The best camping near Columbia Hills State Park

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

50% (2 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Columbia Hills State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Columbia Hills State Park

Columbia Hills Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Columbia Hills State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbia Hills State Park

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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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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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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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Retired DNR Fire Watch Cabin

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Trout Lake, WA

Looking for an off grid'ish experience but want some of the comforts of home? **NOTE** Cabin will be decorated with traditional holiday decor from November 22nd - January 2nd** 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 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! 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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Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · White Salmon, WA

💥❣️💥Thrilling Delights of Amazing Starlit Nights (5/10 - 5/14*) 💥❣️💥 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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Waterfall Sanctuary

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Carson, WA

Happy 2024 Hipcampers! Just some notes- we are currently in a burn ban, so no campfires or charcoal grills, but you can bring your propane cookstoves or use our propane grill at the community cooking area. Check out our newest additions!! - a fully furnished 2-bedroom house that sleeps 6 (Site 8 and the only site with electricity and running water) - A gorgeous geodesic dome that can sleep 6 (Site 3) - A super cute converted blue bus that sleeps 4 (Site 5) - 2 RV/Van/Bus/tent spots, the first one can manage up to 30 feet and the second 40+, both with picnic tables and umbrellas (Sites 9 and 10) Note: If you are looking to book the property for a retreat please go to the business website or contact me directly for answers to all the questions you might have about a kitchen (in site 8), amenities if you don't see them here, special considerations, etc.! Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you! BEFORE BOOKING: Please read through all of the rules and restrictions- due to inconsiderate guests we have had to update rules and add new ones. Thank you. **IF YOU ARE BRINGING YOUR DOG: PLEASE read ALL the rules for your pet- especially the one about having your dog on a leash AT ALL times while you are on the property. Take note that there is a nightly fee when you bring your dog (MAXIMUM 2 dogs per site), make sure to select it under 'Extras" when you book! More info under the pet rule section. Thank you! Waterfall Sanctuary is a hidden gem at the end of a dead-end road on 17 acres of land, bordered on two sides by the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge just outside of Carson, Washington, Waterfall Sanctuary is home to a mini-farm with goats, ducks, and chickens. Deer and elk walk through the property on a fairly regular basis depending on the season, it's less than a mile walk (or a short drive) to the Wind River and a perfect swimming hole with a rope swing, and another short distance further down the road is the Pacific Crest Trail. A 20-minute drive and you're at the Columbia River, the world destination for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Water equipment can be rented from nearby businesses or you can book a whitewater rafting trip on the White Salmon River. An hour from the property to the West is Portland, Oregon if you are in the mood for some city life, and about 40 minutes to the east is Hood River, Oregon, a gorgeous old town with tons of charm, shopping, breweries, and great restaurants. Drive the Fruit Loop or do a winery tour. The closest town, Stevenson, Washington is also home to adorable shops, great local restaurants, and access to the Columbia River as well. Also in close proximity are multitudes of amazing waterfalls, Panther Creek Falls and Falls Creek Falls being the two closest. National Forest roads are close by and well maintained. No matter the season there is something to do a short distance from the property. Please, keep in mind that the property is very rugged except for the trails we have provided for our guests to be able to access other parts of the property. We keep it that way not only so we can attract the copious amounts of wildlife that are a joy for our guests to experience, but also to be more environmentally and ecosystem friendly. We are also off grid and as sustainable as possible- no electricity or running water is available, although we provide battery or solar operated lighting, and a container of water for each spot that we will happily refill for you during your stay.

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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.

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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.

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Forest Retreats in White Salmon

6 sites · Lodging, Tents57 acres · White Salmon, WA

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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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

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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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The Snowden Yurt

1 site · Lodging2 acres · White Salmon, WA

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

The best camping near Columbia Hills State Park 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.