In keeping with our "river" theme on this mini road trip, we drove 160 crazy Memorial Day miles to get where the Deschutes River empties into the Columbia River. Once again, the RV gods were good to us as we scored a site backing up to the Deschutes.
Deschutes River State Recreational Area - State Park Campground, near Brigs Junction: Site #A25 (59 RV sites total) - This site has: electric & water hookups. Campground Notes: flush toilets • showers • river access • trails from campground • trails nearby • 200’ elevation. May 29th - 31st. Miles driven: 160 (tap on mileage to see route).
Pros:
• Easy access.
• Good hiking oportinities.
Cons:
• Lots of freeway & train noise.
• No dump station.
• All sites are reservable.Overall Experience:
"Backyard of the Day":
Falling flower petals from the Ailanthus Altissima trees looked like snow.
Tuesday was an auto touring sort of day. We checked out a couple of Washington state campgrounds – one we liked & the other not so much. As we drove down the Columbia River on the Washington side, we caught a scenic view of the Deschutes River flowing into the Columbia & a glimpse of Mt Hood peeking up from behind the Columbia. It's fun playing tourist.
Local Flavor – Area Businesses We Enjoyed & Recommend
• Freebridge Brewing, The Dalles OR An good assortment of very well made beers. Unfortunately, we visited late in the day on Memorial Day, and they were sold out of a couple of their beers & some of the food menu items.
Found along the banks of the Deschutes River, just a short drive from Biggs Junction, Oregon, lies the Deschutes River State Recreational Area - a picturesque state park that offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for visitors. This scenic destination is a hub for a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and mountain biking to world-class fishing and whitewater rafting.
Camping at Deschutes River State Recreational Area
One of the main draws of the Deschutes River State Recreational Area is its expansive campground, which provides ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. The campground features over 50 campsites, all of which come equipped with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits, making it the perfect base camp for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
For those seeking a more rugged camping experience, the park also offers a number of primitive campsites along the banks of the Deschutes River, where visitors can pitch their tents and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the flowing water. These sites provide a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere, allowing campers to truly disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.
Exploring Hiking and Biking Trails
In addition to the campground, the Deschutes River State Recreational Area boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that wind through the stunning natural landscape. Visitors can explore the diverse terrain, which ranges from lush, forested areas to rugged, rocky cliffs, all while taking in breathtaking views of the Deschutes River and the surrounding Columbia River Gorge.
Fishing in Deschutes River
For those with a passion for fishing, the Deschutes River is renowned for its world-class steelhead and trout fishing. The park provides easy access to the river, allowing anglers to cast their lines and try their luck at hooking these prized catches. Whether you're an experienced fly fisherman or a beginner, the Deschutes River offers ample opportunities to enjoy this beloved outdoor activity.
Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
In addition to fishing, the Deschutes River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The park's proximity to the Columbia River Gorge means that visitors can enjoy the thrill of navigating the river's rapids, all while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Overall, the Deschutes River State Recreational Area is a true gem of the Oregon state park system, offering a diverse array of outdoor activities and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you're looking to camp, hike, fish, or simply soak in the peaceful ambiance of the Deschutes River, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
