Dispersed camping near Klickitat offers riverside sites along the Klickitat River, nestled in an area where elevations range from 365 feet along the Columbia River to over 1,200 feet in the highlands. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional snow. Wind conditions can be significant throughout the gorge, particularly during spring and fall months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several camping areas provide direct river access for anglers. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, the location serves as an excellent fishing base. As one visitor noted, "Beautiful river runs through the ground. Fishing is good. Boat launch on the opposite side of the campground."
Hiking trails: The Deschutes River State Recreation Area offers trail access directly from the campground. "The Deschutes River Trail leaves from the campground, and it's a nice 16-mile-long bike ride, though it can get a bit rough. This area can get very windy," explains one camper.
Swimming spots: During hot summer days, several riverside locations offer cooling opportunities. At Avery Recreation Area, campers appreciate the water access. "Great little swimming spot steps from our spot," reports one visitor who enjoyed their riverside location.
Stargazing: The clear skies and minimal light pollution make this region excellent for night sky viewing. Memaloose State Park provides elevated viewpoints. According to one camper, "THE VIEWS. No filters needed for your photos. Must catch a sunset!"
What campers like
Scenic river views: The Columbia River and its tributaries create dramatic landscapes. At Memaloose State Park Campground, "Some sites have beautiful views of the Columbia Rive Gorge," a visitor reports. Another adds, "Our site had a beautiful view of the river."
Dog-friendly areas: Many campgrounds near Klickitat welcome pets. Tucker Park Campground provides good options for pet owners. "Dog friendly. Hot showers for $. Water available. Good recycling facilities," mentions one camper about the amenities that accommodate their four-legged companions.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Tucker Park Campground, "Our neighbors were friendly and the white noise from the water helped hide the proximity of our fellow campers," explains a visitor who appreciated the layout.
Boating access: Multiple locations feature boat ramps or river access points for watercraft. Avery Recreation Area includes "a boat ramp and a garbage dumpster on-site. Over half the 'sites' are right on the water," providing convenient launch points.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run through the gorge and impact several camping areas. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, "Great park except for trains go by at night and blow their noisy, loud horns. Suggest camping at the back of the park," advises one visitor.
Wind conditions: The gorge creates a wind tunnel effect that can impact camping. One camper at Memaloose State Park warns, "Do not fall prey to a river view spot! There are no trees to provide shade or protection from the wind! There are burn marks on my tent from the polls rubbing together."
Seasonal insect issues: Some locations experience insect problems during certain times. A camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area reported, "The major downfall was that our camp was infested with flies and earwigs which did not provide a good experience."
Bridge access challenges: The Hood River Bridge presents difficulties for larger vehicles. One RVer notes, "First off, 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some locations offer dedicated play areas for children. At Roots Rise Family Farm, "There's a big field with play equipment for kids, and pine trees below, where we found a nice spot with half shade, picnic table, and fire ring," reports a family who enjoyed the setup.
Swimming safety: River currents vary seasonally and require caution. At Leidl South Campground, a visitor observed, "In March the river was pretty swift and the edge sort of steep so we stayed near the boat ramp because we didn't want our dogs to fall in. I've been there in late spring and summer and the river is not nearly as swift."
Campsite selection: For families with young children, choosing sites away from the river may be safer. Tucker Park has options: "We had a site with full hookups, it seemed the lower ones only had water, check the map and make sure you get what you need."
Host support: Campground hosts can provide assistance and sometimes extras. At Roots Rise Family Farm, "Amy the host sold farm fresh eggs and the most delicious muffins on Sunday morning! All in all the perfect weekend spot."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist at select locations. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park, "The park is paved in asphalt, and each site has grass that is well maintained. A bit pricey, but the full hook ups were worth it to us on 100 degree days!"
Site leveling: Some campgrounds provide level parking while others require work. At Peach Beach RV Park, "Easy enough to get to, lots of trees, picnic table, can see the Columbia River from your site. Sites are on the smaller size but our 43 ft 5th wheel fit just fine."
Loop selection: Different campground areas offer varying experiences. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, "We stayed in the T loop in our truck camper, no hookups in this loop. But they have them in the A loop," advises a camper who explored the options.
Early arrival: The most desirable sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor to Tucker Park suggests, "Get there early and snag a spot down by the river," highlighting the importance of timing for securing premium locations at dog-friendly campgrounds near Klickitat.
Traveler
