Cascade Locks, OR - Jun 2009

The Port of Cascade Locks Marina was a return visit for us. We had stayed there back in 2006 and enjoyed the park so much that we knew we wanted to return and spend more time there. Sadly, we arrived to find that the RV park was reserved to a private group for the upcoming weekend, so we were only able to spend two nights.

The park consists of a marina, a RV park and a museum in addition to "the locks" which are no longer in use. This building houses the museum and used to be the home of the lock manager. It has an outstanding view out over the Columbia River.

The RV park backs up to and overlooks the locks. All 12 of the RV sites have a front row view of the many, many fishermen that line the locks to try their hand at catching salmon, trout and other river fish.

Opposite the locks is Thunder Island. There is a footbridge over the locks to the island. This is looking back from the island to the campground. On the other side of the island is the main body of the Columbia River. Downstream is the Bridge of the Gods and it can be seen from the campground.

The last time we were here was in September, so we were delighted to discover that the park is filled with rhododendrons in the spring. We arrived just in time for the peak show of blooms -- in every color possible.









Scotty enjoyed the flowers too!

The marina is home to the Cascade Locks Paddlewheel boat. We've yet to go on a cruise, but maybe next time. Here it is going past our campsite on the other side of Thunder Island on a sunset cruise.

A day trip took us along Historic Hwy 30 -- not to be tried in an RV, but a fun, twisting road in a car. We had seen most of the waterfalls along this route on our last visit, but this time we got to enjoy a view from the Vista House.

Another drive took us around the base of Mt Hood -- got this view of its snowy peak.