Tent campsites near Damascus, Oregon are situated between 800-1,200 feet elevation in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range, with camping options extending into Mount Hood National Forest's higher elevations. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with cooler nights at higher elevations and winter camping available primarily at lower elevation sites. River-oriented camping opportunities are common in this region, with many sites offering direct access to waterways.
What to do
Swimming spots access: The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area offers excellent water recreation opportunities. One camper noted, "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" Another mentioned, "Within a short drive are many local favorite swimming areas. Ivor Davies wayside (around milepost 5 is beautiful and popular)."
Fishing opportunities: Catch-and-release fishing is available at several sites. At Government Island State Recreation Area, accessible only by boat, one visitor shared, "Fishing, boating, campfires. There aren't any hookups for electricity or running water, but really, it's a nice place to take a break from boating all day." The Molalla River offers trout fishing with one camper reporting, "There is water access and good catch and release trout fishing. You can also catch salmon in the river."
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems of varying difficulty. At Burnt Lake, reached by a 4-mile hike, visitors can extend their adventure: "If you put down your stuff at your site, you can do another 2 mile hike up the summit of East Zigzag Mt. and see a beautiful view of Mt. Hood." Another camper added, "The road to the trailhead has potholes, but we made it there just fine in a sedan."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers value riverside camping options. At Serene Lake, one visitor reported, "The water is clear and amazingly warm, considering that it's glacier feed." Another camper at Cedar Grove Recreation Site shared, "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to."
Privacy levels: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Naked Falls, a visitor advised, "Please pick your sites carefully! They are all very different and have different access or layouts. The sites are private with only a fire ring (except site 1), but the only River access is by the bridge." At Burnt Lake, one camper recommended, "Take a walk around the lake first to find which one suites your needs and preferences. They all are great for families, groups, or just a single tent."
Off-grid experience: Some tent sites near Damascus provide true disconnection. At Government Island State Recreation Area, a camper explained, "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own." At Serene Lake, a backpacker noted, "We didn't have to pay for the campsite, but you do need a Forest Pass or something to leave your car at the trailhead."
What you should know
Facility limitations: Many tent campsites have minimal amenities. The Cedar Grove Recreation Site has "Well water pump and bathrooms. Has grill and fire pit, but we're currently under a burn ban." At Naked Falls, "There are 2 porta potties midway through the campground, so if you are on the hill sites or the ones off the river it's a long walk."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating rough roads. For Burnt Lake, a camper warned, "The road to the trailhead has potholes, but we made it there just fine in a sedan. Parking can get tight, so plan to arrive early, and don't forget to display your permit."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and trail conditions vary throughout the year. A visitor to BLM Molalla River Recreation Area observed in 2021, "Open as of June 2021 although the road is closed shortly after the campground due to the fires last year." For Burnt Lake, "We went in May, so there was still snow, and the lake was so full it had flooded part of the trail, making the backside campsites inaccessible."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking options: Dougan Falls State Forest offers accessible camping for families new to overnight outdoor experiences. A visitor shared, "It's busy but peaceful. Bring an inner tube or lounger the creek is shallow and wide." For Burnt Lake, a camper reported, "4 in our group, two of us were first time backpackers. This was a great intro to backpacking."
Water safety considerations: When camping with children, carefully assess water access points. At BLM Molalla River Recreation Area, a camper advised, "The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" At Naked Falls, one visitor cautioned about site selection, "If you have small children I'd not recommend this site since there is a drop off at the edge of the campsite that kids could fall down easily."
Recreational amenities: Some sites offer specific features for family enjoyment. A visitor to BLM Molalla River Recreation Area mentioned the site is "Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone." At Government Island, a camper suggested, "Put up a tent wherever you like and enjoy people watching on the river!"
