Eagle Creek Campground

About

Eagle Creek Campground holds the distinction of being the first developed campground in the Forest Service system, opening in 1916 at the dawn of America's car camping era. Situated on a bluff above Eagle Creek in the central Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the campground is surrounded by classic Pacific Northwest forest of Douglas fir and maple, with osprey nesting overhead. The 17 campsites are well-spaced for privacy, each with a paved parking spot. Most sites are fully accessible. A vault toilet constructed in 2018 preserves the site's historic charm with rugged Cascadian architecture. The campground is best suited for tent camping due to the 20-foot trailer limit imposed by small spaces and tight curves on the access road. The campground is part of the Eagle Creek Recreation Area, featuring the renowned Eagle Creek Trail built along cliffs overlooking the creek. Day hikers enjoy views and wildflowers, while extended trips access Mount Hood National Forest and Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. Nearby attractions include Bonneville Dam's underwater viewing area, Cascade Locks Museum and Sternwheeler, and world-class windsurfing in Hood River.

Directions

From Portland: Travel east on I-84 to exit 41 (just past the interstate tunnel; stay in the right lane before entering the tunnel). Turn right at the off-ramp and follow signs to Eagle Creek Campground, heading south past the hatchery. From Hood River: Travel west on I-84 to exit 40 (Bonneville Dam), turn left under I-84, then immediately left onto the eastbound on-ramp. Continue east approximately 1 mile to exit 41.