Campgrounds near Vancouver, Washington offer dog-friendly options within 30-60 minutes of the city. Located along the Columbia River basin with typical elevation ranging from 200-1,000 feet, these campgrounds experience mild, wet winters and warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F. Most campsites don't require advance hiking, making them accessible for campers with various mobility levels.
What to do
River swimming and wading: At Reeder Beach RV Park, the Columbia River provides safe swimming areas during summer months. "We got a river view campsite and it was completely worth the extra fee. Seeing the big ships was an absolute favorite," notes Bri. Water temperatures typically reach the high 60s by mid-July.
Disc golf competitions: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers two competition-quality courses. "Milo McIver may be best known for its twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," explains Steve C. The park hosts the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event.
Waterfall exploration: Day trips to Sunset Falls Campground provide refreshing swimming options. "The paved trail to the falls is so nice and a very easy walk. My 4 year old could also hike around the falls themselves just fine. Super fun for kids!" shares Beth L. The falls are approximately a 10-minute walk from most campsites.
What campers like
Clean facilities and consistent maintenance: Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground receives regular upkeep. "The campsite was clean and raked upon arrival too! They have a camp store open for snacks and they have flushable bathrooms!" reports Tiffany M. Most sites are swept and prepared between campers.
Bird watching opportunities: Several parks offer excellent wildlife viewing. "Great area for birding (osprey nests). Or park your chair on the bank and watch the occasional ship putter by just a stone's throw from shore," explains Ken W. at Reeder Beach RV Park. Morning hours typically yield the most active bird sightings.
Designated pet washing areas: Columbia River RV Park offers specialized pet facilities. "The laundry room had a designated pet washer and dryer, which I always love, so we washed all of our dog bedding here," notes Laura M., who appreciates this uncommon amenity. The park also features "a small neighborhood dog park right across the street."
What you should know
Water quality varies between campgrounds: Some locations report issues with water supply. At Reeder Beach Resort, "Water has arsenic and is no good to drink or cook with. You have to bring your own water, or buy theirs, which they don't mention on their website," warns Z.R. Always check water advisories before your trip.
Road noise at some locations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. At Paradise Point State Park Campground, "Freeway is really really close to the whole camp site. You can hear vehicles at night. If you're a light sleeper or need nature noises when camping - this is not the site for you," advises Susan P.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," reports Zach S. at Oxbow Regional Park. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Barton County Park Campground offers extensive play areas. "The play area/park is one of my kids favorite. Lots of area to play. Volleyball, gagaball, playground," shares Bekki M. The playground areas are typically less crowded on weekday mornings.
Educational opportunities: Champoeg State Heritage Area provides historical learning experiences. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" explains Leslie C. Most interpretive programs run between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Trail difficulty ratings: Consider trails appropriate for younger hikers. "There are plenty of hiking, cycling paths, huge picnic areas and a disc golf course, in addition to boat landings for a canoe along the Willamette River," notes Shari G. Most parks offer trails under 2 miles suitable for children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and access: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground accommodates various RV sizes. "The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite," reports Thamar D. Most sites can handle RVs up to 35 feet, though select sites accommodate larger rigs.
Dog-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds welcome pets with specific areas for exercise. "This is a really nice campground right on the river. You pass through farmlands to get here where during harvest you can pick up fresh veggies and fruit. Perfect for dogs with a nice trail," says Melanie D. about Reeder Beach RV Park.
Winter camping options: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Vancouver remain open year-round. "Rolled in January 1st. Self pay. About 5 sites with power and water. We got a nice level one. There are only 5 other sites in the whole campground occupied," notes Chris J. about Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground. Winter rates typically drop by 20-30%.
