Tent camping near Gales Creek, Oregon offers options on both sides of Highway 6, with forested sites at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. The area receives approximately 70-90 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush vegetation and consistent creek flows throughout the Tillamook State Forest. Most campsites in this region are situated within a short drive of trailheads accessing over 89 miles of hiking paths through coastal range forests.
What to do
Creek swimming spots: At Trask River County Park, visitors can access multiple swimming areas. "The water was cold yet summer had just started, this place was beautiful and nice as a weekend getaway," notes one camper at Trask River County Park.
Mountain biking trails: The area provides access to challenging terrain. "Mountain biking—some really good stuff—is very close at hand, as well as hiking the Wilson River Trail or ascending Elk and Kings mountains," explains a visitor to Elk Creek Campground.
Forestry exhibits: The Tillamook Forest Center offers educational displays about the region. "A 7-minute drive from the awesome Tillamook Forest Center, which has really cool exhibits on the area," reports a camper who visited Jones Creek.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to spot local fauna. "You might as well get all of your needs in town before you head up... If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas," advises a visitor at Trask River County Park.
What campers like
Private swimming holes: Cook Creek offers secluded water access points. "We scored the most beautiful spot last week, designated spot #5. It is very private and there is a short walk (2-3min) down to your very own private part of the river," shares a camper who stayed at Cook Creek.
Natural sound barriers: The running water creates peaceful ambient noise. "Elk Creek Campground is gorgeous, shady, and the Wilson River and smaller creeks provide ample swimming and fishing spots," notes a reviewer.
Walk-in privacy: Sites away from parking areas offer better seclusion. "All of the sites are walk in and super private. From the site we were in we could see no other campsites and could barely hear anyone else," a Keenig Creek visitor explains.
Spacious camping areas: Many sites provide ample room. "You get large, open circles of bare ground at Cook Creek, each with a fire ring. The 5 sites are a tad bit off the road... good. The trees, hills and water are all luxurious," remarks a camper.
What you should know
Limited reservations: Most campgrounds operate on a first-come basis. "No reservations online, first come first serve on the sites so sometimes the place is full when you arrive, but it's always worth checking back," advises a visitor to Elk Creek.
Cash requirements: Some campgrounds require exact payment. "Bring 15$ cash and be prepared for a wonderful time. I actually visited twice," suggests a camper at Keenig Creek Campground.
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites can be challenging. "Road is dirt/gravel and currently ends about 3.5 miles in due to 'flooding damage' which takes the form of several very large boulders blocking the way," reports a Cook Creek visitor.
Cell service limitations: Most areas lack connectivity. "No cell service either (AT&T). Still, it's a quiet, gorgeous area next to a creek," notes a camper at Elk Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Prepare for varying water conditions. "The creek wasn't that deep so it was family-friendly," observes a visitor to Jones Creek.
Playground options: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around," mentions a camper at Trask River County Park.
Stream exploration: Smaller creeks provide safer water play than rivers. "We spent most of our time on the Elk Creek side since we have kiddos and the stream was the perfect size for playing and swimming without the stress of a larger river," notes a parent.
Hauling gear: Walk-in sites require planning for equipment transport. "The sites are walk in, so you park in the general lot and huck your stuff in but never very far; no wheelbarrows or anything on site so only bring what you're able to carry," advises a camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "No full hookup so bring your own water and power," advises a visitor to Elk Creek Campground.
Trailer size restrictions: Small RVs fare better than large ones. "While we attempted to stay in Jones Creek, all sites were full. However, we continued up the road which wound its way around a mountain and found a lovely spot away from the busy campground below," reports an RV camper.
Primitive camping preparation: RVers need to be self-sufficient. "This is an ideal place for those who love quietness and closeness to nature... Although there are no amenities such as drinking water or toilets, in return, the spacious, airy space and majestic natural scenery will bring you memorable experiences," notes a visitor to Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping.
Site selection strategies: Arrive early to secure appropriate spots. "I showed up around 3pm on a Friday and was barely able to find a walk-in tent site. All the car-accessible sites were taken and the only reservable site is the group spot," explains a camper at Jones Creek.
