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Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer

The best camping in Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, WA

Discover the serene habitat of the Columbian White-Tailed Deer.

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Stories from the community

Eileen

3 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Peace on Earth

Great place to disconnect, relax and unwind. The dogs had a blast on the trails.

Wendy

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Sisu Camping Retreat

Great one night stay. It was easy to find, flat area to park. Stream right near by. Not a super picturesque site but worked great for us when visiting Good River area of Oregon.

Hideaway cabin with the wall closed. Props open onto a deck

Alexis

3 weeks ago

4 nights at HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

The little A-frame structure was perfect for my needs and stood up well to some pretty blustery weather on my first day. It takes a minute to locate the structure if you arrive in the dark and rain, as I did, but once I was oriented, all was well. Definitely recommend this instead of a tent if you're coming at a time of year when the weather is a bit unpredictable.

This campsite is rather large and is perfect for an RV. There is gravel under the grass. Lots of sun but no shade. This site can also get quite windy in the afternoon. This site is on the river and has 110 electricity and water. You have to back in or out.

Brittany

November 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Batwater Station on Columbia River

Beautiful area and great amenities. We only stayed for one quick night, but I would absolutely come back.

James

November 2025

Tent

1 night at HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

Nice place to stay for the night. Quiet enough traffic to walk in the woods.

Blaire

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Peace on Earth

What a beautiful private cabin for two. We had a wonderful time. We walked along the trails nearby and made a lovely dinner. It was so peaceful and quiet. Thank you Brian!

Sarah

November 2025

Weekend Trip to HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

The A-frame cabin was amazing for a cozy rainy weekend! We enjoyed the propane fire pit and listening to the rain. The cows, sheep, ducks, chickens and cats were adorable!! I would definitely return again.

Gray

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Peace on Earth

Perfect autumnal rainy getaway with the pups! The cabin was cozy and quite private, but close enough to town that we could make a quick trip to pick up the pancake mix we’d forgotten (oops!). Comfy couch, sweet bed nook, and plenty of trails and spots for the dogs to explore.

Gretchen

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Elkenmist

Cannot recommend enough, a really magical place. The yurt was kept warm with the wood burning stove and the sauna was an absolute treat. We loved talking to all the folks at the farm, can't wait to go back!

Cynthia

October 2025

With pets

6 nights at Peace on Earth

Magical cabin in the woods! Relaxing and peaceful with trails to explore. Very pet friendly! Great hosts and all the things needed to cook meals to enjoy by the fire on the porch at night. Highly recommend and will be making a return trip!

Audrey

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Columbia River Camping

A beautiful water side view. So fun to see the ships pass. Nice and private with only one spot. Plenty of space for our dogs to play.

Brian

October 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

With kids

Weekend Trip to J Squared River Ranch

This place is amazing, great hosts, beautiful land easy to get in and out of. All around a great trip. We will definitely be back again and again

Heather

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to J Squared River Ranch

Great spot, very attentive and friendly hosts, a nice walk down to the river, hookups were very handy.

Micah

October 2025

13 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at J Squared River Ranch

This is one of my favorite hipcamps! Its a nice big area and the campsites are spread out so it feels very private. The walk down to the river was so nice, my dog loved it! The hosts were so friendly and kind, they even recommended some places to eat and gave me an emergency number to call day or night. I felt very welcomed. Will definitely be back when I'm in the area.

Savannah

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Peace on Earth

A wonderful and much needed break! Came here for my dogs “Birthday weekend” haha. We had lots of fun exploring Rainier and the surrounding areas. The trails of the property were also fun to walk through! Pistachio had lots of fun and I’d happily tuckered out! We hope to be back again soon!

Lisa

October 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at J Squared River Ranch

Very nice place. Host’s were very helpful and friendly. Only suggestion would be tables at the sites

Harold

October 2025

23 ft Class B

4 nights at The Rock On The Columbia

A total piece of heaven. I would recommend this place to everyone who appreciates serenity and beauty.

Alison

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

Wow! This place was amazing, the hosts were so welcoming and friendly It’s a beautiful place and I would definitely recommend I’d love to go back next year! The baby cow “Elliot” was the icing on the cake. Truly made my trip one to remember.

Skye

October 2025

Tent

1 night at J Squared River Ranch

We chose this stay kind of last minute while looking for a stopover on the way to Portland, but we very much enjoyed the spot and found the hosts friendly and accommodating. The setting was beautiful and as described.

Melissa

October 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Columbia River Camping

This is our second stay. Very beautiful quiet spot by the river. No neighbors. Our Dog was happy to be off-leash. The host is very responsive.

Top-rated campgrounds

Wild Blackberry Heights

94%

(39)

2.3mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · WA

A seasonal stream flows through forested wild lands to a 100-foot waterfall plunging over basalt cliffs into the Columbia River. Open meadows on two knolls frame a natural amphitheater. A rough road crosses the creek leading hikers and bikers to the town of Cathlamet (about a mile away) with its brewery, restaurants, and marina with self-service kayak rentals.

Columbia River Camping

94%

(50)

2.9mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cathlamet, WA

Beautiful riverfront camping located in Puget Island Washington. Enjoy a private campsite on over 400 ft of riverfront access. Across the river from Bradley State Park and a historic bluff. Bring all of your fishing gear, it is known for the best sturgeon fishing (which is catch and release all year round) Free Washington Fishing APP FishWA at the app store on your phone. Enjoy biking around the island and kayaking on the Columbia River and in the sloughs. Boat launch is located just around the corner! Ferry access to Oregon is just a few miles away. 40 river miles from the Coast. Enjoy the quaint town of Cathlamet, 3 miles away with breweries, restaurants, shops, grocery store and the marina. RV parking with power (30 amp hookup) on the road. We require when tent camping that the tents are pitched where the rv parking is, due to rising waters with the tide. We will not be responsible for any refund of stay or damaged property if tents are pitched anywhere other than roadside pullout. Disclaimer: This is a shipping channel and tides vary day to day, hour to hour, so make sure you do your due diligence and check tide tables. In the wintertime, at high tide water comes up farther on the property. PLEASE NO BURNING GARBAGE IN THE FIRE PIT

Columbia river view

97%

(80)

4.4mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · RV · Cathlamet, WA

Learn more about this land:Hi Campers! Come stay and enjoy a sandy beach with a gorgeous view of Oregon, across the Columbia River. It's only 5 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 2 minutes to the ferry. So bring your water toys, rent my kayaks or just sit back and relax. A few things to note: In order to visit Oregon, it is a 15 minute ferry ride or you can drive the scenic route, which takes about an hour. For more ferry information, like times and costs, please google the Wahkiakum County Ferry. If you are with a larger group than what the site allows, please inquire with owner for additional pricing.

Slow Boat Farm - Island Camping

99%

(203)

4.8mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cathlamet, WA

We can host up to 8 people comfortably. Wide open spaces, kayak launch, and small-scale farming form a unique culture at Slow Boat Farm. Camp on Puget Island, in a peaceful, pastoral setting with views of the hills and cliffs on both sides of the river. Fire ring is available year round regardless of fire bans. A large grassy field offers ample space, and a private kayak launch is a short walk through a cottonwood forest. You will enjoy a private camp spot with shade or open space, where we can accommodate multiple vehicles. Larger groups can be accommodated - contact us! Slow Boat Farm is a large meadow, five acres of grass and wide open spaces plus a great view the gorge cliffs. Camping is available late April through September 30. 2025 KEY EVENTS: July 26 - Puget Island Gardens Music Festival Little Island Relay, Little Island Creamery. - recently re-scheduled to 2026.

Elkenmist

97%

(61)

5.9mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Skamokawa, WA

Welcome to the the alchemy of Elkenmist! 125 acres nestled into 250,000 acres of mossy, mushroomy, forested fairy lands. Where the Willapa hills meet the mouth of the Columbia River. We are a mellow regenerative agriculture farm and portal to liminal landscapes. Come meet the sheep, feed the horses, drink from the spring, meditate in the yurt, hike the hills and feed your spirit. Let the land attune you.

Favorite Creek Campground

97%

(407)

8.5mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Westport, OR

Come and explore this 100 acre wood. Play in small creeks and waterfalls. Walk the trails. Take in the view from top end of property. Watch elk deer and other wildlife. Enjoy your campfire roast Hotdogs, marshmallows and make some-mores. Camp is just 10 minutes from The small town of Clatskanie. There you can find just about anything you need. Jones beach/ Columbia river is only about a 10 minute drive, fishing and popular wind surfing spot. Please keep in mind we do not allow fireworks. Or loud music strictly enforc the speed limit 5 miles an hour on the Camp roads. any of this nonsense will be reported to Hipcamp.

Relatives’ Land

93%

(14)

9.5mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · Tent · Longview, WA

Relatives' Land is an opportunity for Delphine, who currently owns the property and all of us visiting, to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and learn about the amazing bio-diversity of the area. On the land you will find some flat, prairie land that are used for gardening and chicken raising. There is also an old orchard with 15 plus apple and pear trees. Campers are welcome to harvest apples and pears in the fall when they are in season! Half of the land, 2.5 acres is a forest of pine and alder trees which hosts incredible wild life: a family of fox, Northwest bats, Northern Pygmy owls, Spotted owls, Northern flickers, Pileated woodpeckers, red ants, deer, elk, rabbits, snakes, mice and million more insects and birds. The land also has an incredible variety of mushrooms, mostly non-edible though, and ferns and mosses.

Waterfront Retreat and Event Venue

93%

(29)

12mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 8 sites · Lodging · Longview, WA

My Tiny Creekside Retreat is located in the hills above Longview, with easy access to Historic Downtown Longview, less than a half hour from the I-5 Freeway, and within 1.5 hours of Long Beach, Mt. St. Helens, and Portland Oregon. The Retreat includes accommodations for overnighters and is available to host your small event. In addition to their private accommodations our guests enjoy our large covered fire pit and picnic area, creek side beach, yoga decks, and an EV charger. A perfect escape from the hustle of life!

Batwater Station on Columbia River

99%

(203)

14mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Clatskanie, OR

Batwater Station is located halfway between Portland and the Oregon Coast on the Columbia River. A private refuge where river otter, beaver, mink, muskrat, seals, raccoons along with threatened Columbia river white tailed deer can be seen. Property has 1,000 feet of boat docks, river deck, and pier. At the pier is a full kitchen, heated bathroom and shower room. Included are 2 outhouses, a fire pit for summer months, a viewing station overlooking the wetlands along with brick charcoal fired barbecue and another propane barbecue. We are committed to your privacy so guests are limited and spread out. High speed internet through out the property. Batwater worked with several agencies when we breeched a levee and flooded 26 acres for salmon and wildlife habitat. Hike along the wetlands and see beaver dams and dens. Batwater is also home for many types of birds including eagles, osprey, tree swallow, purple martins, barn swallows, wood ducks, common and hooded mergansers, mallards, scoots, scaups, grebes, cormorants, great egrets, blue herons, geese and many types of song birds . In the spring and summer see our returning osprey who have. nested on our dock since 2013. There are now 2 osprey platform since a pair of Canada geese choose that as their nesting site as well. Some bald eagles winter here but we have our resident bald eagles Hep and Hope. They arrived in 2003 to start their nest on Crims Island. They still nest there although there old nest tree collapsed in 2020. Many birds migrate here for the winter. Common mammals are river otter, mink, muskrat, raccoons, nutria, coyotes, black tailed and threatened Colombia White Tailed deer. We also are home to native turtles and frogs. Batwater is a working farm with cattle feeding on lush pastures, 2 retired horses and chickens. When eggs are available, we will share some with you. Batwater is a great place to kayak, canoe, paddle board or row during the summer months. We have windy afternoons for windsurfers or sailors. The Columbia River is well known for salmon, and sturgeon. For an extra fee you can moor your larger boat while visiting. There are a volley ball and badminton set ups along with horse shoes during the summer months. We suggest swimming during the summer months when the tide is coming in or slack. You can also walk or drive down to Mayger beach which is popular with locals. There are sandy beaches on Crims island that you can paddle over too. Check out the pictures for more information.

Sisu Camping Retreat

96%

(13)

14mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Grays River, WA

Our property is conveniently located just off State Route 4 in Grays River, Washington. We have over 10 acres of open pasture land, along with creekside camping sites and walking trails throughout the property. Currently, we offer boondocking sites, two back-in RV sites, and one tent site. While we are working towards adding more amenities, please note that we do not yet have restroom facilities. The property is a 30-minute drive from Astoria, Oregon, and Long Beach, Washington. Local attractions include the Grays River Historic Covered Bridge, Duffy's Irish Pub, and various nearby river access points.

HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

98%

(416)

15mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Clatskanie, OR

Welcome to Holistic Life Farm! We are a working homestead and delight in sharing our daily experience and offer visits with our sheep, cows and chickens. Holistic Life Farm offers a 1 dry tent site for up to 12 people, a quaint hideaway cabin, and a glamped out 16x20 canvas tent with a wood stove. We also offer 1 RV site in our parking area. Stop on your way to Astoria and the coast and make this your destination. Find us about 30 minutes off I-5 freeway across the Longview bridge or 45 minutes east of Astoria. Our farm sits about 5 miles off Highway 30 to the north. We can direct you to hiking and mountain biking trails in the area (Beaver Falls trailhead is 5 miles from our farm). There is a motor boat launch in the town of Clatskanie, with access to Columbia River. There is also a launch in the city park for kayaking. The Zen Monastery is just 5 miles away. Long Beach, WA is across the Columbia River via the Astoria Bridge. Lounging about the homestead works too.

The Rock On The Columbia

97%

(15)

23mi from Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer · 1 site · RV · Chinook, WA

Welcome to our RV site nestled along the picturesque Columbia River! Wake up to sea lions, the melodies of birds, and the sight of eagles soaring overhead. As the day unfolds, watch the stunning sunsets behind the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge. Situated just across the river from Astoria, our property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. A quick five-minute drive will take you to Astoria, while the charming shores of Long Beach await just 15 minutes away. Immerse yourself in outdoor adventures with hiking trails, historical sites, and the Discovery Trail all within a 10 to 20-minute drive. Please note that our site provides electrical hookups only; there is no potable water or bathroom facilities available onsite. We kindly ask that you carry out any trash with you. Amenities such as picnic tables are currently in the works and coming soon. We hope you enjoy your stay!

The best camping in Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, WA guide

Overview

About

Embark on a captivating Columbian White-Tailed Deer National Wildlife Refuge camping experience, where nature and tranquility intertwine. Nestled within the refuge's sprawling expanse, camping near this location grants you the opportunity to witness the grace and beauty of the endangered Columbian white-tailed deer in their natural habitat. As you explore the trails, keep your eyes peeled for a chance encounter with other wildlife, such as bald eagles soaring above or river otters frolicking along the water's edge. Immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings, capturing stunning photographs and creating cherished memories. The Columbian White-Tailed Deer National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled camping expedition, where serenity and wildlife encounters harmonize, creating a truly remarkable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

When to go

The best time to visit the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active. Summer brings lush greenery, but also higher visitor numbers. Winters can be harsh, with limited access due to weather conditions, making it less ideal for visits.

Know before you go

Check the refuge's official website for any seasonal closures or special alerts before planning your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for walking through natural terrain and bring binoculars for bird watching.
Respect the habitat by staying on designated trails and observing wildlife from a distance.
There are no camping facilities on-site, so plan your accommodation accordingly.
Be mindful of the tide schedules and boat safety if you're exploring the islands within the refuge.

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