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The best camping near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cottonwood Canyon adventure.

88% (5 reviews)
88% (5 reviews)

Set up camp on the banks of the John Day River at this unpretentious park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

100%
(24)

Lefever Holbrook Ranch

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres ¡ Goldendale, WA
The Lefever Holbrook Ranch offers a unique stay overlooking some of washington’s most scenic views. Enjoy educational workshops and local adventures through the Gorge. Tour the land and hear about Paulette’s ranching philosophy. The ranch stores are open by appointment, so stock up on the ranches products grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, chickens, turkey, and rabbit or graze the greenhouse or gardens for just picked in season vegetables or catch on the daily evening barns tours available with sign up.
from 
$50
 / night
97%
(19)

Mosier creek Camp

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Mosier, OR
on the banks of Mosier Creek. Nice shady, private area. Several hikes from your spot. Fly fishing for brook trout, lots if craydads in creek. Wild mint, black berry's, a hammock for a afternoon nap. Flat area foe a tent, RV, small trailer. Chairs, table, hammock ready for you to come and enjoy. Oregon, has mosquitoes, snakes, deer, fox, coyotes. As of Oct 1st. Small fires are allowed.
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$30
 / night
100%
(1)

Woodland Farm

1 site ¡ RV12 acres ¡ Goldendale, WA
Nestled in a serene countryside, framed by towering pines and majestic oak savanna, lies a peaceful farm just a short and pleasant 12-minute drive from the vibrant town of Goldendale. Here, tranquility reigns supreme as you escape into the quiet embrace of nature. Step onto the farm and be greeted by the delightful presence of our friendly mini goats, their playful antics inviting you to feed and interact with them. Wander through the shaded lavender garden, where time seems to slow down as you find solace in watching the chickens go about their daily routine. Discover two inviting outdoor pavilions, offering a perfect sanctuary for relaxation. Unwind in a comfortable seating area, surrounded by lush gardens adorned with a vibrant tapestry of plants, both beautiful to behold and delightful to taste. Or savor the flavors of a delicious meal prepared on the barbecue grill. As day turns to night, indulge in the mesmerizing art of stargazing. Find serenity on the swinging saucer bed nestled within the enchanting Shade Garden, where you can recline and marvel at the celestial wonders above. Or, gather around the captivating fire table on the front porch, as the vibrant hues of a breathtaking sunset paint the sky, casting a warm glow upon your shared moments. This haven of tranquility offers a respite from the bustling world, a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, savor delicious flavors, and forge cherished memories. Come, experience the allure of our farm, where every corner invites you to bask in the splendor of the countryside and discover moments of pure bliss.
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$30
 / night
Saved 2 times

Weedman ranches

1 site ¡ RV, Tent5 acres ¡ Moro, OR
I own 5 acres of property above Cottonwood State Park. I also have a wooden school house that was built in the late 1800s and is still standing. My family does still farm/ranch every day as did my family’s ancestors when they started our family ranch in 1882. My house sits at the very top of Cottonwood Canyon with a view of to see amazing sunrise’s and a view to see beautiful sunsets with Mount hood and Mount Adams for a backdrop.
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$60
 / night
97%
(15)

The Dirt E Moor

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ Grass Valley, OR
As you come down the highway, rolling into Grass Valley, you slowly realize you are driving through not just a different town but frame of mind. As a community of farmers and ranchers we move at a different pace. Here at The Dirt E Moor, we want you to be able to experience a piece of that. My partner has grown up in the area, traveled the world, and at the end of it, decided this is where he wanted to raise his family. His parents run the town store, built around 1903. Our children have dug and played in the creek. Bringing in treasures they have found like old horseshoes from where the blacksmith was located. At The Dirt E Moor we have embraced the pioneer spirit and adapted to our climate. We do have all 4 seasons. In the Spring you might just catch me putting in new vegetables beds in the garden, we could have lambs begging for pets, or a new litter of barn kittens running around. Summer will have the working dogs looking for the shady cool spots, the ducks quacking in the sprinkler and bees buzzing in the flowers. Fall will see the cool evening and leaves falling like potato chips, last minute treats stolen by the ewes. And in Winter there is a great peace in laying in a warm blanket watching the snow fall.Learn more about this land:The DirtEMoor is a 2 acre hobby farm located  on the edge of a small town in North Central Oregon. Your campsite is located next to a seasonal creek on the North East corner of the DirtEmoor with easy access parking next to site. Grass Valley is often used as a Base-Camp for Hunters, Fisherpeople, Rafters, Racecar Drivers, Rockhounds, Hikers, Bikers and Skiers to explore our 3 locals rivers (Deschutes, John Day or Columbia), or our acres of BLM land, mountains and public river trails. We have quite mornings, breathless sunsets, starry nights and everything else in-between. 
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$23
 / night
100%
(1)

Cat's Forest Retreat

1 site ¡ RV, Tent80 acres ¡ Goldendale, WA
On a clear day you can see Mount Hood. Great stargazing at night away from bright lights. Lots of River Rock and Agates. Abundant wildlife. Mostly hilly and forested terrain. Nearby is Greek Bakery & monastery, Brooks Memorial State Park. Visit Goldendale Observatory, Maryhill museum & Stonehenge.
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$25
 / night
99%
(278)

Milk A Sheep Camp

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents450 acres ¡ Lexington, OR
Didn't know you could milk a sheep? Or thought only cows made cheese? Come find out how it's done on this seasonal working ranch here in Eastern Oregon. Lambs are born in the spring and their moms are milked all summer long. I raise my sheep on fresh grass and sunshine. Come see for yourself here on the ranch. Pitch a tent on the pasture and literally count the sheep around you before falling asleep or climb the hill and see for miles in every direction. We may be close to the road, but it doesn't feel like it. We can accommodate campers, RVs, trucks, tents, and vans. 4 sites to chose from. Each site has access to a toilet, potable water, shower, picnic tables, trash disposal, and we allow campfires (outside of burn bans), and pets.  We also sell fresh eggs, firewood, and lamb sausage. Our guests love staying with us: "There’s fireside fun in fresh country air, rolling hills around the farm to walk along to enjoy the wide expansive view, and sights and sounds of animals around camp to make for a relaxing day. There’s kittens, dairy sheep, gigantic but friendly herd dogs, and a variety of chickens and ducks. The host was kind and friendly. Try the sheep’s milk cheese - what a treat!"
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$40
 / night
98%
(105)

Rivers Ridge

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ White Salmon, WA
Unbelievable views overlooking wineries and orchards, Mt Hood and Columbia River. Park your RV or tent in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Famous wineries and cherry orchards are all nearby. This is the perfect place to enjoy the wine you purchased during a wine-tasting tour! 10-minute drive to White Salmon and Hood River. Proximity to mountain biking, hiking, kiteboarding, windsurfing and more. We have one huge RV site available for campers to book. With the RV site, you have the option to book the treehouse as an “Extra”. Only one "campsite" is available on the property. Which means you're the only people out here. Peace and privacy abound. You can choose wherever you want to put your tent. I open up my land to only one group at a time. Cell service is strong at the property. Work remotely while overlooking the view, and multiple picnic table locations. The treehouse has stools and countertops/desktops to work from if you choose to rent that as well. Rowland Lake is a great swimming spot at the bottom of the road (2 miles). I look forward to hosting you!
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$75
 / night
100%
(5)

Windy Wheat Farms

10 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres ¡ Goldendale, WA
Windy Wheat farms is located in the beautiful Columbia Gorge. We are located on 200 acres just one mile outside the quant town of Goldendale, WA. Come stay a few nights in our beautiful area to explore the amazing wineries, Goldendale observatory, Stone hedge, Columbia River, numerous hiking, swimming, hunting and fishing opportunities our area has to offer. We are a working farm with lots of hay fields, Golden Retrievers, goats, pigs, cows, chickens and plenty of wildlife. We are all about community and intentional encounters with others so we offer several communal areas to socialize. There is a 3bedroom farmhouse to rent should you want access to indoor plumbing and electricity; a kitchen, living room and hottub. It’s a small and cozy space. (Rent on Airbnb). We also host Rv and tent site visitors. port-a-potty and hand washing station outside but no electric or septic hookups at this time. There is also plenty of room for privacy to spread out and set up a tent or pull into one of our designated areas for rv camping (no hook ups). Enjoy privacy or head to the communal area with a fire pit area to enjoy s'mores, picnic tables, a swing set, propane grill, or bring your frisbee, corn hole set and invite a few others to play. If you are the only visitor on a particular night- enjoy all the amenities to yourself.
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$45
 / night
100%
(4)

KLICKITAT VIEW CABIN

1 site ¡ Lodging20 acres ¡ Goldendale, WA
Relax and restore on the top of the hill on our 20-acre, private property. You'll have the property and 750-foot cabin to yourself. With views of Mt. Adams, the Simcoe mountains, and a million stars, you can hike, star gaze, and enjoy fireside games at this updated cabin with a classic aesthetic. This is off-grid with electric lighting. We have a sink and pump that provides running water like a household sink. There is an outhouse with a typical toilet 40' from the house and an outdoor heated shower. Come recharge among nature.
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$105
 / night
95%
(199)

Roots Rise Family Farm

13 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ Lyle, WA
Cozy boondock campground situated in the beautiful High Prairie on Friends of the Gorge land with gorgeous views in every direction. Our property has been intact here since the 1940’s and has tons of eclectic charm & history. We are excited to share this beautiful land and its bounty with anyone who feels called. We are slowly building our dreams here and love the camping community so much. Come for the peace & quiet. Stay for the adventure.
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$45
 / night

Horseshoe House

1 site ¡ RV, Tent10 acres ¡ Grass Valley, OR
This 10 acres sheep ranch is located remotely in sea of wheat fields. Our upland high desert location (2500ft elevation) is full views, isolation and stars that consume the night sky. The Horseshoe House is within easy travel distance of 3 major rivers, ghost towns, fossil beds, solar and wind farms, and historical towns like Antelope oregon that were featured in a Netflix special named " Wild Wild Country ". Just show up and enjoy the nothing that is our oasis for your pleasure to slow down, breath and maybe pet a sheep.
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$42
 / night

The best camping near Cottonwood Canyon State Park guide

Overview

About

Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers a rugged, low-key experience. Situated on the banks of the John Day River, across from the boat launch at J.S. Burres State Park, the area attracts anglers, kayakers, and hikers alike. The park also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife-viewing, as elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, and even bighorn sheep live in the area. Lone Tree Campground is small and generally quiet, with first-come, first-served (FCFS) campsites—many right by the river—and a handful of reservable cabins. A group tent area is also available for up to 25 people.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The campsites at Lone Tree Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance. Arrive early in the morning to increase your likelihood of getting a spot.
  2. Weekends can fill up here, particularly in the summer months. Try arriving on a Thursday or Friday morning to secure your place.
  3. If you want a guaranteed spot, consider booking one of the four cabins, which can be reserved up to six months in advance through Oregon State Parks (either online or over the phone).

When to go

Cottonwood Canyon is open year-round, and is at its busiest during summer vacation when temperatures are warmest. Spring and fall can also be a good time to visit, particularly if you want to fish for wild steelhead, but the weather is a bit of a crapshoot, and while warm and dry temperatures are certainly possible, so are cold, rainy days. Springtime here is particularly lovely, when wildflowers add a much needed splash of color to the dusky landscape.

Know before you go

  • Western rattlesnakes—the only dangerous type of snake in Oregon—live in the area, but are more likely to flee than fight and will rarely attack unless they feel seriously threatened.
  • The canyon is in cougar country. If you encounter one of the cats, make a lot of noise to scare them off.
  • The closest place to get fuel, supplies, and groceries is the town of Wasco, about a 20-minute drive from the campground.
  • Cottonwood Canyon is in an area of high fire risk, and campfire bans and even bans on propane stoves and fire rings are the norm, particularly in the summer months.

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