Tent camping near Estacada, Oregon provides access to diverse forest environments within Mount Hood National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with some lower-elevation sites accessible earlier in spring. Most primitive sites lack potable water sources, requiring campers to bring their own supply or reliable filtration systems for creek water.
What to do
Swimming in river spots: Three Bears Recreation Site offers several swimming areas along the Molalla River. "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very peaceful and camp spots were perfect distance. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" according to Kierra K.
Fishing for trout: Cedar Grove Recreation Site provides river access for anglers. Jason B. notes, "Stunning river views and small with only 11 sites that are first come first served. Refurbished a few years ago. This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full."
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple trail networks connect campgrounds in the area. At Rainbow Campground, Katherine H. mentions, "The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River. You can either hike the whole thing (about 4 miles, if I remember correctly)."
What campers like
Proximity to Portland: Government Island State Recreation Area offers boat-in camping near the city. Fatima H. reports, "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."
Secluded lake access: Kinzel Lake Campground provides remote camping opportunities. Chris H. shares, "This is one of my favorite places to camp near Mount Hood. The road leading into the campgrounds (NF-2613/Kinzel Lake Road) is primitive and just challenging enough to keep most folks away."
Creekside sites: Many campgrounds feature tent sites directly adjacent to water. At Shellrock Creek Campground, Kathaleen notes, "We pulled our car up right next to our tent. It was located right by the creek(river) with easy access to the water. Plenty of little trails to explore throughout."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to higher-elevation sites often requires appropriate vehicles. For Kinzel Lake, Tori L. advises, "Took the NF route out there was about 35-40 minutes in my husband and I's ford ranger 4x4. Pretty bumpy road all the way there and some deep dips."
Bathroom facilities are basic: Most established campgrounds have vault toilets but limited amenities. At Three Bears Recreation Site, Shay Renee B. mentions, "Vault toilets aren't great, but they are useable. The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water."
Site availability concerns: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Jason B. from Cedar Grove suggests, "This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full. Last year I went in June for a solo night and I had the place to myself."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural barriers: Some campgrounds have drop-offs near water. At Rainbow Campground, Elizabeth R. warns, "Close to water, some places have drop of cliffs watch little ones."
Look for dedicated swimming spots: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access. Kevin M. at Cedar Grove notes, "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to."
Consider site spacing for privacy: Sunstrip Campground layouts vary in terms of proximity to other campers. Christina E. advises, "Stayed in site 6 a few years ago, sites 5 and 6 have an incline, but flat space for tents. Mostly, if not entirely shaded."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Estacada don't accommodate larger RVs. At Carter Bridge Campground, Kathaleen observes, "Everything felt very small and close together. Just not for us but doesn't mean it wouldn't work for someone else."
Pack water supplies: Many sites lack water hookups. Brian C. from Sunstrip Campground notes, "Well situated on the banks of the Clackamas River, many camp sites open right onto the shore. However, while the price is the same as at other Mt. Hood National Forest camp sites, the spots themselves do not have paved driveways."
Consider boat-in camping: Government Island offers a unique RV alternative. Eva W. suggests, "It's a nice place to take a break from boating all day, maybe spending the night then getting back to the mainland. Put up a tent wherever you like and enjoy people watching on the river!"
