The best camping near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

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

88% (5 reviews)

Set up camp on the banks of the John Day River at this unpretentious park.

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Community favorites near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Cottonwood Canyon State Park

88%

(5)

Lone Tree Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Cottonwood Canyon State Park

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Top-rated campgrounds near Cottonwood Canyon State Park

99%

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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.

98%

(153)

Rivers Ridge

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · White Salmon, WA

Unbelievable views overlooking wineries and orchards, Mt Hood and Columbia River. Park your RV or tent in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Famous wineries and cherry orchards are all nearby. This is the perfect place to enjoy the wine you purchased during a wine-tasting tour! 10-minute drive to White Salmon and Hood River. Proximity to mountain biking, hiking, kiteboarding, windsurfing and more. We have one huge RV site available for campers to book. With the RV site, you have the option to book the treehouse as an “Extra”. Only one "campsite" is available on the property. Which means you're the only people out here. Peace and privacy abound. You can choose wherever you want to put your tent. I open up my land to only one group at a time. Cell service is strong at the property. Work remotely while overlooking the view, and multiple picnic table locations. The treehouse has stools and countertops/desktops to work from if you choose to rent that as well. Rowland Lake is a great swimming spot at the bottom of the road (2 miles). I look forward to hosting you!

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KLICKITAT VIEW CABIN

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Goldendale, WA

Relax and restore on the top of the hill on our 20-acre, private property. You'll have the property and 750-square foot cabin to yourself. With views of Mt. Adams, the Simcoe mountains, and a million stars, you can hike, star gaze, and enjoy fireside games at this updated cabin with a classic aesthetic. This is off-grid with electric lighting. We have a sink and pump that provides running water like a household sink. There is a porta-potty near the house and an outdoor heated shower. You'll bring your bedding, extra water for showering, and towels to make yourself comfortable. We have blankets and kitchen equipment as well as an outdoor grill and solo stove firepit. Come recharge among nature.

95%

(51)

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

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Tygh 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.

100%

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Olson Vista

1 site · RV, Tent32 acres · Lyle, WA

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.

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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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The Forest Cupcake

1 site · Lodging20 acres · 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.

94%

(243)

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.

83%

(42)

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 crawdads 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. On your left camp site is down over the bank from this sign. Please follow these directions. Exit 69 off I 80 Turn up at store to 3rd Ave Turn left go aprox 1 mile over bridge. Turn right on Carrol road. Go past the house, in less than one 8th of a mile the next drive over bank is the camp. . Butterflys on tree are at the Turn

96%

(28)

Antelope Market and RV Park Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Antelope, OR

We are located in the heart of Antelope, a rural (near) Ghost town that is rich in history and culture. This particular property is currently being cleaned up and revitalized. We would like to open it up to dry camping only at this time as we are already seeing a huge influx of cyclists and motorcycles in the area and they have no place to camp. This is dry camping only until the facilities are improved. There is porta potty onsite next to the old Rajneesh bath house (Red and white building). In the image any spot that you can find in the near 2 acres of grass highlighted in orange is the designated areas.

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Woodland Farm

1 site · RV12 acres · Goldendale, WA

Nestled in a serene countryside, framed by towering pines and majestic oak savanna, lies a peaceful farm just a short and pleasant 12-minute drive from the vibrant town of Goldendale. Here, tranquility reigns supreme as you escape into the quiet embrace of nature. Step onto the farm and be greeted by the delightful presence of our friendly mini goats, their playful antics inviting you to feed and interact with them. Wander through the shaded lavender garden, where time seems to slow down as you find solace in watching the chickens go about their daily routine. Discover two inviting outdoor pavilions, offering a perfect sanctuary for relaxation. Unwind in a comfortable seating area, surrounded by lush gardens adorned with a vibrant tapestry of plants, both beautiful to behold and delightful to taste. Or savor the flavors of a delicious meal prepared on the barbecue grill. As day turns to night, indulge in the mesmerizing art of stargazing. Find serenity on the swinging saucer bed nestled within the enchanting Shade Garden, where you can recline and marvel at the celestial wonders above. Or, gather around the captivating fire table on the front porch, as the vibrant hues of a breathtaking sunset paint the sky, casting a warm glow upon your shared moments. This haven of tranquility offers a respite from the bustling world, a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, savor delicious flavors, and forge cherished memories. Come, experience the allure of our farm, where every corner invites you to bask in the splendor of the countryside and discover moments of pure bliss.

The best camping near Cottonwood Canyon State Park guide

Overview

About

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

Tips for snagging a campsite

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

When to go

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

Know before you go

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