Camping in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

93% (22 reviews)

Explore the blast-zone, backcountry, and lava tubes of Mount St. Helens.

Top camping in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Kalama Horse Camp Campground

90%

(5)

52 sites · In Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Hay, there equine explorers

93% (22 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument adventure.

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Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Isla Springs

Isla Springs was great for a quick getaway from Portland! Ed met us when we arrived and talked through the campsite options. He set us up in a spot close to the creek, where we spent the day. The campsite had a fire ring, which was nice in the evening. We would definitely return!

Weekend Trip to Isla Springs

My husband and I personally loved camping on Ed’s property. It is very beautiful, very peaceful and very quiet. Ed was very accommodating, very friendly and a great host! The creek was very beautiful. Ed was very sweet, my husband enjoyed having conversations with him and finding out about his land. We are looking forward to our next trip back!

Weekend Trip to Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds

We had such a great get away! Fairy Queen was extremely welcoming. The land is beautiful and everything was exactly as described. We will be back!

Weekend Trip to Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds

I loved staying at Dragons' Gate Garden! Kathleen and her husband were so communicative and welcoming, and the space was lovely and peaceful. Great recommendation for cooling off in the Skookumchuk River just upstream. I loved that the campsite was off the net but that they still offered wifi near the entrance; my life would be better if I had that separation more often.

Weekend Trip to Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds

Incredible campsite, the hosts are lovely and the grounds are immaculate the wild flowers were especially beautiful.

Sandra

3 days ago

Weekend Trip to Dragons Gate Gardens & Wilds

What an incredible and beautiful campsite. The wild and wooly flowers were unlike anything I’ve ever seen or stayed at! Truly a magical experience. The pink hues in the sky during golden hour against the flowers were breathtaking. The water valves on site were so handy and refreshing. We bought wood from the campsite and they provide a variety of kindling wood and abundance of large logs. There was a tranquil reservoir nearby, about a mile down the road and it was one of the highlights of our trip! Bring your camping chairs to soak your feet in the icey water! There’s an enchanted forest on the campsite with lots of magical moss growing around. And the Hipcamp hosts are the loveliest people! We enjoyed our stay and highly recommend it. Thank you Fairy Queen and Red Dragon for everything!!

3 nights at Silver Lake Resort

Wonderful camp ground and experience. Beautiful view of St Helen’s.

Weekend Trip to Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

This tent camp spot was perfect for the weekend! The park was small and quiet which we really enjoyed and the bathrooms were really nice and well kept. The staff were super friendly and helpful. There is a few close spots to swim and take out kayaks on the lake, there is also multiple stores in the little town that is just down the road. The train didn’t really bother us, it really only went by once at night and a couple other times during the day but definitely not as bad as we thought it was going to be. Overall it was a great stay and we would definitely recommend and stay again!

1 night at Paradise Pines

We had a great stay! The campground was clean, quiet, and felt very private. Perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Definitely a place we’d come back to.

Weekend Trip to Isla Springs

Great campground for rail fans. Brought my kid camping and he loved listening to the trains go by. We even hiked to the edge of the property and could see the trains. You do hear them with some frequency day and night, so perfect for fans of the railway.

Weekend Trip to Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

Amenities are awesome and super clean. We'll kept grounds and beautiful view of the mountains/hills. The only down side to this spot on their grounds is that it's right off the main road. Pretty noisy but that's was pretty much expected. Recommend this rv park in general though

Weekend Trip to Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

This is a very nice little park right on the banks of the beautiful Columbia River. I met the owners Astrid and Rolf and talked to them for quite a while. They were extremely friendly and helpful and excited to tell me all about how they built the park themselves from nothing over the last 25 years. If you're coming in with a bigger rig, I'd suggest coming via the southern route through Cascade Locks as the bridge to cross the Columbia is much wider there, and there are no tight tunnels. Next time I return I'll definitely be going that route.

2 nights at Naked Falls

For real camping with a rustic site, beautiful surroundings close to the fall super private.

2 nights at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

Clean, quiet and safe camping. Located a short distance from the park entrance.

2 nights at Paradise Pines

Super clean well set up camping area! Picnic table and fireplace were perfect. It worked great for car camping too. Porta potty was very clean and nice to have. It was a little close to the other campsite though so maybe not super private but that was fine for us.

2 nights at Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

Nice campsite with a table with an umbrella, toilets and showers! Nice trail down to the river too

2 nights at WindWoodRivers

This was my second time at the Cedar Grove campsite, and it was even better than the last! Love the addition of the table! The spot is spacious and private. Camping right by the river is the best way to recharge, and the hosts of Wind Wood Rivers have obviously put a lot of care into making this a magical place. Couple of notes (as the listing stated, and as other reviews have mentioned) -you do have to go down a little semi steep hill and across the creek on smallish wooden planks secured over rocks. It’s sturdy, but does wobble a bit. I was nervous, as I’ve had 4 lower body surgeries since the last time I visited, and I have some mobility issues, but I felt safe the whole way. My husband did have to carry most of our stuff across, so if any mobility devices are needed, keep in mind this may not be the best spot they offer, but there are more easily accessible ones on the property. -the compost toilet addition is a huge upgrade! You do have to cross the creek and go up the hill and walk a bit to get to it, but there is always the option to pee in the woods! -we didn’t utilize the sauna, but were very intrigued by it, and it would be a lovely add on for a cooler day. Highly recommend. We stayed 2 nights and wish we stayed longer. Already dreaming of our next trip to this site!

2 nights at Naked Falls

The site was beautiful this time of year full of wild flowers. Tucked away in it's own secluded corner. There are plenty of trees in-between each site you don't even know your neighbor is there. A little trail on the back of the site leads you right down to the river. The river is gorgeous. Crystal clear water with pools for wading and swimming throughout. The roads leading up to the camp and falls are well maintained as well as the porta potties. Loved our stay definitely will be coming back.

2 nights at Naked Falls

This was such an amazing camping experience! Site 9 had plenty of room for me, my boyfriend, and our puppy. It’s well shaded and tucked off a private road that overlooks a beautiful hill lined with tall trees and grass. We drove up in two sedans—just a heads-up, the grass is a little overgrown and blackberry bushes could scratch your car. The portapotty is a bit of a walk but was kept clean. Our puppy did pick up some ticks from the tall grass even though he’s medicated, so definitely bring tweezers and tick/flea spray just in case. It’s a bit of a hike to the swimming holes, but so worth it. The water is crystal clear and ice cold and very refreshing. :) Thanks Steppen!

4 nights at J Squared River Ranch

Beautiful and serene camping among the meadows and cottonwood trees in southern Washington. The hosts were most friendly and welcoming. The camp sites are far apart; as a result, you have privacy and quiet even if there are people in the other campsites.

Top-rated campgrounds near Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

97%

(200)

Riverside Camping Near Mt Rainier

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Elbe, WA

Welcome to our campsite located near Mt. Rainier. Our property is close to the Nisqually River on one side and the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad track on the other. The entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park is just a 15-minute drive away, making our campsite a convenient base for exploring the park. Enjoy fishing, hiking, and watching the scenic railroad pass by. Our campsite offers a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're here for the outdoor activities or just want a quiet spot to camp, we look forward to hosting you.

95%

(4102)

Naked Falls

23 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stevenson, WA

Naked Falls is the second largest waterfall on the Washougal River. This section of the river has been a hotspot for Kayakers and Cliff divers for decades. If you like watching Salmon run, this is a great place to do it. This is easy car access to a raw outdoor camping experience. You will be camping next to the crystal clear Washougal River and have access to Naked Falls and Reeder Falls. Come prepared as the nearest potable water source is at least a mile away and you won't see any lights or electrical outlets on the property. There are portables toilet now between sites 4 and 5 on the east side of the road and between sites 15 and 16 on the west side. Portable toilets taken out in Mid October and put back in in Mid March. Firewood is not delivered to each site if you order it. There are many good reasons for this, not the least of which is that it can rain and then all the wood gets wet. We keep the firewood in a small woodshed and give you instructions on where to find it and what the code is before you check in. Also, please remember that I don't live there and there is limited service on the property. If you have questions, please contact me in advance as I may be unreachable when you arrive at the property. The Campsites mostly go in the order they appear as you drive through the campground. With some exceptions. Sites 8 and 11 (in that order) are up the hill from the fork at site 2. Sites 12 through 19 are in order on the West side of the river. There are signs with the site numbers next to each site. The sites each have their own parking spaces. Please see the brief descriptions below so you have a good idea of what kind of experience you can expect at each site. If you are not familiar with the area, or even if you haven't camped there before, I recommend contacting me for directions or information about the area before you go up. Also, if you have an RV, you will want to contact me to discuss which site you really want to book depending on the size of your RV, awnings, slide outs, etc. Each booked site is allowed 2 cars or 1 RV. If you have more than 2 cars or 1 RV, there is a fee of 10.00 per additional vehicle. Camping was banned all along the upper Washougal River in 2006 due to abuse from the public. An attitude that no one could be trusted up there formed and I lost my favorite place to camp in the whole world...but I understood why they did it. In 2017 I bought the property and worked with Skamania County to restore camping and the public trust in good people who love nature. There are now 20 campsites, mostly along the river, and I'm so pleased that the vast majority of Hipcampers are reliable co-stewards of this amazing recreational resource. It is up to us to keep Naked Falls available by keeping in mind that it is a crucial fish and wildlife habitat and we are but visitors there. Be sure to stick to trails and pack in/pack out. Nothing from town should be left there and nothing there should be brought back to town. *** Site 1: Saltness Creek This is the only site with direct trail access to the river on the camping side. It's also right on a creek and encompasses a corner of the confluence of the creek and the Washougal River. It's a nice open space right off the gravel road which allows you to park right by where you will set up tents and have your campfire. It also means other campers will drive right by your site and they will need to pass by it to take the trail to the river. This site is very convenient but not very private. Site 2: Naked Falls There is a short narrow trail that leads to the campsite on the Naked Falls cliff. It's awesome! This is the original campsite at Naked Falls and has likely been there for 100 years or more. It overlooks the waterfall and island downstream. It's really the coolest campsite but it's not for everybody. The area for pitching tents is smaller than at the other sites. Only 2 medium sized tents will fit comfortably. You may be able to cram 3 tents in but should be aware that it's only really meant for 2. Groups larger than 6 may want to consider another site. Also, it is right on the cliff where people like to jump so, while you have the best view of all the fun stuff happening at the falls, you also have cliff divers coming up to say hi during the day. Site 3: Desk Job This site is just past the falls. It has a wide short trail to the camping area and a beautiful view of the river that passes right by the site about 30 ft below it. It is nice, quiet and secluded. Site 4: Middle Management This site is nice for pulling vehicles in and around. It loops around some trees in the center. The trees to the east and North are all alders so it has limited shade in the morning when there aren't leaves on the trees (winter and early spring) The trail down is wide and short. There is a small opening with a nice view of the river and it's quiet. A great place to listen to the flow of the river and the beat of your heart. Site 5: Conference Room The Conference Room is tucked into the woods a little more than the other sites. It's right over the river just like all the rest of the sites but the trees like living on that cliff...like a whole bunch. You can walk to the edge and see the river but it's not the most open view of the river. I love this site. It has two old growth stumps from the first harvest ever at Naked Falls. They tell stories of the Yacolt burn and a lot of hard winters. A short narrow trail get's you from your car to to the camping area in about 20 steps. Site 6: Printer Jam This site is quite large and has the most extensive view of the river. Great for bigger groups or bigger tents. This is a chill spot where you can roast marshmallows while watching the flow of the Washougal River 35 ft below. Site 7: Budget Meeting This site is not meant for vehicle traffic! Please do not drive your vehicle onto the site as that has caused damage to the site itself and it needs to recover. The last site on the road has the longest walk...about 50 yards. It is also a large space and is the most secluded. It's the longest distance from river access but also the most private. The walk down passes an old growth tree that must have fallen decades ago. It has a huge base and the root structure is about 12 ft tall. There are a variety of trees that hug this campsite. If you don't mind the walk, you are sure to dig the vibe at our version of a Budget Meeting. Site 8: The Slash Pile Please read this full description before booking. I'm giving this site a go because I think it's a rather unique experience for the right people. This site sits up above all the river sites. It is not on a river but has a river view and view of all the other campsites. It is surrounded by a slash pile which is the wood debris left over from logging. You can drive right to it but only if you have 4wd/AWD. The road is also surrounded by alder trees that might slap the side of your car as you go up so if you are concerned about that, this is not the spot for you. There is not much shade up there either. You may want to bring a shade tent. The site is fairly large and has plenty of room for tents but I don't recommend any trailers or RVs here due to the steep rocky road. Your walk to the river will be about as long as the walk from site 7. It will be an easy walk down and a bit of a trek up. If no one books this site, I will totally understand but It's a cool spot if you are cool with the challenges it presents. Site 9: Hard Scramble Creek This site is embedded in the woods and has the most tree cover. It is even further from the river access than site 8...about a half mile walk. There is plenty of room but only one way in and out so turning around should be thought out before you set up your tents. Also, I've seen people pull off trailering large rigs up there but I'm pretty sure it was painstaking. If you have a large RV or Trailer, I would skip this site. Smaller trailers and RVs should be fine if you have some experience and patience. This site is quiet and the sound of the creek is soothing during the day and night. Site 10: Rock Beach Woods This site is in the woods along the river near an inviting rock beach that flows into a crystal clear swimming hole. This site is not behind a gate and day use visitors are allowed to use the trail and access the rock beach. The rock beach gets less traffic than we have right by Naked Falls but it is part of the day use area. This is a park and walk site. Parking is along the main road and you hike in about 50 yards to the campsite. This is one of the coolest campsites we have. Literally cooler as it is along the river edge and not along a cliffside like most of the other sites. Also cooler because it is under deep tree cover with soft mossy terrain. If you like the sounds of the river, shady woods and very close access to swimming, you will love this site! Site 11: This One Goes to Eleven! Situated on the top of the hill, this site has the most impressive views of all the sites! About a 270 degree view of the surrounding mountain region give you a great vantage point that often includes eagles flying below you, elk across the valley and a variety of other wildlife. This site is the farthest from the river, civilization and all the other campsites. If you are looking for something remote and have a 4wd/AWD vehicle, this might be the best site for you. Sites 12-19: All of these sites are right near the West side of the river. They were designed to accommodate RVs and Trailers. They are made for one trailer or RV per site or 2 camper vans. Tents are fine here too. There is easy in and out access to each site. It is nearer to the W2000 road and the sites are a bit closer together. There is still a significant amount of treed space between each site, just not as much as the original campsites. They each have a fire pit and cleared space for tents along with the graveled area for parking your RV. The sites are fairly level but not perfect and some leveling may be required depending on the size of your RV. This area has it's own trail down to the river or you can use the day use trail just a short walk North past the wooden Naked Falls sign. There are 3 total vehicles allowed at each of these sites (no exceptions) that includes the rv or trailer. So, truck and trailer count as one and you can have one addition car...or you can have 3 cars if you are car or tent camping. There is a charge of 10.00 extra for the third vehicle. No parking is allowed along the W2000 road unless you have a Naked Falls parking pass for day use. Site 0. This is the old site 12 that I had closed down. It is just up the hill from the fork at site 2. So at the fork near site 2, you will take a left and go up the hill about a quarter of a mile. It will be on your right hand side before you get to site 8. This is a large site part way up a hill surrounded by trees about 15 ft high. Very little shade, so you will want to bring a shade tent in the Summertime.

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HolisticLifeFarm Clatskanie OR

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · 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.

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Deerisland getaway

4 sites · Lodging21 acres · Deer Island, OR

About this space Enjoy the entire charm of the cabin. Relax with your family in this peaceful retreat, nestled on 21 acres of serene hills and surrounded by fir trees and nature. If you cherish tranquility, this is the perfect getaway for you. This property also features a fenced pasture, ideal for horses or dogs. Also some short walking trails. The space is fully equipped with all amenities. Guests can access and park on the right side of the garage, under the carport with stairs leading to the rear entrance or in front of the garage. A fireplace and fire pit are available for your use. Firewood can be purchased for $5 per bundle, located behind the garage. Please leave cash or contact me via the Airbnb app to add it to your bill. Free Wi-Fi (Starlink) is available. Each level has its own entrance and laundry facilities.

98%

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The Healing Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Yelm, WA

Come enjoy your stay with farm animals! When you get here you will get a tour of the farm and introduced to all the animals. After, you can spend as much time with them. We have chickens, turkeys, baby chicks, ducks, goats and baby goats, livestock guardian dogs, wallabies, two capybara's, a porcupine, guinea pigs, patagonian mara's, alpacas, a llama, ponies, cats, rabbits, and a tortoise. We love our animals and each one has a specific purpose they fulfill. Enjoy some quiet time in nature and with all the animals. We encourage to just sit and hang out with the animals and be in the present moment. Animals are very healing. We are about an hour from Mount Rainier National Park, an hour and a half from Seattle and Portland and Olympia is only 30 minutes away. To see more of what we do and more of the animals, add us on Instagram@thehealingfarmwa or check out our website thehealingfarmwa.com We are happy to share our space with others! -Jason and Kat

100%

(7)

Paradise Pines

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Closest to the Paradise entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, our quiet and forested campground offers the perfect way to experience the Pacific Northwest. With just two primitive campsites, Paradise Pines was designed to feel personal and peaceful—never crowded. Whether you're gathering around a crackling fire, waking up to birdsong, or heading out to explore Rainier’s trails, we believe Ashford is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. We chose to keep things off-grid and low-impact. That means no electricity, water, or trash services—just the essentials: a tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, and fresh mountain air. Guests share access to a well-maintained communal porta potty, and we kindly ask that all campers follow Leave No Trace principles. It’s how we protect this land for everyone who comes after. Whether you’re hiking the Wonderland Trail, chasing wildflowers, or simply watching the sunset through the trees, we hope Paradise Pines becomes your basecamp for mountain memories. Check out our Free Travel Guide at Paradisepinescampground.com! We’re glad you’re here.

94%

(531)

Waterfall Sanctuary

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Carson, WA

Welcome 2025 Hipcampers! We have many exciting changes for our guests this year INCLUDING a wood fired sauna, a store/café/multi-use space, & more! New sites added: - A gorgeous geodesic dome that can sleep 6 - A new spot to pitch your own tent or park a small RV or van. - 2 RV/Van/Bus/tent spots, the first can manage up to 30 feet; the second 40+, both with picnic tables and umbrellas *To book the whole property for an event or retreat go to the website (www.waterfallsanctuary.com) to inquire about availability & options, or simply select in listings. BEFORE BOOKING: Please read all rules & restrictions- due to some guests we had to update & add new ones. **DOGS (MAX 2 per site- select under "Extras" for each dog- $15/night fee each): PLEASE read ALL the rules- especially about having your dog on a leash AT ALL times while on the property. More info under the pet rule section. Thank you! Waterfall Sanctuary is a hidden gem on 17 acres, bordered on two sides by the Gifford Pinchot N F. In the heart of the Columbia River Gorge just outside Carson, Washington, it is home to a mini-farm with goats, ducks, & chickens. Deer & elk walk through the property on a fairly regular basis depending on the season, it's less than a mile walk (or short drive) to the Wind River & a swimming hole, & a short distance further is the Pacific Crest Trail. A 20-minute drive & you're at the Columbia River. An hour to the West is Portland if you are in the mood for some city life, & 35 minutes east is Hood River, a gorgeous old town with tons of charm. The closest town, Stevenson, Washington is home to shops, local restaurants, & access to the Columbia River. Also in close proximity are amazing waterfalls, trails, & National Forest roads that are close by & well maintained. No matter the season there is something to do a short distance from the property. Keep in mind that the property is very rugged except for the trails we have provided to access other parts of the property. We are as off grid & sustainable as possible- while no electricity or running water is available at the individual sites, we provide battery or solar operated lighting, & a container of water for each site.

88%

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Dog and Wind Mountain RV Park

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Stevenson, WA

Dog Mountain and Wind Mountain RV Park offer a variety of camp sites, including full hookup RV-camping, dry camping with or without electricity, tent and campervan camping, and overflow camping. They're right next to each other, only divided by a private drive, and are both run by the same owner. Our office is located in the two-story building that says Wind Mountain Resort. We also offer a Glamping Unit with a kitchenette and three beds. Centrally located in the Columbia River Gorge, our RV Park offers 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. Our 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. Disclosure: 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 and the grounds are beautiful with impressive views, 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.

92%

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Isla Springs

10 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Vader, WA

Beautiful wooded 22-acre campground with the Olequa creek running through it. Loaded with wildflowers, fruit trees, newly planted trees. Gravel and dirt roads circling throughout the area. Wood stoves in most campsites for cooking on and warmth. There is a big area that can be used for events.... We are conveniently located 4.8 miles off I-5 between Portland and Seattle.

100%

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Timberlake Campground & RV Park

39 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Stevenson, WA

Nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Located away from highway & train noise, our forested 22 acre park was designed to provide the ideal camping experience in a peaceful setting. We have 43 full hook-up RV Sites and 22 Tent Sites, located just 2.5 miles off WA SR14. Close to all the activities the Gorge has to offer, but far enough off the highway and train tracks allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and serene setting. We are a privately family-owned and operated Campground and RV Park in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. We take great pride in offering a clean, safe environment for all guests.

96%

(419)

Wilderness Path

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Ashford, WA

Our rental property was once a mini Rail Road with full size locomotive's, train cars, pumper cars and more. My dad & grandpa layed all the tracks & put together the buildings in the 1970's. Once done my grandma sold tickets to the tourist and my grandpa ran the engine around the 7 acre oval track pulling a train car full of happy tourist through the woods over the train bridge and past the big water tower back to their vehicles so they could finish their journies with a drive to Mt. Rainier. There is a lot of history on this property for our family and we hope by sharing it with others they will be able to experience some fun here as well.

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J Squared River Ranch

9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Castle Rock, WA

This property is currently in development. It offers tranquility, with occasional visits from deer. River access is just a short distance away, providing opportunities for fishing, sunbathing, or floating along the Cowlitz River. Just follow the pink flagging from our "Black Tail River Trail" sign at the south end of the grounds along the mowed path into the woods to the river. Conveniently located near the towns of Kelso and Longview, and only 2.7 miles from Castle Rock. Two full hookups are available, two water/power sites, along with ample dry camping areas. We have a porta potty as well. Horses are welcome on the property, as are leashed/penned and friendly pets. Dogs can be off leash at the river, but be courteous and aware of other dogs. Please clean up after your animals! Cell phone coverage is good here, we do not have wifi available. We offer firewood for sale and allow propane fire pits. We also have a community fire pit for our campers, called the Lave Pit, directly across from our dry camp area. No fireworks allowed.

Camping in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument guide

Overview

About

The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens blasted off the conical summit of this Cascade volcano, leaving behind a two-mile-wide crater and a transformed landscape. At Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, visitors can peer into Mount St. Helens’ still active crater from the Johnston Ridge Observatory; hike across the eruption-scarred surrounds; spelunk through a lava tube at the Ape Caves; or attempt a permitted summit of Mount St. Helens’ rim via Monitor Ridge. Although the monument has no campgrounds, it is part of the larger Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which features a variety of camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating opportunities. Excellent camping can be found at Gifford Pinchot’s Iron Creek Campground and Kalama Horse Camp, as well as at nearby Seaquest State Park. For more camping options close to Mount St. Helens, including RV parks with full hookups and cabins, check out the nearby towns of St. Helens, Cougar, and Morton.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest are a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served options.
Reservable sites can be booked online or by calling (877) 444-6777.
Some Gifford Pinchot campgrounds are seasonal, operating from mid-May to mid-October. For specific info on the current season, call the park ranger’s office at (360) 449-7800.

When to go

Most visitors come to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument between mid-May and October. This is when the seasonal John Ridge Observatory and most nearby campsites are open. Spring visitors may enjoy wildflower blooms, while even summer campers can expect low temperatures in the 50s. Rain gear is advised year-round, though winter visitors should prepare for the possibility of driving and hiking on snow and ice.

Know before you go

The Johnston Ridge Observatory features a museum covering the volcano’s geology, viewpoints, and trailheads into the blast zone.
The Ape Cave on the south side of Mount St. Helens offers 2.5 miles of subterranean hiking, scrambling, and climbing through a lava tube. Reservations are required—and be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp.
Experienced climbers can attempt to reach the 8,365-foot summit of Mount St. Helens’ crater rim via the Monitor Ridge Route. Permits are required to go above 4,800 feet, and depending on conditions, snowshoes and crampons may be necessary.

93%

22 ratings · 8 reviews

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· July 2025

If you're in the area, you HAVE to visit! It's so pretty and underrated mountains. It has tons of history, display and learnings! We truly enjoyed the visit. Stop by Coldwater Lake if you have time, it's worth it!

Rynn H.

2 reviews

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· June 2025

beautiful

Jenny ,.

2 reviews

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· June 2025

Beautiful

Saw it from a distance and the observatory was closed.

Lorie W.

8 reviews

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· May 2025

Absolutely breathtaking

Hilary K.

2 reviews

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· May 2025

Johnstone Ridge visitor center at the end of the road was still closed, but Coldwater Lake visitor center just reopened, and offered a great view of the mountain.

Tony S.

5 reviews

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· April 2025

Although the center was closed for renovations, the walking path and bathrooms were open for use. We ventured up the mountain to the many viewpoints and forestry learning center and ended at Coldwater Lake due to road closure. It was a great trip and highly recommended.

Alana H.

9 reviews

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· March 2025

South Slope Glacier Mt. Adams

Gorgeous hike! Went to Mt. Adams South Slope glacier. Had to snowshoe 2 miles to the site due to road conditions and lots of still still inaccessible by car in March.

Kimberly G.

2 reviews

July 2017

Kalama Horse Camp Campground

Stock water tanks, hose available at upper and lower right hand loop. manure bins. mounting block at start of trail head. July 22nd 2017 is Mt. St. Helens chapter Backcountry Horsemen Washington prize ride. so very crowded from wed to sunday of that week. horse trails and views of the mountain are fabulous, weather permitting...