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 Washougal, WA
The Columbia River Gorge area surrounding Washougal, Washington provides diverse camping experiences within a 30-mile radius, from primitive forest sites to full-hookup RV parks. Dougan Creek Campground, located directly in Washougal, offers a free primitive camping experience with basic amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Nearby Beacon Rock State Park Campground in Skamania features boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with tent and RV sites available year-round. Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, situated north of Washougal, combines lakeside camping with hiking trails and fishing opportunities. The region straddles both Washington and Oregon sides of the Columbia River, with additional options like Ainsworth State Park on the Oregon side offering seasonal camping from March through October.
A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at many public recreation areas, as noted by campers visiting Dougan Falls. According to one visitor, "There are many public and private spots along the Washougal. I suggest buying an annual Discover Pass and parking in the clearly marked areas." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with spotty coverage in forested areas and near waterfall sites. Campers report that AT&T coverage is particularly unreliable at Beacon Rock, where offline maps are recommended. Weather conditions remain mild from late spring through early fall, though the Columbia Gorge is famous for its winds, which can affect camping comfort and fire safety. Seasonal closures affect many campgrounds, with most state park facilities operating from March through October, while some remain open year-round with reduced services during winter.
Waterfall proximity is a significant draw for campers in the Washougal area. Lower Falls Campground receives high ratings for its location near "possibly the best waterfalls in Washington state," according to one reviewer. Highway noise affects some campgrounds along the Columbia River corridor, particularly those near I-84 and SR-14. As one camper at Ainsworth State Park noted, "All are very close to the highway so you will hear road noise and trains thundering past on the adjacent tracks. But if you are looking to camp with easy access to the Gorge, especially the waterfalls, this is a reasonable option." Sunset Falls Campground, located on the East Fork of the Lewis River near Yacolt, offers a quieter alternative with small, forested sites that accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 feet. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles at Battle Ground Lake and various waterfowl throughout the region's waterways.
Best Camping Sites Near Washougal, Washington (355)
1. Oxbow Regional Park
31 ReviewsCorbett, OR6 milesWebsite+1 (503) 797-1850$25 / night
"Close proximity to Multonomah Falls. Pros - bathrooms with electric outlets, free showers, deer come close and are fun to watch, quiet & fairly private stay."
"There is distance between you and other guests but if you want to meet your neighbors you can. They have ADA sites, a lake, play grounds and a welcome center."
2. Ainsworth State Park Campground
43 ReviewsNorth Bonneville, WA14 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."
3. Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
40 ReviewsHeisson, WA17 milesWebsite"The lake is small but awesome. Bald eagles flying overhead. Close to Battleground Washington."
"Battleground is a nice and well loved state park not far from Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington."
4. Barton County Park Campground
23 ReviewsEagle Creek, OR14 milesWebsite+1 (503) 742-4414$25 - $59 / night
"Close to Portland so it gets a lot of day traffic. Access to river so it has summer activities. Sites for large get togethers."
"The kids enjoyed the playground and biking around the loop. The river access down at the day use was lovely. All the park staff were friendly."
5. Milo McIver State Park Campground
38 ReviewsEstacada, OR19 milesWebsite+1 (503) 630-7150$8 - $126 / night
"Estacada lake is within walking distance, and there is salmon fishing within driving distance inside of the park. There is also a "bat" barn that is close by."
"Amazing spot— gorgeous, full of wildlife, and lots of wonderful trails close by. There’s a wildlife viewing area are close by."
6. Portland Fairview RV Park
9 ReviewsFairview, OR5 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"Most spots were pull-though with decently wide streets to drive in. Even though it's just off a semi-major street, it's set back enough and surrounded by trees to be more quiet."
7. Sandy Riverfront RV Resort
7 ReviewsTroutdale, OR3 milesWebsite+1 (503) 665-6722"There are many places to eat, shop, coffee, etc. in the nearby downtown area and just beyond."
"The absolutely best part about this park is that it's across the street from Sugarpine Drive-in. Somewhat expensive (for a drive-in) but oh-so-delicious food."
8. Mt Hood Village Resort
43 ReviewsRhododendron, OR23 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)."
9. Sunset Falls Campground
22 ReviewsYacolt, WA17 milesWebsite+1 (541) 338-7869$20 / night
"Tucked right on the banks of the East Fork of the Lewis River and on the edge of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, this is a great get away for anyone in the Vancouver / Portland area."
"11 is a walk I’m site that offers the most seclusion in the campground. You are away from all other campers and surrounded by river and trees."
10. Columbia River RV Park
17 ReviewsVancouver, WA15 milesWebsite+1 (503) 285-1515$30 - $150 / night
"One star off for density, you’re right next to each other, and for the very bright street lighting in there. We thought it overkill, but perhaps they have their reasons. Super nice facilities."
"Great location—right by the river. We arrived late in the evening, and the staff met us and showed us to our room, which was especially helpful in the dark."
Recent Camping Photos near Washougal, WA
613 Photos of 355 Washougal Campgrounds
J W.
Oxbow Regional Park
Corinna B.
Domke Farms At The Cozy Roller
Sarah J.
Dougan Creek Campground
Tzvi Y.
Naked Falls
Reid B.
Barton County Park Campground
Kat P.
Ainsworth State Park Campground
Christi C.
Woodard Creek Campground — Beacon Rock State Park Campground
Corinna B.
Upper Campground — Beacon Rock State Park
Arehn M.
Marmot House Old Growth Forest
Corinna B.
Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
Josh W.
Sunset Falls Campground
S. Renae M.
Milo McIver State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Washougal, WA
2008 Reviews of 355 Washougal 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.
- AAngela S.Guide
Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
LL Stub State Park/Dairy Creek
One of our new favorite northwest state parks. Two large full service loops with an additional large walk in tent areas. Very nice, level sites with decent amount established of foliage. This state park has welcome center with exhibits and friendly staff. Excellent trail systems with paved bike and natural hiking trails. Definitely will be back to this park.
- 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!!
Guide to Washougal
Camping spots near Washougal, Washington provide access to volcanic lake formations, thick old-growth forests, and diverse river activities. The area sits at elevations ranging from 50 feet along the Columbia River to over 2,000 feet in surrounding highlands, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F. Most camping areas receive approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, primarily concentrated between November and April.
What to do
Trail exploration at Beacon Rock: The park features a network of trails including the popular Hamilton Mountain trail with 2,100 feet of elevation gain over 7.5 miles round trip. A visitor at Beacon Rock State Park Campground notes, "There's also several very nice hikes of various lengths that leave right from the campground."
Swimming in volcanic lakes: Battle Ground Lake, formed by ancient volcanic activity, offers swimming in crystal-clear waters. One camper describes it as "a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," making it perfect for cooling off during summer months.
River sports on the Clackamas: The Clackamas River provides excellent rafting, tubing and fishing opportunities just 30 minutes from Washougal. At Barton County Park Campground, "The river access down at the day use was lovely," and many visitors use it as a launching point for water activities.
Disc golf courses: Mt. Hood Village Resort houses "twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," according to a reviewer. The professionally designed courses attract competitive players throughout the summer.
What campers like
Proximity to Portland: Many camping areas sit within easy driving distance of Portland while feeling remote. One camper at Oxbow Regional Park remarked, "Oxbow feels like it is in the middle of nowhere but it's easy to get to and practically within the city limits of Portland."
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. At Barton Park, a visitor noted, "The bathrooms in our loop were nice and clean," which is especially important for families and longer stays.
Waterfall access: The region contains numerous waterfall hikes. A reviewer at Ainsworth State Park Campground shared, "Nestled in the awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge, Ainsworth is equal parts waterfall wonderland, hiker's playground and camper's delight."
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct access to fishing. One camper at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground praised it as having "Great fishing! Trout, bass, blue gill," making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Railroad tracks run throughout the Columbia River Gorge affecting several campgrounds. A camper at Beacon Rock noted, "The train runs directly behind the site multiple times an hour and is loud," which may disturb light sleepers.
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies drastically across campgrounds. An Oxbow Regional Park visitor reported, "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."
Fire restrictions: Many areas implement seasonal burn bans during summer and fall. One reviewer at Mt Hood Village Resort mentioned, "In my app. It said camp fires allowed. And they ARE NOT allowed at this time," highlighting the importance of checking current restrictions.
Walk-in site distances: Some campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. At Battle Ground Lake, a camper advised, "The only thing to keep in mind is that you have to park down below and walk to the site, the furthest ones being over a quarter mile away."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, one visitor highlighted that "There is a swim area roped off, and a small sand area for the kids to play."
Educational nature experiences: Look for campgrounds with interpretive features. One reviewer at Barton Park shared, "When we stayed in June 2025, there was a section of the playground marked off with cones and pink tape. Apparently a migratory bird was nesting on the ground so they blocked it off so people wouldn't disturb it. It was very cool!"
Swimming safety: Many swimming areas have designated zones with varying depths. A visitor to Oxbow Regional Park mentioned, "Plenty of hiking, swimming, and fishing through the park," but parents should note that most natural swimming areas lack lifeguards.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds organize structured recreation. Mt. Hood Village offers "a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids," according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: RV sites with full connections are limited in the region. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, a visitor noted, "We're in an end to end site. Site 837. Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced," indicating the importance of bringing water reserves.
RV size constraints: Many forest campgrounds have limited turning radius and low-hanging branches. A reviewer at Beacon Rock State Park Campground explained, "While I don't see this camp being great for excessively large rigs, I did see a few smaller and mid sized units on the loop."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV spots have on-site dump stations. One camper at Barton mentioned, "The hose at the dump station wasn't working," so having alternative disposal plans is important.
Reservation timing: RV spots fill quickly during summer months. A visitor to Columbia River RV Park advised, "We arrived late and were greeted by staff and lead directly to our spot. That was really nice as it was after dark," highlighting the value of advance bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Washougal River State Park campground?
What amenities are available at Washougal River State Park campground?
While there isn't a designated Washougal River State Park campground, nearby Beacon Rock State Park Campground offers similar amenities typical of state parks in the region. This popular campground provides basic facilities including restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. The park features well-maintained trails and impressive views of the Columbia River Gorge. Alternatively, Paradise Point State Park Campground is another state park option in the vicinity with similar amenities, though it can be noisy due to its proximity to the highway.
Are there private campgrounds near Washougal for RVs and trailers?
Are there private campgrounds near Washougal for RVs and trailers?
Yes, several private campgrounds near Washougal accommodate RVs and trailers. Beaver Bay Campground is a well-maintained private option about 45 minutes east of I-5 with clean facilities and easy access to Yale Lake for water activities. RV enthusiasts can also consider Columbia River RV Park, located on the north side of Portland near the river with convenient access to both Portland and Washougal. For those willing to drive a bit farther, Portland Fairview RV Park and Jantzen Beach RV Park offer full hookups and amenities specifically designed for larger rigs.
Where can I find camping spots along the Washougal River?
Where can I find camping spots along the Washougal River?
The Washougal River area offers several camping options with varying amenities. Dougan Falls- State Forest is a popular spot along the river with both public and private areas nearby. The Washougal River corridor features numerous camping spots, though it can get crowded during peak season. Lower Falls Campground is another excellent option, situated near what many consider one of Washington's most beautiful waterfalls. This campground provides convenient access to the river and connecting trails. Most sites in the area are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends during summer months.
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