Washougal National
The competition is heating up! Don’t wait to get your RV on the road and attend the Washougal National MX event in Washougal, Washington.
Event information
The Washougal National motocross event is a significant round of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship series held every year across the nation. Dozens of riders from many countries make their way to Washougal MX Park in Washougal, Washington, to try their luck at getting that coveted first place position. In the past, Washougal National has even seen famous and talented riders such as Ryan Dungey, Ricky Carmichael, and James Stewart.
Held during July, the Washougal National at 40205 NE Borin Road is a standout event on Washougal’s calendar that brings hundreds of motocross-mad fans to the area to watch. But alongside the wheel-to-wheel racing action, the facility itself is yet another reason to dust off your RV and trundle your way down to Washington.
Washougal MX Park boasts a special RV camping area, expansive day parking options, infield track viewing, a sponsor village, a private fishing area, picnic areas, and more. It’s a fun, family environment that will surely be the highlight of your summer vacation.
Washougal, on the outskirts of Portland, is also central to many outdoor attractions to make your stay in the area that much enjoyable. Go hiking at Gifford Pinchot National Forest, or explore Clatsop State Forest, Mt. Hood National Forest, or Tillamook State Forest. Those who love being outside in nature may also enjoy the opportunity to go fishing at Round Lake and hiking at Steigerwald Lake Wildlife Refuge.
The competition is heating up, and this round of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championships could be the decider. Plan your summer vacation today and enjoy time away with family and friends you won’t forget.
Tickets
When you decide to attend the Washougal National motocross event, you’ll need to put thought into your ticket options. You can amplify your experience with super passes, or purchase general admission with cash on the day. Traditionally, children under five have been free, and those six and older were $15 for one day and $25 for two. Camping costs are additional.
Explore Washougal National RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Washougal, a Clark County city in Washington, is 19 miles east of Vancouver along SR-14 and is positioned on the Columbia River Gorge, with Washougal River running through the town. It’s near the border of Washington and Oregon and is also easy to access from Portland, the center of Washington, and even Seattle.
Those who are not familiar with the area will be blown away by the beauty of acres and acres of natural woodlands and state parks. It’s a truly magical part of the country and one that will prove to be as memorable as the Washougal National itself.
However, for peace of mind, don’t forget to monitor road and weather conditions with the state's 511 services online or by phone. Summer travel means you will want to remain up to date with congestion, any delays, and potential diversions. You can then access Washougal MX Park from NE Borin Road on the outskirts of the city.
Parking areas
RV, pilot vehicle, and car parking is adjacent to the paddock gate by Borin Road onto the gravel road labeled Motocross. These parking spaces are grassy and proximate to the race track for convenience. RV-goers are more than welcome to park their RV in this area, but those camping have a dedicated area to land. Given the lack of limitations for large vehicle parking, you’ll likely see no need to arrange alternative transportation to the motocross park.
Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this small city, which means the best mode of transit for the Washougal National will be your RV or pilot vehicle. Those who want to explore the city and its surroundings once the MX race events are over can either use their RV or navigate the area on their bicycles as an added adventure.
Where to stay
Onsite
Washougal MX Park not only offers a high-quality race track that MX riders around the nation adore but a quality camping area for RV-goers as well. You can use both charcoal and propane grills, your generator, and have an RV and trailer of any size on MX park grounds.
While there are no electricity, sewer, or water hookups, there will be a sewer pumping service available if you require it. You are also within proximity to the race track action from your parked position, as well as the nearby city for all life’s amenities.
Nearby
If you’re all about riverfront views and getting back to nature, then Washougal delivers. For those who prefer to camp away from the motocross facility, there are plenty of options. Primitive RV camping options are available a little off the beaten track, and state parks, RV parks, and resorts are within a short driving distance of Washougal MX Park.
Beacon Rock State Park and Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA both offer camping near the Columbia River less than 30 miles from the racetrack. Close to the time of championship events such as the Washougal National, accommodation providers book up fast. Secure your spot sooner rather than later to avoid missing out on your preferred location.
Getting around
When you arrive at Washougal MX Park, you’ll be blown away by the natural surroundings and serene environment. This park is expansive, peaceful, and a delight to navigate on foot. All the action is within a short walking distance of RV parking, and there are even picnic areas and a stocked fishing pond to drop in a line. Getting around Washougal MX Park, even though you can’t use pit bikes, shuttles, golf carts, or similar, will be an adventure all on its own.
What to pack
Clothing
Washougal enjoys warm and dry summers, but not scorching hot ones like other parts of the country. You may be comfortable in shorts and t-shirts during the day, but wear long-sleeved tops and pants once the night sky blankets the area. Given the sheltered position of the motocross track, some areas of the facility may be cooler or hotter than others. Make sure you wear comfortable footwear and ensure your toes are covered if venturing into the pit area.
Gear
The Washougal National is a two-day event (with one day of racing), where visitors will be spending the majority of their stay outside. Make sure you prepare accordingly by packing all the camping and cooking equipment you will need to stay comfortable.
Once the racing gets underway, you’ll see the value in carrying cash and ID for vendor purchases or alcohol, binoculars to ensure you don’t miss a thing, and earplugs to limit the sound from those raucous 450cc engines.
Health & Safety
Being outside for the entirety of the Washougal National can take its toll if you’re not prepared. Pack plenty of sun safety supplies, such as sunscreen, hats and glasses, and lip balm, and make sure your onboard first aid kit is fully stocked. Bug spray, given the proximity to wooded areas, may also prove convenient. Having an abundance of drinking water on board will ensure you remain hydrated in the warm summer sun.
Where to eat
Cooking
Due to the summer conditions and densely wooded area, campfires are not allowed. And although you might have been looking forward to an authentic campfire experience, you’re still going to have a few other cooking methods. You can use your onboard kitchen appliances, a charcoal grill, and a propane one as well. There are plenty of ways to prepare those hot dogs, loaded potatoes, and camp-style chili.
You can also pick up groceries within ten miles of the track. For convenience, it pays to have everything you need before you attend the Washougal National.
Restaurants
If you’ve worked up a hunger and want to break away from the constraints of your grill, then wander into Washougal and check out what the locals are dishing up. Running parallel to the Lewis and Clark Highway is an abundance of eateries to satisfy that hunger. Enjoy fast food if you’re in a hurry, or sit down and enjoy Chinese food, Mexican, American fare, and Italian. Most eateries in Washougal are within a 10 to 15-mile driving distance of Washougal MX Park.
Vendors
Make sure you’ve got plenty of cash on you, for you’re not going to want to miss out on the food and beverage offerings at the Washougal National. There are food courts and beer gardens near the camping area and finish line of the race track. As long as you’ve got a valid ID, you can quench your thirst with a frothy beer, or fill empty tummies with hot or cold food. There is also an ATM nearby to withdraw cash, as this is the only payment type that vendors accept.
Safety
Security
As with any form of motorsport, it’s paramount that you’re aware of your surroundings and take care of yourself while navigating the grounds. Never turn your back to riders going past, and don’t bring in any dangerous possessions that could put yourself or others at risk. Drones, glass, outside alcohol, and weapons are not allowed at this MX park. You may approach a security official at any time for help, but the nearest police station in Washougal is a mere nine miles away.
Weather
If you’re never all that comfortable traveling in summer because of the scorching hot conditions, then you’re heading to the right event! Washougal, while warm and dry in summer, doesn’t experience those high temperatures that are frequent in neighboring states.
Often, temperatures don’t rise above 75 degrees, and the forested MX park offers plenty of shade and shelter, too. If you are spending a lot of time on the road, don’t forget to top up your coolant, check your oil, and fill your water tanks.
Medical
There is often nothing more frustrating than an injury while on vacation, but it happens to the best of us. Receive expert care fast thanks to the first aid site and trained professionals by the finish line of the race track. For any serious medical events or injuries, phone 911. There is also a health center within 30 miles, and a pharmacy within the same distance.
