The best camping near Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Deschutes River State Recreation Area adventure.

88% (7 reviews)

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

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Community favorites near Deschutes River State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Deschutes River State Recreation Area

88%

(7)

Deschutes River Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Deschutes River State Recreation Area

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Nella Chestnut Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Hood River, OR

Neal Creek runs through the farm, offering a tranquil ambiance with its soothing sounds, and gentle cool breeze it brings with it. Additionally, there's a picturesque 10-foot-deep pond, fed by Shelly Creek, that a family of ducks has been calling home for years. At the right time of the year the orchestra that the frogs perform at the pond is the most impressive thing on Nella Chestnut Farm. Children of all ages can enjoy the thrill of a very tall swing on the property located right at the walking bridge that crosses Neal Creek. There are 2 full restrooms each with a shower, 1 built inside a 20-foot shipping container the other right beside it. Under the restroom container is another buried container that is literally the coolest area to cool off in. The temperature is 50'F year round. Exploring the farm is a delightful experience, guests are welcome to let their dogs roam freely. No plastic bags allowed. It is a farm and it is what animals do , there are shovels scattered around the farm so if you see something you personally do not like, grab a shovel, dig a hole & bury it, adding nutrients to the soil, the trees will be very happy to watch you and so would Mother Nature. Skaters ... and maybe some of you ... wait for it ... used to skate ... LOL ... there's a mini ramp inside a 20' shipping container so drop in. Please remember to dispose of all waste and recyclables responsibly by taking them to the Hood River Recycle and Transfer Station at 3440 Guignard Dr, Hood River, OR 97031. Remember no plastic bags please. As much as I love DEER TICK not everyone does, ticks in the spring can be nasty, I am warning you.

97%

(758)

WindWoodRivers

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Home Valley, WA

One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, St. Martin homestead-started in the late 1800s. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply in these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, 60 minutes east of Portland, 25 minutes west of Hood River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

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Roots Rise Family Farm

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Lyle, WA

Cozy boondock campground situated in the beautiful High Prairie on Friends of the Gorge land with gorgeous views in every direction. Our property has been intact here since the 1940’s and has tons of eclectic charm & history. We are excited to share this beautiful land and its bounty with anyone who feels called. We are slowly building our dreams here and love the camping community so much. Come for the peace & quiet. Stay for the adventure.

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Columbia Gorge Getaways Resort

8 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Carson, WA

Columbia Gorge Getaways (CGG) is a family-owned glamping Resort that offers clean, comfortable, and safe accommodations. We have many different accommodation types, along with spaces to gather, collaborate, and celebrate. CGG is built on a landscape that boasts outdoor activities to fuel and feed the mind, body, and soul. When you stay with Columbia Gorge Getaways, you have your choice of luxurious yurts, cozy glamping tents, or well-maintained campsites cradled under a canopy of evergreen boughs. CGG has a rich history where flora, fauna, and industry coexisted. After being purchased from a local logging company in 2017, CGG’s owners continue to manage the private 400 acres of diverse timberland. They are similarly passionate about sharing the physical, mental, and emotional benefits the forest provides. Columbia Gorge Getaways is nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. We are conveniently located near Portland, Bend, and Seattle.

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Mosier creek Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Mosier, OR

on the banks of Mosier Creek. Nice shady, private area. Several hikes from your spot. Fly fishing for brook trout, lots if craydads in creek. Wild mint, black berry's, a hammock for a afternoon nap. Flat area foe a tent, RV, small trailer. Chairs, table, hammock ready for you to come and enjoy. Oregon, has mosquitoes, snakes, deer, fox, coyotes. As of Oct 1st. Small fires are allowed. After you turn on Carrol road, you will see a dry creek road sign. The camp site is down over the bank from this sign

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(29)

Lefever Holbrook Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Goldendale, WA

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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Harvest Haven Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Lyle, WA

*Note: this is a working farm with livestock and free range chickens. Located just 1.5 miles east of the Catherine Creek Recreation area, we are perfectly located for those looking to hike, mountain bike, hunt, rock climbing at coyote wall, windsurf, wine tasting, bird watch or just looking to relax among wild turkey, deer and song birds. This campground has 3 sites that share a 1-acre field running parallel to a quiet county road. While the site offers ample space for camping and outdoor activities, be aware that you'll have neighbors nearby. Guests are free to explore an additional 30 acres of fields, woods, farm, and garden on foot during their stay. While the farmhouse is about 450 feet away, there is a tree canopy of giant White Oaks that provides some privacy from it. Unfiltered spring water is available at water spigots near camp as well as at the farmstand but guests are encouraged to purify water for drinking or bring their own drinking water. Please note that the campsites are situated along a county road, so occasional traffic will be seen and heard. Overall, the campsite offers a pleasant outdoor experience with access to various recreational opportunities . This camp is placed the amongst the great White Oaks of the quaint and charming Hillbilly Farm that rests in the heart of the Scenic Columbia River Gorge. This property is a mix of woods made of ancient oaks and Maple and grassy fields full of wildflowers in spring and has several points that offer views of the Columbia river and Mt. Hood . It also has a seasonal farm stand filled with produce and products that are all grown, raised or made right here on this farm. Additionally, there is a 1 acre garden for you to stroll thru with a U-pick salad bar and from the tomato and herb garden. Or perhaps you would like to check out the farms chickens, guinea hens and pigs and feed them apples. Be sure to meet our Kunekune pig "Petunia" who loves her belly rubbed. Another local attraction is wine tasting at one or all of the 4 wineries in the neighborhood, 2 of which are within walking distance of your camp. Beyond the camp, there are countless recreation opportunities within a few mins drive of camp including numerous hiking and biking trails, rock climbing, fishing, swimming, beaches, boating, windsports, wildlife viewing, bird watching, kayaking, paddleboarding, white water rafter.

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Justesen Ranches

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, TentsTygh Valley, OR

Justesen Ranches is family owned working cattle, wheat and recreation ranch . Our properties are located in the Columbia River Plateau in North Central Oregon. Enjoy wide open spaces, reservoirs for wildlife watching and clear night skies for star gazing. This is a leave no trace, pack it in, pack it out camping area.The property is located in Tygh Valley and is only a few minutes from the general store and the stunning White River Falls State Park. The Deschutes River whitewater rafting hub of Maupin is just a 10 minute drive away. The lodge two hours from Portland and 30 min from The Dalles.

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Waterwheel Park

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cook, WA

Once an old homestead. Learn more about this land: Hello Hipcampers. We do NOT sell firewood. Bring your own. Please read the whole description and understand the car/trailer length limits before booking. 32' (thirty-two feet) means car and trailer, not just the trailer. Smaller trailers like the teardrops or fifteen footers can be backed in easily, but if you're over 32 feet with vehicle the space to maneuver is too small. Your camp site is under tall fir trees on fairly level ground. The site is next to a county road (see pictures), but traffic is very light. Next to your camp site is a 12x20 foot deck by a clear pond with beautiful trout and a running creek. A large picnic table is provided. It is a semi private location as the owners (us) also enjoy the pond and creek, and use the driveway. You can see the main house from the campsite but it's very quite. There is absolutely NO fishing allowed in the pond! The large trout in the pond are for your viewing enjoyment. 25cent fish food dispenser. There is a clean privy; it's not fancy but it works and we use it when we're working outdoors. We think you'll find it quite acceptable. It's only a few yards from your camp site. There is a fresh water spigot between the main house and the privy to fill water bottles or water for cooking. Just lift the handle for water to flow. Pour gray water in bushes away from the camp site. Hipcampers ARE WELCOME to walk our big garden. Simply walk past the privy, over the wooden bridge and through the white gate to see flower gardens, ponds, fruit trees, and berry bushes. We love to share our space with you, however, we ask that you limit your garden walk to one time so that your walking experience is balanced with our desire for privacy. Keep gates closed and stay out of sheep paddocks. Children: This is a wonderful and fun place for children, but the waterwheel and ponds deserve your attention. Keep children safely away from the waterwheel, and be next to them when viewing it. You must be diligent if your children don't have experience with open water. Please do not allow them to throw our landscaping rocks into the ponds as I have to dig them all out later. For some reason kids love to throw rocks into ponds! Just down the road only 100 yards, is a school playground with swings, basketball courts, tennis courts and a huge field to play on! So bring your frisbee, soccer ball or any other field toys. Don't leave food out at night! That could attract unwanted furry visitors. There is a healthy population of bear and cougar in this area. These animals generally stay away from humans, but you should carry a horn or bear spray when hiking in the woods of the Columbia Gorge. Go right to your camp site. We may come greet you when you arrive if we're home, but then leave you alone to your own peace and quiet. There is parking at the campsite for two vehicles side by side, or a car and trailer. We may accommodate a third vehicle with prearrangement. Camper Trailers: The driveway is circular, so you can pull in at either entrance, get out and take a look at how best to back your trailer into its spot. Live music at your campsite is an experience we offer. Great for kids!

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Cat's Forest Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Goldendale, WA

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.

90%

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Klickitat Canyon Winery

18 sites · Tents36 acres · Lyle, WA

25 years in the making from a cattle ranch and alfalfa pasture to a scenic wildflower and wildlife haven, our farm is a working winery and vineyard. We have reestablished native wildflowers and grasses back into our vineyard in order to help conserve native prairie habitat. 80 percent of our land is oak woodland and is in the process of restoring itself from the aggressive grazing of cattle. Therefore, our farm provides a shelter for deer, turkeys, hawks, and bobcats. We enjoy these animals and give them the space that is due for sharing the land. We do almost all of our work by hand and do not own a tractor or much other farm equipment so our farm is a quiet and relaxed setting. Our property lies in a seasonal creek bottom that is an infrequent source of water in our area. Because of this all of our household water and agriculture is run from a spring and wildlife come from a distance to replenish their thirst.

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Riverwild Glampground

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · White Salmon, WA

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 but has the comforts of home. The four lodging sites include 3 glamping tents and 1 large designated parking area with hookups for an RV or trailer (20' or less). To enhance everyone's comfort level, we have two plumbed restroom buildings and an outdoor kitchen. There is a large meadow with lawn games and 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 25 from Trout Lake (to the north). Outdoor activities are endless in the Columbia Gorge - we have two superior rafting companies located nearby that can take you on a white water excursion down the White Salmon, and if wine is your thing, there are multiple opportunities for tasting and tours. Waterfalls are abundant in this area and there are a ton of hikes to see them, ranging from easy to difficult. Many of our guests comment on how peaceful it is here and that they've never slept better - so, in order to keep this space as relaxing as possible, I do not allow children unless all three tents are rented by the same party (there is a 15% discount though for renting all three!) Children are allowed if staying in an RV or trailer that is hard-sided (ie, nobody will hear the tantrums - whether it's from a child or their parent!) Unfortunately, I do not allow pets. I'm sorry!!! We have 5 of our own who live onsite and I don't want to risk any unwelcome interactions. Our cats (Daisy, Marabelle, and Baby Meow Meow) are friendly and social, so if you have allergies, please just be aware that they might come up to you for a quick visit! We also have two young dogs (Blue who is Husky/Black Lab and Rooster who is Corgie/Blue Heeler). I try to keep the dogs at our house when we have guests but should they come down to the meadow, just 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 liability - 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. If you want to try your hand at fishing, there is a small trail that leads down to the water's edge near the River House - just beware of the poison oak. Our propane fire pits are communal - one is located next to the kitchen, and one is next to the river. Both have igniters, just read the directions for lighting. We do not allow individual fire pits, nor wood-burning fires due to the county-wide burn ban that is in effect every summer. Our kitchen has a microwave, refrigerator/freezer, toaster, coffee maker, Keurig, electric skillet, 3 propane skillets and a grill, blender, cooking utensils, sink with running water, breakfast table, and extra seating. If you're bringing substantial amounts of food/beverage, you might also want a cooler, as space in the fridge could be limited. All food will need to be kept either in the refrigerator, or in a cooler or bin that animals can't get into. I offer a 15% discount when all three tents are rented by the same party, so just send me a message if you're interested in bringing friends. I'm also open to hosting small weddings/events of 50 or less - we host our own events here every summer and it's been a hit so I'm offering it up to others as well. Thank you for checking out our unique space!

The best camping near Deschutes River State Recreation Area 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.