Camping in the Columbia River Gorge

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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.

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.

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% (6.5K) 2,619 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Columbia River Gorge

Roots Rise Family Farm

1. Roots Rise Family Farm

94%
(284)
Lyle, WA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our cozy boondock campground in the beautiful High Prairie, nestled on Friends of the Gorge land with wide-open views in every direction. Our property has been here since the 1940s and carries plenty of eclectic charm and history. 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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WindWoodRivers

2. WindWoodRivers

97%
(924)
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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Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

3. Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

90%
(45)
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
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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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
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Centerville Stop

6. Centerville Stop

Centerville, WA · 2 sites
18.5 acres a few minutes from HWY 97, private and secluded enough to disconnect but close enough to main roads if needed.
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Harvest Haven Campground

7. Harvest Haven Campground

95%
(106)
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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Garden of Eden

8. Garden of Eden

98%
(32)
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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Gorge Escape Glamping

9. Gorge Escape Glamping

100%
(2)
North Bonneville, WA · 1 site
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Steps from Trails, Nature & Adventure! Unplug, unwind, and stay in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge! This cozy and fully loaded camper is parked on the side of our home, offering a peaceful stay, with unbeatable access to the outdoors. Just a few steps from your door, you’ll find the scenic Strawberry Island Trails and the Bonneville Disc Golf Course (in our backyard). Beacon Rock, Hamilton Mountain, and the famous waterfalls are just minutes away. Visit Stevenson, WA, Hood River, OR and White Salmon for some amazing restaurants and shops. The Skamania Lodge is just 8 minutes away with golfing, zip lining, ax throwing and e bike rentals!
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Columbia Hills State Park

10. Columbia Hills State Park

State park in Washington · 19 sites
Follow in the footsteps of Native Americans and pioneers along the Columbia River.
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Deschutes River State Recreation Area

11. Deschutes River State Recreation Area

88%
(7)
State park in Oregon · 25 sites
Miles of hiking trails, whitewater, and other outdoor activities make this an exciting spot!
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Mt. Hood National Forest

12. Mt. Hood National Forest

92%
(191)
National forest in Oregon · 1295 sites
Explore mountains, lakes, hot springs, and hiking trails in this expansive forest near Portland.
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Maryhill State Park

13. Maryhill State Park

83%
(3)
State park in Washington · 73 sites
Windsurf at Stonehenge! Yes, really. History, art, and water fun—something for everyone.
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Nash Valley

14. Nash Valley

100%
(36)
White Salmon, WA · 1 site
Nash Valley Farms (NVF) is a rustic glamping hermitage nestled on five wooded acres on the Cascade Crest just 15 minutes outside of White Salmon, WA. NVF is located just minutes from world class mountain biking, hiking, skiing, fishing, beer drinking, and lounging. Whether you're looking to write your book, shred the gnar, or just relax in nature, NVF is the natural choice. NVF offers full furnishings, bed, stove, couch, table, chairs, water, outhouse.
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The Snowden Yurt

15. 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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Camp Hardy Klickitat

16. Camp Hardy Klickitat

100%
(15)
Lyle, WA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded Forest Base Camp with Klickitat River Views — Overland, Unplug, Reconnect Tucked away on six peaceful, forested acres above the breathtaking Klickitat Wild & Scenic River, this private camp is your perfect Overlanding base or quiet weekend retreat. Located at 1,400 ft elevation, the property offers stunning views over the Klickitat River valley and total tranquility — the kind you notice the moment you step out of your car. Enjoy a level gravel RV site with 50amp and 120V electrical service, a cozy campfire ring surrounded by solar lights, and a propane BBQ ready for your cookouts. Stay connected with free WiFi, and take advantage of the on-site black water dump tank and outhouse with a composting toilet. There’s extra parking for your rigs, trailers, or friends who decide to tag along. Wake to birdsong and keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, and other native wildlife roaming the grounds. Whether you're exploring the Columbia River Gorge, heading out on the Washington Scenic Discovery Route (Section 1), or relaxing with a glass of local wine after a day of hiking, rafting, or fishing for salmon and steelhead — you’re in the heart of outdoor paradise. Only a short drive from White Salmon, Hood River, and The Dalles, and just minutes from a local gem — Huntington’s steakhouse in downtown Klickitat — where you’ll find one of the best ribeyes around. Unplug from the chaos. Reconnect with the wild. Breathe deep, and stay a while. Book now — and experience the quiet you didn’t know you were missing. Cell phone service with Verizon is ok for calls and text. T-Mobile, we've heard, is not so good.
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The Forest Cupcake

17. The Forest Cupcake

99%
(206)
Lyle, WA · 1 site
This unique place in Lyle, Washington - part of the Columbia River Gorge scenic area - is magical and utterly beautiful. The property is set in a magnificent meadow as far as the eye can see with soft rolling hills, edged up to a deep oak woodland/ponderosa pine forest. Wildlife, stars, trails, and rivers all abound here. We think it is one of the finest, most precious and beautiful places on the planet. For outdoor recreation, this area is a windsurfing and kiteboarding mecca. Mount Adams and Mount Hood, await hikers and skiers, and kayaking is popular on the Klickitat and White Salmon Rivers. Heart-stopping beauty and peacefulness whichever way you turn. You will feel like you have gone to your own little Shangri-La and you will not soon forget the experience. Even sleeping is special here, as you look up into the dome of the yurt and behold the stars, while twinkle lights gently illuminate the interior. We live in a slice of heaven, and we want to share it with others.
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Forest Retreats in White Salmon

18. Forest Retreats in White Salmon

90%
(25)
White Salmon, WA · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Atlan, a serene 150+ acre evergreen forest sanctuary and small intentional community nestled in the Columbia RIver Gorge. We are located near White Salmon river access points where many lift off for kayaking, river rafting, and hiking. Our land has breathtaking views, a creek that runs through it and offers us a spring with pure drinking water, accompanied by an array of native flowers, wildlife, a garden, and food forests.
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Harth Hideaway

19. 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 – 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
848 Outpost

20. 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) --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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Columbia River Gorge trips