Tent camping near Dallas, Oregon offers several options in the surrounding forests where summer temperatures average 80-85°F with cooler 50-60°F nights. The region sits at varying elevations from 325 feet in the valley to over 4,000 feet at Marys Peak, creating distinct camping microclimates. Forest Service roads throughout Tillamook State Forest provide primitive campsites with 14-day stay limits.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Trask River County Park, campers can enjoy riverside recreation. "Great swimming holes!!" notes Branden T., while Savannah mentions, "Multiple trails and cool things to see around the campground!"
Hiking trails: Jones Creek Campground connects to several forest paths. Stephanie Z. shares, "There is a trailhead for the Willson River trail within the campground which makes for a great early morning hike." The campground is near the Tillamook Forest Center for educational opportunities.
Wildlife viewing: Elk sightings are common at some campgrounds. According to Savannah S., "If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas" at Trask River County Park. Kelly N. mentions at Willamette Mission State Park, "The largest Black Cottonwood tree resides at this park and is worth seeing!"
Mountain views: Higher elevation camping offers panoramic vistas. Eric R. says of Tillamook dispersed camping sites, "Sunrise was one of best I've ever seen, especially with the clouds below." Seth M. adds, "There is a little side road that gets a bit narrow and then opens into a beautiful spot."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate secluded spots. At Marys Peak Campground, Sonja O. notes it "has nice size sites and fire pits. It's a great place to take a group of friends to get away for a night." Sites at Jones Creek are "pretty private" according to Katie C.
River access: Cooling off in nearby waters ranks high for summer campers. Katie C. says of Jones Creek, "There are many river access points, the forestry center, walking trails and wildlife all within walking distance." Amy M. found Trask River Park ideal for younger visitors: "Great river scampering to be had!"
Quiet atmosphere: Many sites offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek, Natalie H. reports, "So far, no one has bothered me, and I've only seen 1 car go past." Dylan B. adds it's "by far one of my favorite campsites I've been to."
Natural separation: Tree cover provides natural barriers between campsites. Katie C. observes that at Jones Creek, "The sites are pretty private, bathrooms within a short distance and the quiet hours are from 10pm-7am."
What you should know
Water availability: Many sites lack drinking water. Jefferson S. notes of Hiker/Biker Camping Area at Willamette Mission State Park, "There is no potable water, so you must plan to pack enough water for the night and the next morning or filter Willamette River water." Meredith L. advises about Marys Peak, "remember that there is no water anywhere nearby."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites requires preparation. Brendan warns about Tillamook State Forest, "The road up was a very narrow road. So careful if there's other cars coming through, especially the logging semis." Kyle B. adds, "Cedar Creek Rd area offers a nice variety of dispersed camping sites with some good views if you drive far enough, and fairly gravel roads for access."
Seasonal flooding: Some areas become inaccessible in winter. Kelly N. cautions, "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer" regarding Willamette Mission State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have poor connectivity. Kyle B. notes at Tillamook State Forest, "Verizon cell service is nonexistent in the area." Savannah S. confirms, "You will have no service whatsoever up at the campground but that's what camping is for, to enjoy your time outdoors!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Locations with gentle river access work best for children. Stacie H. recommends, "We love going to Trask Park. It hasn't a nice river and it's safe for the kids to run around." Amy M. confirms, "We just stayed 2 nights with our 5 & 3-yo's and had a lovely time."
Playground equipment: Some campgrounds offer additional activities for children. Savannah S. mentions, "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around" at Trask River County Park.
Road safety: Watch for traffic near camping areas. Savannah S. cautions, "There is a main road in between the campgrounds since sites go from A-C. People fly up and down that road at 50+ MPH so watch your kids and pets."
Loop selection: Different camping loops offer varying experiences for families. Erik M. advises about Trask River, "The campground is split by the hwy. sites on each side. We preferred the 'C' loop. It seems more secluded with more privacy. If you have a large group the 'A' loop might be a better option."
Tips from RVers
Limited big-rig access: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger vehicles. Leo Y. warns about Forest Road 51, "Narrow and unpaved road. Very narrow, my trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!"
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at primitive sites. Todd R. notes of Marys Peak, "The sites are on a slop which makes it a little challenging but well worth it."
First-come availability: Plan to arrive early for the best spots. Christi L. shares about Jones Creek, "I showed up around 3pm on a Friday and was barely able to find a walk-in tent site. All the car-accessible sites were taken."
Loop C preference: At Trask River, smaller RVs find better spots in certain areas. Don H. reports, "Great campground in the middle of the forest. Vault toilets and a little path down to the river on the side that has individual camps. Our Pop-Up fit in nicely!"
