Best Campgrounds near Timber, OR
The small community of Timber, Oregon serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Tillamook State Forest, with options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive sites. Reehers Camp, located directly in Timber, offers limited first-come, first-served spots with horse camping facilities and access to the Nehalem River. Just a short drive away, L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park provides multiple camping areas including Dairy Creek East and West campgrounds with full hookups for RVs, plus the specialized Hares Canyon Horse Camp. The Tillamook State Forest also features free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking more solitude, while Gales Creek and Elk Creek campgrounds offer established sites with basic amenities within 30 minutes of Timber.
Many forest roads in the Tillamook State Forest require high-clearance vehicles, particularly when accessing dispersed camping areas. The camping season generally runs from May through September, though some sites like Gales Creek specifically operate from May 20 to September 26. Water quality can be inconsistent at primitive sites, as one camper noted about Gales Creek: "There is a water pump, but I highly recommend filtering/boiling the water. It smells bad." Crowding is common at established campgrounds during summer weekends, especially at popular sites. As Gabriel M. observed about Reehers Camp: "It's a first come first served area. Limited spots. I think no more than 6... Good hiking and the Nehalem River goes through it. Vaulted toilet and no drinking water. It's not for everyone but we love it."
The forest setting provides abundant shade and access to water recreation. Elk Creek Campground, described by one visitor as "a sweet getaway from a lot of busier campgrounds," offers proximity to the Wilson River with "numerous floating, swimming and diving opportunities." Trails throughout the region connect many campgrounds to longer hiking routes, including the Gales Creek Trail which passes through Timber. Visitors frequently mention wildlife sightings, particularly elk and deer, as highlights of their camping experiences. While some campgrounds like L.L. Stub Stewart offer modern amenities including electric hookups and cabins, others maintain a more rustic atmosphere with vault toilets and no potable water. The contrast between developed and primitive sites allows campers to choose experiences that match their comfort preferences.
