The best desert campgrounds in Mt. Hood

99% (239 reviews)

Mt. Hood towers 11,240 feet over the Oregon countryside, dominating the horizon. On a clear day, you can see the snowy peak from Portland—50 miles away! Surrounded by alpine meadows and Mt. Hood National Forest, this region offers endless ways to get into the wild.

With 71 Forest Service campgrounds to choose from, it’s easy to find one that suits your camping style. Spring Drive offers a popular RV park with full hookups. Families love the boating and fishing at Trillium Lake Campground. If you prefer a cabin or a yurt, head to Lost Lake Resort.

At Mount Hood, you’ll find an adventure for everyone. Climb up jagged rock faces, or go fishing in the Hood River, just steps from your campsite. The national forest has 1,000 miles of trails that are perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Serious mountaineers can make the technical climb to the summit; be sure to get a permit.

For a true wilderness experience, head out into the backcountry. Dispersed camping is legal in many parts of the national forest, so you can pitch your tent in a secluded spot. Local backpackers love the Timberline Trail, which takes about 3-4 days to complete.

The fun doesn’t stop when the snow falls—it’s just getting started. Load up your warmest camping year (or book a cabin) and head for the forest. Six ski areas offer sledding, skiing, and snowboarding. Or, explore the trails using snowshoes, cross-country skis, or snowmobiles.

Popular camping styles for Mt. Hood

Top-rated campgrounds

99% (239 reviews)

Mt. Hood towers 11,240 feet over the Oregon countryside, dominating the horizon. On a clear day, you can see the snowy peak from Portland—50 miles away! Surrounded by alpine meadows and Mt. Hood National Forest, this region offers endless ways to get into the wild.

With 71 Forest Service campgrounds to choose from, it’s easy to find one that suits your camping style. Spring Drive offers a popular RV park with full hookups. Families love the boating and fishing at Trillium Lake Campground. If you prefer a cabin or a yurt, head to Lost Lake Resort.

At Mount Hood, you’ll find an adventure for everyone. Climb up jagged rock faces, or go fishing in the Hood River, just steps from your campsite. The national forest has 1,000 miles of trails that are perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Serious mountaineers can make the technical climb to the summit; be sure to get a permit.

For a true wilderness experience, head out into the backcountry. Dispersed camping is legal in many parts of the national forest, so you can pitch your tent in a secluded spot. Local backpackers love the Timberline Trail, which takes about 3-4 days to complete.

The fun doesn’t stop when the snow falls—it’s just getting started. Load up your warmest camping year (or book a cabin) and head for the forest. Six ski areas offer sledding, skiing, and snowboarding. Or, explore the trails using snowshoes, cross-country skis, or snowmobiles.

Popular camping styles for Mt. Hood

Top-rated campgrounds

1. "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

98%

(58)

1 site · Lodging · Portland, OR

Our 27' 1973 Airstream Overlander has been completely refurbished with lots of love and attention to detail. The outdoor space is a chill zone full of native plants, trees, flowers and an 8 ft. barrel sauna! Located in the heart of NE Portland Oregon, ART CAN is walking distance to the Alberta Arts district, Vancouver/Williams Corridor and Mississippi Ave. The interior space is open yet cozy with an extra long queen bed suitable for 1-2 person, full couch/daybed, desk area, kitchen table, ventless blue flame propane heater and music listening options (bluetooth speakers and record player with records!) We provide linen sheets and a perfume-free environment. We only use natural cleaning products and soaps with essential oils for those sensitive to perfumes. Kitchenette includes 2 burner stove, eco-sink, mini-fridge, cook/dish-ware, coffee and tea supplies, and a water filter. A separate shower, bathroom sink and composting toilet are steps away, right next to our 8' barrel sauna. This space is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet place to land while they explore the city and/or endless nature in the surrounding areas - Forest Park, Mt Hood, The Columbia Rive Gorge, and the coast! We are biking distance to several fabulous neighborhoods and restaurants along with tons of hiking opportunities in Forest Park, Columbia Slough trail, Mt Tabor and more. We have 2 bikes available for you to use during your stay! * * * The outside area is a secluded, minimally shared space. The ART CAN has it's own deck with couch, table and chairs and grill. Lots of plants, trees and bird watching. We can not offer the use of the fire pit at this time due to fire hazards and smoke. House residents use the upper porch/deck attached to the house and very occasionally the privy and sink.

2. Harth Hideaway

100%

(6)

3 sites · RVs, Tents · The Dalles, OR

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 – 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.

3. Justesen Ranches

96%

(195)

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Tygh Valley, OR

Justesen Ranches is family owned working cattle, wheat and recreation ranch. Our properties are located in the Columbia River Plateau in North Central Oregon. Enjoy wide open spaces, reservoirs for wildlife watching and clear night skies for star gazing. This is a leave no trace, pack it in, pack it out camping area. The property is located in Tygh Valley and is only a few minutes from the general store and the stunning White River Falls State Park. The Deschutes River whitewater rafting hub of Maupin is just a 10 minute drive away. The lodge two hours from Portland and 30 min from The Dalles.

4. Balsamroot Ranch Camping Club

1 site · Lodging · Lyle, WA

Set on 20 acres overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, Balsamroot Ranch Camping Club offers sweeping views of Mt. Adams, wildflower meadows, and oak-lined ridges. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular, and stargazing is unforgettable under the wide, dark sky. You may meet our friendly animals, including Peggy-Sue the donkey and horse Metolius. Numerous hikes, waterfalls, wineries, and river access are just a drive away. A quiet retreat to rest, recharge, and soak in the beauty of the Gorge.

5. Nadja's Hideway

100%

(55)

4 sites · RVs · Lyle, WA

Open for the 2025 Season Play in Hood River during the day, relax in the country at night. We're 6.5 miles up in the hills, called High Prairie, above the sleepy town Lyle. Enjoy the peace on our 5 acre hideaway, wake up with the chickens. Take a walk to look at Mt. Adams which is just around the corner. Hiking, biking, kite boarding, windsurfing all within a few miles of reach with never ending opportunities to get your exercise. Just ask for tips. The land has mostly Oak trees where you can take your nap in your hang matt. The place is easy accessible, far away from all but still close to all Gorge attractions during the day. The town has a nice little convenience store, country cafe, Chinese restaurant, and new to our town "Confluence Cafe" right at the entrance by the Klickitat River - Awesome views - yummy treats and coffee. Matt and Ali are super cool, go check it out. Grocery shopping is best done in Hood River, White Salmon or The Dalles. Once up here, there isn't much, so come prepared.

6. Deschutes Riverview Campground

100%

(7)

1 site · RV · Maupin, OR

Our McLucas family has been operating The Oasis, which has consisted of, at various times, a cafe, historic cabins, a campground, a fishing guide service, a shuttle business and t-shirt shop over the past 65 years. In 2019 we sold the cafe and cabins to a new family to carry on, but we kept the parcel of land overlooking the Deschutes River where we have operated a campground for many years.Oasis Riverview Campground has operated during the months of July and August, primarily, giving RV's and tent campers a place to land during the busy months here in Maupin when the fishing and whitewater rafting are at their peak and the campsites along the river (managed by the BLM) were not adequate to host all visitors to the area.We are transitioning from a tent camping site to a site only for self-contained RV's or groups willing to have their own toilets brought in.

7. Cozy Gorge Views Glamping Getaway

100%

(1)

2 sites · Lodging · The Dalles, OR

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.

Stories from the community

L

Louise

September 2025

4 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Stayed here 4 nights while visiting my grown daughter. I’m 60 and felt like a happy youngster in this adorable, comfortable, well-equipped airstream in a safe and walkable neighborhood. Comfy bed, great sauna, plentiful linens, blankets, lighting, plus fans and heaters. I spent mornings reading on the private patio. The cedar outdoor shower has lots of space and plenty of hot water. The compost outhouse was clean and just a few steps outside. I walked to nearby Irving Park and to great restaurants and coffee shops plus the nearby Sunday farmers market. I would absolutely stay here again and again!

C

Caitlin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harth Hideaway

great secluded camping spot with amazing sunrise views. would definitely recommend and stay again!

K

Kelsey

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Justesen Ranches

Such a great site! The lake was awesome for swimming, SUPing and floating. Our group loved it, highly recommend.

S

Sophia

September 2025

Weekend Trip to "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Gino was a fantastic host that gave many great recommendations! Would recommend!

T

Tom

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Nadja's Hideway

Private and quiet lower camp despite the nearby road. Zero mosquitos. Nadja was a fantastic and authentic host, even gave us baked apricot strudel and extra veggies from her garden! A herd of deer and some wild turkeys came through. We would definitely stay with her again! Note: If you have a dog, keep them near your tent/camper as it is the time of year for burrs. Our dog was covered with them.

M

Mark

August 2025

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Justesen Ranches

Awesome views and lots of solitude! Mt. Hood and the reflecting sunset is pretty unbeatable.

C

Carlene

August 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Harth Hideaway

Upon arrival, Gary greeted us warmly and then escorted us up to our camp site. We have a lovely quiet evening and enjoyed our stay very much.

A

April

July 2025

2 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

We loved this place. Everything about it was welcoming and comfortable, and very adorable. Our favorite part was the shower and sauna! It was awesome to have the space outside to relax in the morning, drink coffee, and listen to jazz in the airstream. I am looking forward to coming back again.

A

Alexandra

July 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Justesen Ranches

Great little spot! Amanda was easy to communicate with and provided me with answers to my questions. We had a group of 7 with 3 kids and it was a fun little weekend getaway that’s still close to Portland. Prepare for mosquitoes and horse flies though.

D

Denise

July 2025

2 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Cute and campy place with a fun ‘60 vibe. Easy and comfortable location.

S

Steve

July 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

With pets

4 nights at Deschutes Riverview Campground

Excellent spot for dry camping. Close to rafting, kayaking, swimming and town. The site is more sloped than it appears in several spots. It’s definitely manageable but blocks make it easier

A

Alissa

July 2025

Weekend Trip to "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Great spot! Super cozy and peaceful as well as a great location close to lots of cool spots. Gino was very responsive and kind, would definitely go back!

K

Kelly

July 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Justesen Ranches

We had a phenomenal time at the lake - it was so beautiful and peaceful, and it was so much fun to paddle around the lake and jump off the dock. There were tons of fish jumping, so many different birds, and deer visited in the morning. We also had a rattlesnake join us which we were able to easily relocate, but he blended in so well with the ground so be really mindful of where you're stepping! For those bringing pets: there are foxtail-like plants growing up near the fence and lots of ticks, so make sure you're giving your animals a really thorough onceover when you get home. The bugs are definitely thriving and we got a lot of bites even with bug spray, but I'd happily pay that price all over again for such a lovely campsite. Might be worth bringing a screened in canopy if you're going to be spending a few days there. All in all, a really great experience and I suspect we'll be back!

L

Larry

June 2025

26 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Justesen Ranches

It was our third time there. We had a great time.

Sarah

June 2025

15 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Deschutes Riverview Campground

Great spot! Perfect for self-contained camper/trailer set-ups (no bathrooms). Perfect location near the river. Green grass field. We had a great burger at the Oasis Cafe across the street and a fun time rafting with friends.

p

pamela

June 2025

2 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

I absolutely loved this place. Great location to explore all of Portland and the Gorge. The attention to detail was incredible. Comfortable bed and fantastic Sauna. We will definitely return to this space !

Sally

June 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Justesen Ranches

This was a fantastic spot to camp. The pond is absolutely beautiful, so much wildlife and perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking and fishing! Very quiet and relaxing. We had a lovely time, should have stayed another day. Any poor reviews are ridiculous and should be disregarded, those are really all about that person having a bad day. Bug spray is probably a good idea, though for us circumstances such as wind and cooler nights made it so we didn’t need any. This spot is true to what you see.

Lisa

June 2025

Weekend Trip to "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Exactly as pictured! Convenient location, great privacy. 5 Stars!

J

James

May 2025

2 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

Absolutely fantastic camper in a great location in Portland. Gino did a wonderful job in organizing and appointing the ART CAN, and their vinyl selection was superb. 10/10 would recommend.

Heather

May 2025

3 nights at "ART CAN" Airstream + Sauna!

We really enjoyed our stay in the Art Can as well as Portland overall! Ginos place is in a great part of town with convenience to tons of amazing food (LOTS of vegetarian choices nearby!), activities, and shopping. The camper had everything we needed for a very comfortable long weekend. The hot outdoor(ish) shower was my absolute favorite part of winding down in the evenings. 10/10- would stay again!