How much does camping cost at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Deschutes River State Recreation Area range from $10-$34/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Deschutes River State Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Deschutes River State Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Deschutes River State Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Deschutes River State Recreation Area has 13 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Deschutes River State Recreation Area is open Summer months (exact period not specified). The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Yes, Deschutes River State Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Cell phone service at Deschutes River State Recreation Area is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Deschutes River State Recreation Area have?

Deschutes River State Recreation Area has 52 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Deschutes River State Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Deschutes River State Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Deschutes River State Recreation Area: Campfires generally banned early summer through late fall due to fire bans. Propane and white gas stoves are allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.51

385 reviews

89600 BIGGS-RUFUS HWY, WASCO, Oregon, 97065, United States

Featured in:Swimming Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

180 ft

Price

$10 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

52 campsites

Season

The rest of the year...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Oregon State Parks Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

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Deschutes River State Recreation Area is a popular campground. Set up a free alert to catch cancellations.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

180 ft

Price

$10 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

52 campsites

Season

The rest of the year...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Oregon State Parks Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Deschutes River State Recreation Area

$10.00 - $34.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground fees range from $10 for primitive sites to $34 for hookup sites. Extra vehicles cost $7 per night, and fees are higher for...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$34.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Campground Map

89600 BIGGS-RUFUS HWY, WASCO, Oregon, 97065, United States

Deschutes River State Recreation Area

89600 BIGGS-RUFUS HWY, WASCO, Oregon, 97065, United States

Nearby places

Biggs Junction (approximately 4.5 miles), The Dalles (12 miles east)

Nearby supplies

Biggs Junction offers basic supplies, fuel, and groceries within approximately 4.5 miles.

Driving directionsTraveling east: On I-84 travel 12 miles east of The Dalles to the Deschutes State Recreation Area exit 97/Biggs Rufus Hwy. Continue eastbound 4 miles, cross the Deschutes River Bridge. The park is the first right after the bridge. Traveling west: On I-84 travel 34 miles west of Arlington to exit 104, turn left on Hwy 97. Go 1/4 mile and turn right on Biggs Rufus Hwy. Continue westbound 4.5 miles, turn left into park before crossing the Deschutes River Bridge. Traveling south: On Highway 97 travel approx. 10 miles from Goldendale, WA. Cross the Columbia River to Biggs Junction. Turn right on Biggs Rufus Hwy. Continue westbound 4.5 mile. Turn left into park before crossing the Deschutes River Bridge. Traveling north: On Hwy. 97 from Bend travel to Biggs Junction, turn left on Biggs Rufus Hwy. Continue westbound 4.5 miles. Turn left into park before crossing the Deschutes River Bridge.

Accessible via I-84, Hwy 97, and Biggs Rufus Hwy. Roads are paved and suitable for vehicles, but seasonal closures occur from November 1 through March 31 for certain loops. Trains and highway noise are notable issues.

Best Time to Camp at Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Fall delivers the best balance: daytime highs in the 60s-70s°F in September, cooling to the 50s by October, with nights in the 30s-40s. Water levels stabilize, crowds thin out, and cottonwoods show color. Summer heats up enough that shade matters. Wind sweeps through the canyon periodically, sometimes strong. The campground closes in winter when water is shut off and seasonal flooding risks increase. Spring and fall see milder conditions, though weather shifts quickly in Eastern Oregon.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in OR

Fall praised as best balance: milder temps, stabilized water levels, fewer crowds and cottonwood color.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer months (exact period not specified). Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The rest of the year, the park is first-come-first-serve, and limited to just the A-Loop electric sites. Water, showers, and flush restrooms are all turned off in the winter. Vault toilets and porta-potties remain open through the winter. Potable water is available in the winter from one frost-free spigot near the office. All campsites are reservable April through October, and reservable up to 6 months in advance. The rest of the year, the park is first-come-first-serve, and limited to just the A-Loop electric sites.
Current Alerts: Seasonal closures (November 1–March 31) affect several loops and water facilities. Sherwood County Fire Ban applies early summer to late fall.

About Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Deschutes River State Recreation Area sits at 180 feet elevation where the Deschutes meets the Columbia River, offering 52 sites across four loops (A, B, G, T). Mature trees shade grassy expanses that run to the water's edge. Sites range from $10-34/night and include full hookups, primitive options, and tent-only areas. Train tracks and highway traffic run close enough that many campers recommend earplugs.

The campground offers various camping types: RV sites with hookups in A-Loop, primitive tent camping in B-Loop, group camping in G-Loop, and tent-only sites in T-Loop.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best balance: daytime highs in the 60s-70s°F in September, cooling to the 50s by October, with nights in the 30s-40s. Water levels stabilize, crowds thin out, and cottonwoods show color. Summer heats up enough that shade matters. Wind sweeps through the canyon periodically, sometimes strong. The campground closes in winter when water is shut off and seasonal flooding risks increase. Spring and fall see milder conditions, though weather shifts quickly in Eastern Oregon.

ElevationElevation information is not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryTree-shaded area along the Deschutes River where it converges with the Columbia River, featuring swift green waters, river canyon views, and an oasis-like setting in the Columbia River Gorge.[2][3]

Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Eastern Oregon's dramatic landscape, this campground occupies a prime position where two of the Pacific Northwest's great rivers converge. The Deschutes River's journey ends here, merging with the mighty Columbia in a spectacular meeting of waters. This unique geological setting has created a riverside oasis characterized by verdant grassy expanses, groves of mature trees that have witnessed decades of river flow, and impressive rocky embankments carved by centuries of rushing water. The surrounding terrain tells the story of volcanic activity, river erosion, and the powerful forces that shaped the Columbia River Gorge region.

Scenic ViewsThe views include the Deschutes River and surrounding grassy areas, large mature trees, and vistas of the Columbia River Gorge.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available, with the focus being on camping accommodations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not specified

Check-out

Not specified

Stay Limit

Seasonal closures from November 1 to March 31. Summer stays may be longer but not specified.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each group area accommodates up to five RVs or unlimited tents for up to 25 people.

Groups

G-Loop group sites accommodate up to 5 RVs or an unlimited number of tents for groups of up to 25 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFour loops: A for RVs with hookups, B for primitive RV and tent sites, G for group camping, T for tents only. A-Loop sites sit close together. Loop structure follows the riverside terrain under mature tree cover.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at https://store.oregonstateparks.org under Tours/Events.

Walk-in AvailabilityA Loop operates on a first-come, first-served basis from November 1 to March 31.

Cancellation PolicyRules for changing and canceling reservations are available on the Oregon State Parks website.

AccessibilityRestrooms and showers are reported to be accessible. The campground provides accessible restrooms and showers for visitors.

Site SizeSites vary based on the loop. A-Loop sites accommodate RVs up to 50 amps, while T-Loop is exclusively for tents.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited, particularly in A-Loop, where sites are described as close together. One review mentions, 'No privacy in Loop A. We like to sleep with our doors open and screens up, but opted to hookup and run AC as people walk 15 feet behind us.

Total Campsites52 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid Site A2 due to proximity to check-in booth. Site A7 is unlevel; Site A16 recommended for level ground.

Best CampsitesPrimitive sites along river trails at Mile 6 and 8 for groups; electrical sites with water; group RV/tent areas.[3][8]

Need help booking Deschutes River State Recreation Area?

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

No, there is no dump station. The closest dump stations are located at Maryhill State Park in Washington, or in The Dalles, Oregon.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Firewood available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Deschutes River State Recreation Area is noted for its variety of outdoor activities. Popular activities include hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and swimming. It is also a hub for bird watchers, as the area is rich in geese, owls, blue herons, and more.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include proximity to railroad tracks and highway, strong wind, and seasonal flooding. Wildlife such as rattlesnakes and insects like gnats are noted by visitors.

Active AlertsSeasonal closures (November 1–March 31) affect several loops and water facilities. Sherwood County Fire Ban applies early summer to late fall.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires generally banned early summer through late fall due to fire bans. Propane and white gas stoves are allowed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not specified

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are closest in Biggs Junction, which includes access to basic facilities. Specific details on hospitals/police stations are unavailable.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling are available within 10 miles, including a dumpster in the campground. Some users noted issues such as garbage being left in bathrooms.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Deschutes River, which features rocky banks unsuitable for young children but offers swimming and fishing opportunities. Heritage Landing across the river provides a small sandy beach.

Camp HostCamp hosts are frequently noted as friendly and helpful.

Cell CoverageNo specific information available from sources.

Weather at Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

385 reviews

Top-Rated

Deschutes River State Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with many praising the campground's natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, but others expressing concerns about noise from nearby train tracks and highway traffic. Seasonal goose droppings and high winds are recurring complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 385 reviews

What Campers Love

Scenic riverside location, convenient for fishing, rafting, hiking; park-like setting with shade trees; family-friendly activities.[1][3][9]

Based on 385 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include loud train and highway noise, goose droppings covering grassy areas, limited privacy in some loops, and strong winds at times. Winter visitors have noted a lack of flush...

Based on 385 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Proximity to train tracks with nightly whistles; water shut off in winter; refer to campground map for sites; gate may be closed evenings; extra vehicles $10/night; no tents in RV sites.[1][3]

Based on 385 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highly recommended due to milder weather and functioning amenities. Summer reviews note intense winds and goose droppings, while winter reviews focus on limited facilities.

Based on 385 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms are spotless!' 2. 'Great spot off the Columbia River Gorge.' 3. 'Trains run all night, so earplugs recommended.' 4. 'The grassy areas are full of goose poop, but the views are stunning.'

Based on 385 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 24 is noted for its lilac bushes, which bloom beautifully in season but are near the bathroom. Site A2 is near the non-reservation check-in booth and can be noisy at night.

Based on 385 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible restrooms and showers are available. However, terrain challenges like rocky trails may limit wheelchair access in certain areas.

Based on 385 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, though barking dogs and off-leash behavior have created conflicts. Owners are advised to keep pets leashed due to wildlife, including rattlesnakes and coyotes.

Based on 385 reviews

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