Tent campsites near Clatskanie, Oregon sit within the Coastal Range, with most sites at elevations between 200-1,200 feet. The region receives about 70 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush fern undergrowth and moss-covered forest floors. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F during camping season, though evening temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevation dispersed sites.
What to do
Fishing access: Gnat Creek Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities along the stream running through the area. One visitor noted, "There are compost toilets available and water on site, though the website says there isn't, there is infact drinkable water on site and toilets." From the campground, visitors can access the Gnat Creek Campground fish hatchery via trail.
Forest exploration: The Elk Creek Campground provides direct access to hiking trails and forest adventures. "A 7-minute drive from the awesome Tillamook Forest Center, which has really cool exhibits on the area," according to one camper. The campground connects to challenging trails with substantial elevation gain, including the Elk Mountain-Elk Creek loop covering 9 miles with nearly 3,900 feet of cumulative elevation.
River recreation: Multiple swimming spots exist along the Wilson River and smaller creeks. At Elk Creek Campground, "The river was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim," reports one visitor. The confluence of Elk Creek and Wilson River provides both larger swimming areas and smaller creek spots suitable for children.
What campers like
Peace and privacy: The dispersed camping areas of Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping offer excellent seclusion. According to a recent visitor, "For being about an hour outside of Portland, this place is magical. If you're into disbursed camping, you have to give this place a visit." Many campers appreciate the separation between sites and natural buffers.
Creek-side camping: Many campers choose sites that border water features. At Elk Creek, one camper mentioned, "Sites have enough space between 'em that you have a bit of privacy during the day and night. The sites are walk in, so you park in the general lot and huck your stuff in but never very far." The sound of flowing water provides natural white noise that masks other camping sounds.
Budget-friendly options: Most tent camping in the area remains affordable. One visitor to Elk Creek noted, "Located within the Tillamook State Forest, Elk Creek campground has about a dozen or so sites located on a slight incline heading down to where the sweet, beautiful little Elk creek and the larger Wilson River converge. The sites are decent size though not huge, and are surrounded by beautiful trees, ferns and greenery. Some sites have more privacy, and since it is first come-first served, obviously best to get here early or before the weekend to snag a spot (which are only $10/night)."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campsites requires navigating unpaved forest roads. When visiting Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed, one camper reported, "Long steep gravel road to get here but good spot with great cell reception." Many forest roads experience periodic maintenance issues, especially after winter storms.
First-come system: Most campgrounds operate without reservations. At Gnat Creek, a visitor noted, "$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." Arriving mid-week or early on weekend mornings increases chances of securing preferred sites.
Variable amenities: Facilities differ widely between established and dispersed camping areas. One visitor to Gnat Creek mentioned, "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!" While established sites typically provide toilets and fire rings, dispersed sites offer greater seclusion with fewer conveniences.
Tips for camping with families
Water access considerations: Select campsites with appropriate water features based on children's ages. At Elk Creek Campground, a parent shared, "We spent most of our time on the Elk Creek side since we have kiddos and the stream was the perfect size for playing and swimming without the stress of a larger river." Smaller streams provide safer play environments than the main Wilson River.
Site proximity: For families with young children, consider sites near facilities. "Walk-in only, which is great if you're in a tent, but out-of-luck if you're in a trailer or RV. Elk Creek is also day-use, so people heading to the creek or river will be walking by your site all day," noted one visitor regarding logistics with children.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. "Near the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park," mentioned one Gnat Creek visitor, making it possible to combine outdoor recreation with historical education during your camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Clatskanie restrict larger vehicles. At Sand Island Marine Park Campground, a visitor warned, "Can be a long haul from the boat to the camp site. Lots of dock space. Sites are back from the water. Could use a map of the island and sites." RVs exceeding 24 feet encounter difficulties on narrow forest roads and limited turnaround areas.
Alternative parking: Some tent-only areas provide alternative arrangements for vehicles. "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," noted a Gnat Creek visitor regarding vehicle accommodations.
Seasonal considerations: Forest road conditions deteriorate during winter months, making many areas inaccessible to RVs. Though specific campgrounds may remain open year-round, practical access often becomes limited by weather conditions between November and April.
