Reserving Campsites in the Northwest

Oregon and Washington have inaugurated a new reservation system--the first two-state reservation service in the country--at more than 60 popular parks. It uses a toll-free number and a computer system to simplify campsite selections.

Travelers can call (800) 452-5687 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to request a campsite at the park of their choice in Oregon or Washington. Should the first choice be unavailable, operators can offer alternate dates or book a campsite at another nearby park in either state.

Travelers can make an unlimited number of reservations up to 11 months in advance with one call.

Campers pay a $6 nonrefundable reservation fee for each site in addition to the campsite rent. The fee and the first night’s campsite rent may be put on a credit card. Travelers without credit cards must reserve three weeks in advance and mail deposits within one week of making the reservation. Campers may cancel up to three days before their arrival date and receive a refund of the first night’s deposit.

Thirty-five Washington parks are on the system. Camping fees are $10 for a tent site, $15 with full hookups. At some parks there is a $1 surcharge from April 1 to Sept. 30. To receive a free brochure detailing all of the Washington state parks, call (800) 233-0321.

Oregon has 26 parks on the system. Camping fees range from $15 to $20. Information is available by calling (800) 452-5687.