County campgrounds opening for the season

Great news for camping enthusiasts! Three stunning campgrounds in Hood River County will open on May 1 and remain open for your adventures through October. Tucker Park and Toll Bridge Park are managed by the County Parks Department, while Kingsley Campground is managed by the County Forestry Department. Campfires will be allowed within designated fire rings at the campsites until fire season restrictions are in place. However, portable propane cooking stoves and lanterns with shut off switches are fully allowed.

Tucker Park

Tucker Park campground is a gem with 88 campsites for overnight camping, including sites for small campers (under 30 feet), tents, and one small group site (accommodating up to 10 people). Tucker Park hosts a high number of Gorge adventure enthusiasts, and is conveniently located off the Dee Highway near the Odell turn-off.

Steve and Tiffany Ryan return as camp hosts at Tucker Park. Steve is a Hood River native familiar with the area.

Toll Bridge Park

Mike Dais and Laura McGuffey have returned as Toll Bridge campground hosts for the season.

Toll Bridge Park features 83 campsites, which include partial hookup sites (water and electric) for RVs and trailers, inviting single tent sites, two small group tent sites (up to 10 people), and two large group sites (up to 20 people). Camp host Mike Dais estimates 50% of campers are locals, many who come annually. Toll Bridge Park is located off Highway 35 south of Parkdale, next to the Hood River.

Both Tucker Park and Toll Bridge Park also feature day-use areas, and remember, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site accommodates one tent, one RV, one camping van, or one vehicle with trailer, plus one additional tent and one non-sleeping vehicle. Some exceptions apply for group sites. Restrooms and coin-operated showers are available throughout both parks. For more information about Tucker Park or Toll Bridge Park, including updates on fire restriction, sitemaps, camping fees, and campsite availability, please visit hoodrivercounty.gov/campgrounds.

Kingsley Campground

Kingsley Reservoir is open for day-use and camping beginning on May 1. With the addition of Lakeside Loop last year, there are 52 campsites ranging in length from 50 to 100 feet. These sites are suitable for both tents and RVs. While these primitive sites don’t offer potable water or modern restroom facilities (only vault toilets available), the beauty of the area makes it all worthwhile. Camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, including fire restrictions, campsite availability, and camping fees, visit: hoodrivercounty.gov/kingsleycampground.

Click image for a Fish Stocking video

Additionally, Kingsley Reservoir features a new campground, day use area and staging area. The staging area is popular for ATV trail access as well as non-motorized trail options. The day use area includes a boat ramp to launch your watercraft, and the trout fishing is always a popular activity. With 3,500 legal-size trout stocked in mid-April, it’s an ideal spot for anglers. Please be aware that no combustion engines are allowed on the reservoir, which ensures a tranquil environment for everyone.

For the Kingsley day use and the staging areas, Hood River County Parking Permits are required. A daily permit costs $5, while an annual permit is $30. You can purchase Hood River County Parking Permits purchased online, or at several local shops.