Travel

Under Canvas Columbia Gorge

10 Things You Need to Know About Staying at Under Canvas Columbia Gorge

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in a luxury safari tent, surrounded by sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, Under Canvas Columbia Gorge might already be on your travel list. Under Canvas latest location, Columbia Gorge is a welcomed addition to their other locations. Glamping is a great way to camp and enjoy the outdoors but with a little touch of luxury around you.

I recently stayed there with my kids and here are the 10 things you need to know before you book — from packing tips to hidden perks that make the experience unforgettable.

1. It’s Luxury Camping, Not a Hotel

Think plush king-sized bed, cozy linens, and a wood-burning stove — all inside a safari-inspired canvas tent. Tents include bathrooms, showers, fresh towels. There are no charging outlets but the property provides charging packs for your devices.

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2. Location Is Everything

Under Canvas sits just minutes from Hood River, Oregon, giving you easy access to wineries, hiking trails, and water sports on the Columbia River. You’re in the heart of the Gorge, so every direction is a postcard view.

3. No Wi-Fi — And That’s the Point

You won’t find internet here. It’s designed to help you disconnect, unwind, and actually be present. Bring a good book, your journal, or a deck of cards — you might just remember what life felt like before constant notifications. However, cell reception was still available should you need to be contacted.

4. S’mores at Night

Thanks to minimal light pollution, the stargazing is incredible. Pack a blanket, grab a hot drink, and lie back to watch the Milky Way put on a show. The property provides all the essentials for Smores so you can roast these by their onsite campfires in the lounge area.

5. Pack in Layers

The Gorge weather changes quickly — warm days, cool nights. Bring layers you can easily add or remove, plus a warm hat and jacket for evenings around the fire pit.

6. On-Site Dining Is a Treat

There’s a café on site serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus coffee and wine. You can also take your meals to-go for a picnic along the river. There is no food allowed in your tents but they will store your cooler for you and even provide ice.

7. You’ll Sleep to the Sound of Nature

From crickets to the wind in the trees, nature’s soundtrack is constant. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs — though you might find the sounds surprisingly soothing.

8. Activities Are All Around You

Hiking, windsurfing, kayaking, and winery tours are all within a short drive. The staff is great at recommending local gems, from hidden waterfalls to the best wine tasting rooms.

9. Sustainability Is Built In

Under Canvas is eco-friendly by design, with low water usage showers, solar power, and minimal waste practices. You can feel good knowing your stay has a lighter footprint.

10. It’s a Place to Slow Down

Maybe the most important thing to know: Under Canvas Columbia Gorge isn’t about cramming in a full itinerary. It’s about sitting by the fire, watching the sunset over the river, and just… being. They have an open air lounge where you can play games, cornhole, do yoga or just relax by the fire.

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Final Tip: Book early. The Columbia Gorge location is a favorite for weddings, elopements, and summer getaways, so tents fill up fast. You can check this out or any other location with Under Canvas.

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