The Dalles Lock and Dam
RV Guide
Introduction
Recognized as one of the ten largest hydropower generating dams in all of the United States, The Dalles Lock and Dam is a great place to enjoy an RV friendly day-trip. Located in Klickitat County, Washington, and Wasco County, Oregon, The Dalles Lock and Dam was built from 1952 until 1957 and is still owned, operated, and maintained by the U.S Corps of Engineers. As a result of its construction, the oldest settlement continuously inhabited settlement in all of North America, Celilo Falls, was permanently submerged. The dam is around 192 miles upstream of the Columbia River, and its main purpose is to provide electricity and flood risk mitigation to residents near the dam.
One of the benefits of this mammoth industrial wonder is that it has created some great recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Nine main recreational areas vary between being parks, boat launch areas, and historical sites. The Dalles Lock and Dam also has its own Visitor Center that features a short film on the dam, interactive displays, and a projection of fish migrating the fish ladder that is found within the waters of the dam.
If you want to remain close to The Dalles Lock and Dam facility, you are permitted to park your RV and camp for free at Celilo Park, which is operated by the U.S Corps of Engineers. Other more luxurious options include private RV campgrounds that are also closeby. Peak season at The Dalles Lock and Dam runs from the beginning of May until the end of September.
RV Rentals in The Dalles Lock and Dam
Transportation
Driving
The Dalles Lock and Dam is located right near the border of Oregon and Washington, around 87 miles east of Portland. Since multiple recreational areas are part of The Dalles Lock and Dam project, there are multiple ways to reach the lake. However, the main entrance and visitor center is on the Oregon side of the border.
This is one of the best COE lakes to drive to if you are a beginner since the roads are all very well maintained, and there are no sharp turns or switchbacks that you will encounter. It will also be very simple and straightforward to pick up any supplies on the way since The Dallies has numerous stores, and the Washington side has a few small towns, such as Wishram, Dallesport, and Lyle. Portland will be the best place for you to stop if you are looking for anything only found in major cities.
Accessing the campground at Celilo Park could be the easiest that you ever encounter since it is literally a flat carpark located right off the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway. During the wintertime, the area does experience snow. However, you should still be able to pull in and stay here if you decide to travel during this time.
Parking
There are plenty of parking options in most of the recreational areas and the Visitor Center at The Dalles Lock and Dam.
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in The Dalles Lock and Dam
Campsites in The Dalles Lock and Dam
First-come first-served
Celilo Park Campground
It may not be the most beautiful campground in the world, but if you are looking for a place to stay at the price of nothing you should consider staying at Celilo Park. The park has a large parking lot that is available for RVs of all shapes and sizes to enjoy that you can stay at for up to 14 days. The parking lot does have some shaded areas thanks to some large trees and you will have an Awesome view of the Columbia River.
Since the campground is in a carpark there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups and no showers. Despite this, there are some toilets available and you will be close enough to town facilities to still feel comfortable.
There are no reservations available for the Celilo Park Campground, but it is open all year round. If you plan on visiting during the summer months it can be quite busy, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Seasonal activities in The Dalles Lock and Dam
In-Season
Visitor Center
The Dalles Lock and Dam has one Visitor Center that should be a must-see for any visitors to the dam. Located on the Oregon side of the dam project, the Visitor Center is a great way to learn more about the area in fun and exciting ways. One of the unique features of the visitor center is that you can take a guided tour via train around the project so you can get up close and personal with this impressive structure. Inside the Visitor Center, you will also find interesting displays, a film on the dam, and a projection of the fish ladder. The Visitor Center is open all year round with varying opening hours.
Boating
While boating isn't allowed inside the dam, there is a 24-mile reservoir (known as Lake Celilo) that is perfect for boating. During your visit, it is likely that you will see many different kinds of watercraft out on the lake, including windsurfers, kayakers, and fishing boats. If you have your own boat, you'll find many ramps that you can use, including one at Lake Celilo Park. Here you will also find a lifejacket loaner station so that you can be safe when out on the water.
Picnicking
For those interested in having a picnic during your visit to The Dalles Lock and Dam, there are many picnic areas for you to choose from. Most of the picnic areas are located within the recreation areas and include amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.
Some of the more popular picnic areas are at Patterson Park and the Visitor Center. Remember that if you need any picnic supplies, there are many smalls towns located close-by.
Off-Season
Fishing
No matter the time of year that you visit, fishing is a very popular way to spend time at The Dalles Lock and Dam. The fishing ladder within the dam allows migrating species to migrate throughout the year, which has resulted in a healthy fish popular that is waiting for you to try and catch. Some of the popular species targeted by anglers include salmon, smallmouth bass, steelhead, walleye, and sturgeon. Remember to bring your own fishing gear as none is available for rent.
Seufert Rose Garden
If you want to experience a tranquil time during your visit, pay a visit to the historic Seufert Rose Garden. Located near the Visitor Center, the garden features many different species of roses, and it is free for anyone to visit and enjoy. There are no reservations required if you want to visit, so you can stop by for a quick visit or take a few hours to enjoy the peace and quiet.
Discovery Center Museum
Once you are finished hanging out at The Dalles Lock and Dam, there is a fantastic museum within the town of The Dalles that highlights the history of the Columbia River and its associated areas.
Open all year round, the museum is the official Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area interpretive center and features many great displays and exhibitions. For more information on the museum and to book tickets, you can check out their website.
