History of windsurfing in the Gorge with Doug Campbell
July 25, 2025 @ 7:00 pm
Embrace the Wild Wind: a history of water sports in Hood River Presentation Series: Doug Campbell (Hood River Windsurfing)
The History Museum of Hood River County announces a new temporary exhibit, “Embrace the Wild Wind: a history of water sports in Hood River”. The Museum will host a series of presentations by local residents with ties to the wind sports community. The twice monthly events feature topics such as windsurfing in the 1980s, creation of the kite ski, and insight into the watersports industry.
July 25 Doug Campbell (iconic windsurfer and founder of Hood River Windsurfing, now Doug’s Sports); learn what it was like to be a business owner and wind surfer in Hood River for over 50+ years.
Hood River, nestled at the confluence of the Hood and Columbia Rivers, has long been a global hub for water sports, particularly windsurfing and kiteboarding. Since the 1980s, the area’s unique geography has attracted enthusiasts from around the world, earning Hood River the title of “Windsurfing Capital of the World.” Embrace the Wild Wind explores how the region evolved from a quiet agricultural community to a premier destination for water and wind based recreation. Join us at the History Museum of Hood River County to celebrate the currents of history that make Hood River a water sports paradise.
The History Museum of Hood River County invites you to join us in celebrating Hood River’s unique place in water sports history. The exhibit offers insight into the growth of water sports in the Gorge, and also showcases how our community continues to innovate, inspire and grow through water sports.
Admission for each presentation is $8/members and $10/non-members. Tickets can be purchased in advance at hoodriverhistorymuseum.org or at the door. Seating is limited.
For more information, contact us at (541) 386-6772
The Museum is located at 300 E. Port Marina Drive, Hood River, OR 97031 (yellow MUSEUM building, past the DMV near the marina).
