• Dougan Falls is a dramatic waterfall with a deep pool at the waterfall base
As summer temperatures continue to soar, everyone needs a spot to escape the heat. The final major waterfall along the Washougal River, Dougan Falls can be seen from several roadside stops. The falls form where the Washougal River widens to more than 100 feet and then crashes 19 feet into a narrow, deep pool.
Nestled toward the end of the winding paved river road, Dougan Falls offers visitors opportunities for wading and swimming in the pristine, clear water, relaxing in the shallow waters at the top of the falls, or sunbathing on the sandy beach just below the bridge.
When water levels are high, it’s not uncommon to see many kayakers testing the waters. Picnic tables are available in the day-use area for visitors.
As one might expect, Dougan Falls attracts many visitors, which can be challenging for those seeking a more secluded spot. That said, a well-timed visit in the middle of the week can help you avoid the larger crowds.
Dougan Falls Recreation Day-Use Site is a fee area. You can purchase a Discover Pass where hunting and fishing licenses are sold, online at discoverpass.wa.gov, or by phone at 866-320-9933. An annual pass is also available.
Cautions: Cliff jumping and slippery rocks carry inherent risks—please exercise caution and make safe decisions.
Dougan Creek Campground
Dougan Creek Campground is located hardly 100 yards away from the falls allowing visitors to lounge along the river banks for more than just a day.
The campground sits has 7 first-come, first-served sites. It’s rustic, with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, and requires a Discover Pass. The forested setting and sounds of the creek make it a peaceful place to stay, though it often fills quickly on summer weekends.
Dougan Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round, 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour before sunset
Managed by: Skamania County
Amenities: Vault toilets, potable water, garbage service, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, cliff jumping, rock jumping, fishing, hiking
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Washington Discovery Pass
Elevation: 650 ft (198 m)
Dougan Falls Recreation Day Use site is located:
- 41 miles north of Portland (downtown)
- 87 miles north of Salem
- 150 miles north of Eugene.
Adventure Nearby
Directions to Dougan Falls
From I-205,
- Take exit 27 in Washington State toward Camas and merge onto WA-14
- Follow 9.1 miles east to Washougal River Road to the destination.
Hello,
I’m looking to purchase a cluster of about 20 Discovery Passes for one day for my wedding attendings at Dougan Falls. I’ve had some difficulty finding anyone who might be able to assist with this. I was hoping you might be able to help. I’m wondering if you offer a discounted rate and if you’d need license plates up front, or what have you.
Even if there is no discount available, I would really love some help and pointers with purchasing the passes. I don’t want my guests to have to worry about doing this on the day of the wedding. Any help is appreciated. Thank you so, so much.
Also, we’re understanding the Falls close at nightfall. Are there any exceptions to this? If not, this is okay too, we’re still interested. Our guests are under the impression they will have to be out by dark anyway.
Thanks again.
Check the official site where you can purchase a pass
on website – discoverpass.wa.gov