points to the creek and the PCT is just outside the campground," explains one visitor who appreciated the campground's design.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers highlight the clean facilities at Beacon Rock State Park Campground. "Very clean and well maintained with a pool. Good to use when just passing through the area," notes a camper, adding important context about the overall upkeep that makes stays more comfortable.
Convenient location: Despite being in nature, campers appreciate how accessible many sites are from urban areas. "If you live in PDX and want to get away from the city for a second, I highly recommend this campground," writes one camper about Oxbow Regional Park, noting its ideal location for quick escapes.
What you should know
Train and road noise: Many campgrounds in the area experience noise from trains and highways. "Road Noise and TRAINS. Clean, cheap $15, Location, all good," reports a camper about Eagle Creek, succinctly summarizing what to expect regarding ambient sounds.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), securing a spot can be challenging without advance planning. "Try to get there early and snag a spot down by the river," advises one visitor about Tucker Park, highlighting the competitive nature of first-come, first-served sites.
Weather variations: Wyeth Campground offers heavily wooded sites that provide shade during hot summer days. "Heavily wooded with well spaced terraced sites in the trees," notes one camper, describing how the natural environment helps moderate temperature extremes that can occur in the gorge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids," shares a parent about their stay at Mt Hood Village Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots near North Bonneville?
Where are the best camping spots near North Bonneville?
North Bonneville offers excellent camping options along the scenic Columbia River Gorge. Beacon Rock State Park Campground is a top choice featuring incredible views and access to hiking trails, including the famous climb up Beacon Rock with its stunning panoramic vistas. For those seeking water access, Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground offers sites tucked next to Horse-thief lake, though be prepared for the characteristic Gorge winds. Both provide relatively easy access from North Bonneville while offering distinctive natural attractions.
Are there any free camping options near Bonneville Dam?
Are there any free camping options near Bonneville Dam?
Free camping options near Bonneville Dam are limited, as most established campgrounds in the area charge fees. Panther Creek Campground offers some of the more affordable camping options in the region with basic amenities. For true free camping, you'll need to explore dispersed camping opportunities on nearby National Forest land, which typically allows free stays up to 14 days. These areas have no amenities (no toilets, water, or trash service), so be prepared to pack everything in and out. Always check current regulations with the local Forest Service office before setting up camp.
What amenities are available at North Bonneville campgrounds?
What amenities are available at North Bonneville campgrounds?
Campgrounds near North Bonneville offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Wyeth Campground at the Gorge provides first-come, first-served sites with access to hiking trails and nearby attractions like Emerald Falls. The campground has regrown beautifully after past wildfires, offering lush surroundings. For RV travelers, Columbia River RV Park provides convenient full hookups close to the river. Most area campgrounds feature basic facilities including restrooms, designated fire rings, and picnic tables, though specific amenities vary by location.
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