The best camping in Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site, WA
Discover the stars at Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site
Lefever Holbrook Ranch
1. Lefever Holbrook Ranch
97%
(78)
2.8mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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)
5.7mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Cat's Forest Retreat
3. Cat's Forest Retreat
94%
(76)
6.4mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
B&B Treehouse Ranch
4. B&B Treehouse Ranch
100%
(28)
11mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Windward Forest
5. The Windward Forest
94%
(90)
15mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Camp Hardy Klickitat
6. Camp Hardy Klickitat
100%
(16)
19mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nadja's Hideway
7. Nadja's Hideway
100%
(55)
20mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
The Forest Cupcake
8. The Forest Cupcake
99%
(207)
22mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Roots Rise Family Farm
9. Roots Rise Family Farm
94%
(287)
22mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Refuge
10. The Refuge
100%
(22)
23mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Full hookups
Garden of Eden
11. Garden of Eden
99%
(34)
25mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Harvest Haven Campground
12. Harvest Haven Campground
94%
(108)
26mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way
13. Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way
94%
(71)
28mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Harth Hideaway
14. Harth Hideaway
100%
(10)
28mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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
848 Outpost
15. 848 Outpost
98%
(55)
29mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
The Snowden Yurt
16. The Snowden Yurt
97%
(59)
30mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Nash Valley
17. Nash Valley
100%
(36)
31mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
White Salmon River RV Campsite
18. White Salmon River RV Campsite
99%
(67)
32mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Retired DNR Fire Watch Cabin
19. Retired DNR Fire Watch Cabin
95%
(56)
34mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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.
Pets
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Showers
Forest Retreats in White Salmon
20. Forest Retreats in White Salmon
90%
(25)
35mi from Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site · 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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Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Teri
2 days ago
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful place. Great view of the open meadows and Mt. Adams. I saw a doe with two fawns. And wildlife in the refuge. I had 3 dogs with me and they loved being able to run around. Lots of little critters in the rocks to sniff out. Definitely want to go back again. Maybe in the fall when the colors start changing.
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S
Stone
4 days ago
Tent
With pets
Such a sweet spot. Much thought and love invested in guest's comfort. The land and how its cared for is special.
See moreN
Nicole
1 week ago
Tent
Very cute space! The hosts were very friendly and communicated well. Also provided so many communal goodies. Would definitely recommend!
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C
Christopher
2 weeks ago
19 ft Class B
With pets
The spot was beautiful. Fantastic views and we loved meeting all the animals
See moreD
Desiree
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had a great time, loved being greeted by the animals and kids and the gorgeous view from the meadows. The camp sites were well placed and the location was perfect for exploring Columbia hills the next day.
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D
Daniel
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
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.
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L
Laura
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful, quiet place to camp! The camp kitchen was very useful and the host was extremely responsive as I had questions/needs for refills. The space was very peaceful and well-cared for.
10/10 would recommend to other campers.
The only surprise about the whole experience was the number of mosquitos for the season, which was really on me to plan ahead for 😂
So if you book this site, remember to bring bug nets!!
P.S. I read other reviews beforehand and would echo: the signage to find the camp IS THERE, but you do have to be looking out for it. Make sure to read the directions provided before just googling your way to the address as the host notes in their instructions, and you’ll have no troubles finding it :)
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D
David
2 weeks ago
Tent
Camp Hardy doesn’t disappoint. Totally silent at night except for the crickets, bright stars, and private. Couldn’t be better.
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A
Andrea
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Snowden Yurt
Wonderful private yurt. A retreat getaway. Cozy and perfect for what I needed.
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T
Taylor
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
This place was magical, came all the way from Newfoundland and would do it again
See moreK
Kayla
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
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.
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C
Courtney
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Forest Cupcake
Wow-what an escape! A magical setting with the kindest hosts. A truly special get away.
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C
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!
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T
Theresa
3 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
With pets
This is literally our favorite place to camp! It is so beautiful no matter the season; the sounds of birds and wind are so relaxing. Greg is a great host, we love the attention to detail and kindness. It is the one place my anxious pup can fully rest. Thank you for the wonderful stay!
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s
shaun
May 2026
39 ft fifth wheel
With kids
Can't beat the view and a great place to stay! We'll be adding this one to the list to do again!!
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Scott
May 2026
12 ft campervan
Great place to stay very clean quiet and private just like to advertise fires were allowed to even let firewood I would definitely recommend it for a peaceful area to camp and just relax the sounds of Wildlife the wind and the breeze and the Beautiful stars at night I'll definitely come back again
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v
vanessa
May 2026
34 ft Class B
With pets
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 ❤️
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Matthew
May 2026
20 ft truck camper
With pets
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.
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M
M.E.
May 2026
Tent
This is a great spot conveniently located to various hiking trails. Great communication from the host!
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Sharon
May 2026
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
See moreGoldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site camping guide
Overview
About
Embark on an astronomical adventure at Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site. Here, the universe unfolds before your eyes with one of the nation's largest public telescopes. By day, bask in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and as night falls, gaze upon the celestial wonders during the park's famed evening programs. While overnight stays are not on the agenda, the park's interpretive activities and stargazing opportunities promise a day trip like no other.
When to go
The best time to visit Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site is from April 1 to September 30, when the park is open Thursday through Sunday and offers both solar and evening shows. Winter months offer a different charm, with operations from Friday to Sunday. Avoid closures by planning your visit around these times.
Know before you go
- Ensure you have a Discover Pass; an annual pass is $30, and a one-day pass is $10.
- Appointments are required for visiting, so book in advance to secure your spot.
- Remember, day-use only—overnight parking or camping is not permitted.
- Service animals are welcome, but pets and emotional support animals are not allowed in the building.
- Check the park hours before your visit, as they vary seasonally and the park closes at sunset on non-operational days.
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