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TenOC's avatar
TenOC
Nomad
Jan 13, 2018

Ainsworth SP to John Day Dam Rufus, Oregon

Due to a mix up in my trip planing, we need to spend 3 to 5 extra days in the Columbia River I-84 area east of
Ainsworth State Park.

We current have reservations at Ainsworth SP for July 4th and plan to move to the free campsite below John Day Dam after we are "kicked out" of Ainsworth.

Any suggestion on what to do to kill a few days in the Rufus OR area. Or should I go to Mt Hood? . . . :h
  • From Ainsworth take the Bridge of the Gods (worth it) to the WA side. I you are fit take the Beacon Rock trail to the top, that's something you won't soon forget. There is a nice campground up the hill in Beacon Rock State Park but I don't think any of the sites will accommodate your trailer. Stonehenge on the other side of the river is interesting. Maryhill Winery has a couple of free very nice bocce courts and the vistas are wonderful.

    Then you could go up the hill towards Goldendale. There is a turnout where you can watch the wind turbines spin. Oh boy!
  • We spent a week near Trout Lake, WA last year, which is not so far from Ainsworth SP. We had fun exploring the roads around Mt. Adams. Lots of fun day hikes, too.
  • Plenty to do - get out and explore!

    **White River Falls near Tygh Valley (OR)

    **Petroglyphs and pictographs at Columbia Hills State Park (WA); hopefully sign up for short walk to go see "She Who Watches" - Fridays and Saturdays only

    **Wineries

    **Giraffes, zebras and camels!! On Washington side near Dallesport, Hwy 14, look for small white sign on north side of road for Schreiner Farm. Turn up the driveway to see their exotic animal collection from your vehicle.
  • one thing is for sure. you will not have to worry about a traffic jam in downton rufus. there is the maryhill museum and stonehenge just across the river.
    that and counting the cars or rail cars passing by is about it.

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