Deschutes River State Recreation Area, State recreation area at river confluence in The Dalles, Oregon.
Deschutes River State Recreation Area sits where the Deschutes River joins the Columbia River, covering 35 acres of riverfront land. The area contains multiple camping zones with facilities, fishing access, and walking paths that wind through the wooded terrain.
The park was established starting in 1955 through local Chamber of Commerce efforts, with the land acquisitions finishing in 1963. This development allowed public access to the river confluence and transformed the site into a recreational destination.
This river confluence has held deep meaning for the Warm Springs and Wasco peoples, who continue their fishing practices in these waters today. Visitors walking along the banks can sense this long-standing connection between the land and its communities.
The site offers developed recreational vehicle camping with electrical and water hookups as well as simpler tent spots, with shower facilities throughout. Spring through early fall provides the best conditions for fishing and river activities, though the area remains accessible year-round.
Trains regularly pass very close to the campground, creating a distinctive industrial element in the natural riverside setting. This proximity to active rail lines gives the place an unusual character you would not expect in a recreation area.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
