The Tillamook State Forest area surrounding Forest Grove, Oregon sits at elevations between 200-3,600 feet with a maritime climate that averages 70-80 inches of annual rainfall. Most established campgrounds in the region are nestled within second-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock forests. Winter camping options remain limited with temperatures typically ranging from 30-45°F, while summer daytime temperatures average 70-85°F.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers extensive mountain biking networks for all skill levels. A visitor noted: "Lots of hiking, biking and horse trails within the park and a regional rail to trail runs through it" and another mentioned there are "wonderful access to biking (paved or dirt)." The park maintains over 20 miles of mixed-use trails.
Fishing opportunities: Elk Creek Campground provides access to both Elk Creek and Wilson River for trout fishing. A camper shared: "Elk Creek Campground is gorgeous, shady, Elk Creek itself winds around the campsites spooning it and provides ample swimming and fishing spots." The fishing is particularly good during spring runs.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds feature disc golf courses with varying levels of difficulty. At L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, one reviewer mentioned: "Because you are in a state park you have easy parking, access to a disc golf course, a paved bike trail (Banks-Vernonia Trail) and lots of hiking/mountain biking trails."
Historical exploration: Champoeg State Heritage Area combines camping with Oregon history. A visitor explained: "Along the way got to see the Champoeg Heritage site with period piece actors, wide open spaces, and the Willamette River." The interpretive center showcases Oregon's territorial government formation.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Gales Creek Campground offers secluded sites with natural screening. A camper noted: "This campground was right on Gales Creek, with lush vegetation providing nice privacy." Sites along the creek tend to fill first on summer weekends.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide chances to observe local wildlife. At Hagg Lake House, one visitor described: "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing.
Riverside camping: Elk Creek Campground features sites directly adjacent to water. A reviewer shared: "We found a spot that was still open and right on the river. We couldn't have asked for a better location. The river was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim." Sites 3-8 have the best water access.
Year-round availability: Some campgrounds operate throughout winter months. At Champoeg State Heritage Area, a camper mentioned: "Love to stay here when all the other campgrounds close. Nice hiking trails. The rangers are very nice." Winter rates are typically $5-10 less than peak season.
What you should know
Limited water access: Not all campgrounds provide reliable drinking water. At Hagg Lake House, campers should bring their own water supply. A visitor advised: "Little/no access to internet so do not assume you can make phone calls or use phone apps." Water availability at forest campgrounds may be seasonal.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. For L.L. Stub Stewart, a reviewer explained: "Some of the sites can be reserved in advance, and some are always open for walk ups." Reservations often open 6 months in advance for summer weekends.
GPS/navigation challenges: Several forest campgrounds have poor signage and limited cell service. At Hagg Lake House, one camper warned: "The place is hard to find with just coordinates and GPS pretty spotty." Downloading offline maps is recommended for navigating to remote sites.
Noise considerations: Farm-based campgrounds may have early morning animal sounds. A visitor to Hagg Lake House noted: "There are 5+ chicken/turkey coops so recognize they talk EARLY and often... The roosters, quite frankly, don't give a dam what time it is, they start their roostering at 2 am." Earplugs are recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly amenities: Champoeg State Heritage Area offers activities for all ages. A reviewer shared: "Champoeg has a little everything. GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well." The park hosts regular interpretive programs during summer months.
Swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature safe water play areas for children. At Elk Creek, a visitor mentioned: "The creek was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim." Parents should supervise children around all water areas.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. A reviewer at L.L. Stub Stewart noted: "My kiddos absolutely loved the three pools, playground, and basketball hoops. Plenty to check out and explore for them." Most play structures are designed for ages 5-12.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. At Champoeg, a camper explained: "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" Many parks offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Columbia River RV Park provides full amenities for RVers. A visitor noted: "The park has daily, weekly, and monthly rates, which vary with the size of the space. Our space is $500 per month. There is free Wi-Fi, cable, trash service, and water." Most full-hookup sites offer 30/50 amp service.
Site leveling considerations: Some forest campgrounds have uneven sites. A camper at Gales Creek mentioned: "Neither were level, but I used my levelers for the first time." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most forest campgrounds.
Access limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions on RV length. At Gales Creek, a reviewer advised: "Spaces are fairly small so no campers over 25ft I'm guessing." Always check maximum vehicle lengths before booking.
Seasonal availability: Winter camping options for RVs are limited. At L.L. Stub Stewart, a visitor explained: "Our site 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." Many forest campgrounds close RV loops from November through April.
