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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Oregon, USA

Explore Your Stay

Standard Options

  • Hotels & Motels

    Budget-friendly to independent boutique properties in Hood River, The Dalles, and Stevenson.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Full homes, apartments, or cabins, ideal for families or longer stays. Access options via Airbnb or Vrbo.

  • Bed & Breakfasts

    Charming B&Bs, especially in Hood River, offering personalized service.

  • Developed Campgrounds

    State and Forest Service campgrounds with basic amenities. Reserve well in advance.

Unique Stays

  • Boutique Hotels

    The Society Hotel Bingen and Hood River Hotel provide historic charm.

  • Lodges & Resorts

    Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, offering a relaxing, amenity-rich experience.

  • Dispersed Camping

    Permitted in some National Forest areas. Adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

  • RV Parks

    Full hookups available in and around Gorge towns for recreational vehicles.

Neighborhood Guide

Each town and area within the Columbia River Gorge possesses its own distinct character.

Hood River, Oregon

Benefits
  • Central for accessing Gorge attractions.
  • Many dining, shopping, and activity choices.
  • Lively, energetic atmosphere.
  • World-class wind sport destination.
Considerations
  • Can be expensive.
  • Crowded, especially in summer.
  • Parking challenges.
  • High demand.

Stevenson, Washington

Benefits
  • Often more affordable lodging.
  • Good access to northern Gorge trails.
  • Generally less crowded.
  • Laid-back atmosphere.
Considerations
  • Fewer dining and shopping options.
  • Cross Bridge of the Gods for Oregon side.
  • Less variety.
  • Travel for amenities.

The Dalles, Oregon

Benefits
  • More budget-friendly accommodation.
  • Numerous historic sites and museums.
  • Good access to eastern Gorge activities.
  • Rich in history.
Considerations
  • Further from main waterfall corridor.
  • May feel less like the "Gorge" experience.
  • Different landscape.
  • Longer drives to western sights.

Important Considerations

Safety & Proximity

All communities within the Gorge are safe. Consider proximity to desired activities; Hood River is central, while Troutdale is closest to Portland and the waterfall corridor.

Atmosphere & Noise

Hood River is lively, especially downtown. Stevenson and Cascade Locks are quieter. Choose a location based on your preferred atmosphere.

Booking Strategies

Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-September): Book 3-6 months ahead for hotels, B&Bs, rentals. Campgrounds need 6-12 months.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, October): Book 1-3 months ahead for desired properties.
  • Low Season (November-March): 2-4 weeks ahead usually enough, but weekends still fill.
  • Use trusted platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and TrustedHousesitters.

Policies & Prices

  • Walk-in rates: Negotiation is not common for established hotels. Online booking often results in the best rates.
  • Deposit and Cancellation: Policies vary by property. Check cancellation terms carefully. Vacation rentals often have stricter rules.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices are higher in summer and during special events. Lowest prices occur in winter, excluding major holidays.
  • For Campgrounds: Use Recreation.gov for federal sites and the Oregon State Parks reservation system for state parks.

Important Considerations

Seasonal Booking
  • Plan early for peak seasons to secure desired lodging.
  • Demand is highest for summer and holiday weekends.
  • Consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and better rates.
  • Availability diminishes rapidly for popular spots.
Policies Vary
  • Always review deposit and cancellation terms before confirming your stay.
  • Understand fees for early departure or changes.
  • Some properties have non-refundable policies.
  • Read the fine print for full clarity.

General Booking Tips

Best Rates

Online booking platforms often provide the best rates for established properties.

Campground Specifics

Federal and state campgrounds use dedicated reservation systems.

Direct Contact

Consider calling properties directly for special requests or last-minute availability.

Top Picks

Here are tailored choices for diverse budgets and travelers in the Columbia River Gorge.

Budget-Friendly & Unique Stays

Bridge of the Gods Motel, Cascade Locks

Offers basic, clean rooms. Budget range: $80 - $120 per night.

  • Good location for PCT hikers.
  • Close to Bridge of the Gods access.
  • Limited amenities.
  • Simple and functional.
The Society Hotel Bingen, Bingen, WA

Unique hostel-style accommodation in a converted historic schoolhouse. Budget range: $40 - $70 (dorm).

  • Offers dorms and private rooms.
  • Shared baths, communal spaces.
  • Cafe and bathhouse on-site.
  • Social atmosphere for meeting others.

Mid-Range & Resort Comfort

Hood River Hotel, Hood River, OR

Historic hotel downtown. Budget range: $150 - $250 per night.

  • Charm and convenient location.
  • Close to restaurants and shops.
  • Boutique experience.
  • Central base for exploration.
Skamania Lodge, Stevenson, WA

Resort-style lodge with golf course, spa, and dining. Budget range: $180 - $300 per night.

  • Overlooks the Columbia River.
  • Good for a relaxing stay.
  • Extensive amenities.
  • Nature immersion with comforts.

Premium & Family Options

  • Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa, Hood River

    Historic, elegant hotel with stunning river views, gardens, and fine dining. Budget: $300 - $500+.

  • The Lodge at Columbia Point, Hood River

    Upscale boutique hotel with modern amenities, river views, and outdoor hot tubs. Budget: $250 - $450.

  • Best Western Plus Hood River Inn, Hood River

    Riverfront location, indoor/outdoor pools, standard amenities. Good for families. Budget: $160 - $280.

  • Private Vacation Rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo)

    Wide range of cabins to full houses, often with multiple bedrooms and kitchens. Budget: $150 - $400+.

Solo & Long-Stay Choices

  • The Society Hotel Bingen (Dorm), Bingen, WA

    Social atmosphere, well-suited for meeting other travelers. Budget: $40 - $70 (dorm).

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo)

    Best option for stays over a week, with potential for longer booking discounts.

  • Bridge of the Gods Motel, Cascade Locks

    A simple, clean option for solo travelers seeking functional lodging.

  • Hood River Hotel, Hood River

    A boutique choice for a solo trip, centrally located for convenience.

Booking Platforms

General & Hotels

Find diverse accommodation types and competitive rates on these platforms.

Rentals & Unique Stays

For homes, cabins, and house-sitting opportunities.

Consider Your Preferences

Budget & Duration

Match your choice to your budget range and the length of your stay.

Travel Style

Solo, family, or romantic trips find different options. Consider if you prefer privacy or social settings.

Location & Activities

Your chosen base affects travel time to desired attractions and activities.

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