The best camping in Columbia Hills State Park, WA

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50% (2)

Follow in the footsteps of Native Americans and pioneers along the Columbia River. 

50% (2)

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Columbia Hills State Park

Columbia Hills Campground

1. Columbia Hills Campground

Campground in Columbia Hills State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
With a little bit of this and a little bit of that, Columbia Hills Campground can more than likely fulfill your camping desires
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Top-rated campsites near Columbia Hills State Park

Nadja's Hideway

1. Nadja's Hideway

100%
(55)
5.5mi from Columbia Hills 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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Roots Rise Family Farm

2. Roots Rise Family Farm

94%
(287)
7mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Roots Rise Family Farm, a cozy boondock-style camping experience tucked into the beautiful High Prairie on Friends of the Gorge land, with sweeping views in nearly every direction. Our little farm has roots stretching back to the 1940s and is full of history, personality, and the kind of charm that comes from a place that is truly lived in and loved. We’re slowly building our dreams here, one project at a time, and love sharing this land with travelers looking for peace, adventure, stargazing, and a taste of farm life. This is not a manicured RV park, it’s a working family farm with animals, projects in progress, and plenty of rustic charm. Pitch your tent in our hilltop meadow with views of Mt. Adams, tuck into the pine grove, or nestle beneath the oaks. Clear nights bring incredible stargazing, quiet mornings bring birdsong, and every season offers something a little different. We’re located just 5 minutes from world-class fishing on the Klickitat River, surrounded by incredible wineries, and only about 25 minutes from Hood River, close enough for adventure, far enough for quiet. Our farm is home to free-range chickens, ducks, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, gardens, kids, and the beautiful chaos that comes with building a life close to the land. We’d love to share our little piece of paradise with you. Roots Rise is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and committed to being a safe, welcoming space for all. Hate and bigotry have no place here. 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

3. The Forest Cupcake

99%
(207)
7.3mi from Columbia Hills 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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Camp Hardy Klickitat

4. Camp Hardy Klickitat

100%
(16)
10mi from Columbia Hills 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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Harth Hideaway

5. Harth Hideaway

100%
(10)
10mi from Columbia Hills 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.
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Full hookups
Garden of Eden

6. Garden of Eden

99%
(34)
11mi from Columbia Hills 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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Harvest Haven Campground

7. Harvest Haven Campground

94%
(108)
12mi from Columbia Hills 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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The Windward Forest

8. The Windward Forest

94%
(90)
13mi from Columbia Hills 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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Lefever Holbrook Ranch

9. Lefever Holbrook Ranch

97%
(78)
16mi from Columbia Hills 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.
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The Snowden Yurt

10. The Snowden Yurt

97%
(59)
17mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 1 site
The Snowden Yurt was built by Tova's uncle Kirk and originally used as a backcountry ski destination in the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley, Idaho. It is built completely by hand, similar to the traditional Mongolian style, with hand-hewn rafters, hand-made door, and hand-stitched fabric. Kirk's distinctive skylight rounds out the peaceful dwelling. Kitchen facilities include a coffee maker, camp stove, grill, and outdoor sink. The unique, hand crafted bathhouse has a comfortable composting toilet and propane heated shower. An IKEA queen bed with the coziest comforters one could imagine sleeps two, and a pull out twin is available for an extra person. The Snowden Yurt, with a peekabo view of Mt. Hood, is located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, with world class recreation right out the door.
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Nash Valley

11. Nash Valley

100%
(36)
17mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 1 site
Nash Valley Farms (NVF) is a rustic glamping hermitage nestled on five wooded acres on the Cascade Crest just 15 minutes outside of White Salmon, WA. NVF is located just minutes from world class mountain biking, hiking, skiing, fishing, beer drinking, and lounging. Whether you're looking to write your book, shred the gnar, or just relax in nature, NVF is the natural choice. NVF offers full furnishings, bed, stove, couch, table, chairs, water, outhouse.
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848 Outpost

12. 848 Outpost

98%
(55)
17mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
848 Outpost | Room to turn. Space to stay. 848 Outpost is a small, off-grid basecamp set across 38 acres of woods and open field, with just four sites. Two designed for vans and overland rigs (+tents), and two set up for tent camping. It’s a simple, low-key place to land, with space to breathe and none of the crowding of a traditional campground. Part of a larger 80-acre land group (including our family’s historic 28-acre farm), the property supports forestry management, wildlife habitat conservation, and low-impact recreation. The outpost backs onto forest service land, offering direct access to rugged, unmarked terrain for experienced hikers and explorers. There are no formal trails—just open access to largely untouched landscape. Location 15 minutes to White Salmon 30 minutes to Hood River ~1.5 hours to Portland Access The road is not suitable for large RVs or long trailers. Vans, overland rigs, and smaller setups do best. 4WD can be recommended depending on conditions. Preview the road: https://youtu.be/Yo5dSB1hftI?si=PK3cT2O_9kWOcn18 Amenities --Porta potties available at each site (shared at Elderberry/Homestead) --Seasonal water spigot at Elderberry & Evergreen (Note: this is well water) --No cell service (really) --No hookups --Pack-in / pack-out (no garbage service) Important Notes --No campfires during burn bans (propane stoves OK). Burn ban IS ON as of Memorial Day weekend - there have already been 2 gorge wildfires so we aren't taking any chances. --Located in an active wildlife corridor. Secure food and waste in wildlife-safe containers to reduce animal encounters and support conservation This is a quiet, off-grid stay best suited for people who are comfortable in the woods, without cell service, or don't care for 'standard' campgrounds. This property is offered as a short-term recreational campsite only and is not a residence under Washington law.
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Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

13. Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

94%
(71)
18mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 2 sites
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
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Private Camping near Mt Hood

14. Private Camping near Mt Hood

96%
(47)
20mi from Columbia Hills 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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White Salmon River RV Campsite

15. White Salmon River RV Campsite

99%
(67)
21mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our backyard might be the most serene you've ever been to! Eight acres of meadow and forest, surrounded by orchards, fields, and the roaring White Salmon River is the getaway that surrounds you with nature. Our 20' RV Spot with water spigot and electric plug-in is located about 100 yards from the river's edge. To enhance everyone's comfort level, we have two plumbed restroom buildings and an outdoor kitchen. Our kitchen has a microwave, refrigerator/freezer, toaster, coffee maker, electric skillet, 3 propane skillets and a grill, blender, cooking utensils, sink with running water, breakfast table, and extra seating. There is a large meadow with two propane fire pits - and of course, heckling the rafters and kayakers from the riverbank is probably the best entertainment! They love waving and yelling "helllooooo" back! The property is only 15 minutes from Hood River (to the south) and about 20 from Trout Lake (to the north). Outdoor activities are endless in the Columbia Gorge - a white water excursion down the White Salmon, local wine tastings and tours, waterfall hikes, and of course, watching the activities happening everyday at the Hood River Event Site. Unfortunately, I do not allow pets. I'm sorry!!! We have our own dogs/cats/ducks/chickens who live here and I don't want to risk any unwelcome interactions. I try to keep the dogs at our house when we have guests but should they come down to the meadow for a visit, please know that much like the cats, they are super friendly and love to hang out. While we are located on the river, I do not allow put-ins or dips from our property due to safety risk and our liability insurance - the current is quite strong and the water is glacier-cold. There is a kayak/raft drop-in at BZ Corners, a quick 3 mile drive up the road from us, or at Northwestern Park which is just down the road from us, and there are swimming holes all over the Gorge (just not right here!) Please do not venture past the rock divider at the edge of the riverbank, as doing so could subject you to poison oak that lives along the river's edge.
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The Refuge

16. The Refuge

100%
(22)
22mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 1 site
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.
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Full hookups
Among the Trees Lavender Farm

17. Among the Trees Lavender Farm

95%
(65)
23mi from Columbia Hills 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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Forest Retreats in White Salmon

18. Forest Retreats in White Salmon

90%
(25)
23mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Atlan, a serene 150+ acre evergreen forest sanctuary and small intentional community nestled in the Columbia RIver Gorge. We are located near White Salmon river access points where many lift off for kayaking, river rafting, and hiking. Our land has breathtaking views, a creek that runs through it and offers us a spring with pure drinking water, accompanied by an array of native flowers, wildlife, a garden, and food forests.
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Cat's Forest Retreat

19. Cat's Forest Retreat

94%
(76)
24mi from Columbia Hills 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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Retired DNR Fire Watch Cabin

20. Retired DNR Fire Watch Cabin

95%
(56)
28mi from Columbia Hills State Park · 1 site
Looking for an off grid'ish experience but want some of the comforts of home? Come stay in my cozy cool cabin at the base of Mt Adams in Trout Lake, WA. Cabin has one Queen bed and a fold out camping style cot under the bed. Max capacity 2 adults and 2 children. What makes this cabin cool? Well, it is a retired DNR fire watch cabin! The cabin is as original as can be! Equipped with battery operated and solar lights along with propane heat! Porta potty right next to it for your use! There is a full bathroom and amenities to include fridge, microwave, coffee pot and air fryer just a short walk away! Dishes are not included and cooking utensils are very limited. Winter sports galore up here right now! Cross country skiing, snow shoeing, ample parking for snow mobile trailers! OR bring your favorite book and come enjoy a peaceful restful weekend! Springtime is a gorgeous time of year up here and turkey season is a favorite! Ample room for boats/trailers if you are considering hitting Drano lake for some springer salmon fishing! It is apx 30 minutes away. In the summertime come up and enjoy the hiking! Sleeping Beauty trail is just a few minutes away and you are within 30 minutes or Hood River if you are looking to explore and check out wineries. There are cheese caves, ice caves, Goose Lake, Council Lake and so much more! Fall is one of my favorite seasons! Hood River fishery has been amazing and the fall colors can't be beat! There is a fire pit and campfires are welcome when there is not a burn ban. Trout Lake Inn is a local favorite up here and check their Facebook to see what live entertainment they have coming up. Pets are welcome - please make sure they are well behaved and are kept close to the cabin. I do have my own friendly dogs (Ruby and Muskett) on the property, but they do not have access to the cabin area. Come enjoy the mountain air - it is good for the soul! **No parties - limit of 2 adult guests and up to 2 children. No illegal drugs. No smoking or vaping inside cabin or the bathroom/hospitality room.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Columbia Hills State Park camping guide

Overview

About

Combine history, rock climbing, geology, boating, fishing, and camping into a single vacation. View petroglyphs and pictographs left by Native American culture. Hike among ancient lava flows that indicate the volcanic activity that used to occur here. Take your boat onto the lake for some great fishing at any time of year.

Grab your rock climbing gear for Horsethief Butte, a favorite for climbing enthusiasts. Storm the butte's brown facade as if you're invading a Medieval castle. Once on top, look over a vast landscape once seen by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Some parts of the butte are closed to climbers due to their cultural significance.

Definitely come here in the spring. That's when a canopy of lupine and balsamroot cover vast meadows with color. You can't miss the bright yellow and deep purple covering on the hills.

The park has four rustic campsites, eight sites with partial hook-ups, and four rustic walk-in sites. A traditional tipi provides a unique experience.

Notable campgrounds

  • Horsethief Lake Campground: Nestled by the water, this site offers a mix of standard and partial hookup spots, ideal for tent and RV campers alike.
  • Dalles Mountain Ranch: For a more secluded experience, pitch your tent amid the historic ranch buildings with breathtaking views.
  • Wind and Noise Advisory: Prepare for the elements and the sounds of passing trains at this unique and adventurous camping location.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak seasons, to secure your ideal campsite at Horsethief Lake.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities to snag a spot.
  • Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Columbia Hills State Park is during spring and early summer, when wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Avoid the windy conditions that can occur, and note that Horsethief Lake is closed from November to March.

Know before you go

  • Remember to purchase a Discover Pass for park entry, with annual and one-day options available.
  • Be aware of the rare presence of rattlesnakes in the area, though encounters are uncommon.
  • Check for burn bans and adhere to designated areas for fires to ensure safety and park preservation.
  • Prepare for the park's windy conditions, which can impact activities like boating and camping.
  • Respect the cultural significance of the area by not bringing pets on the Tsagaglalal trail or tour.

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