Viento State Park
00 reviewExit 56, Interstate Highway 84, Hood River, Oregon, 97031, United States
Viento State Park
$7.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $7 for an extra vehicle to $50 for premium sites. Discounts may apply based on Oregon State Parks programs.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Viento State Park beckons adventurers with its dual camping areas straddling Interstate 84. This strategic location offers the perfect basecamp for exploring one of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular landscapes, where ancient forests meet the mighty Columbia River in a dramatic display of natural grandeur.
Viento State Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including RV sites, tent sites, and hiker/biker sites. Primitive camping and accessible facilities are also available.
Historical SignificanceJourney through time along the legendary Historic Columbia River Highway, where every turn reveals stories of early 20th-century engineering marvels and pioneer determination. Your stay connects you to a rich tapestry of history, with easy access to iconic waterfalls that have inspired visitors for generations and scenic trails that follow routes once traveled by Native Americans and early settlers alike.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's dramatic seasonal transformation as winter's crisp embrace brings frosty mornings and occasional snow dustings from January through May, creating a serene wonderland for hardy campers. As summer unfolds from late May through early September, the gorge comes alive with perfect camping weather, offering warm days ideal for hiking and cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at the heart of the Columbia River Gorge's dramatic terrain, the park sits where towering cliffs and gentle river valleys converge, offering campers a unique vantage point to experience the gorge's famous elevation changes and microclimates that make this region so ecologically diverse.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a verdant paradise where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead, and babbling streams weave their way through moss-covered rocks toward their eventual meeting with the Columbia River. The park's lush forest canopy provides a cool refuge, while clearings offer stunning vistas of the river's broad expanse, creating an ever-changing canvas of light, shadow, and natural beauty.
Geological RegionDiscover the wonders of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, where millions of years of volcanic activity and catastrophic floods have sculpted a landscape unlike any other. This living geological museum showcases dense temperate rainforests nourished by gentle streams, all leading to the magnificent Columbia River that carved this spectacular canyon through the Cascade Range.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers ADA-accessible restrooms, showers, and campsites. Accessible hiking trails, fishing areas, and picnic areas are also available.
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest the south campground spots are small and better suited for smaller tents or vehicles. Specific sites like C9 are noted as being 'small and with substantial rocks.'
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy is limited, with sites described as close together. However, users found neighbors respectful during their stay.
Total Campsites56 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring smaller tents for tent sites due to size limitations.
Best CampsitesUsers mentioned Tent Spot C9 and Northern Campground Spot 53.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 persons per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No specific group sites are mentioned in the available data.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNorth side of I-84 hosts A and B loops; South side hosts C loop (tent and hiker/biker sites).
Open and Closed SeasonFacilities are closed mid- to late March depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at stateparks.oregon.gov or by calling 1-800-551-6949.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability not explicitly described.
Cancellation PolicyRefer to Oregon State Parks online reservation policy for changes and cancellations.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Viento State Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities due to its location in the Columbia River Gorge. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, water sports, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic views. Additionally, the park provides access to nearby waterfalls and the Columbia River for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Hiking
The park features a one-mile accessible trail that connects Viento to Starvation Creek waterfall. This trail is part of the Historic Columbia River Highway and is open to non-motorized use. Several waterfalls, including Starvation, Cabin Creek, and Hole in the Wall, are accessible along the trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the Columbia River, but details about specific fish species or fishing quality are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is available in the river with accessible points nearby. There are no detailed safety measures or specific facilities mentioned in the sources.Biking
Biking trails connect to the Historic Columbia River Highway, offering easy terrain suitable for various skill levels. The trails are non-motorized and provide scenic views.Boating
Windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular activities on the Columbia River. The park is noted for having some of the best windsurfing spots in the Gorge.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing are available, but no specific details about species or recommended viewing areas are provided.Beach activities
Beach access is available near the Columbia River. Activities include sunbathing and picnicking, but no further details are provided.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive programs, educational activities, and a Junior Ranger Program. Specific topics and schedules are not detailed.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the park might see reduced usability due to seasonal weather conditions.Water Sports
Windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are prominent water sports available at the Columbia River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsLocated next to an active railroad line; trains can be heard at all hours. Highway noise from Interstate 84 is also prominent.
Active alertsMultiple trails are closed in the Columbia River Gorge due to fire-related damage. Visit USFS alerts for updates.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and police in Hood River (8 miles east). Nearest ranger station contact number: 541-374-8811.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingRecycling stations and trash facilities are present and conveniently located. User reviews describe these as 'convenient trash barrels.'
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Columbia River for paddleboarding, windsurfing, swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaints"Bring earplugs" is a common sentiment due to noise from trains and highway. Small tent sites are sometimes too tight for larger tents or vehicles.
HostCamp hosts are helpful and accommodating according to user reviews.
Campground Map
Exit 56, Interstate Highway 84, Hood River, Oregon, 97031, United States
Driving directionsNorth Campground (A and B campsites) - Eastbound on Interstate 84 take exit 56, at bottom of ramp turn left, proceed under the overpass. Westbound on Interstate 84 take exit 56, at bottom of ramp turn right. Proceed through day-use parking lot, road turns to the left, 5 tent sites (B) are on the left, and water/electric sites (A) are on the right. South Campground (C campsites, no trailers or motorhomes) - Eastbound on Interstate 84 take exit 56, at bottom of ramp turn right. Westbound on Interstate 84 take exit 56, at bottom of ramp turn left, and proceed under the overpass. Roadway has a slight uphill incline. Pass through day-use parking lot, camp loop is on the right.
The campground is accessible via Interstate 84, Exit 56. Road access includes slightly uphill terrain for the south campground. All roads are paved, but the proximity to the highway and active railroad makes it noisy.Nearby places
Hood River (8 miles east, approximately 10 minutes), Portland (approximately 60 miles west, around 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Hood River (8 miles east) has grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options. Walmart is approximately 10 minutes away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Viento State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with positive feedback highlighting the cleanliness of facilities, helpful staff, and beautiful location. Criticism often focuses on the campground's proximity to the railroad and highway, resulting in frequent noise disruptions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praised the 'clean and well-maintained' facilities, 'nice and CLEAN showers,' and scenic trails with waterfall access. The location was described as 'incredibly convenient' and 'beautiful,'...
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Common Concerns
Noise from the nearby railroad and highway is the most frequent complaint. Reviewers noted 'freight train comes thru at all hours' and 'traffic sound can be overbearing.' Sites were described as...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate noise from trains and the highway. Tent campers should consider smaller tents due to limited site sizes, particularly in the south campground. Reviewers recommend the...
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Seasonal Insights
Noise from the train and highway is a constant complaint year-round. Summer months are praised for scenic views and water sports, while winter sees reduced usability due to weather-related closures.
Camper Quotes
1. 'We came here after the remodel, and it's far better than it was before. There are now really nice and CLEAN showers.' (Dylan Schultz) 2. 'If you are planning to stay here, BRING EARPLUGS. I had a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 53 (north campground): 'Very small spot for tent.' C9 (south campground): 'Small and with substantial rocks.' Both sites highlight limited space for larger setups.
Accessibility Features
The campground provides ADA-accessible restrooms, showers, and campsites. No specific user reviews address the quality of these features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address pet policies or pet-related features.
Last updated August 10, 2025