The best camping in Cottonwood Canyon State Park, OR

Name: Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Address: Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Rating: 4.4

88% (5)

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Lone Tree Campground

1. Lone Tree Campground

88%

(5)

Campground in Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 29 sites · Tents, RVs

21 primitive sites for tents and self contained RVs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at Cottonwood Canyon as well as a 7 site hiker/biker camp and a group camp that holds up to 25 people

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Top-rated campsites near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Lefever Holbrook Ranch

1. Lefever Holbrook Ranch

97%

(78)

30mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The Lefever Holbrook Ranch offers a unique stay overlooking some of washington’s most scenic views. Enjoy educational workshops and local adventures through the Gorge. Tour the land and hear about Paulette’s ranching philosophy. The ranch stores are open by appointment, so stock up on the ranches products grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, chickens, turkey, and rabbit or graze the greenhouse or gardens for just picked in season vegetables or catch on the daily evening barns tours available with sign up.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Among the Trees Lavender Farm

2. Among the Trees Lavender Farm

95%

(65)

30mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 2 sites

Welcome to Among the Trees Botanical Lavender Farm — a peaceful regenerative lavender and herb farm nestled in the rolling hills outside Goldendale, Washington. This property was previously home to a private off-grid cabin rental. As we begin the next chapter of the land, we are transforming the property into a botanical lavender and herb farm and now offer peaceful Hipcamp camping sites for guests looking to reconnect with nature and experience the early stages of the farm’s growth and restoration. Our private property features wide-open skies, breathtaking views of Mt. Adams and the Simcoe Mountains, peaceful meadows, oak trees, gardens, farm animals, and some of the best stargazing in the Pacific Northwest. Located just minutes from the Goldendale Observatory, we enjoy the same incredible dark skies that make this area so special. We are a working regenerative farm focused on no-spray practices, sustainability, pollinator health, and restoring the land while creating a peaceful botanical destination for guests to enjoy. Guests can experience: • Quiet off-grid camping • Stunning sunsets and dark skies • Farm tours • Botanical gardens • Handcrafted farm products • Mini goats and chickens • Future lavender fields and llamas joining the farm soon Our Hipcamp sites are designed for travelers looking to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with nature. Please note: • This is a working farm and private property • Quiet hours are from 10 PM – 7 AM • Please stay away from farm buildings, equipment, and the cabin • No parties or smoking permitted • Dogs must remain leashed and picked up after at all times Fire Safety: We are located in a high fire danger area and ask all guests to help us protect this land and surrounding wildlife. Absolutely NO smoking, campfires, charcoal fires, fireworks, or anything that could create sparks or damage the property. Camping Information: • Purple porta potty available for guest use • No showers available on site • No drinkable water available on site — please bring your own • Guests must pack out all trash when leaving • Base rate includes up to 4 guests • Additional guests are $10 per person, per night Thank you for helping us preserve the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the farm. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Milk A Sheep Camp at Tin Willows

3. Milk A Sheep Camp at Tin Willows

100%

(327)

32mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

B&B Treehouse Ranch

4. B&B Treehouse Ranch

100%

(28)

33mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 1 site

Nestled in Goldendale, Washington on 20 private acres, B&B Ranch; Treehouse boasts 2 decks with serene wildnerness and mountain views. Guests can enjoy a terrace and complimentary private parking. The treehouse comprises two beds, we provide bed sheets that could sleep 3, an outdoor toilet and shower, and a cozy seating area. Admire mountain vistas from the deck, furnished with outdoor seating. Additionally, guests can relish in a picnic area and barbecue facilities.

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Cat's Forest Retreat

5. Cat's Forest Retreat

94%

(76)

34mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

On a clear day you can see Mount Hood. Great stargazing at night away from bright lights. Lots of River Rock and Agates. Abundant wildlife. Mostly hilly and forested terrain. Nearby is Greek Bakery & monastery, Brooks Memorial State Park. Visit Goldendale Observatory, Maryhill museum & Stonehenge.

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Upriver RV Park

6. Upriver RV Park

100%

(20)

39mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 27 sites

Discover one of Central Oregon’s most scenic RV destinations at Imperial River Company’s riverside RV park in Maupin. Perfectly set along a quarter mile of the wild and scenic Deschutes River, our 27 pet-friendly RV sites offer full hookups, room to relax, and unbeatable views. With direct river access, you can fish, raft, kayak, or simply unwind by the water just steps from your site. Guests enjoy modern comforts including high-speed WiFi, a clean bathhouse, and our seasonal onsite restaurant and bar. Wake up to the sound of the river, spend your day exploring Maupin’s recreation opportunities. Blending rustic high-desert charm with thoughtful amenities, our RV park is the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility—your ideal home base for a Central Oregon getaway.

Pets

Full hookups

Private Camping near Mt Hood

7. Private Camping near Mt Hood

96%

(47)

40mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

1462 acres of native oak woodland and pastures near Mt. Hood National Forest and the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area. The North Side Double Mountain View Spots have 360 degree views of EVERTHING - it's very quiet. We are converting this farm from Wheat, to Organic and Regenerative since 2021 and are currently in our 5th growing season. Enjoy the Silence.

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Campfires

Justesen Ranches

8. Justesen Ranches

96%

(200)

40mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

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Nadja's Hideway

9. Nadja's Hideway

100%

(55)

41mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 1 site

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.

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Antelope Basecamp

10. Antelope Basecamp

99%

(161)

42mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are located in the heart of Antelope, a rural (near) Ghost town that is rich in history and culture. This particular property is currently being cleaned up and revitalized. We would like to open it up to dry camping, some cabins, and RV Space with partial hookups at this time as we are already seeing a huge influx of cyclists and motorcycles in the area and they have no place to camp. There is a bathhouse onsite as part of the Pavilion structure. Please do not park on grass, unless you are an RV Space with partial hookups that has made arrangements with park host. Thank you for visiting and having patience while we continue to fix up the property.

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Full hookups

Harth Hideaway

11. Harth Hideaway

100%

(10)

43mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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.

Pets

Full hookups

Roots Rise Family Farm

12. Roots Rise Family Farm

94%

(284)

43mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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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The Forest Cupcake

13. The Forest Cupcake

99%

(206)

43mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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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The Windward Forest

14. The Windward Forest

94%

(90)

43mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

For forty years, the Windward community has been developing its stewardship forest as a home for a variety of sustainability systems using renewable energy systems and cooperative community. Learn more about this land: Our 40-acre campground is adjacent to our main sustainability research center. It is completely isolated from the world at large. Our forest is located in a transitional zone where you'll see Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine growing side by side among century-old oak trees. From here you can tube the wild Klickitat, hike the alpine slopes of Mt. Adams or windsurf the Columbia.

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Camp Hardy Klickitat

15. Camp Hardy Klickitat

100%

(16)

45mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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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Electrical hookup

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Relax Pine Hollow

16. Relax Pine Hollow

98%

(24)

46mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to the serene Pine Hollow camp sites. Our 5-acre property features: Seasonal pond Fire pit Power hookups for RVs Outdoor heated shower Less than 5 minutes to Pine Hollow Reservoir Deschutes River rafting approximately 30 minutes away Onsite drinking water Wamic store and hardware just 5 minutes away Lake within 5 minutes' reach As avid hosts and social beings, we take pleasure in accommodating your needs. Should you require assistance, we reside on the corner of the property and are readily available to help.

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Electrical hookup

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Garden of Eden

17. Garden of Eden

98%

(33)

47mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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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Picnic table

Harvest Haven Campground

18. Harvest Haven Campground

94%

(108)

48mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 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

Horseshoe House

19. Horseshoe House

100%

(4)

21mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

The Horseshoe House A Family-Friendly Ranch Stay in Grass Valley, Oregon This isn’t just a place to stay — it’s an experience for our guests, and a way of life for us. The Horseshoe House sits on 10 acres of working ranch land outside Grass Valley, Oregon — surrounded by rolling wheat fields, wide-open skies, and the kind of quiet only the high desert can offer. At 2,500 feet elevation, it’s peaceful, simple, and full of old Oregon character. Our connection to this area runs deep. My great-grandfather settled in this part of Oregon after coming from Tennessee in the early 1900s. Like many who came west, he raised sheep — and we’re proud to carry on that legacy today. Guests are welcome to meet the animals — sheep, pigs, and chickens — and maybe even give a few a pat or a scratch. Want a closer look at ranch life? Just let us know and we’ll happily schedule a farm tour ahead of time. We’re close to the Deschutes, John Day, and Columbia Rivers, with nearby fossil beds, ghost towns, and the storied town of Antelope, featured in Netflix’s Wild Wild Country. Bring your family. Bring your boots (this is Oregon, after all). Come experience the rhythm of country life — real, relaxed, and unforgettable.

Rhea Siding

20. Rhea Siding

100%

(2)

25mi from Cottonwood Canyon State Park · 6 sites

Over 100 years ago this historic location was once a “Siding” (loading zone) along the railroad where hundreds of sheep would board from the nearby ranches. Today, it’s a desolate, 160 acres of high desert sage where the only noise you hear at night are the coyotes. Just five miles off of I-84, ten minutes from Arlington, and 25 from Boardman. Full hookup and wifi included.

Pets

Full hookups

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!

Nicole

5 days 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!

36ft visitor Motorhome parked at the 50amp site.

Daniel

1 week 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.

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.

Taylor

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Lefever Holbrook Ranch

This place was magical, came all the way from Newfoundland and would do it again

Andrew

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Horseshoe House

It was big sky country for sure! Beautiful and you could see for miles. At night you could see soo many stars! Close enough to Cottonwood Canyon where I visited for a day.

Kayla

2 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

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake

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

Chris

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Lefever Holbrook Ranch

My wife, our dog, and I had a great stay at Paulette's beautiful ranch. Spring's a lovely time to visit since the wildflowers are exploding. The meadows were full of vibrant purple and yellow, and our dog loved playing in the fields! We drove right up to the lookout, which was really convenient. The space itself is quaint and beautifully preserved. It was nice meeting Paulette and learning about the lookout's history. This was our first time staying in one and it felt magical. If conditions are good, I definitely recommend checking out the Goldendale Observatory for some stargazing. We can't wait to come back, maybe next time in the summer or fall to see how the landscape changes. Thanks for everything!

Melanie

3 weeks ago

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Justesen Ranches

What an incredible place. I consider myself lucky that the owners of this property are willing to share it. Hosts were always responsive and accommodating. Coordinates were easy to follow. It is close to town, but feels a million miles away once you're at your campsite. Several spots to choose from, just be understanding and flexible to setup at an adjacent spot, as it is a working ranch/property. Remember to bring bug spray! Please respect the burn ban to keep our state safe. The portapotty was clean and well maintained. I felt safe and totally at peace, even camping solo. I will definitely be back!

Karen

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Antelope Basecamp

Antelope base camp is exactly as they say it is. The host was extremely friendly and helpful with letting me anything I had questions about. The facilities were very clean. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone especially if you’re looking for a quiet place to get night photos like I was able to.

prakash

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Antelope Basecamp

Brandie and Larry's place is nestled in remote Antelope. The town itself is a quiet and carries a lot of history. The restrooms and hot shower after a long day of biking was awesome. The day we chose was cloudy but talking to some frequenters it was evident that the star gazing from there is magical. The host were very responsive and helpful

vanessa

3 weeks ago

34 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lefever Holbrook Ranch

Paulette was a fantastic host! She was very hospitable, friendly, and she went out of her way to ensure we had a great stay. The site was absolutely beautiful! I highly recommend this hipcamp location ❤️

Matthew

3 weeks ago

20 ft truck camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cat's Forest Retreat

Great/fast communication with Cat. Awesome land. Gorgeous Mt Hood view. Hammock was serene. My dog loved just being off leash hanging out and sniffing. Deer came in front of camp in the evening, very sweet. Big views from the property. The shower was a little temperamental with temperature but was divine on a sunny morning, reminded me of an outdoor shower in Hawaii. Portapotty a bit of a walk, but also nice not to have a portapotty by camp. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful rocks on this property, including agates.

M.E.

May 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Harvest Haven Campground

This is a great spot conveniently located to various hiking trails. Great communication from the host!

Sharon

May 2026

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harth Hideaway

Awesome site with lots of privacy and sweet views. Nestled in the trees above town (The Dalles), it’s a getaway that’s worth the drive. I wish I’d have had more time to enjoy the solitude. Seeing the stars at night is just one of the many reasons to camp at Gary’s place! He’s very welcoming, and his chickens and wild turkeys own the land! Highly recommend.

Jordan

May 2026

Tent

5 nights at Lefever Holbrook Ranch

The ranch is a wonderful location, with lots of open space and expansive mountain views. There are many places to sit, and a covered cooking area with a large table. Paulette was extremely kind and helpful, and even offered to let me use a space heater in my tent since I was camping in late April and the nights were still cold. Definitely a great base camp to explore the region for a few days!

Enjoy the company of Lora, the daytime guard dog, and sheep if you camp in the pasture!

Aikko

April 2026

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Milk A Sheep Camp at Tin Willows

Had an amazing experience at the farm! I got there pretty late (around 9pm) but Terry helped me settle right in. Her dogs Jack and Joe were the absolute sweetest! They slept right outside my tent all night so they felt like my own personal guard dogs. It was my first time camping by myself (and my cat, Kai) but I felt very safe at the farm!

Melissa

April 2026

2 nights at The Forest Cupcake

Beautiful location and comfortable yurt! We loved our time here, particularly the sunsets!!

Andrea

April 2026

With pets

1 night at B&B Treehouse Ranch

The treehouse was great! It had everything we needed. It was so peaceful. Scott's check in instructions and directions were very thorough.

kent

April 2026

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Roots Rise Family Farm

I liked the location of Roots Rise; it was quiet and off a busy road. We were able to situate our little trailer so it worked well for us and our friends with another little trailer.

Cottonwood Canyon State Park camping guide

Overview

About

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

Tips for snagging a campsite

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

When to go

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

Know before you go

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

Reviews for Cottonwood Canyon State Park Campgrounds

88%

5 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· October 2017

Lone Tree Campground

Beautiful campground with free dirt bikes to ride around! You are fairly close to other campers, however, so this is not for those looking for a super remote experience.