Camping spots near Sherwood, Oregon typically operate between April and October, with most facilities closing during the wet winter months. Summer temperatures range from 50-85°F with minimal rainfall, while spring and fall bring more precipitation. Private orchards and vineyard camping locations often remain open year-round while state parks follow seasonal schedules.
What to do
Disc golf at Milo McIver State Park: The park features twin 18-hole disc golf courses that draw competitive players from across the region. "Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event, Milo McIver is an excellent host for the international players that come to the Pacific Northwest for a chance to win the tournament," notes one visitor to Milo McIver State Park Campground.
Paddle the Clackamas River: Launch directly from Barton Park for a leisurely float or kayak adventure. "Great place to put into the river to float or kayak. Lots of parking. Also a campground. Perfect for a close weekend getaway," writes a reviewer about Barton County Park Campground.
Explore historic sites: Champoeg State Heritage Area offers opportunities to learn about Oregon's pioneer history. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" shares one camper about their experience at the heritage site.
Wine tours from your campsite: Some campgrounds offer access to local vineyards. Tranquil Orchards provides a unique camping experience where "it is possible to get picked up for a wine tour at the farm," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Riverfront access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct river access for cooling off during summer months. "We love to float the river! The play area/park is one of my kids favorite. Lots of area to play. Volleyball, gagaball, playground," explains a visitor to Barton Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At Tranquil Orchards and Wine Tours, campers appreciate "TOILETS that flush" and "SHOWERS with hot and cold water," with one reviewer noting these amenities were "desperately needed" after days of more primitive camping.
Bike-friendly paths: Several campgrounds feature dedicated cycling trails. "Champoeg State Park is on the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, and a great place to camp if you want to do a long biking getaway," shares one camper. Another adds, "GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly."
Urban proximity with nature feel: Camping areas balance wilderness experiences with convenient access to urban amenities. "Located right on the river. We arrived late and were greeted by staff and lead directly to our spot. That was really nice as it was after dark," notes a visitor to Columbia River RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Barton County Park operates only from May 1 to October 31, while Milo McIver's season runs from March 15 to October 31.
Fire restrictions vary: Not all campgrounds permit open fires. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, fires are not allowed, while Tranquil Orchards provides fire pits with grills and fire extinguishers.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. "Booking before arrival is necessary (we just booked on Airbnb 2 hours before)," advises a Tranquil Orchards camper.
Airport noise: Some campgrounds experience aircraft noise. A Columbia River RV Park visitor mentions "Air Force jets that fly overhead occasionally in the morning," while another campground notes it's located "near a small airport and highway."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite. The hosts are super friendly and helpful," shares a visitor to Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground.
Heated accommodations: For families with young children, heated yurts provide comfort in cooler weather. "The yurts are heated, and a couple of them are pet friendly, which is great for us! There is a small table in each yurt," notes a Champoeg camper.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation. Jantzen Beach RV Park features "three pools, playground, and basketball hoops. Plenty to check out and explore for them even if this was not your typical 'campground' experience," according to one family.
Loop selection matters: Choosing the right camping loop can improve your family experience. "Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river. We'll go back year after year. Our kids had a blast!" writes a Champoeg visitor.
Tips from RVers
Age restrictions: Some parks have RV age limitations. "They also have RV age limit of 2010 but they allowed pictures before turning me down. Yay we got approved!" explains a visitor to Roamers Rest RV Park.
Space considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "The spaces are quite tight! Considering the location and appreciating the fact that they are one of very few RV parks in the Portland area, I can understand why," notes a Roamers Rest reviewer.
Convenience factors: Some RV parks offer excellent urban access. "This RV park is more like a glamorous parking lot. Everything is paved, there are no fire pits, and the spaces are very tight," explains a Sun Outdoors Portland South visitor, adding "We really only stayed here because it was the only availability we could find in the Portland area."
Water pressure issues: Variable utility quality affects some parks. "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," reports a Jantzen Beach RV Park camper.
