Camping around Wishram occurs in a semi-arid climate zone that receives less than 15 inches of annual rainfall, creating desert-like conditions despite proximity to the Columbia River. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F between July and August, with strong afternoon winds common throughout the gorge. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing at night, even when daytime temperatures seem mild.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several camping areas offer direct river fishing opportunities, particularly at Giles French Park Primitive Camping where anglers can fish from the bank. "Similar to an island if you didn't bring it, it isn't at GFP. There are no amenities other than the mentioned restrooms and non-potable water. The views are spectacular, especially at sunset," notes a reviewer.
Winery visits: Camp within walking distance of local wineries at Peach Beach RV Park, which serves as a convenient base. "Close to several wineries and farm stands. Especially recommend Gunnels fruit and Waving Tree winery - both within walking distance of campground," reports a camper.
Water recreation: The swimming area at Lepage Park Campground provides a roped-off section for safer swimming during hot summer months. "There is a really large beach and roped off swimming area, as well as a boat ramp, dock for fishing, and trails for hiking," states a review.
What campers like
River views: Front-row views of the Columbia River create memorable camping experiences at many locations. "Great park...clean, easy access, good hiking, good fishing, beautiful scenery, sites are flat and not jamb packed," explains a visitor to Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution makes night sky viewing excellent in certain campgrounds. At Sherman County RV Park, one camper noted: "Amazing little place with the nicest people. Clean and comfortable restrooms/showers. Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend. Adorable tiny town. Maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip."
Wildlife watching: Bird watching opportunities abound throughout the area. "It gets dark enough for night photography and there are always plenty of eagles and hawks for bird watching," mentions a visitor to Lepage Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railway lines run along both sides of the Columbia River, affecting most camping areas. A visitor to Avery Rec Area reports: "I mostly want to balance out these other reviews. No one said something that wasn't true, but the weight that they seem to put on how disruptive the trains are surprising to me. You don't just have trains passing, you have them blowing their horn multiple times a night, and they are close enough you can feel their vibration."
Wind conditions: Strong gorge winds can damage equipment and create challenging camping conditions. "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," warns a visitor to Memaloose State Park.
Water quality: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. At Giles French Park, a camper noted: "The water is unsafe to drink unless it is boiled first for five minutes. I have no idea why. Don't the dam employees have potable water?"
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly swimming spots: Several locations offer water access points suitable for dogs. At Mineral Springs, one camper noted: "We found a place to park right by the river, well hidden from the other campers. There is a pit toilet which was stocked with TP and pretty darn clean."
Playground availability: Families should consider campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There is a fabulous roped off swimming area and plenty of space for grass games and a nice play structure for kids," reports a visitor to Lepage Park.
Insect preparation: Bring insect repellent during summer months as bug activity increases. "The major downfall was that our camp was infested with flies and earwigs which did not provide a good experience," reports a camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Power management: Some RV sites provide full hookups while others are primitive, requiring self-sufficiency. "We stayed in loop T with our van. Only $10 per site plus $8 for the reservation online. They allow vehicles up to 24 ft in this primitive loop and in my opinion is the prettiest, most natural looking and furthest from the highway," notes a camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Late arrival protocols: Many campgrounds accommodate after-hours arrivals with self-service check-in. "Rolled in at 11:30pm to a quiet park with well laid out directions and fresh peaches in our welcome bag. Called ahead letting them know we'd be super late with no problems, very accommodating," explains a visitor to Peach Beach RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shelter from wind and distance from train tracks. "Despite that, it felt peaceful and lovely. We stayed in loop T with our van. Only $10 per site plus $8 for the reservation online. They allow vehicles up to 24 ft in this primitive loop and in my opinion is the prettiest, most natural looking and furthest from the highway," shares a camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Traveler
