Fairview, Oregon camping sites offer easy access to the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood National Forest. Located at 74 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers with an average rainfall of 37 inches annually. Several campgrounds near Fairview don't require reservations, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips during non-peak seasons.
What to Do
Hiking and water activities: At Oxbow Regional Park, visitors can access numerous nature trails. "This is a huge park (like 1,000 acres) with several camping options. Plenty of hiking, swimming, and fishing through the park," notes Blaine B. The park features both river activities and forest exploration options.
Disc golf courses: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers excellent disc golf facilities. "Milo McIver may be best known for its twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress. Home of the annual Beaver State Fling," explains Steve C. The course attracts international players for tournaments.
Fishing opportunities: Small Fry Lake at Promontory Park provides a dedicated fishing area for young anglers. "Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total," reports Brad and Jamie L. The stocked pond is specifically designed for youth up to age 17, with a limit of two fish per day.
What Campers Like
Accessibility from Portland: Campers appreciate locations near the metropolitan area. "Easy distance from Portland on the Sandy River. Down a steep hill (important if you're biking)," reports Ben W. about Oxbow Regional Park. Many sites can be reached within 30-45 minutes from Fairview.
Private camping spaces: Lost Lake Resort And Campground offers secluded sites. "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents," shares Jason S. The campground provides separation between sites despite being popular during peak seasons.
Year-round availability: Some parks remain open throughout the winter. "Love to stay here when all the other campgrounds close. Nice hiking trails," notes Somer L. about Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground. Winter camping offers quieter experiences with fewer crowds at many locations near Fairview.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," reports Zach S. about Oxbow Regional Park. Most glamping sites offer better connectivity than traditional campgrounds.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience transportation noise. "Road noise can be loud here. Try to get a site as close to the river as you can so you can avoid the highway noise at night," advises J.W. Railroad tracks also run through parts of the Columbia River Gorge area.
Reservation requirements: Peak season at Eagle Creek Campground and other popular sites fill quickly. "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," mentions Lindsey T. Weekends from May through September often require bookings 6-9 months in advance.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water access points: Families appreciate areas with swimming options. "There is easy water access with a pier for fishing. Within a mile up the road is a marina and boat ramp," notes Hahns R. about Promontory Park. Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Organized activities: Some parks provide structured programs for kids. "The hosts were welcoming and made sure we were comfortable with our stay. We also got a scavenger hunt with stickers for our toddler," shares Tyson C. Ranger-led programs typically run on weekends during summer months.
Spacious group areas: Extended family gatherings work well at certain sites. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches. Food was adequate. There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths," explains Amy H. about Mt. Hood Village Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers should research site dimensions carefully. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," advises Steve R. about Mt Hood Village Resort. Not all glamping near Fairview accommodates large rigs.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by park. "We tent camped here with a 3 year old. Great facilities, great hosts, and great activities for the toddler," shares Tyson C. about Promontory Park, which offers electric hookups at some sites alongside traditional camping areas.
Seasonal restrictions: Some facilities close during winter. "The bathrooms were out of order when we were there. Portapotties were available," reports Elizabeth K. about Eagle Creek Campground. Many RV-friendly locations near Fairview reduce services between November and March.
