Deschutes River State Recreation Area Camping

Deschutes River State Recreation Area is a popular year-round camping destination at the confluence of the Deschutes and Columbia Rivers in north-central Oregon. Located just a few miles east of The Dalles and easily accessible from I-84, the park offers a scenic mix of river canyon terrain, high-desert landscapes, and rich cultural history. It serves as a gateway to the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area and provides easy access to outdoor adventures in the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and beyond.

Campground Details

The campground offers 78 total campsites across four loops:

• A-Loop: Open year-round with 34 sites featuring electric and water hookups, paved pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. These are best suited for RVs up to 55 feet in length. Water is turned off in winter, and sites are first-come, first-served during the off-season.

• B-Loop: Closed in winter; includes 14 primitive RV/tent sites with vault toilets and nearby potable water.

• T-Loop: Closed in winter; includes 11 tent-only sites with no trailer access.

• G-Loop: Group camping area with four reservable sites, each accommodating up to five RVs or tents for a total of 25 people.

Restroom facilities include a seasonal modern bathhouse with flush toilets and showers in A-Loop, and vault toilets throughout the other loops. Potable water is seasonally available at all loops. Firewood and ice can be purchased from the camp host. Reservations are available up to nine months in advance.

Activities and Recreation

• Fishing: The Deschutes River is renowned for its world-class steelhead, trout, and salmon fishing. Fishing is permitted with an Oregon State license, and a Boater Pass is required for anyone using a floating device.

• Boating: Heritage Landing, across the river from the campground, is the main boat launch and a popular spot for rafting, kayaking, and jet boating.

• Hiking and Biking: The park features over 30 miles of trails, including:

  • The Deschutes River Trail (26 miles round-trip) along the east bank for hikers and mountain bikers

  • The Rock Pile Trail (2 miles) on the west bank

  • The Ferry Springs Trail, a hiking-only loop with canyon views

• Horseback Riding: From March 1 to June 30, equestrians can access an 11-mile stretch of the Old Railbed Trail. Advance reservations are required, and there is no horse camping allowed.

• Wildlife Viewing: Spring and early summer offer excellent chances to see deer, otters, herons, mergansers, and a variety of waterfowl. The riparian zone is especially active during bloom season.

Scenery and Seasonal Highlights

Spring is a standout season at Deschutes River SRA. Wildflowers such as Barrett’s penstemon, gold stars, and Columbia pink desert parsley bloom from late February through April. The park’s high-desert environment features willows, Ponderosa pine, and grassy slopes, offering a distinct look and feel compared to the wetter forests just west of the Cascades.

Summer brings hot, dry weather—often surpassing 100°F—making the rivers a popular escape for boaters and swimmers. Campfires are prohibited between June 1 and September 30, but propane and white gas stoves are allowed. Fall is peak fishing season, and winter camping is available in A-Loop, though with limited amenities.

Park History

This area has long been significant to the Warm Springs and Wasco tribes, who continue to exercise traditional fishing rights at nearby Sherars Falls. Trapping, exploration, and settlement followed in the 19th century. The state acquired the original 30-acre tract in 1963 and expanded the park through land purchases, Army Corps transfers, and donations. In 1970, the Lower Deschutes River was designated an Oregon Scenic Waterway, protected for its natural, recreational, and cultural values.

The river corridor is jointly managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

Getting There and Nearby Services

Deschutes River State Recreation Area is located just off I-84 and is easily accessed via the Celilo-Wasco Highway. Roads to the park are paved and suitable for RV travel. On-site supplies are limited, but basic services are available in Biggs Junction and Wishram. For more extensive amenities, the city of Hood River is just 40 minutes away.

Parking is available at campsites and trailheads. Boaters heading to Heritage Landing can access the launch by crossing the Deschutes River bridge and turning onto Old Moody Road.

Visitor Tips

• Campfires are prohibited in summer, but gas and charcoal stoves are allowed.

• Cell service is generally good for Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile users.

• The park lies near railroad tracks, and train noise—including horns—is common.

• Bring extra drinking water and repair kits if hiking or biking the backcountry trails.

• Life jackets are available at the loaner station at Heritage Landing.

Why Camp Here

With easy highway access, year-round camping, diverse ecosystems, and a wide range of recreational opportunities, Deschutes River State Recreation Area is one of the best camping spots in Oregon for those who love riverside relaxation and outdoor adventure. It’s a scenic, historic, and activity-rich destination perfect for families, solo travelers, and group getaways.