Trout Lake sits at the base of Mount Adams in southwest Washington at 1,920 feet elevation. The surrounding Gifford Pinchot National Forest experiences cool mountain temperatures even in summer, with nighttime lows reaching 40°F in early and late season. RV campgrounds near Trout Lake provide strategic access to wilderness areas while seasonal closures affect many facilities between November and April.
What to do
Hike to mountain views: Multiple trails near Elk Meadows RV Park provide spectacular Mount Adams access. "There are hiking trails and several places to enjoy trout lake while hiking. There were deer on the trail today," notes Eric P., who visited in September.
Explore lava formations: The south side of Mount St. Helens features unique volcanic landscapes accessible from Cougar RV Park and Campground. "Cougar is a relaxed campground worthwhile as a base camp for the south side of Mt St Helens and its great lava tubes and forest hikes," shares Phoebe B., who appreciated having hot showers and potable water.
Mountain biking: The area offers technical trails just minutes from some campgrounds. A camper at Timberlake Campground & RV mentioned: "Our camp host (Harold) was great. He noticed we were traveling with mountain bikes and was kind enough to lead us to some great trails just outside of Hood River."
What campers like
Shade coverage: Most campers appreciate the forest canopy at higher-elevation sites. "Very private RV spots with thick trees around," reports Beth A. about Elk Meadows, contradicting another reviewer's assessment of the property.
Riverside locations: Water access ranks high for summer visitors. "There is a park right on the lake, wonderful wildlife viewing, an adult size set of swings just made my day," writes Michell C., who also noted the convenience of delivered firewood at their site.
Clean facilities: Packwood RV Park & Campground earns praise for maintenance: "Great showers bathrooms and laundry ($1.75 per load). Tent lot was $10 per person per night," according to Melita B., who appreciated the walkable amenities.
Level parking pads: RVers consistently mention the quality of parking surfaces. "Gravel roads and sites through the park are dragged regularly to stay flat and easy to navigate," notes Matthew about his stay at Elk Meadows in a 20-foot trailer.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "It's an interesting mix of campground and kind of a trailer park, with the permanent RV residents," writes Mike about Cougar RV Park, adding "Although we enjoyed our stay, if the place was full, I can see it being a very different experience."
Bridge access considerations: RVs crossing from Oregon face challenges on narrow spans. "If you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across," warns Jim J. about accessing Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically by location. "We didn't have very good reception for WiFi and Verizon was a bit sketch inside the trailer, outside was better," notes Rick S. about site #31 at Timberlake Campground.
Slope concerns: Many sites require leveling equipment. "The spot is long, however #31 slopes at the back of the spot so it isn't as long as we'd like it to have been. But we made it work," adds Rick S. about Timberlake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mt Hood Village Resort offers family-friendly amenities despite being across the state line. "There is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids," reports Tyson C.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds provide protected water access. "There is a little lagoon on the river for kids to swim," notes C M. about Cougar RV Park, which also offers boat launch facilities.
Budget options: Family camping costs vary significantly by location. At Packwood RV Park & Campground, tent campers can expect economical rates compared to full hookup sites, with grocery stores nearby for supplies.
Tips from RVers
Specialty hookups: Power requirements vary by park. "Large spaces, easy to drive through, 30 and 50 amp, most sites had full hookups with fire pits and picnic tables," mentions a camper at Elk Meadows, who also noted the availability of a dump station.
Site selection strategy: Cascade Peaks Family Campground offers varied site options. "Plenty of spots open with a good store lots of bathrooms and showers places for kids to play and welcoming hosts," shares Kimberley M., though noting concerns about permanent residents.
Dump station availability: Not all parks offer this service. "There is a park right on the lake, wonderful wildlife viewing, an adult size set of swings just made my day... large dumpsters, and a dump station. We also saw a propane fill station as well," reports a visitor to Elk Meadows.
