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Established Camping

Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground, near Astoria, Oregon, is a straightforward spot for those looking to pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s got the basics covered, with picnic tables and fire pits at each site, making it a decent place to unwind after a day of exploring.

This campground is all about the natural vibe, surrounded by trees and the soothing sounds of Gnat Creek nearby. Visitors have enjoyed the free firewood available due to logging in the area, which adds a nice touch to your campfire evenings. As one camper noted, “You can hear the creek from your tent,” which really sets the mood for a peaceful night under the stars.

If you’re up for a little adventure, there are trails that lead to a fish hatchery, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery. While the campground is primarily for tent camping, there are options for van parking nearby, though RVs aren’t allowed in the main area.

Just a heads up, some campers have mentioned that the facilities could use a bit of TLC, but the natural beauty and the overall atmosphere make it worth a visit. Whether you're stopping by for a quick overnight or planning a longer stay, Gnat Creek offers a simple yet enjoyable camping experience.

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Location

Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located 18 miles east of Astoria, just off Highway 30, near milepost 78 along Gnat Creek,

Coordinates

46.17727301037408 N
123.50166251918272 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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out of 5

8 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 11, 2025

Not bad for a night

Small campsite, good for one night, up the road is logging so there were big trucks going past once at 3am once at 5am and again at 9am. It's small, only about 6 campsites but only $15 and perfect if you need a quick spot.

Site1
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Dec. 1, 2021

Not really a destination, but an okay place to sleep

We accidentally discovered Gnat Creek when we needed a place to stopover on a return from Astoria. There isn't a ton here, but there are the necessities - a place to put your tent for the night and a bathroom.  We also took advantage of where we wound up and did a short hike which led to a fish hatchery. 

Camping here is all first come and tent—but it's not really the kind of site you'd book in advance anyway.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Stephanie Z., December 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Stephanie Z., December 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Stephanie Z., December 1, 2021
  • (13) View All
Reviewed Sep. 3, 2021

Wonderful Spot next to Gnat Creek

We had a great time at this campsite! There was free firewood stacked nearby because of all the logging in the area. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. Walk in tent camping only, or you could park your van in the parking lot. No RVs in the paid area but there are spots along the road past the paid area. $15 in pay envelopes provided though no one came to check. First come first serve. Sites are among the trees and you can hear the creek from your tent. Mossy wonderful surroundings in the Clatsop National Forest. Near the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

Site4
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Morgan T., September 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Morgan T., September 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Morgan T., September 3, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 22, 2021

Not for RVs, Not for Solo Women

Stayed one night in this campground right off the road on my way back to Portland from Astoria. Apparently there is a transient camp up the road a bit and there are lots of cars coming through the site at all hours of the night. At 3am heard a loud fight or party, couldn't tell which. Felt vulnerable here as a solo woman. 

Also there is a sign that says no RVs, campers or trailers. I was a bit nervous that I would be asked to leave in my van, but never saw a ranger or anyone official. The other folks who were camping here seemed great, it was just the constant traffic, people getting out and walking around my van at night and the yelling at 3am that made me uncomfortable.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Kathy B., June 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Kathy B., June 22, 2021
Reviewed Apr. 15, 2021

Great spot!

Drove past the paid camping and found many available areas to set up for the night. Couple areas had excessive amounts of trash.

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Great dispersed camping

The paid camping is small and close to the road. But if you drive a little ways passed the paid camp site there is a surplus of free dispersed camping spots that are much more private and beautiful!

  • Review photo of Clatsop State Forest Gnat Creek Campground by Michael P., April 1, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 7, 2019

Small, scenic, dirty

It is a very small campsite. 4 spots. The location is nice, except it is very close to the road that has logging trucks going up and down. 2 of the sites are closer to the road for drive in and 2 are further into the forest. Definitely go for the ones further in. They are more hidden/private and you don't get as bad of noise and dust from the logging trucks. The trails are nice going along gnat Creek and you can visit the fish hatchery at the end of the trail. The washrooms are dirty and smelly. From what I've heard, it used to be kept up better, but now it is a bit more dumpy. Still nice nature in the area. Just a shame it isn't kept cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do while camping at Gnat Creek Campground?

While staying at Gnat Creek Campground, you can enjoy hiking on nearby trails that wind through the beautiful Clatsop State Forest. A highlight is visiting the Gnat Creek Fish Hatchery, accessible via a short hike from the campground. The area's natural setting is perfect for wildlife watching, photography, and simply enjoying the peaceful forest atmosphere. Gnat Creek itself provides opportunities for fishing enthusiasts, though you'll want to check local regulations before casting a line.

How do I make reservations at Gnat Creek Campground in Oregon?

Gnat Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The campground fee is $15 per night. Given the small size of the campground (only 4-6 sites), arriving early is recommended, especially during peak camping seasons. For the most current information on availability and payment methods, contact the Oregon Department of Forestry who manages Clatsop State Forest.

What dispersed camping options are available near Gnat Creek in Clatsop State Forest?

Abundant free dispersed camping options are available if you drive past the main Gnat Creek Campground. These unofficial sites offer more privacy and beautiful surroundings than the paid campground. Multiple pull-offs and established spots can be found along the forest road beyond the main camping area. Be aware that some dispersed areas have experienced issues with excessive trash, so practice Leave No Trace principles. These dispersed sites make great alternatives when the main campground is full or if you're seeking a more secluded experience in Clatsop State Forest.

Is Gnat Creek Campground suitable for RVs and what hookups are available?

Gnat Creek Campground is not suitable for RVs in the main camping area. The campground is designed for walk-in tent camping only, with vehicles parked in a designated parking lot. No hookups of any kind are available at this primitive campground. While RVs aren't accommodated in the paid camping area, some larger vehicles might find suitable spots along the road past the main campground in the dispersed camping areas.

What amenities and facilities are available at Gnat Creek Campground?

Gnat Creek Campground is a small, rustic site with basic amenities. The campground features 4-6 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. Bathroom facilities are available, and free firewood can sometimes be found stacked nearby due to logging operations in the area. The campground is designed primarily for tent camping with a parking area adjacent to the sites. While facilities are minimal, the natural forest setting provides a peaceful overnight spot for those seeking simplicity.