The Gorge Amphitheater, located in George, Washington, is one of the country's most popular outdoor venues for shows. Located a few hours from both Seattle, Wash., and Portland, Ore., the Gorge hosts large concerts and music festivals like Sasquatch, held each year on Memorial Day weekend since 2002 and featuring performers in the past such as R.E.M., Coldplay and Nine Inch Nails. One of the advantages of seeing a show at the Gorge is the ability to camp right at the amphitheater!
On-Site Camping
While there are other campsites nearby that cater to people seeing a show at the Gorge, the amphitheater also offers an on-site camping facility for its patrons. This site is open 24 hours a day, which allows you to check in late right after the show finishes. According to GorgeConcerts.com, you are welcome to stay at the site both the night before and the night following the show.
Fees
Parking is free at the Gorge, but if you choose to camp, you will have to pay for your vehicle and for the people in your party. As of 2010, fees for camping at the Gorge cost $40 per vehicle and $10 per person. You can purchase camping tickets at the campground itself when you arrive for the concert or on the Internet at Ticketmaster.com to secure a spot.
Amenities and Rules
Camping at the Gorge is not the most glamorous experience. Bathrooms are portable toilets with running water nearby for hand-washing. There are limited showers, and the site can be noisy from post-concert partying. A basketball court is nearby for those who want to join a pick-up game. You are not allowed to bring pets to your campsite, and open fires are prohibited. However, there is a convenience store in the site if you need anything while there.
Premier Camping
The Gorge also offers a premier campsite that costs $60 per vehicle, as of 2010. This extra money allows you to camp with more amenities and fewer neighbors. Besides more privacy, people who opt for premier camping are also given private bathrooms, showers, complimentary coffee and early entry into the amphitheater for better seating at shows with general admission. People who opt for premier camping are also taken to and from the Gorge Amphitheater in an air-conditioned shuttle.
Considerations
There are other, smaller campsites located in towns near the Gorge. While you will have to drive a few miles after the show, these campsites are more private and provide better amenities than the ones directly at the venue. For example, the town of Vantage is only 13 miles away and offers a few camping options that include flush toilets and private sites.
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