Columbia Hills Historical State Park - United States
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About Columbia Hills Historical State Park
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2015 • (4)
2022 • New listing
2021 • (2)
2018 • New listing
2022 • (1)
2017 • (5)
2023 • New listing
2024 • New listing
2024 • New listing
Best time to visit Columbia Hills Historical State Park
Mid-April through early June is the prime window, when lupine and balsamroot bloom across Dalles Mountain in sweeping fields of purple and gold. Late spring balances mild temperatures with long daylight and relatively light crowds compared to peak summer weekends. Summer brings hot, dry weather ideal for water recreation on Horsethief Lake but elevated fire risk on grassland trails. Fall offers cooler hiking conditions and quieter campsites, while winter is the off-season with cold winds funneling through the Gorge and the campground typically closed.
Cold, windy Gorge conditions; campground typically closed for winter.
Chilly and breezy; campground typically closed, day-use access only.
Early wildflowers begin to appear on Dalles Mountain; campground often still closed early in the month.
Peak wildflower season begins mid-April with lupine and balsamroot.
Prime hiking and camping weather; busy weekends.
Warm and dry; grasses turn golden.
Hot and dry; elevated wildfire risk on grassland trails.
Hot; carry extra water and watch for fire restrictions.
Cooler evenings; good shoulder-season camping.
Crisp fall conditions with fewer visitors; campground typically closes late in the month.
Cool and wetter; campground closed, day-use access only.
Winter conditions; campground closed, day-use access only.
Things to do at Columbia Hills Historical State Park
- Temani Pesh-Wa Petroglyph Exhibit EasyRV parking available
The Temani Pesh-Wa exhibit is an outdoor display of Native American petroglyphs open daily for self-guided viewing near the Horsethief Lake area. Interpretive signage explains the cultural significance of the carvings. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Tsagaglalal (She Who Watches) Ranger-Led Tour EasyRV parking available
The world-famous Tsagaglalal pictograph and surrounding rock art can be viewed by reservation on a regularly scheduled ranger-led tour. Advance booking is required and the tour involves a short walk on uneven ground. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Horsethief Butte Trail ModerateRV parking available
Horsethief Butte is a short loop hike around a dramatic basalt formation that dominates the skyline across Highway 14 from the main park. It is a popular destination for rock climbers as well as hikers seeking Gorge views. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Crawford Oaks and Dalles Mountain Ranch Loop ModerateRV parking available
The Crawford Oaks trailhead accesses a loop through Dalles Mountain Ranch known for its spectacular spring wildflower displays. The route climbs open hillsides with wide views of the Columbia River Gorge and historic ranch buildings. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Horsethief Lake Swimming and Paddling EasyRV parking available
Horsethief Lake offers a swimming area, a small boat launch, and calm water for kayaking and canoeing. The lake was formed by the construction of The Dalles Dam and provides a cool break from the hot Gorge summer. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Freshwater Fishing on the Columbia River EasyRV parking available
The park includes nearly two miles of freshwater shoreline on the Columbia River, popular for bank and boat fishing. A valid Washington fishing license is required. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Sailboarding and Windsurfing ModerateRV parking available
The eastern Columbia River Gorge is world-renowned for consistent winds, and the park is a popular launch for sailboarding and windsurfing. Summer afternoons typically bring the strongest, most reliable breezes. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
- Bird Watching and Wildlife Viewing EasyRV parking available
The park is a strong spot for bird watching, with eagles and falcons soaring on Gorge air currents and songbirds active through the oak and grassland habitats. Spring and fall migrations are particularly productive. nps.gov/places/columbia-hills-historical-state-park.htm
Top Hosts near WA, United States
Jesse was always available to assist in anything we needed. We took the RV for a ten day trip to Banff and back and the trip went smoothly. I was most impressed with the turning circle of the Winnebago compared with other RVs we have rented in the past. I would recommend this RV to anybody looking for a comfortable road trip and a smooth experience.
Phil M. - Oct 2025
Jesse was super responsive and helpful throughout the whole process and even after drop off. There was an issue with the table (we broke it-oops) and we worked through it with no problems.
Tari M. - Jul 2025
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RV Rentals Columbia Hills Historical State Park
Columbia Hills Historical State Park, WA, United States
How to get to Columbia Hills Historical State Park
The park sits along State Route 14 on the Washington side of the Columbia River, roughly 6 miles east of Dallesport and about 100 miles (around 2 hours) east of Portland, Oregon via I-84 and the Hood River Bridge. The Dalles, Oregon is about 10 minutes away across the river, and Yakima is roughly 90 miles north. RV drivers should be aware that SR 14 is a narrow, winding two-lane highway with short tunnels and strong Gorge crosswinds, so check vehicle height and take extra care with high-profile rigs. The closest major airport for fly-and-rent travelers is Portland International Airport (PDX).
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