Searching for a tent camping spot near Wishram? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.
The Macks Canyon archaeological site is a large, prehistoric village locale overlooking the Deschutes River in north-central Oregon. The site is characterized by shallow, circular, semi-subterranean house depressions, surface artifacts, and riverine shell deposits. Limited excavations conducted in the late 1960's indicate that the site was the location of a winter village occupied by Sahaptin-speaking people of the Columbia Plateau. Although the main period of occupation appears to have occurred within the last 2,000 years, the site may have been occupied as early as 5,000 BC. A campground and boat ramp are situated at the end of the Access Road along the east bank of the Lower Deschutes River. The area is popular with boaters and fishermen. The route to Macks Canyon is also a National Back Country Byway. ADA Access: The archaeological site itself does not have accessible facilities. However, the nearby campground has an accessible campsite, vault toilets and parking.
$8 - $35 / night
Pebble Ford is located along a creek and shaded by large, old trees. This small campground is well designed and near the popular biking trails off of Forest Road 44. Located between Eightmile Creek and Ramsey Creek.
$55 / night
Located on beautiful Badger Creek, at the foot of the Badger Creek Wilderness, this popular campground appeals to those who enjoy fishing, hiking, or horseback riding. This quiet campground is located along Badger Creek at one of the portals to the Badger Creek Wildnerness. Visitors who camp at this campground can access the eastern end of the Badger Creek Trail.
$16 / night
Goose Lake Campground is situated among a mix of mature cedars and Douglas firs within the Mount Adams Ranger District of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This spot becomes popular in late summer and early autumn, when the weather is warmer and dryer, and bald eagles and osprey can be observed hunting for fish on Goose Lake. The 58-acre lake is characterized by the somewhat haunting presence of old trees rising from its cool, clear waters. Formed abruptly when a lava flow from Big Lava Bed dammed a nearby stream, this curious sight is all that remains of the trees that were consumed by what is now Goose Lake. Natural Features: Located in southwest Washington State, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest encompasses over 1.3 million acres and includes the 110,000-acre Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, established by Congress in 1982. Mount Adams, a potentially active stratovolcano and the second-highest mountain in Washington state, is a prominent landmark in the District. Elevations in the area range between 1,200 ft. at the Wind River Work Center (12 miles north of Carson, WA), to 12,276 ft. at the summit of Mount Adams. The Mount Adams Ranger District features a great diversity of habitats, from old growth to second growth forest, wetland areas, low and high elevation meadows and lakes, as well as glaciers. Recreation: At a 3,200 foot elevation, Goose Lake is a popular spot for brook, brown and cutthroat trout fishing and offers a concrete boat ramp for launching small boats, kayaks and canoes. Big Lava Bed is located just south of the campground and offers a trail that takes hikers through a landscape marked by both pine forest and basalt lava formations. Huckleberry picking is a popular pastime through the late summer and early fall. Facilities: The campsite is accessed via 8 miles of narrow gravel road. Roadside parking is available. This facility is a tent campers dream, with 18 primitive walk-in tent sites dotting the eastern bank of the lake. These hillside sites are on level ground with immediate trail access to Goose Lake. Campsites have vault toilets, picnic tables and fire rings. Campers must bring their own drinking water and may purchase firewood on-site. Nearby Attractions: The 2,663-mile Pacific Crest Trail runs for 16.4 miles in a north-south direction through the nearby Indian Heaven Wilderness, just north of Goose Lake. Indian Heaven Wilderness is known for its abundant lakes, meadowlands and pine forests, as well as its variety of wildlife. ACTIVITIES Fishing Hiking
The https://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/31/About-the-Passs offers you access to millions of acres of recreation lands in Washington.
Forlorn Lakes, one of the most popular campgrounds in the southern part of the forest, offers 25 campsites scattered around the wooded shores of small, picturesque lakes. Swimming and fishing are possible in the larger lakes. Huckleberry bushes grow in the campground and surrounding area making this site very popular during huckleberry season. The campsites at a maximum 18 feet long are suitable for tent camping and small campers or RV's. The day use area has lake views, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground is very popular, the camping spots fill early in the week. Forlorn Lakes offers nearby access to Indian Heaven via the East Crater Trailhead.
$10 - $20 / night
Typically open May thru Oct. depending on weather.
Badger Lake Campground is adjacent to Badger Lake and one of the major portals to the Badger Creek Wilderness. It's a rough drive to the campground, but campers are rewarded with a beautiful lake and access to the Badger Creek Wilderness with nearby access to Badger Lake Trail #479A, and Badger Creek Trail.
$10 / night
Legend
Out of the way, a bit, but that was part of what we enjoyed. Felt far removed from "The City" and the drive was scenic.
Very popular campground. We tent camped at this one. Good tent sites shared in our site.
Clean shower facilities. Boat rentals, Great walk around the lake.
Our site seemed very private in amongst the trees, even though the resort was busy. Would recommend!
Legend
This review is for the main campground, there is another group/horse campground across the highway that I did not stay in. The small campground is right off Highway 97. The first part of the campground is where the hook ups, large RV's, small trailers and tent campers are located. The spaces are very close together with very few trees separating spaces. Some spots looked barely big enough for a 2 person tent. In this same area is the only flush toilets/showers (Coin operated). Continuing past this main area and over a small hill is where the tent camping/sheep herders tents are located. Since it was located away from the main camping area it was quiet with regards to hearing fellow campers, the downside is the spaces are closer to the Highway. Day and night, semis speed past the state park on either a downhill straight away or an uphill straight away, regardless it sounds like a freight train or military landing pad all night/day long. It was so loud you had to stop talking until the semi passed. The space I was in was so small my 3 person tent only fit if one side was touching the fire ring. Luckily there was a fire ban so no fire to melt my tent. The space also had full view of the pit toilet, since it was the only toilet on that side, I saw everyone come and go. It was also super close to one of the sheep herders tent site. There were 2 sheep herder tents sites. The spots looked large and the tents looked like they would sleep at least 4-5 people. The other tent sites where much larger, but still all the sites could hear the highway. Note, be careful about leaving food out, zipping your tent up, leaving car doors open. The mice were pretty bad and came out at night driving my dog crazy. There were a bunch of trails that ran through out the park that provided a nice alternative to get to the other side of the park or climb to the top of the hill near the power lines. The camp host was also a very nice gentleman who suggested activities in the near by area. I was exploring the area cause it's new to me, but I wont return cause it's not my type of camping.
Traveler
Tent camping sites looked amazing next to the river! Sadly, RVs are only allowed in a handful of sites which were all very sandy and less shaded. We stayed at site #5 which was probably the worst site for both issues but it was also the only one left on a weekend. We tried to cross the river to access to Tamanawas Falls trail but the water was too deep. Moral: tent camp in the highest # site available and reserve your spot!
Traveler
This campground gets really crowded from the day use/dam side of the lake. Great for tent camping/swimming. The lake actually gets pretty warm starting in August.
Traveler
This camp ground is fantastic, sites are very well maintained and level. Full service hook ups including sewer. Great segregated tent camp area with available water. Bathrooms are very clean and well maintained. Dog area is very big and clean. The campground is very close to the main railroad tracks and trains come by every hour or so at all times of the day. If your inside your RV with the AC on you can hear faint noise, if your are tent camping bring some ear plugs. After 3 days you actually become accustomed to the sounds and it is a actually a cool viewing attraction, especially if you have kids. Overall great visit and if we are this way again we will be back.
Guide
Beautiful camp right along the Deschutes River. Very peaceful except for trains that go by and blow horn. Full hook ups and tent camping areas. Bathrooms are very clean. Good hiking trails along river.
Scout
The tent camp runs along a river which is nice and there is grass and each site has a table. The problem is they pack the campground like sardines and only have one facility at one end of the campground.
Guide
Away from the railroad tracks. Great sites for tent camping. RV spots are a little close. Clean bathhouse. Don’t be scared away because there are no pull through spots. The management can coach you into the site. They were great.
Guide
This is a decent choice for tent camping. Most spots are just off the road. Park on the side of the road and pack your tent into the trees. Camping on both sides of the road. The east side of the road has a creek running through it Very beautiful. 
TravelerWhat an incredible campground. Nice shaded, private spots. Enough distance between campers that it feels secluded. Though we were in our RV the tent camping looked spectacular! Kind front desk team. Magical, large grassy lawn that our Bernedoodle loved. We will be back!
Scout
This campground was a great escape from the 4th of July noise and crowds. The entire campground was clean and all the toilet facilities were spotless. We were tent camping and appreciated the level campsites and 10’ tables. Our site, #3, is non-reservable and HUGE. The riverfront was a bonus.
RangerStayed 3 nights and had a great time rafting on the river. Lots of options for RV and tent camping. Group sites are available (3). Restrooms could use an update but functional. All camp staff hosts are helpful and friendly. Will come back again. This campground is popular and books up quickly.
Guide
July 2020 - Great campground! All the tent sites were filled but they were allowing tent campers to stay in the RV spots. There are a few spots that have trails at the back of the site that lead to the river. It was great for relaxing after a long day. The RV spot had a water spout. Bathrooms nearby.
Scout
This is a nice little park, it’s a little misleading when you pull in as there is an Indian reservation next to it that looks like a bunch of homeless camps, so be careful where you park your rig. Also if you’re tent camping, I found out from the camp host that you may want to check with him before you set up a tent as there are automatic sprinklers that come on certain days
Guide
This campground was a last minute overnight stop on a long road trip. It was very close to the interstate and also very close to a railroad, which is not good if you are tent camping. Sites are well maintained and very close together. Bathrooms and showers were clean. This would be an ok place to stop and sleep in an RV that can block out the noise.
TravelerStunning view of the mountain backdrop- crystal clear waters-access to a small shop and water activity rentals which is fun. There is a resort , and cabins as well as tent camping which I prefer. The lake itself is “busy”with families and kids during the day but nice clean camping otherwise -some might even call it glamping but it’s worth it for the view and having access to the activities the next morning.
Guide
The campground is right off the freeway so very easy access. plenty of sites available. The signs, however, point to Day Use and Campground. Tent sites are in the Day Use area. We didn’t know this til after we had our site all set up. Winds kicked up before midnight and stayed strong all night. It even snapped the poles on our tent. Free showers and a swimming hole are a plus!
GuideCampground on Trillium Lake at the base of Mt Hood in the Mt Hood National Forest. Awesome tent sites among towering fir trees. Lake for paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing (nothing motorized). Water and toilets and trash. No showers. Adequate cellular service. No Wi-Fi. Amazing wooded experience with spectacular views of Mt Hood across the lake. Ducks and river otters.
Traveler
If you can grab one of the maybe four sites on the river, this is a pretty little spot. Very easy parking for campers, great tent sites as well. Unfortunately it’s only about 100 yards off a country highway; it is windy enough to block some of the traffic noise. Hang out in the shallow water, enjoy the views with a cold beverage and forget the hustle behind you.
GuideThe views of Mt. Hood are amazing from this lake. Spent the day in a canoe, exploring the lake. Stayed in one of the yurts, which would have been better if it was away from the tent camping. Neighbors were a bit close. After exploring we did see that there were many sites that were more private...next time we will reserve those. You can rent boats, canoes, etc, and there is a store that has anything you would need. Very nice staff.
GuideTook the kids camping here for the first time tent camping and we had a blast. Albeit a bit dusty and rustic, we couldn’t believe how beautiful the lake view was from atop the trailheads and how spectacular the views of the pinnacle rocks were on drive down towards the lake. The campground is clean, well kept and there is bear proof boxes to keep them hybrids of your things which was reassuring and helpful. We will definitely be returning.
TravelerViento is a nice state park along 84 right outside of hood river. It is along the columbia river and has beach access. The campground is split in two with the tent sites on one side and the rv sites on the other. The highway and a railroad track run right through the campground. There are mulitple trails perfect for day hikes. The sites and bathrooms are clean. Oregon State Parks offer free showers.
GuideNottingham is so so beautiful especially for the hiking. You e got Mt. Hood nearby and a river. The tent camping is pretty secluded. We had a spot next to the river and it was so peaceful. The rangers directed us to our campsite and gave us hiking recommendations, which was so helpful.
The toilets were clean, and well stocked. It is easy to find but still far enough away not to hear traffic. This place is pretty perfect. Definitely go on this recommended hikes because the falls were spectacular.
Traveler
Nice little spot I actually hate to leave a review as the fewer the people know about it the better ha. Nice creek too but cold water even in August but it’s mostly ankle to no more than waste deep and minimal current as our 4yr old had no problem walking around and playing in. Also minimal bugs and the camp host were great. Fire wood is available for purchase for $8. One night tent site $22
Scout
Great spot! On the side of a cliff in a turnaround spot that has two other roads. No tent camping but there are some spots along the same road. Down the mountain. Not the same view though: No one drove up the road while I was there but there isn’t much privacy, but for sure room for a couple other vans or cars for the night. Even a resemblance of a small fire pit. It rained all night but got to see the base of mt hood even with the clouds. Good spot pack In and pack out!
TravelerWe’ve been camping here for over 20-years and every time a memorable experience. Whether your needs are for a full hookup or a simple tent site, they’ve got them all. This evening there were only 3 other sites occupied, on a Saturday! With the river song of the Deschutes in the background and a large population of geese, ducks, turkeys, vultures and, eagles, and deer, the wildlife are never far. Also a popular spot with fishermen, rafters and kayakers, it can get busy in the summer but always a people-watching extravaganza.
Guide
Nice find in the forest. Very peaceful with huge sites. There are only 3 sites for tent camping. If you have a camper or RV very large parking lot to camp in. Nice hiking trails throughout the sno-park that we took advantage of. We got up next morning and hike the falls down the Hwy. Camp sites are right off Hwy. A little Hwy. noise but at night fall only a couple of cars. We did pack out a lot of other people’s trash at both sites. Sad to see so much trash left behind when there are garbage cans right next to the pit toilets. Definitely will come back.
Tent camping near Wishram, Washington offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Wishram, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Wishram, WA is Hike in from Lower Deschutes State Rec Area with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.
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