Gorge Amphitheater Camping

Your Ultimate Guide to Gorge Amphitheater Camping: Festival Tested Tips from a 7-Year Veteran

By: Adrianna Cavazos

In the summer of 2014, I got invited to go to Paradiso—I've been back every summer since. Nothing beats that first sunset at the campgrounds and the first time you set sight on the mainstage with that gorgeous backdrop of the Columbia River stretching out before you. I've had the best summers of my life at the Gorge, and it truly is magical. This guide is packed with tips and tricks to make your Gorge experience absolutely unforgettable, from parking strategies to packing essentials and everything in between.

Arriving at the Gorge: Timing is Everything

I live about 6 hours away from the Gorge, so we pack up early and arrive at the campgrounds around 2 PM (which is normally when they open). If you can take that day off when the grounds open, I highly suggest doing so! It gives you more time to enjoy the grounds, meet your neighbors, and set up camp in the daylight—trust me, setting up a tent in the dark is no fun.

The venue sits in the middle of nowhere, and as you're driving in, you'll actually pass the venue entrance first. If you're staying in a hotel, that's where you'll be able to park. Keep in mind that venue parking is day-use only, so after the show ends, you must move your car. The only way for your car to stay overnight is to purchase a camping pass. There is a farm across the street that will charge to park your car overnight, which can be useful if you're meeting your camping group on the grounds and weren't able to caravan together.

The Check-In Process: What to Expect

You'll notice a line of cars forming—by this time, your friends should be in the car in front of or behind you to ensure you can camp next to each other. Staff will be pointing you in the right direction, and everyone who is camping uses the same lane to check in. This is a long wait—you're in your car in line for hours sometimes, especially during popular festivals like Paradiso Festival. I highly recommend filling up your tank at the last gas station you see, which should be a Shell station right before you go over a bridge, about 30 minutes away from the venue.

Some cars get ushered into a different line for vehicle searches. If that car is in your group, don't worry—after they check your camping ticket, you can pull over to the side and wait for your friends. The car searches are random, so stay calm and respectful. If you're concerned about something that might get confiscated, secure it properly. Don't draw attention to yourself by yelling out the window. You're here to have an amazing time, not to cause problems.

When you get closer to the check-in tellers (there are about 4-5 of them), remember that if your friends get into a different line, you can wait for them after you pass the tellers. The tellers will check your camping ticket, give you a sticker, and direct you to the correct camping area. GA stays in the large field, while higher tiers will almost backtrack to be closer to the venue. Here is where you want to coordinate with your friends—you want them in front of or behind your car because as soon as you head to line up for your spot assignment, the cars around you become your neighbors for the weekend!

Setting Up Camp Like a Pro

I highly recommend setting up camp as soon as you park! That way it's done and you can have the rest of the evening to explore the campgrounds, make new friends, and hang out. Plus, setting up in daylight means you can actually see what you're doing and organize your space properly.

Understanding the Different Camping Tiers

The different tiers of camping vary mainly in terms of how close people are camped near you. GA (General Admission) is very close quarters—you're right next to your neighbors. Premier camping gives you more space and tends to be quieter. Then there are even higher tiers with additional amenities. I've personally camped GA all 7 years I've been to the Gorge because my group and I enjoy being in the middle of the scene and the energy.

Some people don't like GA because of the proximity to neighbors and the noise level, but it's the cheapest option and you can find all the best spontaneous parties. So many people bring setups to play music in the grounds and host impromptu gatherings. I highly recommend walking around and checking out the different camps—it's part of the experience! You'll discover incredible art installations, meet fellow festival-goers, and get inspired by creative camp setups.

Exploring the Campgrounds

Walking through the grounds, you can make lifelong friends, discover amazing parties, and see how other people set up their camps. I've seen some incredibly creative setups over the years that have given me ideas for future festivals! Some people will already be dressed in their full rave outfits while others are dressed casually—so don't feel like you're out of place no matter what you're wearing.

Near GA, you'll find The Pivot, a central area where they sell food and have different vendor shops. Always check out what they have to offer—you'll find unique festival gear, accessories, and surprises. You can also locate the GA showers and a medical tent at The Pivot. About a 10-minute walk from The Pivot (technically by the entrance of the campgrounds) is a general store. It's basically like a corner market with snacks, drinks, ice, cigarettes, and other essentials. This is a lifesaver if you've forgotten something important.

Getting to the Venue: What You Need to Know

From GA, the walk to the venue itself is about a mile—you can walk it in 25 minutes or longer depending on your pace and how often your group stops to chat with other festival-goers. When entering the venue, you'll see different entry points: GA, VIP, ADA, and Fast Lane.

What You Can Bring Into the Venue

YOU CAN BRING ANYTHING THAT IS FACTORY SEALED INTO THE VENUE. This includes water bottles, snacks, gum, chapstick, and cigarettes. Pro tip: Put all of your snacks into a large zip-lock bag so security can easily see everything without having to rummage through your belongings. This speeds up the entry process for everyone. You can bring your vape in empty—I believe your juice has to be new/sealed to bring it in, but check current venue policies to be sure.

Inside the Venue: Making the Most of Your Experience

Upon entering the venue, take time to walk around and see all the cool vendor shops and art installations. The Gorge Amphitheater has some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever experience at a festival. Most importantly: have fun, dance like nobody's watching, smile, and be welcoming to everyone around you. The festival community at the Gorge is incredible, and you're about to become part of it.

Weather and What to Wear

It can get scorching hot during the day and extremely cold at night—we're talking 90°F days and 50°F nights. The temperature swing is real, so layering is key. During the day, you'll want breathable festival tops and comfortable rave shorts to stay cool. As the sun sets and temperatures drop, having a festival pashmina or light jacket becomes essential.

It's also very dark at night once you leave the main stage area, so bring lights, glow sticks, or LED accessories. Look for camp flags during the day so you can easily remember where your camp is located. So many people get lost, especially at night, so know where you're camped! Take mental notes of landmarks, flag designs, or unique features near your spot.

The Dust Situation

Let's talk about the elephant in the room: dust. It's very dusty walking around the campgrounds and venue, and I highly recommend bringing face masks or bandanas. You will get dust boogers no matter what—it's just part of the Gorge experience. Embrace it, prepare for it, and don't let it ruin your vibe.

Planning Your Festival Outfits

One of the best parts of any festival is expressing yourself through your outfit choices. Whether you're going for a bold festival bodysuit look, comfortable men's rave wear, or planning matching rave outfits with your significant other, make sure you pack versatile pieces that work for both hot days and cold nights. Remember to bring at least one warm layer for nighttime—you can always tie it around your waist during the day.

Final Thoughts

I've had the absolute time of my life at the Gorge over the past seven years, and I hope this guide helps you do the same. The combination of world-class music, stunning natural beauty, and an incredible community makes the Gorge Amphitheater truly special. Whether this is your first time or you're a returning veteran, embrace every moment, stay hydrated, look out for your festival family, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

See you on the dance floor!

Complete Packing List for Gorge Amphitheater Camping

Essential Documents & Tickets

• Festival tickets (printed and/or digital backup)
• Camping pass (verify you have the correct tier)
• Valid government-issued ID
• Car insurance and registration
• Emergency contact information

Shelter & Comfort

• Tent (check for holes before you go!)
• Canopy or EZ-Up (there is absolutely zero natural shade)
• Tapestries or blankets for shade and decoration
• Camping table
• Folding chairs (at least one per person)
• Bedding: sleeping bag, blankets, pillows
• Sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort
• Ear plugs (GA can be loud all night)
• Eye mask for sleeping

Cooking & Food Supplies

• Portable camping stove
• Propane tanks (bring extra!)
• Lighter or matches in waterproof container
• Cooler with ice
• Utensils, plates, cups, and bowls
• Can opener and bottle opener
• Trash bags (bring way more than you think you need)
• Paper towels and napkins
• Aluminum foil and zip-lock bags in various sizes
• Dish soap and sponge for cleanup
• Non-perishable food and snacks
• Breakfast items (eggs, bread, etc.)
• More water than you think you'll need (seriously)
• Electrolyte drinks or powder

Personal Care & Health

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) and aloe vera gel
• Chapstick with SPF
• Towels (quick-dry camping towels are best)
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
• Wet wipes or baby wipes (you'll use tons of these)
• Hand sanitizer
• Feminine hygiene products
• Prescription medications
• Pain reliever (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Melatonin or sleep aids
• First aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, etc.
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antacids

Clothing for Variable Weather

• Festival outfits for hot weather (breathable fabrics)
• Warm layers for nighttime (hoodie, jacket)
• Closed-toe shoes for walking in dust
• Comfortable sandals for camp
• Extra socks and underwear (bring more than you think)
• Hat or visor for sun protection
• Sunglasses
• Bandanas or face masks for dust
• Rain jacket or poncho (weather can change quickly)

Tech & Entertainment

• Portable phone chargers (bring multiple, fully charged)
• Phone charging cables
• Power bank or solar charger
• Headphones for downtime at camp
• Camera or GoPro for memories
• Lights, lanterns, and glow sticks for nighttime
• String lights to decorate your camp

Vehicle & Emergency Supplies

• Jumper cables (you might save someone's festival!)
• Basic tool kit
• Duct tape (fixes everything)
• Bungee cords and rope
• Extra batteries for flashlights
• Cash (some vendors may not take cards)

For the Venue

• Hydration pack or CamelBak (the most important item!)
• Factory-sealed snacks to bring inside
• Factory-sealed water bottles
• Fanny pack or small backpack
• Earplugs (protect your hearing!)
• Portable fan (clip-on or handheld)

Nice-to-Haves

• Portable speaker for camp hangs (be respectful of noise levels)
• Camp flag or totem to mark your spot
• Games: cards, frisbee, etc.
• Shade cloth or extra tarps
• Misting fan or spray bottle
• Hammock if you have space

Pro Tip: Create a checklist on your phone and check items off as you pack them. Take photos of your campsite setup from different angles so you can find your way back, especially at night. Share your location with your group using a meeting spot and time in case anyone gets separated.

The Gorge Amphitheater is an experience unlike any other. With this comprehensive guide and packing list, you're ready to make the most of your camping festival adventure. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and most importantly—have the time of your life!