Recent changes restrict primitive camping along Columbia River

Some campers may be surprised by recent closures and changes to primitive camping near The Dalles and John Day dams along the Columbia River, that began November 1, 2020. These include a transition from primitive camping to day-use only in some areas, and a maximum of seven days of primitive camping within a 30-day consecutive period at all areas.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District implemented these changes – in part – because of illegal dumping, resource destruction and vandalism at these sites. These issues have increased clean-up costs, made conditions undesirable for visitors and natural resources and impacted park ranger and law enforcement resources. 

“Our goal is to provide the best recreation experience we can for all users while also protecting resources,” said Melissa Rinehart, Portland District Natural Resource Management chief. “These changes continue to provide free camping options, while improving park environments and safety for visitors and staff.”

Closures will also allow the Corps to make park improvements, reduce costs for removal of debris and abandoned property, improve public and staff safety, and improve protection of park resources. 

These changes are the result of planning efforts that began in 2012 and the completion of the Mid-Columbia River Regional Master Plan in 2020 that included public input comment periods. All planning efforts identified management changes to primitive camping as critical in achieving sustainable recreation and resource protection.

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The Dalles Lock and Dam

*Camping prohibited at all other Corps-managed areas at The Dalles Lock and Dam.

John Day Lock and Dam

*Camping prohibited at all other Corps managed areas at John Day Lock and Dam.

Portland District’s 150th Birthday: Portland District is one of the nation’s most comprehensive and diverse civil works programs and has been supporting the people of Oregon and southwest Washington since 1871. Throughout its 150-year history, the District has been operating locks and dams along the Columbia River, managing flood risks in the Willamette Valley and Rogue River Basin, maintaining Oregon's coastal waterways for navigation, and leading the Nation in hydropower generation. The team of more than 1,400 civil servants manage these missions all while ensuring equal attention is paid to environmental protection and restoration, fish and wildlife enhancement, and world-class recreation opportunities.