Camping opportunities near Boring, Oregon offer easy access to the Cascade foothills at elevations between 700-1,000 feet. Located in a transition zone between the Willamette Valley and Mount Hood, this area experiences mild summers with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and cool evenings. Winter camping is available at select year-round sites where temperatures often hover between 35-45°F with frequent rainfall.
What to do
River activities along the Clackamas River: The area's waterways provide excellent recreation for all ages during summer months. At Oxbow Regional Park, visitors can enjoy "fishing, swimming, and rafting in the river, or reserve one of its rustic campsites for a truly immersive experience in nature, all just a short drive from the Portland metropolitan area" according to camper Emille R. The river is accessible through designated day-use areas.
Mountain biking adventures: The nearby Sandy Ridge Trail System offers renowned trails for cyclists. While staying at Mt Hood Village Resort, camper Joel H. notes it's "right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System." Trails range from beginner-friendly to technical routes for experienced riders.
Disc golf courses: Several parks in the area feature disc golf courses. As Steve C. describes the course at Milo McIver State Park Campground: "Milo McIver may be best known for it's twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress. Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event."
What campers like
Easy access to Portland: The proximity to urban amenities while still feeling remote appeals to many campers. Sandy Riverfront RV Resort receives praise for being "a great spot just outside Portland. All RVs, full hook-ups, nice grounds, well maintained with nicely kept landscaping," according to Val R. This location puts you within 30 minutes of city amenities.
Secluded campsites: For those seeking more privacy, certain campgrounds offer sites set back from main areas. At Barton County Park Campground, Reid B. notes, "Sites 31-59 are set back into the woods with a bit more privacy and separation—they're still pretty close together, but the woods and plantings help a lot."
Historical attractions: The region features several historical sites worth exploring. Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground offers "a lot to see and do anyway. The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" according to Leslie C. The park includes period actors and heritage exhibits.
What you should know
Seasonal maintenance variations: Facilities at some campgrounds may change condition throughout the year. Camper marcus K. points out at Oxbow Regional Park that "Restrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers. No coins needed," which contradicts some older reviews, suggesting maintenance has improved.
Campground gate hours: Plan your arrivals and evening activities accordingly. Bekki M. mentions about Barton County Park Campground: "The park locks up at 10 so if you need to come in late you would have some trouble." Always check current hours when making reservations.
Cell service limitations: Don't expect consistent connectivity at all sites. As Zach S. notes about Oxbow Regional Park, "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated family areas: Several campgrounds offer specifically designed spaces for families with children. At Clackamette RV Park, Pepper V. notes there's "gas and dining within walking distance, multiple boat launches, nearby rentals, and lots of wildlife. Great community as well."
Swimming access points: Safe river access matters for families. Marcus K. explains that Oxbow Regional Park has "Great access to the river to keep cool in summer. Nice sandy beaches. Park also has a lot of sheltered picnic areas and playground."
Bike-friendly paths: Several campgrounds feature trails suitable for children on bicycles. Scott W. explains that Champoeg has "GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well. Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Many sites offer full or partial RV services. Joel H. describes the Mt Hood Village Resort: "Full hookups worked well for us... The Lodge has wifi, the rest of the park does not. The Lodge area has a small store with plenty of RV parts and snacks if you happened to forget something."
Site selection strategy: At Mt Hood Village RV Resort, the location within the campground affects your experience. Steve R. notes there are "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers."
Water pressure considerations: Check reviews for recent utility performance. Jennifer H. warns about Jantzen Beach RV Park: "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same."
Legend
