Campgrounds and RV parks near Odell, OR

The Columbia River Gorge is the main draw. Hood River is internationally known for windsurfing and kiteboarding, and the same gorge winds power year-round watersports along the river. Hiking trails climb both rims of the gorge, with waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and panoramic viewpoints within a short drive of any campground in the area. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail runs directly through Viento State Park and is popular with cyclists and walkers. Families can ride the Mount Hood Railroad, tour the Fruit Loop orchards and cideries around Odell and Parkdale, or drive up to Lost Lake and toward Mount Hood. Anglers, paddlers, and swimmers can access the Columbia directly from Viento and from day-use areas near Memaloose.

The main camping season in the gorge runs roughly from mid-March or April through October. Most Oregon State Parks campgrounds in the area, including Memaloose and Viento, operate seasonally and close in winter. Memaloose typically opens in mid-March and closes October 31, with no off-season access to the park itself. Viento generally opens in mid-April and runs through October, with water sometimes still off and restrooms closed in the earliest weeks depending on weather. July and August are the height of the tourist season, with the smallest chance of rain and peak windsurfing conditions. Weekends fill quickly. April through June bring strong wildflower displays on the eastern gorge bluffs, along with a higher chance of rain. Fall lines up with the Hood River Valley harvest and apple and pear season around Odell, with cooler nights and shorter days. Winter campers are limited to private RV parks that stay open year-round, such as Gorge Base Camp; expect frequent rain, fog, and occasional snow and ice in the gorge.

Most gorge campgrounds sit close to Interstate 84 and the active Union Pacific rail line on the Oregon side, or Washington State Route 14 and the BNSF line on the Washington side. Train horns and highway noise are audible at all hours at Viento and Memaloose, and earplugs are a common recommendation. Viento offers back-in sites with water and electric hookups but no individual sewer hookups. Memaloose has paved RV sites with full hookups and a centrally located dump station, plus tent and overflow sites. Both state parks have flush toilets and hot showers. Pets are welcome on leash. The Columbia River is visible from many sites, but direct river access from camp is limited at Memaloose because of the rail line. Wind is a constant factor in the gorge; secure awnings and loose gear before leaving the rig.