Trout Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet in the shadow of Mount Adams, creating a high-desert climate with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F. The camping terrain around Trout Lake features volcanic soil with abundant pine and fir forests, providing natural wind protection for campers. Roads leading to most campgrounds are unpaved forest service routes that may require high-clearance vehicles during spring runoff conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Steamboat Lake Campground offers freshwater fishing in a serene setting with mountain views. According to one camper, "The view from the camp site is fantastic. A Lake or pond is your front view, the back is cliffs, prairie, and wildlife. Spent the day with a Fishing Guide" who helped enhance their angling experience.
Float trips: Eagle Creek Campground provides access to the Columbia River's milder sections. "The old growth trees are special," reports one visitor, making it an ideal location for paddlers seeking scenic water routes within a 30-minute drive of Trout Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Forest areas near Hollenbeck Park feature diverse wildlife habitat. "RV or tent camping. And did I mention the view... Power and water at every spot. Cute little creek and access to a swimming hole," notes a regular visitor who returns annually.
What campers like
Natural white noise: Twin Falls Campground provides a soundtrack of falling water that drowns out other noises. A camper mentioned, "Sleeping near the falls was amazing, as it drowns out so much, especially at night." Sites are approximately 30-50 feet from the waterfall.
Remote access: Camping near Trout Lake offers genuine seclusion. "Way up in Gifford Pinchot forest there's a backside entrance to twin falls that hasn't been kept up by the state since the bridge washed out," explains a visitor, noting that "Remote access may be limited to road closures or washout."
Tent pads: Most campgrounds feature level, cleared tent pads. "Our campsite was spacious for three couples and three dogs," shared one Takhlakh Lake visitor, while noting that seasonal insects can be prevalent: "We all left with at least 20 mosquito bites (even after going through 4 bottles of bug spray)."
What you should know
Bug protection: Mosquitoes are extremely active, particularly in July. One camper at Takhlakh Lake Campground advised, "If you come, remember to bring ALOT of bug spray." Another warned, "I stopped counting my bites after 40."
Water availability: Some campgrounds lack potable water. "Although there is no potable water here, the magical lake makes up for having to haul in your own water," explained a visitor to Takhlakh Lake, while another noted "No water other than what's at the lake."
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Trout Lake, Washington provides shelter from unpredictable weather. At Columbia Gorge Getaways, "We stayed in a Bell tent and I have never slept so soundly as I did for this cozy glamping weekend," reported one guest.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Tucker Park features river access points suitable for children. "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," reported one family who vowed to return.
Beginner fishing: Lost Lake Resort offers easy fishing opportunities for novices. "Really easy fishing if you're just learning. They have tons of rentals," explained one visitor who noted this makes it ideal for families developing outdoor skills.
Reservation strategy: Secure family campsites well in advance. "This campground was very crowded and there were many dogs off leash. We drove the entire campground and found a few non-reservable spots available. However, most of them had slanted tent pads or were beside bathrooms and garbage recepticals," cautioned one Takhlakh Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Bridge considerations: When approaching from Oregon, use caution on the narrow Hood River bridge. "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," warned an RVer who stayed at Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Highway noise: Many campsites experience road and rail noise. "There is some train noise, but it's manageable with a set of earplugs," suggested one RVer, while another noted the full-hookup amenities compensated for ambient noise: "The park has almost new bathrooms and laundry facilities, it is well maintained and very clean."
Electrical hookups: Several campgrounds offer power for RVs. At Hollenbeck Park, "Power and water at every spot" make it suitable for those needing electrical connections, while Steamboat Lake Campground provides "a huge pull-through with all hookups" according to satisfied campers.
