The best camping in Deschutes River State Recreation Area, OR

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88% (7)

Miles of hiking trails, whitewater, and other outdoor activities make this an exciting spot!  

The best camping in Deschutes River State Recreation Area, OR

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Olson Vista

2. Olson Vista

100%
(16)
11mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lyle, WA
Note: CLOSED UNTIL Nov. 1, 2025 You don't want to miss the views and stars at Olson Vista! It will be an experience you won't forget, You will take in the unforgettable views at sunrise and sunset of Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, Swale Canyon, and wind turbines on the east horizon. The property is perched on the north side of Stacker Butte at 2,200 ft. elevation and includes a large homesite that is carved out of the side of the mountain which is perfect for campers, vans, a teardrop, or a small trailer. A sandy tent site is now available. It can be breezy, but it often makes it pleasant depending on the time of year. When the fire ban is not in effect, feel free to bring your solo stove to enjoy the evening. No firepit is available onsite. A 0.1 mile hiking trail will lead you to a meadow with more flowers and views, so bring your chairs. A small bench is already in the meadow. There is a scrub oak woods that you will walk through, and intermittent creek that is dry in the summer and fall. Feel free to explore around! We often see deer and other wildlife on the property so bring your binoculars for your viewing pleasure. A compost toilet is available onsite, and and we will instructions for those who stay. There is an outdoor shower that is not currently up and running. Water is not available as of yet. so make sure to bring your own. A picnic table is now available to use. If you are feeling up for it, walk up the hill 3/4 mile (1,000 ft of gain) to the top of Stacker Butte for more views which include the Columbia River! This leads into the trail systems of Columbia Hills State Park. The property is located 15 minutes from Lyle,, 25 minutes to White Salmon, and less than 30 minutes from Hood River which offer groceries and other amenities. There is an observatory in Goldendale. Additionally, the east end of the Klickitat trail is less than a mile from the property that includes biking and hiking. The property has a steep shared driveway with 1154 Centerville Hwy, so please be respectful and drive slow and use 4WD if available.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Site on your left when driving in; picture taken 6pm in April, it will be more shady in the summer; this is a pull in or back in site

4. Nadja's Hideway

100%
(55)
15mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
The Forest Cupcake

6. The Forest Cupcake

99%
(184)
17mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Lyle, WA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$95
 / night
KLICKITAT VIEW CABIN

7. KLICKITAT VIEW CABIN

95%
(65)
18mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Goldendale, WA
Relax & Restore at Our Hilltop Cabin Perched atop a peaceful 20-acre property with a view from the lookout, our updated 750-square-foot cabin offers breathtaking views of Mt. Adams, the Simcoe Mountains, and a star-filled night sky. Enjoy hiking, stargazing, and fireside games in a serene, private setting with a classic cabin aesthetic. Important to Know You might see us or a close family friend elsewhere on the property during your stay, but we’ll give you complete privacy at the cabin. Out of respect for their space, please avoid the trailers. If you need anything, just send us a message through the Hipcamp app—we’re happy to help! Availability We’re accepting bookings through September 11. After that date, the property will be unavailable as we begin an exciting new chapter. We will be offering Harvest Host Spaces going forward, if that sounds fun for you! Cabin Features * Off-grid with electric lighting * Large windows to take in the trees and view * Sink & pump for running water (household-style) * Porta-potty nearby * Outdoor heated shower * Blankets & kitchen equipment provided * Outdoor grill & propane fire pit * Comfortable king bed, pull out couch to a queen, and another coach that expands into a full bed * Bring your own bedding, towels, and extra shower water Recharge in Nature This is the perfect spot to disconnect, breathe deeply, and enjoy the beauty of the hills. Coming Soon, we will be offering Hipcamp tent spaces with access to the porta potty, and Harvest Host spots, should you want to visit again in the future! We’re transforming this property into a Lavender & Herb Farm. Follow McLaughlin Lavender on Facebook and Instagram to watch our journey of turning this property into an experience! We cannot wait to host you, please reach out with any questions!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$104
 / night
Camp Hardy Klickitat

8. Camp Hardy Klickitat

100%
(12)
18mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lyle, WA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
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!

10. Garden of Eden

98%
(32)
20mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent · Lyle, WA
**** Dear Campers - we are so sad to share that our campsite has been devastated by the July 2025 Burdoin Fire. We are blocking off the listing for the remainder of the season as the land is charred and unsuitable for camping. We hope to fix up the land to open again next spring. In the meantime, we so appreciate everyone's support and well wishes!!! **** 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'. 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!
Pets
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Harvest Haven Campground

12. Harvest Haven Campground

95%
(91)
21mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Lyle, WA
*** PLEASE NOTE, THIS IS A WORKING FARM WITH FREE RANGE LIVESTOCK. *** 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 picturesque blend of ancient White Oaks, shady Maples & fields bursting with wildflowers in the spring. Several vantage points offer views of the Columbia River & iconic Mt. Hood. During your stay, take a stroll through our one-acre garden & visit our seasonal farmstand that sits just outside the garden gate where a U-pick herb garden awaits. 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 & gatherings. While unlisted, an adjacent site "Hideout in the Hollow", can often be made available also per request. Solar heated, unfiltered spring water is available at the site itself & spigots for cold spring water are available at the corral &farmstand. While our family finds this spring water safe & refreshing to drink from tap, keep in mind, it is UNfiltered 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 & free-range chickens. Feed them apples when available or even your left over food scraps! Don't forget to meet Petunia, our beloved free-range Kunekune pig. While shy at 1st, her affinity for snacks & 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 &mountain biking to hunting & 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 & woodpeckers. A short drive opens up countless recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, beaches, boating, wind sports, wildlife viewing, kayaking, paddleboarding & white-water rafting.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The Snowden Yurt

15. The Snowden Yurt

97%
(57)
26mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · White Salmon, WA
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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night
Eight Four Eight Camp

16. Eight Four Eight Camp

98%
(52)
26mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · White Salmon, WA
!-- CLOSED FOR SEASON -- ! Contact us directly for off-season reservations. Depends on weather/snow pack & amenities needs. Water is turned off for winter season & 4 wheel drive is likely required. --- Escape to Nature at Eight Four Eight Camp. Nestled on 38 acres of pristine woods and fields with a seasonal stream, Eight Four Eight Camp offers the perfect off-grid getaway for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Adjacent to our family's historic 28-acre farm, this property is part of a sustainable 80-acre land group dedicated to forestry management, wildlife habitat conservation, and outdoor recreation. This property is located within a designated wildlife corridor. To help protect local wildlife and ensure visitor safety, all food and garbage must be stored in bear-proof, wildlife-safe containers. Proper storage reduces animal encounters and supports conservation efforts. Outdoor Adventure & Hiking Eight Four Eight Camp backs onto forest service land, providing rugged, backcountry hiking opportunities for experienced adventurers. There are no marked trails—just pure bushwhacking exploration through largely untouched wilderness. Location & Accessibility 15 minutes from downtown White Salmon 30 minutes from Hood River 1.5 hours from Portland (PDX) The access road is not suitable for large RVs or tow-behind trailers, but smaller camper vans and popup campers should navigate fine. Check out the terrain on YouTube for road conditions. https://youtu.be/Yo5dSB1hftI?si=PK3cT2O_9kWOcn18 Amenities & Important Details No cell service, electrical hookups, or public transport 4WD recommended (but not required) for access Porta-potties available at each campsite (shared at elderberry/homestead) Shared well water spigot at Elderberry Flats & Evergreen Grove 🚫 No campfires—burn ban in effect ⚠ Wildlife Corridor Advisory: Proper food and waste storage is required Leave no trace! Pack it in/pack it out - garbage service is not provided. Come experience true wilderness camping at Eight Four Eight Camp—disconnect, explore, and enjoy the outdoors in its raw, untouched beauty. This location is offered exclusively as a short-term recreational campsite. It is not a residence or dwelling unit under Washington law.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Stairs both into the treehouse and up to the bedroom, but oh so worth it!

18. Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

94%
(66)
27mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · White Salmon, WA
💥❣️💥Low Winter Prices Through December 18, 2025💥❣️💥 💥❣️$25 XTRA OFF FOR 3 NIGHTS - CODE: BHFQ5K17❣️💥 (Good for stays through January 31, 2026) Largely constructed from materials lovingly and gently harvested on-site, the Yurt at Rivendell is a sanctuary of peace and serenity. A place for rejuvenation and inspiration. The yurt began as a rustic structure utilizing lumber from trees selectively harvested to protect the health of the forest. But, the more Roy worked on the Yurt the more it spoke to him letting him know how to proceed and what it should become -- resulting in this phenomenally peaceful and stress-free wilderness sanctuary where the sun, the moon and the stars wink at you through the gentle undulations of the 100-year-old Douglas Firs Trees or through the ambient ether of the adjoining meadows. Our property is located 1hr and 30 minutes from Mt Hood in Oregon. We are located in White Salmon, Washington. There are enough things to do in White Salmon, including hiking trails, biking trails, white water rafting, waterfalls, and paddling spots to keep you entertained for a weekend, week, or lifetime! NOTE: While we do accept Instant Bookings for both our Tree House and Yurt there may very rarely be a conflict with a booking received earlier from another site when the HipCamp calendar has not been updated to reflect that booking. In that case, we default to the earliest booking and work with the guest to see if there are other dates which will work. *Meteorologists project possible visible Northern Lights through May 14, 2024
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$145
 / night
The Refuge

19. The Refuge

100%
(16)
28mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · RVs · Glenwood, WA
You may surprised at how loud peace and quiet can be. Whether it's the prehistoric sound of sandhill cranes, a serenade of coyotes, elk talking, hoots of great horned owls or a simple chorus of frogs and crickets; if you enjoy being immersed in the sounds of nature then come and enjoy. "The Refuge" abuts Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge so be sure to bring your binoculars or spotting scope. Elk, sandhills, coyotes and deer are frequent visitors to the property, bear and bobcats occasionally. If you just can't sit still and relax, we are only 16 miles from BZ Corners and the white water opportunities of the Big White Salmon River, 12 miles from the Leidl boat ramp on the Klickitat River and 16 miles from the town of Trout Lake and all the recreation opportunities to be found in the Gifford Pinchot. If it wasn't for the view (and it is awesome!), the site would be rather unimpressive. It's level gravel driveway with water, a 50/20 RV hookup and dump that sits between an unoccupied house and large shop that we may occasionally visit. A fire pit is available. Need leeway on party size, check in time or something else...message me and we'll see what we can do. Reality Check Exhaust brakes. This is timber country; during the week early morning truck traffic can be expected. Traffic is always very light, but it only takes one exhaust brake at 4:00 am to remind me of the crazy hours loggers work. Mosquitos. Conboy Lake is really a great big seasonal marsh and the mozzies can be a moderate annoyance at times. As a seasoned camper, I would rate them only slightly above a "run of the mill" nuisance even during peak times . Let it shine! The hook up site is exposed. Mid August, 4:00 pm, 100 degrees out...you'll want an awning or AC. Consider "The Oaks" under add-ons as an option, or message me to discuss. Darned hosts. We're your nearest neighbors, about a 1000 yards away, mostly obscured but visible. We're pretty quite, but sounds of life may occasionally drift your way. Sometimes mowing has to done and the dog always barks briefly at UPS or when we come home. If we interrupt your illusion of seclusion it will only be briefly. No trash service. Pack it in, pack it out. Thanks! Cell service is sketchy.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$41
 / night
88% (7)

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Top-rated campgrounds

Olson Vista

100%
(16)
11mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lyle, WA
Note: CLOSED UNTIL Nov. 1, 2025 You don't want to miss the views and stars at Olson Vista! It will be an experience you won't forget, You will take in the unforgettable views at sunrise and sunset of Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, Swale Canyon, and wind turbines on the east horizon. The property is perched on the north side of Stacker Butte at 2,200 ft. elevation and includes a large homesite that is carved out of the side of the mountain which is perfect for campers, vans, a teardrop, or a small trailer. A sandy tent site is now available. It can be breezy, but it often makes it pleasant depending on the time of year. When the fire ban is not in effect, feel free to bring your solo stove to enjoy the evening. No firepit is available onsite. A 0.1 mile hiking trail will lead you to a meadow with more flowers and views, so bring your chairs. A small bench is already in the meadow. There is a scrub oak woods that you will walk through, and intermittent creek that is dry in the summer and fall. Feel free to explore around! We often see deer and other wildlife on the property so bring your binoculars for your viewing pleasure. A compost toilet is available onsite, and and we will instructions for those who stay. There is an outdoor shower that is not currently up and running. Water is not available as of yet. so make sure to bring your own. A picnic table is now available to use. If you are feeling up for it, walk up the hill 3/4 mile (1,000 ft of gain) to the top of Stacker Butte for more views which include the Columbia River! This leads into the trail systems of Columbia Hills State Park. The property is located 15 minutes from Lyle,, 25 minutes to White Salmon, and less than 30 minutes from Hood River which offer groceries and other amenities. There is an observatory in Goldendale. Additionally, the east end of the Klickitat trail is less than a mile from the property that includes biking and hiking. The property has a steep shared driveway with 1154 Centerville Hwy, so please be respectful and drive slow and use 4WD if available.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night

Nadja's Hideway

100%
(55)
15mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night

The Forest Cupcake

99%
(184)
17mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Lyle, WA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$95
 / night

KLICKITAT VIEW CABIN

95%
(65)
18mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Goldendale, WA
Relax & Restore at Our Hilltop Cabin Perched atop a peaceful 20-acre property with a view from the lookout, our updated 750-square-foot cabin offers breathtaking views of Mt. Adams, the Simcoe Mountains, and a star-filled night sky. Enjoy hiking, stargazing, and fireside games in a serene, private setting with a classic cabin aesthetic. Important to Know You might see us or a close family friend elsewhere on the property during your stay, but we’ll give you complete privacy at the cabin. Out of respect for their space, please avoid the trailers. If you need anything, just send us a message through the Hipcamp app—we’re happy to help! Availability We’re accepting bookings through September 11. After that date, the property will be unavailable as we begin an exciting new chapter. We will be offering Harvest Host Spaces going forward, if that sounds fun for you! Cabin Features * Off-grid with electric lighting * Large windows to take in the trees and view * Sink & pump for running water (household-style) * Porta-potty nearby * Outdoor heated shower * Blankets & kitchen equipment provided * Outdoor grill & propane fire pit * Comfortable king bed, pull out couch to a queen, and another coach that expands into a full bed * Bring your own bedding, towels, and extra shower water Recharge in Nature This is the perfect spot to disconnect, breathe deeply, and enjoy the beauty of the hills. Coming Soon, we will be offering Hipcamp tent spaces with access to the porta potty, and Harvest Host spots, should you want to visit again in the future! We’re transforming this property into a Lavender & Herb Farm. Follow McLaughlin Lavender on Facebook and Instagram to watch our journey of turning this property into an experience! We cannot wait to host you, please reach out with any questions!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$104
 / night

Camp Hardy Klickitat

100%
(12)
18mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lyle, WA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Garden of Eden

98%
(32)
20mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent · Lyle, WA
**** Dear Campers - we are so sad to share that our campsite has been devastated by the July 2025 Burdoin Fire. We are blocking off the listing for the remainder of the season as the land is charred and unsuitable for camping. We hope to fix up the land to open again next spring. In the meantime, we so appreciate everyone's support and well wishes!!! **** 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'. 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!
Pets
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Harvest Haven Campground

95%
(91)
21mi from Deschutes River State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Lyle, WA
*** PLEASE NOTE, THIS IS A WORKING FARM WITH FREE RANGE LIVESTOCK. *** 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 picturesque blend of ancient White Oaks, shady Maples & fields bursting with wildflowers in the spring. Several vantage points offer views of the Columbia River & iconic Mt. Hood. During your stay, take a stroll through our one-acre garden & visit our seasonal farmstand that sits just outside the garden gate where a U-pick herb garden awaits. 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 & gatherings. While unlisted, an adjacent site "Hideout in the Hollow", can often be made available also per request. Solar heated, unfiltered spring water is available at the site itself & spigots for cold spring water are available at the corral &farmstand. While our family finds this spring water safe & refreshing to drink from tap, keep in mind, it is UNfiltered 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 & free-range chickens. Feed them apples when available or even your left over food scraps! Don't forget to meet Petunia, our beloved free-range Kunekune pig. While shy at 1st, her affinity for snacks & 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 &mountain biking to hunting & 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 & woodpeckers. A short drive opens up countless recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, beaches, boating, wind sports, wildlife viewing, kayaking, paddleboarding & white-water rafting.
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The best camping in Deschutes River State Recreation Area, OR guide

Overview

About

The Columbia and Deschutes River meet in this state and wind through the canyons. The final 100 miles of the Deschutes offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, and inner-tubing. Heritage Landing is a popular boating area. You can waterski and fish for salmon. Steelhead and trout fishing are also big in this park.

Love horseback riding? From March to June, you can make a reservation to use the equestrian trails. A favorite of hikers — the Atiyeh Deschutes River Trail — meanders along the river. While hiking through this park, look up for a glance of an Orioles' nest. These birds build unique hanging-basket type nests.

This Oregon state park offers four loops for camping. Some feature sites with hookups while others are more primitive. You find all but one loop closed in winter months. Loop A provides restrooms with hot showers while the others only offer vault toilets. Enjoy cool evenings from the shade of the large trees.

Notable campgrounds

  • A Loop: Offers 34 electrical sites with water, available for RV or tent camping, complete with seasonal flush toilets and hot showers.
  • B Loop: Features 14 primitive RV/tent sites with vault toilets and nearby potable water, closed in winter.
  • G Loop: Provides 4 reservable primitive RV/tent camping areas for groups, with vault toilets and potable water nearby.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book your campsite up to 6 months in advance to secure your spot amid the park's natural splendor.
  • For winter camping, remember that sites are first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early for the best selection.
  • Check the park's reservation system regularly for cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred campground is fully booked, ensuring you don't miss out on the Deschutes experience.

When to go

The Deschutes River State Recreation Area is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. Spring greets visitors with a vibrant display of wildflowers, while summer brings heat and bustling activity on the river. Fall is ideal for fishing enthusiasts, and winter offers a quieter, albeit cooler, camping experience with reduced amenities.

Know before you go

  • Life jackets are a must for all water activities; a loaner station at Heritage Landing provides various sizes.
  • Boater Passes are required for river access; purchase them online to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Prepare for the sound of passing trains, which is common in the park, by bringing ear plugs if you're a light sleeper.
  • During winter, water to sites is turned off to prevent freezing; however, a frost-free spigot ensures access to potable water.
  • Be aware of seasonal campfire restrictions and always follow posted guidelines to protect the park's natural beauty.
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