Camping in the Columbia River Gorge

Name: Columbia River Gorge
Address: Columbia River Gorge
Rating: 4.783

Just an hour's drive from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is the biggest in the country. Among its many campgrounds is Eagle Creek, the first forest service campground in the USA.

Outside the national and state parks, you also find dozens of private campgrounds and RV parks on both sides of the gorge. Pitch a tent by a fishing lake, along a wild river, or amid a pine forest. If you're looking for solitude, backpacking is also allowed on more than 30 trails across the gorge.

The Mt. Hood area is your go-to spot for hiking trails, and the snow-capped peak even offers downhill skiing in the SUMMER! Along the Hood River, water sports enthusiasts get stoked for world-class windsurfing. Between adventures, be sure to grab a drink at one of the region's craft breweries or wineries.

However you choose to enjoy the gorge, remember to pack your rain gear—the region is famous for its daily drizzle. Since most campgrounds are situated near railways and the interstate, you may also want to bring earplugs.

Keep in mind there's no bad time to visit the Columbia River Gorge. July and August are the height of the tourist season, but they also boast the smallest chance of rain. For the most spectacular wildflowers, shoot for April through June. Of course, a fall camping trip puts you at the forefront of Hood River Valley harvests and stunning fall colors.

96% (6.6K) • 2,618 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Columbia River Gorge

WindWoodRivers

1. WindWoodRivers

97%

(925)

Home Valley, WA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, St. Martin homestead-started in the late 1800s. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply in these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, 60 minutes east of Portland, 25 minutes west of Hood River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

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Roots Rise Family Farm

2. Roots Rise Family Farm

94%

(288)

Lyle, WA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Roots Rise Family Farm, a cozy boondock-style camping experience tucked into the beautiful High Prairie on Friends of the Gorge land, with sweeping views in nearly every direction. Our little farm has roots stretching back to the 1940s and is full of history, personality, and the kind of charm that comes from a place that is truly lived in and loved. We’re slowly building our dreams here, one project at a time, and love sharing this land with travelers looking for peace, adventure, stargazing, and a taste of farm life. This is not a manicured RV park, it’s a working family farm with animals, projects in progress, and plenty of rustic charm. Pitch your tent in our hilltop meadow with views of Mt. Adams, tuck into the pine grove, or nestle beneath the oaks. Clear nights bring incredible stargazing, quiet mornings bring birdsong, and every season offers something a little different. We’re located just 5 minutes from world-class fishing on the Klickitat River, surrounded by incredible wineries, and only about 25 minutes from Hood River, close enough for adventure, far enough for quiet. Our farm is home to free-range chickens, ducks, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, gardens, kids, and the beautiful chaos that comes with building a life close to the land. We’d love to share our little piece of paradise with you. Roots Rise is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and committed to being a safe, welcoming space for all. Hate and bigotry have no place here. We’re slowly building our dreams her, one project, one garden bed, one campfire at a time, and we love sharing this special place with fellow travelers and nature lovers. Come for the peace and quiet. Stay for the adventure, the stargazing, and the slow rhythm of life on the prairie.

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848 Outpost

3. 848 Outpost

98%

(55)

White Salmon, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

848 Outpost | Room to turn. Space to stay. 848 Outpost is a small, off-grid basecamp set across 38 acres of woods and open field, with just four sites. Two designed for vans and overland rigs (+tents), and two set up for tent camping. It’s a simple, low-key place to land, with space to breathe and none of the crowding of a traditional campground. Part of a larger 80-acre land group (including our family’s historic 28-acre farm), the property supports forestry management, wildlife habitat conservation, and low-impact recreation. The outpost backs onto forest service land, offering direct access to rugged, unmarked terrain for experienced hikers and explorers. There are no formal trails—just open access to largely untouched landscape. Location 15 minutes to White Salmon 30 minutes to Hood River ~1.5 hours to Portland Access The road is not suitable for large RVs or long trailers. Vans, overland rigs, and smaller setups do best. 4WD can be recommended depending on conditions. Preview the road: https://youtu.be/Yo5dSB1hftI?si=PK3cT2O_9kWOcn18 Amenities --Porta potties available at each site (shared at Elderberry/Homestead) --Seasonal water spigot at Elderberry & Evergreen (Note: this is well water) --No cell service (really) --No hookups --Pack-in / pack-out (no garbage service) Important Notes --No campfires during burn bans (propane stoves OK). Burn ban IS ON as of Memorial Day weekend - there have already been 2 gorge wildfires so we aren't taking any chances. --Located in an active wildlife corridor. Secure food and waste in wildlife-safe containers to reduce animal encounters and support conservation This is a quiet, off-grid stay best suited for people who are comfortable in the woods, without cell service, or don't care for 'standard' campgrounds. This property is offered as a short-term recreational campsite only and is not a residence under Washington law.

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Gifford Pinchot National Forest

4. Gifford Pinchot National Forest

93%

(80)

National forest in Washington · 954 sites

Explore old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and thousands of miles of trails.

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Campfires

Beacon Rock State Park

5. Beacon Rock State Park

100%

(2)

State park in Washington · 33 sites

Hike, camp, and climb at The Rock.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cozy Gorge Views Glamping Getaway

6. Cozy Gorge Views Glamping Getaway

100%

(1)

The Dalles, OR · 1 site

Glamping Getaway Of Your Dreams On Farm Setting with Sweeping views of Columbia River Gorge Escape to our cozy, newly remodeled 26-ft camper, nestled atop cherry orchards in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Perfect for a peaceful retreat, this charming space offers comfort and style with breathtaking views of the gorge right from your doorstep. Wake up to sweeping vistas, enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by the beauty of Skyline Farms, and soak in the tranquility of the orchard setting. Inside, you’ll find all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Pleas park directly behind camper. The driveway will be yours to use for your stay here. When we have guests we park in the lower field as to ensure as much privacy as possible. Please do not block gate to upper field.

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Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

7. Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

90%

(46)

Stevenson, WA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park offer a variety of camp sites in a rural setting, including full hookup RV-camping, tent and campervan camping, and overflow parking with electricity and water. The park also offers a Glamping Unit with a kitchenette and three beds. The two small parks are located right next to each other, only divided by a private drive, and are both run by the same owner. The office is located in the two-story building that says Wind Mountain Resort. Children are welcome but we don't offer a playground or games and focus more on fishermen, hikers, mountain bikers, and guests who come to enjoy the great outdoors and all the watersports the Gorge has to offer. Centrally located in the Columbia River Gorge, the RV Parks offer a unique vantage point to experience the breathtaking beauty and spectacular waterfalls cascading from basalt cliffs, including the renowned Multnomah, Bridal Veil, and Latourell Falls. As you venture eastward, the landscape transforms into an even grander and more vibrant panorama. The Gorge is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, excellent (salmon) fishing, two boat ramps nearby, and with Hood River, proudly recognized as the windsurfing capital of the world, only 15 miles away. The area also offers the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and three volcanoes, Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Saint Helens, the Bonneville Dam and wineries, brewpubs, museums, and so much more. Our RV Park is not just a place to stay; it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences in nature. Cancellation policy: you will receive a full refund if you cancel at least one week before your scheduled check-in. Disclosures: 1. We're sure a lot of Hipcampers look for seclusion and peace and quiet, but that's not what you'll get at our park. Although our sites are spacious, we're located along busy State Highway 14 and there's also a train coming through at all hours of the day and night (far more often than we like). Light sleepers, please ask our host for complimentary earplugs or bring your own. 2. We're a rural park with gravel roads, grass, weeds, and trees and not a fancy RV Park with immaculate grounds and manicured lawns. Sorry.

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Full hookups

Harvest Haven Campground

8. Harvest Haven Campground

94%

(108)

Lyle, WA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

*** PLEASE NOTE, THIS IS A WORKING FARM WITH FREE RANGE LIVESTOCK AND FARMING ACTIVITIES. WHILE THESE ACTIVITIES ARE OUTSIDE THE CAMPGROUND ITSELF, PLEASE EXPECT THE USUAL THINGS THAT COME WITH FARM LIFE SUCH AS ROOSTERS CROWING, FARM ANIMAL CHATTER AND SEEING/HEARING FARM EQUIPMENT AND ACTIVITIES. Nestled among majestic White Oaks, our HipCamp, Havest Haven rests within the charming Hillbilly Farm, a family-owned/operated haven with roots that run the depths of 6 generations. . The property is a blend of ancient White Oaks, shady Maples and fields bursting with wildflowers in the spring. Several vantage points offer views of the Columbia River and iconic Mt. Hood. During your stay, visit our seasonal farmstand that sits just outside the garden gate where a U-pick herb garden awaits. You will likely find us in our one-acre garden and we love to share our unique growing methods with interested guests. Our camp features our Dreaming Tree site, an open one-acre field that sits alongside a quiet county road with minimal traffic. Big White Oaks provide a shady outdoor retreat with a view of Mt. Hood. This site is large enough to also accommodate large groups up to 20 guests. There is a spring fed water spigot at the corral for washing up. While our family finds this spring water safe and refreshing to drink, keep in mind, its UN-filtered thus classified as non-potable water that needs to be purified before drinking. This site offers a unique experience where you can take a closer look at farm life by encountering cows, pigs, goats and free-range chickens. While guest are welcome to pet them, please refrain from feeding. There are many plants that are toxic to them. Don't forget to meet Petunia, our beloved free-range Kunekune pig. While shy at 1st and can SOUND intimidating, her affinity for belly rubs makes her favor easily earned. Beyond the farm, you'll find yourself perfectly situated just 1.5 miles east of Catherine Creek Rec. Area. This prime location caters to a wide range of interests, from hiking and mountain biking to hunting and rock climbing at Coyote Wall. Wine tasting at four neighborhood wineries (two within walking distance) is also a popular activity. The area teems with wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, songbirds and woodpeckers.

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Picnic table

Garden of Eden

9. Garden of Eden

99%

(34)

Lyle, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are new stewards and first-time homeowners of this serene, 10.5 acre homestead. 'Modern' human development on this land first began in old logging days in the early 1900s and old logging access road still runs through the center of our property. When we purchased this land in 2020, we knew we were investing in a real 'fixer-upper'. Our property sustained massive damage in a 2025 wild fire, so we have a zero tolerance policy if burn ban is violated. During your visit, look for signs of fire damage around the property. Some of our previous trails and lookout zones were destroyed. But, please feel free to still wander around and be mindful of erosion, especially up the hill. What changes and regeneration can you spot?? The original Buckminster Fuller geodome home was built back in the 1970s, and the outbuildings and garden spaces were later added on as the property changed hands over the decades. By the time we landed here, however, the home was in severe state of neglect. As we continue to care for and restore this home and land, we aim to use environmentally sustainable practices to minimize our impact on the land while upcycling, recycling, and re-using anything we can in the process! Follow our progress on Instagram at: @dome.sweet.home!

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Columbia Hills State Park

(1)

Stevenson, WA · 1 site · Tent, RV

This 80-acre family homestead and informal nature preserve sits just one mile outside small town Stevenson, WA in the heart of the majestic Columbia River Gorge. While the homestead itself is tucked into a quiet canyon valley, the camping area is separate, with its own access road. This private sanctuary has large open meadows surrounded by forest groves and rustic walking trails, and a campsite overlooking the river and mountains. Guests are free to choose their own campsite and enjoy the space at their own pace. The location offers a peaceful and secluded setting to relax, explore, and access the many adventures offered by the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

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Picnic table

Breathtaking Views in The Dalles

17. Breathtaking Views in The Dalles

88%

(4)

The Dalles, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV

Dispersed camping is available on a 12-acre property just 10 minutes from downtown The Dalles. The land offers a beautiful view of Mt. Hood and a partial view of Mt. Adams, featuring sunsets that will truly take your breath away. Our property is located within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, an 80-mile stretch of protected land that stands as the largest national scenic area in the United States. This region is world-renowned for its high concentration of waterfalls, endless hiking trails, sweeping vistas, and iconic scenic drives. We offer one very large dispersed camping site on the property with easy road access. The site is very secluded, flat, and private, but it is completely undeveloped. For those looking to explore on foot, there is a stunning hike to a nearby bird reserve that can be started right from the property. The trail follows a scenic ridge for several miles, providing constant views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, the Columbia River, and the surrounding cherry orchards. If you visit from mid-April to mid-May, you will find the property completely transformed, as it becomes covered in vibrant Balsamroot and a variety of other local wildflowers.

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Potable water

Harth Hideaway

18. Harth Hideaway

100%

(10)

The Dalles, OR · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Columbia Gorge Homestead Camping — The Dalles, Oregon Welcome to your next peaceful getaway in the heart of The Dalles! This charming homestead property offers a unique and private camping experience with three distinct sites, each designed to give you a cozy connection to the land and the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. Site #1 – RV Hookup Spot: Tucked into a quiet corner of the property, this site is equipped with full hookups for RVs up to 25 feet. Enjoy the comfort of your home on wheels while surrounded by open skies, native trees, and sweeping views. Perfect for travelers who want a little convenience with their wilderness. Site #2/#3/#4 - Meadow Tent Camping OR Travel Van OR Small RV: Pitch your tent, park your travel van or RV in the upper meadow for a classic, back-to-nature experience. This site offers soft grass, gentle breezes, and starlit skies. It’s ideal for those looking to disconnect, with room to spread out and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re road-tripping or tenting under the stars, this special property offers the perfect blend of seclusion, comfort, and connection to nature. Just minutes from the Columbia River, wineries, hiking trails, and the charm of downtown The Dalles.

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Full hookups

The Snowden Yurt

19. The Snowden Yurt

97%

(59)

White Salmon, WA · 1 site

The Snowden Yurt was built by Tova's uncle Kirk and originally used as a backcountry ski destination in the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley, Idaho. It is built completely by hand, similar to the traditional Mongolian style, with hand-hewn rafters, hand-made door, and hand-stitched fabric. Kirk's distinctive skylight rounds out the peaceful dwelling. Kitchen facilities include a coffee maker, camp stove, grill, and outdoor sink. The unique, hand crafted bathhouse has a comfortable composting toilet and propane heated shower. An IKEA queen bed with the coziest comforters one could imagine sleeps two, and a pull out twin is available for an extra person. The Snowden Yurt, with a peekabo view of Mt. Hood, is located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, with world class recreation right out the door.

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Potable water

Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

20. Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

94%

(71)

White Salmon, WA · 2 sites

Largely constructed from materials lovingly and gently harvested on-site, the Yurt at Rivendell is a sanctuary of peace and serenity. A place for rejuvenation and inspiration. The yurt began as a rustic structure utilizing lumber from trees selectively harvested to protect the health of the forest. But, the more Roy worked on the Yurt the more it spoke to him letting him know how to proceed and what it should become -- resulting in this phenomenally peaceful and stress-free wilderness sanctuary where the sun, the moon and the stars wink at you through the gentle undulations of the 100-year-old Douglas Firs Trees or through the ambient ether of the adjoining meadows. Our property is located 1hr and 30 minutes from Mt Hood in Oregon. We are located in White Salmon, Washington. There are enough things to do in White Salmon, including hiking trails, biking trails, white water rafting, waterfalls, and paddling spots to keep you entertained for a weekend, week, or lifetime! NOTE: While we do accept Instant Bookings for both our Tree House and Yurt there may very rarely be a conflict with a booking received earlier from another site when the HipCamp calendar has not been updated to reflect that booking. In that case, we default to the earliest booking and work with the guest to see if there are other dates which will work. *Meteorologists project possible visible Northern Lights through May 14, 2024

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Welcome to WaterOak Campsite! Situated on 10.5 and ponderosa pine and oak, you'll get the whole space to yourself. This is a magical space!

Stone

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Garden of Eden

Such a sweet spot. Much thought and love invested in guest's comfort. The land and how its cared for is special.

Amber

1 week ago

18 ft truck camper

1 night at Columbia Gorge Family Preserve

Kika is a great host and we enjoyed our stay. The property is lovely with privacy, space, and beautiful views.

Nicole

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Garden of Eden

Very cute space! The hosts were very friendly and communicated well. Also provided so many communal goodies. Would definitely recommend!

Alinda

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

I loved the site, it had electricity, there are several spigots nearby. The toilet, shower, basin was clean and had supply of hot water. The owner stopped by when I messaged them that I was not able to operate the spigots. The lawn itself was clean and had two benches. I would definitely recommend guests to stay here!

Ryan

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Breathtaking Views in The Dalles

Stayed at the top of the world site. Had a great but very short stay. Camped in our vehicle. Loved the proximity to the bird sanctuary and the hosts flexibility on check in time to accommodate our travel plans. Would definitely stay again if we come back to the area

Site W9 with 30amp electric. Water spigot nearby.

Kevin

1 week ago

25 ft truck camper

2 nights at Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

The location of the RV park is perfect for accessing the Dog Mountain trailhead. The camp hosts are super responsive. Jarrett was able to setup a 2.5 mile paid shuttle to and from the trailhead. So no hassles with parking. Our campsite was super clean and relatively level with a gravel base.

Pam

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Roots Rise Family Farm

Outstandingly beautiful property with Mt Adams in full view. Wonderful meadow, farm setting with sweet, friendly animals who welcomed us to the site. Clean and comfortable.

Christopher

2 weeks ago

19 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Roots Rise Family Farm

The spot was beautiful. Fantastic views and we loved meeting all the animals

Desiree

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Roots Rise Family Farm

We had a great time, loved being greeted by the animals and kids and the gorgeous view from the meadows. The camp sites were well placed and the location was perfect for exploring Columbia hills the next day.

36ft visitor Motorhome parked at the 50amp site.

Daniel

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Hardy Klickitat

We had the whole place to ourselves. A perfect setup if you want to spend a weekend in the area. Plenty of firewood to go around, a spacious site, and the composting toilet had ZERO smell. Will happily come back.

Laura

2 weeks ago

Tent

5 nights at Forest Retreats in White Salmon

Beautiful, quiet place to camp! The camp kitchen was very useful and the host was extremely responsive as I had questions/needs for refills. The space was very peaceful and well-cared for. 10/10 would recommend to other campers. The only surprise about the whole experience was the number of mosquitos for the season, which was really on me to plan ahead for 😂 So if you book this site, remember to bring bug nets!! P.S. I read other reviews beforehand and would echo: the signage to find the camp IS THERE, but you do have to be looking out for it. Make sure to read the directions provided before just googling your way to the address as the host notes in their instructions, and you’ll have no troubles finding it :)

joann

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at WindWoodRivers

Good instructions on how to get there, excellent and private location

David

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Camp Hardy Klickitat

Camp Hardy doesn’t disappoint. Totally silent at night except for the crickets, bright stars, and private. Couldn’t be better.

Kayli

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to WindWoodRivers

Such a sweet time! Looking forward to returning later this summer.

Andrea

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Snowden Yurt

Wonderful private yurt. A retreat getaway. Cozy and perfect for what I needed.

Kayla

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Roots Rise Family Farm

We love camping on Amy's farm. This place is magical and we've now made it an annual trip. Thank you so much for hosting us on your beautiful land.

Courtney

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

Wow-what an escape! A magical setting with the kindest hosts. A truly special get away.

Scott

May 2026

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to 848 Outpost

Great place to stay very clean quiet and private just like to advertise fires were allowed to even let firewood I would definitely recommend it for a peaceful area to camp and just relax the sounds of Wildlife the wind and the breeze and the Beautiful stars at night I'll definitely come back again

Joshua

May 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to WindWoodRivers

One of my new favorite places. This forest appears untouched by people for generations, if ever. Old growth cedars and a diversity of plants. Definitely a hidden gem.

Alex

May 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Breathtaking Views in The Dalles

Beautiful view! Thanks for the quiet stay and quick communication.

Top camping destinations around Columbia River Gorge

Deschutes River State Recreation Area

119 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular camping options near the Columbia River Gorge?

Outside the national and state parks, you can find dozens of private campgrounds and RV parks on both sides of the gorge. Pitch a tent by a fishing lake, along a wild river, or amid a pine forest. If you're looking for solitude, backpacking is also allowed on more than 30 trails across the gorge. You can also explore different options for camping near Columbia River Gorge on Hipcamp.

What are the must-see sights in the Columbia River Gorge?

You need at least a few days to see the region's famous sights. Multnomah Falls is the most iconic cascade in the area, roaring at 620 feet. At Beacon Rock State Park, you can gawk up at Beacon Rock. The towering outcrop is one of the most distinctive features of the Columbia Gorge. The Mt. Hood area is your go-to spot for hiking trails, and the snow-capped peak even offers downhill skiing in the SUMMER! Along the Hood River, water sports enthusiasts get stoked for world-class windsurfing. Between adventures, be sure to grab a drink at one of the region's craft breweries or wineries.

When is the best time to visit the Columbia River Gorge?

What activities are available in the Mt. Hood area near the Columbia River Gorge?