Best Tent Camping near Estacada, OR
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Best Tent Sites Near Estacada, Oregon (82)
1. BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
6 Reviews•18 Photos•112 SavesMolalla, OregonOverview
No cash, check, or cards are accepted on site. Make a reservations online or use the mobile app. Three Bears campsites are only available by making a reservation. Reserve a campsite on recreation.gov or Recreation.gov Mobile App prior to entering the Molalla River Recreation Corridor. There is no cell reception in the drainage. Situated in a picturesque grove of western red cedar 4 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge, the site has 15 tent campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, metal fire ring, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The campground also has vault toilets and access to a beautiful cobble beach and swimming hole.
Recreation
Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)
Natural Features
Molalla Wild and Scenic River and forested environment.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (503) 375-5646.
Nearby Attractions
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor. Table Rock Wilderness is further up the canyon and accessible through three trailheads.
Charges & Cancellations
Standard fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Trash
$15 - $30 / night
2. Mount Hood National Forest Sunstrip Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSE DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE
6 Reviews•60 Photos•12 SavesWelches, OregonOverview
Campground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire Sunstrip Campground is a primitive campground on the banks of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. It provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, but retains the look and feel of true nature, with only a few amenities.
Recreation
Fishing is very popular in the Clackamas and anglers can expect winter Steelhead, spring Chinook and late summer Kokanee salmon, as well as other species of freshwater fish. Whitewater rafting is also a favorite activity among visitors. The Clackamas River provides miles of wild water as it snakes through the scenic Cascade range. A hiking trail meanders along the riverbank, north and south of the campground. Scenic driving is available on the nearby West Cascades National Scenic Byway, which follows the river.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled in a wooded area of the Mt. Hood National Forest, thick with moss and greenery, at an elevation of about 1,000 feet. The river provides habitat for the federally protected bald eagle and northern spotted owl, as well as the occasional peregrine falcon. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
The Clackamas River, just below nearby Indian Henry Campground to the North Fork Reservoir, provides 12.5 miles of class III-IV whitewater. Outfitters are located in the town of Estacada.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
$22 - $24 / night
3. Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED
7 Reviews•13 Photos•40 SavesWelches, OregonOverview
Campground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire Rainbow Campground provides ample access to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River. The campground offers a great location to enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful mountains of northern Oregon. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, biking and rafting.
Recreation
Fishing is very popular in the Oak Fork and anglers can expect a catch of winter steelhead, spring Chinook and late summer Kokanee salmon, as well as other species of freshwater fish. The Clackamas River also provides miles of wild water as it bends through the scenic Cascade range, making whitewater rafting a popular activity. The 5-mile Riverside National Recreation Trail, popular for hiking and mountain biking, is located not far from the campground. The surrounding area provides numerous additional opportunities for hiking.
Natural Features
The campground is located in Mt. Hood National Forest along the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River at an elevation of about 1,400 feet. Huge maple and Douglas fir trees cover the area, and dense shrubbery provides some privacy between campsites. The campground is not far from the Ripplebrook Ranger Station and Ripplebrook Pond. The river provides habitat for the federally protected bald eagle and northern spotted owl, as well as an occasional peregrine falcon. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
Bagby Hot Springs is located about 14 miles southwest of the campground. A popular site for soaking and relaxing, the springs are in a heavily wooded area in the scenic Cascade Range. The available bathhouses are fed by three major hot water springs and several minor outlets in the area. A historic guard station was built there in 1913.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Alcohol
$20 - $22 / night
4. Meditation Point Campground
8 Reviews•11 Photos•220 SavesMt. Hood National Forest, OregonMeditation Campground is a small walk-in campground on the shores of Timothy Lake. Campers should park at the Westshore Day Use area to access the campground. The rustic sites are limited to groups of six campers each. It has 7 sites and is accessible by boat, bike or hike-in only. There is a toilet there and each site is equipped with a table and fire ring.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Tent Cabin
5. Burnt Lake
5 Reviews•10 Photos•146 SavesGovernment Camp, OregonThis trail enters the Mt. Hood Wilderness on the west side of Mount Hood. This trail accesses Burnt Lake and Zigzag Mountain with views above treeline. The north side also has wonderful old cedar snags showing remnants of a wildfire that came through around 1900.
Starting from the north Burnt Lake trailhead, this trail begins at Forest Road 1825-109 (2,680’) and ends at Forest Road 2627-207 (3,320’). From Forest Road 1825-109, the trail climbs steadily up to Burnt Lake (4,120’). There is a nice loop trail around the lake accessing several campsites. From the lake the trail continues up a steep climb 0.6 mile and reaches Zigzag Ridge (4,720’). Soon after, the trail reaches Zigzag Mountain Trail #775. Turn right onto Zigzag Mountain Trail #775 and follow the ridge westward 0.3 miles until Burnt Lake Trail #772 drops over the south side of the ridge descending to Devil’s Meadow area. From Devil’s Meadow the trail follows an easier grade down an old roadway to West Zigzag trailhead at Forest Road 2627-207.
- Pets
- Tents
6. Serene Lake
2 Reviews•8 Photos•150 SavesMt. Hood National Forest, Oregon- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
- Alcohol
7. Cedar Grove Recreation Site
2 Reviews•4 Photos•33 SavesScotts Mills, OregonOverview
No cash, check, or cards are accepted on site. Make a reservations online or use the mobile app. Cedar Grove campsites are only available by making a reservation. Reserve a campsite on recreation.gov or Recreation.gov Mobile App prior to entering the Molalla River Recreation Corridor. There is no cell reception in the drainage. Situated in a picturesque grove of western red cedar 6 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge, the site has 10 tent campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, metal fire ring, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The campground also has vault toilets and river access.
Recreation
Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)
Natural Features
Molalla Wild and Scenic River and forested environment.
Nearby Attractions
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor. Table Rock Wilderness is further up the canyon and accessible through three trailheads.
Charges & Cancellations
Standard processing fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Drinking Water
$15 - $30 / night
8. Kinzel Lake Campground
3 Reviews•4 Photos•155 SavesMt. Hood National Forest, Oregon- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Alcohol
9. 39 Rd Dispersed Site
3 Reviews•10 Photos•79 SavesGovernment Camp, OregonThis trail was once a part of the Historic Barlow Road, one of the last legs of the Historic Oregon Trail. Where the trail meets the Still Creek Campground, there is the site of a former historic resort called Swim, which was most active during the 1920’s. Various foundations from the facility, including an old pool, can still be found.
The Barlow Trail connects Still Creek Campground with Government Camp, OR. Due to its historic value as part of the Barlow Road, it is a bit more primitive than most trails in the area to preserve its historic characteristics. Its rocky terrain and ditch like appearance is representative of how it likely looked when wagons and stock were on it in the 1850’s.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
10. Devil's Peak Lookout
1 Review•3 Photos•59 SavesWelches, OregonDevil’s Peak Lookout remains open to the public, but has been out of service for over 25 years. First come / first serve. Great vistas from the lookout and elsewhere on the butte.
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
- Alcohol
Recent Tent Reviews near Estacada, Oregon
1475 Reviews of 82 Estacada Campgrounds
- TTyson C.
Scout
Mt Hood Village Resort
Good family spot
This was a good family camping spot. Pros - there is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids. Cons - if you're tent camping the bathrooms are quite the hike, the tent sites are crammed together, there's only one working faucet in the entire tent camping area and the facilities are starting to look worn down.
The most utterly confusing part to me is that there were two huge RV areas that were virtually empty and would be perfectly suitable for tent camping. I'm not sure why they retrofit a dozen or so of those sites for "premium" tent camping? I'd gladly pay a few extra bucks a night for a 110 outlet, more space my own personal water supply.
We were in site T4. In my opinion it's the best site in the circle. If you can get T1, that looked like the best spot.
Kelly H.
Legend
Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest
Loved it here!
Out of the way, a bit, but that was part of what we enjoyed. Felt far removed from "The City" and the drive was scenic.
Very popular campground. We tent camped at this one. Good tent sites shared in our site.
Clean shower facilities. Boat rentals, Great walk around the lake.
Our site seemed very private in amongst the trees, even though the resort was busy. Would recommend!
Evan F.
Traveler
Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
Quiet and Beautiful
We tent camped at a drive-in site (8) in October 2020 and loved our experience. The whole campground felt small and peaceful, the tent sites were well spaced and surrounded by trees. It seemed to be popular with families and there were quite a few kids riding their bikes around the loop. The walk around the lake was beautiful and quiet - we did not pass many people at all.
I think next time we’ll try the walk-in sites for the privacy and the above view of the lake.
Would recommend, absolutely.
- LLaurielle A.Scout
Milo McIver State Park Campground
Incredible River Oasis
Granted, it's been 90 degrees everyday so anything near water feels incredible. BUT nothing quite as incredible as the ice, rushing Clackamas river!!!!!
We stayed at this park for 3 days and it was such a trip. 2 adults, 2 kids and a pup had plenty of space on a tent site. The bathrooms were great and not to far of a trek, but for convenience they set up and ADA accessible portapotty near the tent camping area. The rangers were kind and helpful, as were the park hosts.
Whether you're going for a full day of floating down the river (rentals offered at one of the boat launch areas) or want to climb your way down to a secluded chunk of river bend and hitch your float to a tree or rock, there is so much this park has to offer!
- Bear G.Traveler
Silver Falls State Park Campground
Absolutely beautiful
If you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts.
Jason G.
GuideMt Hood Village Resort
The Ultimate Mt Hood Base Camp
Not my normal camping scene, but decided to for an early summer ski session with the kids, we didn't want to completely rough it, but also didn't want to pay hotel prices. So, one of the standard cabins here was the perfect compromise. Roof over our heads, actual beds, room for three of us to be able to gear up for the day. But still had a fire pit outside, and picnic table for outdoor cooking. (Also the standard cabins don't have bathrooms, so you still need to go to the shared restrooms.)
The property overall was really nice, lots of amenities. We also took a walk through the RV/Tent camp sites. Its very similar to a KOA style of resort. We enjoyed it for what it was.
- Hahns R.Guide
Milo McIver State Park Campground
Nice campground, nice hosts
I have stayed here many times both in an RV and in tent sites. The campground is well maintained and the hosts have been great each time I have been there.
Estacada lake is within walking distance, and there is salmon fishing within driving distance inside of the park. There is also a "bat" barn that is close by.
I like this park and highly recommend it.
Corinna B.Legend
Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park
Ranger Review: Leatherman Leap at Beacon Rock Moorage Camp and Boat Launch
Campground Review:
There are at least four different campgrounds within Beacon Rock State Park in Washington. This review is for the Boat Launch "Moorage Camp" at the base of Beacon Rock, which has a small 2-tent area and 5-RV space down by the boat launch.
From Camas/Vancouver, you'll come to the sign for Beacon Rock Boat Launch on your right hand side, just before passing the actual Beacon Rock. There's a large day-use area on your right, an RV area that can hold up to 5 RVs (we never actually went to this since we were more interested in tent camping), and just two tent sites right next to the parking lot and boat launch. I've also heard that if everything is full, you can spend the $10 "unattended vehicle overnight" fee and car/RV camp in the parking lot, though I'd check with one of the many rangers who come through frequently first.
There's another day-use area right at the boat launch with grass and picnic tables, and on the lovely Spring weekend we were there many people were picnicking, kayaking, laying in the sun and fishing. The Columbia River, while protected here, is still quite fast going under (and over) the dock, so we never let the boys go in the water since we didn't bring life vests, and we didn't see anyone else swimming either. The two tent sites right at the dock are large, though not super private, and they would be great if you wanted to get up super early with your boat and go fishing. Otherwise, I wouldn't consider this a "destination" campground since, in addition to it being so small, there's a train that passes by loud and frequently enough to be annoying. That said, the flush toilets, showers and bathrooms were some of the cleanest I've visited while camping, so that's a definite plus. And the view of Beacon Rock from this spot is pretty spectacular.
Pros: Great views, perfect for launching a boat or early-morning fishing.
Cons: Loud annoying train and only two tent spots, though when we came only one was in-use.
Gear Review:
Last year we won a Leatherman gift certificate in The Dyrt camping contest, so this year we decided to try out some of our new purchases: two Leatherman Leaps (in blue and green) for my two kiddos, ages 6 and 11:
https://www.leatherman.com/leap-358.html
Summary/Pros: I have to admit we are biased toward Leathermans. The company is based in Oregon (where we live), completely stands behind their products, and make quality multi-tools. We even gave engraved Leathermans as bridesmaid/groomsmen gifts at our wedding 17 years ago. That said, there's some that I use more frequently than others, and for the most part we've limited the boys' Leathermans to smaller multitools with scissors and such, so this is their first larger tool. I love the fact that we can have the large blade put in or taken out depending on how comfortable we are with having them have the blade. And the boys have had a surprisingly easy time opening and closing the different attachments.
Cons: The only downside I've found with the Leap so far is that there's no nail file, but that's my personal preference and not one that's bothered the boys so far.
Video Review: The boys decided they wanted to create their own review, so be sure to watch the attached video to see what they think.
Stephanie Z.Legend
Ainsworth State Park Campground
Convenient Location
The campground at Ainsworth State park feels more like an RV parking lot than an exotic Columbia Gorge camping experience. The majority of the camground it rv hookups with just a few walk in tent sites. Yet, while the campground isn't impressive in itself, it is in an amazing location for exploring neighboring Eagle Creek and the rest of the gorge just steps away!
The parking for the tent sites is close to the walk in trail. There are only 6 tent sites and they can be reserved online so it is not easy to roll up to a free spot in hiking season.
The sites themselves are basic and offer much more privacy than your neighbors in the RV section of the park are getting. There is water near the tent site entrance. Toilets are a bit of a walk from the tent sites.
This site does take credit cards for campground registration.
Laura M.Legend
Humbug Campground
Love it here
Humbug is one of our favorite campgrounds. We love the easy access to the beach and the beautiful hikes. Showers are hot and free, rangers are always friendly.
Cell service is pretty iffy here, but we manage to make it work with the cell booster.
There's a dump station and water fill, trash and recycling, water spigots throughout campground, and firewood for sale.
Tent sites in Oregon don't currently have the 25% non-resident surcharge (though I've heard that's changing soon) and there are plenty of non-hookup/tent sites that will fit RVs. There are also FHU and pull through sites.
- JJames M.Scout
Ripplebrook Campground CLOSED INDEFINITELY DUE TO FIRE
Great small campground right on a creek.
You never see any stinking trailers at this campground. It's perfect for tent camping.
- AAlex B.Traveler
Nottingham Campground
RV camping sites sandy AF
Tent camping sites looked amazing next to the river! Sadly, RVs are only allowed in a handful of sites which were all very sandy and less shaded. We stayed at site #5 which was probably the worst site for both issues but it was also the only one left on a weekend. We tried to cross the river to access to Tamanawas Falls trail but the water was too deep. Moral: tent camp in the highest # site available and reserve your spot!
- CChantal S.Guide
Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park
Tiny but adequate
This small campground has just 2 tent sites and 5 rv sites. We stayed at the biggest of the two tent sites and enjoyed complete privacy and easy access to water, toilet and shower. While the train track is very close and trains are frequent, they do not usually use their horns or break at night, so they are not really a bother, even at night (and I'm a light sleeper). Overall a pleasant experience.
Lindsey T.ScoutMilo McIver State Park Campground
Wish we could have stayed longer
We didn't stay even 24 hours. We only stayed for a place to sleep overnight, but I'm eager to return and stay longer. I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites. The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers). There seemed to be a lot of hiking trails. I couldn't check them out because of our schedule, but I would 100% return. We drove to the boat launch area and it was easily accessible.
Heather H.Traveler
Trillium Lake
Beautiful!
This campground gets really crowded from the day use/dam side of the lake. Great for tent camping/swimming. The lake actually gets pretty warm starting in August.
- CChuck W.Traveler
Santiam State Forest Butte Creek Falls Campground
Just down the road
This is Santiam State campground that is for basically tent camping. Water and Pit toilet. Some sights next to Butte Creek. The best part is that you very close to Butte creek water falls.
- Rich M.Legend
Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
Nice spread out sites
The campsites are spread out and private. There are tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Quiet lake with two trails around it.
Steve H.GuideMt Hood Village Resort
Large TT/Encore Campground
Up at the base of Mt Hood, this large resort style campground (operates by Thousand Trails/Encore) offers various areas for camping. There are full RV hookup sites, tent sites, group tent sites, E/W RV hookups and cabins/yurts throughout. It seems most, of not all, RV sites have room for at least a small tent or more and they do allow that. There also is a few group tent sites that I saw.
As for amenities, the campground has a small store that sells the basics and some RV parts, a deli/restaurant, playground and pool.
There are trails to get to the Salmon River, not difficult by any means.
Being just a dozen miles or so from Government Camp, there are so many things to do when you want to get out of the campground.
It’s open year round, and many folks use Mt Hood Village RV Resort as a basecamp for activities for all seasons.
Overall, I enjoyed my stay, though the limited restroom and showers are oddly placed, with access only by walking the loop. There are no trails to get to them, so if you are at the other end, it’s a small hike. The plus is that the restrooms are clean and well stocked.
Kate M.TravelerAinsworth State Park Campground
Convenient location and nice facilities
Great location for exploring Columbia River waterfall area. Clean and nicely laid out bathrooms and showers. Tent camping experience not great and we were in the tent only section. Road and railway noise. Our site smelled like urine. Lights from the info board and neighboring sites shining into our tent all night long.
Cody T.Traveler
Detroit Lake State Recreation Area
Beautiful place
Beautiful place right next to the lake! Wasn’t a fan of how open the sites are and the noise from the highway. We were tent camping however so your mileage may vary with a camper/trailer set up.
Kevin L.Guide
Kiwanis Road Free Camping
Tent sites
This is a decent choice for tent camping. Most spots are just off the road. Park on the side of the road and pack your tent into the trees. Camping on both sides of the road. The east side of the road has a creek running through it Very beautiful. 
- MMallory R.Traveler
Detroit Lake State Recreation Area
Beautiful Lake Campground
Had a wonderful time tent camping here with our 4 month old baby. Great place to cool off on hot summer days. Love the trail that goes around the lake!
**Might have been affected by fires in September 2020**
Kimberly Y.Guide
Timberlake Campground & RV
Quiet and Well Maintained
Away from the railroad tracks. Great sites for tent camping. RV spots are a little close. Clean bathhouse. Don’t be scared away because there are no pull through spots. The management can coach you into the site. They were great.
- Jaymz G.Traveler
Promontory Park
Tight sites
TThis is a great lil campground on the shores of the North Fork Reservoir! The sites are tightly spaced with cabin, yurts and tent camping available. There is trout fishing starting May 22 and continues through October. Cheap way to get out of the city
- MMichelle K.Traveler
Timberlake Campground & RV
Perfect spot for a Gorge Adventure
What an incredible campground. Nice shaded, private spots. Enough distance between campers that it feels secluded. Though we were in our RV the tent camping looked spectacular! Kind front desk team. Magical, large grassy lawn that our Bernedoodle loved. We will be back!
- CChuck W.Traveler
Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area
Worth the drive
Very crowded in summer. Pit toilet. Tent camping. Very steep final approach on dirt road. Very beautiful lake with Salomanders. If your lucky to have the lake to yourself it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds. It is possible to kayak with easy access
- Nicole R.Guide
North Arm Campground
Stayed a week! So pretty!
This was so peaceful. We tent camped for a week in the summer. Took nice long hike around the lake twice with the kids. The spots are huge, the toilets smell so bad though. Make sure to bring sanitizer definitely. The views in the morning make it worth it though.
Guide to Estacada
Estacada, Oregon, offers a variety of tent camping options that immerse you in the beauty of nature, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Tent campers should check out Rainbow Campground
- Located in the scenic Mt. Hood National Forest, Rainbow Campground features river access and a nearby trail leading to the Clackamas River, making it ideal for hiking and fishing.
- This campground allows pets and fires, providing a cozy atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy the great outdoors together.
- With its secluded sites, many campers appreciate the peaceful environment, especially those who prefer a quieter camping experience.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Cedar Grove Recreation Site
- Cedar Grove Recreation Site offers well-maintained paths leading to the river, perfect for those who enjoy fishing or simply relaxing by the water.
- The site features a well water pump and toilets, ensuring basic comforts while you immerse yourself in nature.
- With only 11 sites available, this campground is often quiet, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.
Enjoy local activities at the BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
- The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area is perfect for swimming, fishing, and catching crawfish, providing fun for the whole family.
- This area is known for its beautiful river views and is a great spot for a picnic or a day of relaxation by the water.
- With access to hiking trails nearby, campers can explore the stunning landscapes of the Molalla River corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Estacada, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Estacada, OR is BLM Molalla River Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Estacada, OR?
TheDyrt.com has all 82 tent camping locations near Estacada, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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