The L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park region offers cabin camping options surrounded by dense coastal forest at elevations between 700-1,200 feet. Located in Buxton, Oregon about 34 miles west of Portland, this area features year-round camping with mild winters and cool summers. Annual rainfall averages 45 inches, creating lush, verdant conditions ideal for hikers and mountain bikers.
What to Do
Disc golf course access: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park has a disc golf course within park boundaries, providing entertainment without leaving the campgrounds. "One of our favorite Oregon SPs. In the middle of a mountainous forest with lots of hiking, paved path & mtb biking, disc golf, horse trails and more," notes a visitor to Dairy Creek East.
Mountain biking trails: The park maintains extensive trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "The park has recently renewed trail signage," reports the same reviewer, making navigation easier for new visitors exploring the trail network around cabin areas.
Astronomy viewing: Local astronomy groups often host star gazing events at the park during clear nights. "Local astronomy groups often host star gazing events when the night sky is clear for various meteor showers or other astronomical events of interest," mentions a camper at Brooke Creek Hike-in Camp.
What Campers Like
Dog park access: Newer amenities include dedicated space for pets to run off-leash. "Since we were here last time, they now have an off-leash fenced dog area," notes a camper at Brooke Creek Hike-in Camp, adding value for those traveling with pets to the cabins.
Privacy between sites: Different camping loops offer varying levels of seclusion. "The Dairy Creek West loop has more shaded and privacy for most of the sites if that's what you are seeking, while the East loop is more open and affords a more social experience," explains a reviewer about different loop options.
Off-grid feeling despite proximity: Despite being only 45 minutes from Portland, the park maintains a wilderness atmosphere. "The best part was it was only 45min away from our home," writes an L.L. Stub Stewart camper, who appreciated the quick access to nature without a long drive.
What You Should Know
Showers and bathroom quality varies: Different loops have different facilities. "The lower bathroom is old and needs updated. The showers are free but the water just sprays everywhere and you have to keep pushing the button for more water. The upper bathrooms are amazing and worth the walk near the horse camp," explains a visitor at Camp Wilkerson.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be limited in parts of the park. "Cell service was just ok," notes one RV camper, while another mentions "Sprint and Verizon have no signal for sure and no Wi-fi is available."
Tent site differences: Tent sites have different characteristics than cabin areas. "We chose Site 1 because it had a good place for my hammock. If the campground had been full, I'd have picked a site a lot further in since the first few sites are right along the single trail that all campers/hikers would be using," advises a Brooke Creek camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Easy hiking options: Shorter trails suitable for children are available. "Nice shorter hikes," notes a visitor to Mountaindale Cabin Village, making this area good for families with younger children.
Playground facilities: Multiple recreational areas cater to children. "If you're camping with kids, there's a play area here," shares a reviewer regarding Dairy Creek Campground, providing entertainment options beyond hiking.
Transportation assistance: For hike-in camping areas, equipment transportation help is provided. "They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful," explains a hiker at Brooke Creek, making tent camping more accessible for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
RV site positioning: Some sites offer better satellite reception than others. "Our spot was on the north side of the road so when we put out our satellite unit it had lots of southern sky to find a signal from," explains an RV camper at Dairy Creek East, providing practical information for those needing connectivity.
Hookup locations: Utility connections may require longer cords or hoses. "The water and sewer hookups were in the middle of the site, with electric being at the back of the pad," notes a visitor, adding that "water pressure was not very good at around 35 psi."
Site dimensions: RV pads vary in size and composition. "Our spot was very spacious as the length was 45 feet deep on asphalt. It had a picnic table and a fire ring in a well-groomed gravel area about 30' x 30'," reports a Dairy Creek camper, giving specific measurements useful for planning.
