Family Friendly Hotels in Washougal, WA

Just east of Vancouver, Washington, the small city of Washougal offers a genuine Pacific Northwest escape where the Columbia River meets the forested slopes of the Cascade foothills. The main draw is direct access to outdoor adventure. Paddlers launch into the river at the Port of Camas-Washougal, while hikers and mountain bikers head straight for the challenging trails of the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge or the nearby Dougan Falls. It’s a place where you can watch windsurfers skim across the water from Captain William Clark Park at Cottonwood Beach, a site steeped in Lewis and Clark Expedition history.

Washougal is ideal for active travelers and families looking for a quieter base close to both nature and the amenities of the Portland-Vancouver metro area. Staying near the waterfront or along Washougal River Road puts you closest to recreation. While having a car is the most convenient way to explore the Gorge, the city is connected via Washington State Route 14 and is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. The pace here is relaxed, suited more to a weekend of hiking and river views than a busy urban itinerary.

Accommodation here is straightforward and functional, dominated by reliable chain hotels and a few independent motels that cater to road trippers and outdoor enthusiasts. On HOTEVI, you’ll find options like the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Portland East - Camas for modern comforts and the more budget-friendly Best Western Plus Camas Washougal Inn. Both provide the essential comforts after a day spent on the river or the trails.