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 Camping near White Salmon, WA along the Columbia River Gorge
Campgrounds near White Salmon, Washington range from developed facilities to primitive sites along the Columbia River Gorge. The area includes campgrounds like Gorge Base Camp RV Park within White Salmon city limits and several options across the Columbia River in Oregon, including Memaloose State Park and Toll Bridge Park. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals or glamping options. The region's campgrounds typically provide picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hiking trails, while proximity to the Columbia River and Mount Hood National Forest creates opportunities for water and forest recreation.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Columbia River Gorge area. Many campgrounds operate from spring through fall, typically April to October, with limited winter options. The Klickitat River and Little White Salmon River provide popular waterfront camping destinations, though sites near water fill quickly during summer months. Visitors should prepare for the Gorge's famous winds, which can affect camping comfort and fire safety. As one camper noted about Oklahoma Campground near Carson, "It borders The Little White Salmon River which is a small trickle creek. Weather can change quickly here so plan accordingly."
Campers consistently highlight the scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region. The proximity to Mount Hood and the Columbia River creates diverse experiences ranging from riverside camping to forest settings with mountain views. Several campgrounds provide direct water access, making them popular for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Developed campgrounds with full hookups serve RV travelers, while tent campers can find more secluded options in the surrounding national forest lands. A review of Wyeth Campground mentioned, "The Gorge is famous for its wind, but here I was protected from gusts by the natural landscape." Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring the area's numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and windsurfing locations, with several reviewers noting the strategic location for accessing both Oregon and Washington attractions.
Campground Showdown near White Salmon, WA
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
OR
Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites Near White Salmon, Washington (334)
1. Tucker Park Campground
35 ReviewsHood River, OR6 milesWebsite+1 (541) 386-4477$25 - $60 / night
"Excellent faculties with easy access to amenities. Sat by a campfire pit in the evenings and went to sleep with the sound of the river surrounding us. What more could you ask for."
"It's an hour drive from our house in portland and though you feel like your out in the middle of the woods your only 10 mins from hood river and most of what it has to offer."
2. Memaloose State Park Campground
38 ReviewsMosier, OR7 milesWebsite+1 (541) 478-3008$25 - $38 / night
"Wonderful view of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the river. Easy drive to the Dalles to get anything you might need. Bathrooms are very clean, showers are hot and long."
"June 2021 this campground is full of trees that give shade all around most of the campsites."
3. Toll Bridge Park Campground
28 ReviewsHood River, OR14 milesWebsite+1 (541) 387-6889$35 - $80 / night
"2 DOLLARS TO CROSS EACHWAY BETWEEN OREGON AND WASHINGTON BUT WELL WORTH THE VISIT."
"That’s what led us to Tollbridge, a lightly used campsite 15 miles south of Ukiah on Highway 325."
4. Viento State Park Campground
21 ReviewsColumbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, OR9 milesWebsite+1 (541) 374-8811$24 - $31 / night
"Great location here in the gorge for hiking biking river access here at the park direct access to the bike trail. large sites, showers and bathrooms hiking trails in the park as well."
"Viento is a nice state park along 84 right outside of hood river. It is along the columbia river and has beach access."
5. Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest
55 ReviewsRhododendron, OR23 miles+1 (541) 386-6366$45 - $125 / night
"I have kind of a love/hate thing going on for Lost Lake Campgrounds. Pros: It is beautiful. There's a reason it's one of Oregon's most photographed sites."
"This campground is located on the shores of Lost Lake, with amazing views of Mt. Hood. "
6. Gorge Base Camp RV Park
9 ReviewsWhite Salmon, WA0 milesWebsite+1 (509) 493-1111$30 - $60 / night
"We picked this campground at the last minute as we were returning from a Christmas stay in central Washington. The reservation staff was very professional and helpful."
"The highway is at a higher elevation than the park, so that noise didn't particularly bother us either. Perhaps it is just that our van is well sound insulated or we're not light sleepers! "
7. Timberlake Campground & RV
11 ReviewsKeystone Harbor, WA13 milesWebsite+1 (509) 427-2267"A bit of a drive to get there but worth it. Extremely well-run campground in a beautiful setting with good access to the town of Hood River."
"Important to know … it is situated on a hilly property, so it’s not an easy stroll to the restrooms and showers unless one is young/athletic."
8. Cascade Locks KOA
23 ReviewsCascade Locks, OR19 milesWebsite+1 (541) 374-8668$27 / night
"We also did the Historic Highway 30 and saw all the waterfalls. Stop in at Gorges Brewery, nice beer, I loved the Stout."
"This camp has RV sites, tent sites and beautiful cabins with porch swings and is located close to the Columbia River waterfalls."
9. Moss Creek Campground
7 ReviewsUnderwood, WA9 milesWebsite+1 (541) 338-7869$25 / night
"It has a decent distance from other campers and I don’t feel like I’m crunched up in my camp ground. Water is around certain campsites. #3 unfortunately did not have running water near by."
"We loved our spot in the woods with water tap right outside. Friendly hosts delivered fire wood right to my campground."
10. Oklahoma Campground
9 ReviewsTrout Lake, WA12 milesWebsite+1 (541) 338-7869$25 - $45 / night
"Right on a shallow and narrow part of the little white salmon river its good for kids to splash around. Monte carlo trail 52 is just outside the campground. It's quiet and beautiful. Will go again"
"Many of the sites are very close to each other and some do not accommodate even a small trailer. Small stream near by with limited access."
Recent Camping Photos near White Salmon, WA
611 Photos of 334 White Salmon Campgrounds
The Dyrt
Gorge Base Camp RV Park
S. Renae M.
Tucker Park Campground
Roman K.
Memaloose State Park Campground
Shawn V.
Moss Creek Campground
Adam and Eve E.
WaterOak Campsite at The Garden of Eden
Annie C.
Big Cedars County Campground
Kristi L.
Viento State Park Campground
Jon and Jenny P.
Oklahoma Campground
john H.
Roots Rise Family Farm
Daniel H.
Turkey Hole
Michelle K.
Timberlake Campground & RV
S. Renae M.
Wind Mountain RV Park
Recent Reviews near White Salmon, WA
1708 Reviews of 334 White Salmon 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.
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
- 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!!
- QQuincey H.Guide
Avery Recreation Area
Beautiful overnight spot
If you stay here beware the trains will wake you up. They blare their horns just a few hundred feet away. But the location it Fantastic with so much to do nearby including a small winery just above the campsite. There are bathrooms, no trash. It’s open for overnight camping from April to October for a 7 day maximum stay . It’s a day use only area the rest of the year.
- QQuincey H.Guide
Rufus Landing
Clean and friendly campers
Seems to be a popular spot for locals. Very friendly campers. It’s a military managed camp. Can stay for 7 days. Really enjoyed being on the river.
- JJuan carlos M.Guide
Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest
Lost Lake Campground
I went to lost lake a long time ago. And I e noticed that they have done quite a bit of an upgrade at lost lake. The last time I was there they only had shop and the boat rentals and the camp sites lol. But me and my family loved it. Now I hear that it is a beautiful Resort and they have a lot more things or should I say activities to do besides just camping. And wow that is one of my goals sometime this year is to go back and enjoy there new renovations. So I really recommend everyone to go and take your entire family to lost lake resort. I hear that it will be worth your time and money. Enjoy my brothers and sisters and Godbless you all.
- JJuan carlos M.Guide
Kiwanis Road Free Camping
Beautiful Free kiwanis side road Campsite
I spent a day and a night there and it was the most amazing relaxing very clean and extremely beautiful lush landscape for camping. And what I loved the most is that the little river is right next to the campsites. And also the campsites are really huge and that’s how a lot of other campsites should look like. I have a huge family and I am definitely going back with my family to enjoy this little paradise.
Guide to White Salmon
Campgrounds near White Salmon, Washington sit along the Columbia River Gorge between elevations of 150-1500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter camping options remain limited with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer brings extended dry periods. Access to many sites requires navigating mountain roads or narrow bridges, with the Hood River Bridge spanning just nine feet wide.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Tucker Park Campground, visitors access shoreline areas for summer cooling. "Both day use and river access from the camping area were lovely and the water was perfect to cool off after a hot day," notes Cerise D. Tucker Park Campground offers multiple river entry points with maintained pathways.
Mountain biking: Within 20 miles of several campgrounds for riders of various skill levels. A reviewer at Toll Bridge Park Campground mentioned, "Toll Bridge is close to everything. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boardsailing, kite boarding... This area is a maca for all season sports."
Winter activities: Limited but available at higher elevations from December through March. "Timberline and Mount Hood Meadows are 33 and 20 miles south on hwy 35," reports one Toll Bridge Park camper, referencing nearby snow sport areas that remain accessible when valley campgrounds close.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites adjacent to water fill quickly during peak season. At Oklahoma Campground, "Site 3 is non-reservable and HUGE. The riverfront was a bonus," states Heidi B., highlighting the premium nature of waterfront sites.
Shade coverage during summer heat: Critical when temperatures exceed 90°F. "The campground is rustic, but well maintained... the sites are very large," notes a visitor to Oklahoma Campground, with many reviewers appreciating tree cover for temperature management.
Proximity to fruit farms: Seasonal access to local produce stands. "Driving part way up Mt Hood to get here with views of the mountain peak. Walmart within 25 miles if you need supplies," explains Marie D. about Toll Bridge Park, referencing the agricultural areas known as the "Fruit Loop."
What you should know
Train noise affects several campgrounds: Prepare for frequent disruptions if staying near tracks. At Viento State Park Campground, "The first night we stayed at Viento State Park I was unprepared for the very active, incredibly loud trains that ran ALL NIGHT!" warns Jill T.
Bridge toll costs: Budget $2 each way when crossing between states. "2 DOLLARS TO CROSS EACHWAY BETWEEN OREGON AND WASHINGTON BUT WELL WORTH THE VISIT," notes a reviewer about the Bridge of the Gods near Cascade Locks.
Limited winter availability: Most facilities close October through April. According to the information provided, Gorge Base Camp RV Park operates year-round while most other campgrounds have defined seasonal openings, typically from spring through fall.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Toll Bridge Park Campground, "This place is awesome for family camping. They have a playground and well maintained showers and bathrooms (very clean). The real magic here though is the sound of the river as you drift off to sleep," explains Jared L.
Swimming spots for kids: Identify safe water areas with gradual entry points. "The site we stayed at would have been sweet for ground camping as well. Will be coming here again," writes Nathan G. about Tucker Park, mentioning the water access points suitable for children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Prepare children for possible animal encounters. "I saw an elk cow and calf, and have seen deer as well. I heard that bear have also been seen in the area," reports a visitor to Moss Creek Campground, indicating the educational potential.
Tips from RVers
Bridge width challenges: RV drivers must navigate narrow crossings. At Gorge Base Camp RV Park, one camper advises: "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."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature sloped terrain. At Timberlake Campground & RV, a reviewer noted: "Some of the sites are on the smaller side and a little tricky to back into but doable. Quiet wooded are and staff was very helpful and friendly."
Seasonal water access: Check water hookup availability before arrival. "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," recommends Donald R. about Memaloose State Park, highlighting the importance of confirming utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is White Salmon from popular Washington camping destinations?
How far is White Salmon from popular Washington camping destinations?
White Salmon is ideally situated near several popular camping destinations. Beacon Rock State Park Campground is approximately 20 minutes west, offering spectacular Columbia River Gorge views and hiking trails. Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground is about 30 minutes east, situated along Horse-thief Lake with beautiful surroundings despite gorge winds. Other nearby options include Oklahoma Campground (25 minutes), Memaloose State Park (35 minutes), and Ainsworth State Park (30 minutes). For those willing to drive further, Lost Lake and Trillium Lake are about 1-1.5 hours away, while Mount Hood camping areas like Toll Bridge Park are approximately 45-60 minutes from White Salmon.
Where are the best campgrounds near White Salmon, WA?
Where are the best campgrounds near White Salmon, WA?
Oklahoma Campground is one of the best options near White Salmon, featuring 14 sites along the Little White Salmon River. It's particularly good for families with children as the shallow, narrow river is perfect for splashing around. The campground offers both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, fire pits with various grate types, and access to Monte Carlo Trail 52. Another excellent choice is Wyeth Campground at the Gorge, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. For a unique experience, The Klickitat Treehouse offers modern amenities in a natural setting with queen-sized beds, heating, and air conditioning.
What RV camping options are available in White Salmon, Washington?
What RV camping options are available in White Salmon, Washington?
White Salmon offers several RV-friendly options for campers. Gorge Base Camp RV Park is conveniently located near White Salmon with drive-in access, reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. Timberlake Campground & RV near Stevenson provides similar amenities with the added benefit of being within a short drive of White Salmon. For those seeking more of a state park experience, Memaloose State Park Campground offers clean facilities with hot showers, wonderful Columbia River views, and is a short drive to The Dalles for supplies. Most RV sites in the region fill quickly during summer months, so advance reservations are highly recommended where available.
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