Best Campgrounds near Gaston, OR

Campgrounds near Gaston, Oregon range from established state parks to RV resorts, with several options within a 30-minute drive. Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground in nearby St. Paul offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts with year-round availability. L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park's Dairy Creek West campground provides similar accommodation types with drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. The region includes both forested settings and open areas, with most developed campgrounds featuring standard amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

Many campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, though specific amenities and accessibility may vary seasonally. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer months when occupancy rates increase. A visitor commented, "We came during offseason (November) and camped at this State Park for 3 nights. Man, it was so amazing. It was super quiet and empty so we felt like we had the entire park to ourselves." Road conditions generally allow standard vehicle access to established campgrounds, though some dispersed camping areas may require high-clearance vehicles. Facilities range from basic toilets at primitive sites to full hookups with showers and electric connections at developed campgrounds.

The camping experience near Gaston benefits from proximity to natural attractions and recreational opportunities. Several campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and water activities. Reviews indicate high satisfaction with Oregon state park facilities compared to other states. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "I'm starting to realize that Oregon State Parks are SOOO much superior to California State Parks. The amenities at all the Oregon campgrounds I've visited are wonderful." Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings, including deer and various bird species. While some campgrounds offer spacious, private sites with natural separation, others feature more closely arranged sites that may feel crowded during peak season. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide electric hookups, water access, and sanitary facilities, making them suitable for both tent and RV camping.

Best Camping Sites Near Gaston, Oregon (224)

    1. Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

    76 Reviews
    Donald, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 678-1251

    $22 - $152 / night

    "As I rode up to the site, I noticed right away that it was not tucked far away from the amenities such as restrooms, and showers. It was part of one of the campground loops."

    "Champoeg State Heritage Area is a beautiful and peaceful campground located near Newberg, Oregon."

    2. Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park

    39 Reviews
    Buxton, OR
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 324-0606

    $24 - $39 / night

    "As we had been here before, it was an easy drive in on US-26 to the campground (CG)."

    "Quick drive from SE Portland (or bike out all the way on a lovely trail if you are so inclined). We drove up to meet up with friends who biked in so we could camp a few nights."

    3. Hagg Lake House

    3 Reviews
    Gaston, OR
    5 miles
    Website

    $35 - $55 / night

    "We stayed at the hagg lake house and had a blast. It was a little hard to find with just coordinates and gps pretty spotty but we found the house and was greeted and shown our area."

    "Just remember, get directions before you drive out and you’ll have a great time. Couldn’t expect a more hospitable host anywhere. Cheers!"

    4. Jantzen Beach RV Park

    39 Reviews
    Vancouver, WA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 289-7626

    $40 / night

    "Arrived here late for a single night stay on the way to the Oregon Coast. This is a very convenient stopover for those needing a place to stay near Portland."

    "The park's location is very convenient, with easy access to downtown Portland and nearby attractions."

    5. Gales Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Timber, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 357-2191

    "Just off highway 6 (between Portland and Tillamook) is a series of lovely campgrounds in the Tillamook State Forest."

    "The fees were $10 to drive in and $5 to walk in. We parked outside the gate and walked to a campground."

    6. Olde Stone Village

    8 Reviews
    McMinnville, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 472-4315

    "The positives outweigh the couple of minor things, so we gave it 5/5. Positives:

    • Walkway to Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum."

    "It was hot outside and the pool was fantastic. Highly recommend."

    7. Dundee Hills Resort

    4 Reviews
    Dundee, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 899-5326

    "It was a solid place to stay, surrounded by vineyards and walking distance to a few wineries and a couple of restaurants."

    8. Roamers Rest RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Tualatin, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 692-6350

    "A well cared for location. I think we got the last space! It’s a busy place. A bit of a head scratcher on what brings people here. Certainly located in and around a number of destinations."

    9. Elk Creek Campground

    11 Reviews
    Timber, OR
    20 miles
    Website

    "Hwy. 6 is a twisting, overmodest bounty of recreational options leading to the Oregon coast, which is entirely public."

    "Off busy Highway 6 on the way to Tillamook and the Oregon coast, Elk Creek Campground is a sweet getaway from a lot of busier campgrounds and destinations in this region of Oregon (i.e., an hour from Portland"

    10. Columbia River RV Park

    32 Reviews
    Vancouver, WA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 285-1515

    $30 - $150 / night

    "The location couldn’t be more convenient, right near Portland and just steps away from the beautiful Columbia River."

    "One star off for density, you’re right next to each other, and for the very bright street lighting in there. We thought it overkill, but perhaps they have their reasons. Super nice facilities."

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Recent Reviews near Gaston, OR

1429 Reviews of 224 Gaston Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Dispersed Camping Near Pioneer-Indian Trail in Siuslaw National Forest

    Great Find

    We have been traveling/disburse camping through Montana, Washington, and now Oregon and this has been our 2nd favorite spot.

    The drive in wasn’t as bad as we were anticipating. The road was paved and a two lane; narrow lanes but my Ram 3500 and teardrop handled it fine. We did follow previous reviews and once spotted the logging road turned in despite previous review suggesting walking down first. It worked for us because the spot was empty but would second that recommendation; had the spot been taken turn around would not have happened. The logging road is gravel, narrow, and a little steep but not bad at all. The spot is worth what it takes to get to it.

    The space, seclusion, sky made it our second favorite site; the first had a creek and wild life. Not recommended for strictly RWD vehicles, if you are towing 45 feet in length, or wet/snowy conditions.

    This spot is saved for next time we are in the area.

  • John F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park

    Large level sites

    We stayed in Dairy Creek West Campground. The sites are larger than at most of the Oregon state parks we have been to. The site was the levelest we have ever stayed in, usually there is a slight tilt one way or another. This was dead on level. The area for the trailer is pea gravel with an asphalt parking are in the front of the site. I forgot to fill our propane tanks a did that at the Cheveron in nearby Banks which is 10 miles away. There is no wifi unless you use your own. Cell service seems to be ok. Trash is located at a central area opposite the Welcome Center.

  • Jenna C.
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

    Peaceful Escape at Champoeg State Park

    Champoeg State Park is such a peaceful and well-kept spot, perfect for both weekend campers and road-trippers. The mix of open fields, riverside views, and walking trails makes it ideal for a relaxing outdoor getaway. What I really like is how easy it is to plan your stay, even using a simple camping trip calculator or planning tool helps figure out travel time, supplies, and costs before heading out. Definitely one of Oregon’s hidden gems for nature lovers.

  • Barbara H.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Cedar Grove Recreation Site

    Great bday 2025

    Friends took me here for few nights for my bday. Clean camp ground,quiet,not very big here n ur vehicle not prkd at ur site but really enjoyed staying here. Water wz to low to fish nearby but had fun looking for rocks. Will go again next yr.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Barview Jetty County Campground

    Decent

    Overall, the campground was nice. Free showers. There’s a nice playground for the kiddos. I stayed in the V loop and was the only camper there for the 3 nights I was there. The sites are close to each other… so if you want privacy, I would recommend going elsewhere. I could see it getting really packed and noisy during the weekends.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Port of Tillamook Bay RV Park

    City Park great for an overnight

    This is a great city run RV park that is next to a small municipal airport and a World War II era blimp museum. Some sites have shade, but mostly open field. I camped here 8/22/25. There were about 20 other campers but there was plenty of space for more. $20 a night.

  • Jami C.
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Emerald Valley RV Park

    Great stop

    Good stop, showers and bathrooms are clean, A LOT of people live here.... Manager is new and does not really know what's going on, I was told there is a lot of police activity there... Saw a few homeless people and cars with tow tags on em. Otherwise it's clean and safe

  • Vinny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Silver Falls State Park Campground

    Silver Falls Campground

    Very nice campground. Spots have a paved driveway and all seem to be relatively level. Private free hot showers! Right next to the ten falls trail loop.

  • Carol & Ed V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Nehalem Bay State Park Campground

    Great location

    Typical state cg. But sites are not on top of one another. Great showers and access to all the regions sites


Guide to Gaston

Campgrounds near Gaston, Oregon range from secluded forest sites to lakeside retreats, with most located within a 40-minute drive radius. The region experiences a temperate climate with wet winters and dry summers, making May through September the prime camping season. Tillamook State Forest provides much of the public land camping in this area, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet.

What to do

Hiking access: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers extensive trail systems for all skill levels. "There are lots of hiking, biking, and horse trails. They even have a disc golf course within the park," explains a camper who appreciated the variety of recreation options.

Mountain biking: The network of trails in Tillamook State Forest provides technical riding opportunities for different skill levels. "The park has many hiking trails of varying length, access to the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, several disc golf courses, cabins, a horse camp, a day use picnic/event area and a hike-in camp area," notes a visitor to L.L. Stub Stewart.

Water activities: Elk Creek Campground offers direct access to both Elk Creek and Wilson River for swimming and fishing. "The campsite is located in the heart of the Tillamook State Forest, surrounded by majestic Douglas firs that create an atmosphere of comfort and harmony," reports one visitor who enjoyed the setting.

Historical exploration: At Champoeg State Heritage Area, visitors can experience Oregon's pioneer past. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" shares a camper who found educational opportunities during their stay.

What campers like

River access: Gales Creek Campground receives praise for its streamside sites. "This campground was right on Gales Creek, with lush vegetation providing nice privacy," notes a visitor who enjoyed the natural setting despite the campground being full during their visit.

Privacy at walk-in sites: Keenig Creek Campground offers secluded tent camping. "The campsites are dispersed nicely and are clean and flat. The trails between the sites are well maintained to drag a cooler to your site," reports a camper who stayed at site 3, which has "a nice view to the hills on the other side of the river, and great morning sun."

Swimming holes: Natural water features rank high with campers. "The river was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim," shares a visitor to Elk Creek Campground, which sits at the confluence of Elk Creek and Wilson River.

Wildlife viewing: The forests around Gaston provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "We had a blast looking at all the hens, roosters, and turkeys immensely," states a visitor to a small farm-based camping area near Hagg Lake who enjoyed the rural setting.

What you should know

Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds require planning ahead, but others operate first-come, first-served. "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 Campground.

Camp host availability: Most established campgrounds have hosts from May through September. "The camp host was spectacular," notes a recent visitor to Elk Creek, highlighting the value of on-site assistance.

Seasonal considerations: Early spring camping brings mud and rain. "We came during offseason (November) and camped at this State Park for 3 nights," reports a visitor who enjoyed the quiet conditions but packed appropriate gear.

Cell service limitations: Hagg Lake House and surrounding areas have minimal connectivity. "Little/no access to internet so do not assume you can make phone calls or use phone apps," warns a visitor who suggests obtaining directions before arrival.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water features: Select campgrounds with gentle creek access. "Elk Creek is also day-use, so people heading to the creek or river will be walking by your site all day," notes a visitor who found the smaller creek "the perfect size for playing and swimming without the stress of a larger river" for their children.

Biking opportunities: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground offers flat, paved trails ideal for children learning to ride. "GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well," shares a camper who visits year after year with their kids.

Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "The kiddos absolutely loved the three pools, playground, and basketball hoops," reports a visitor about Jantzen Beach RV Park, noting it was "great for beginner campers and families" despite not being a typical campground setting.

Educational opportunities: The Tillamook Forest Center provides interactive exhibits for children. "A 7-minute drive from the awesome Tillamook Forest Center, which has really cool exhibits on the area," notes a visitor to Elk Creek Campground who appreciated this nearby resource.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At Olde Stone Village, choose sites based on length requirements. "Spaces are long enough for big rigs, as long as you get the 65 foot sites. They have two sizes: 50 foot and 65 foot. I'd recommend the 65 foot sites for a big rig, so you have enough room to park your vehicle," advises an RVer.

Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement. "The water and sewer hookups were in the middle of the site, with electric being at the back of the pad," notes a visitor to L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park who found water pressure "not very good at around 35 psi."

Entrance challenges: Some sites have difficult approaches. "The entrance to the concrete pads was a little steep and might result in bottoming out. It was not a gentle slope, but a sharp incline," cautions a visitor about one RV park in the region.

Pad materials: Surface types affect leveling requirements. "The pad starts with asphalt and then goes to gravel, where you actually park the rig," explains an RVer who stayed at L.L. Stub Stewart, providing useful information for others planning visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Gaston, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Gaston, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 224 campgrounds and RV parks near Gaston, OR and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Gaston, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gaston, OR is Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 76 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gaston, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Gaston, OR.