Tillamook State Forest offers several tent camping options northwest of Gaston, Oregon, with the most established sites found at Elk Creek Campground and Keenig Creek Campground. Both provide walk-in tent sites set among Douglas firs and near creeks, creating a true forest camping experience. The campgrounds are approximately 30-40 miles from Gaston via Highway 6, which winds through the coastal range toward Tillamook. Dispersed camping is also permitted in designated areas of Tillamook State Forest for more primitive tent setups.
Most tent campsites in this region feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal improvements beyond fire rings and picnic tables. Walk-in sites at Elk Creek require campers to carry gear from parking areas to their sites, with no vehicle access directly to tent pads. Vault toilets are available at established campgrounds, but amenities are otherwise limited. Hand-pump water is available at Elk Creek, while dispersed camping areas have no facilities whatsoever. First-come, first-served policies apply at most locations, with sites filling quickly on summer weekends. The camping season typically runs May through September, though some areas remain accessible year-round.
Tent-only camping areas like Elk Creek provide excellent access to swimming holes and hiking trails. The Wilson River and Elk Creek offer clear, cool water for summer recreation with rocky beaches and pools suitable for wading. Several reviewers note the privacy between sites despite their walk-in nature. A camper described Elk Creek as "a perfect campground for a weekend of hiking" with "most sites large and room to move around." Sites situated near water often provide natural white noise that helps mask occasional highway sounds. Primitive tent campsites typically attract fewer RVs and large groups, creating a quieter experience for those seeking forest solitude.
"This is a great site if you like "rustic" (which we do) since the sites are walk in-only. Adorable sites with picnic tables, fire rings and just enough privacy."
"First of all, it is an easy enough drive from Portland, about an hour or so."
from $15 / night
"Wonderful location next to the confluence of Elk Creek and the Wilson River. Vault toilets. Pump water. Walk-in/tents only, so no RVs, but still a nice location."
"Elk Creek Campground is gorgeous, shady, Elk Creek itself winds around the campsites spooning it and provides ample swimming and fishing spots."
"These sites are beautiful and really meant for tent camping—but you can park an rv in most of the spots. There is a vault toilet closer to site 14 but no hookups."
"Gorgeous spots all over that are accessible in most 4WD/off-road capable vehicles."
"The RV toilet, hammock, fire pit, and picnic table were well maintained."
"Our site was secluded and we had privacy. The pond area is beautiful with all the statues found around it. Highly recommend and we plan to visit again :)"
from $45 / night
"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."
"There are many river acess points, the forestry center, walking trails and wildlife all within walking distance. The campsites are on a first come first serve basis and many of them are pretty big."
from $15 - $20 / night
"Trask River Campground is 20 minutes away from Tillamook."
"Vault toilets and a little path down to the river on the side that has individual camps. Our Pop-Up fit in nicely! There is an area on the other side of the road for large group camping."
"Each has a fire ring with plenty of space for 2 or more rigs. I arrived on a Saturday thinking there will never be a spot, but as luck would have it site 1 was clear."
"I saw a total of 3 designated dispersed camping sites along this road. But there were a ton of pull offs along the river."
"This area is a really nice area to explore with some elevation gain. There are some existing campfire rings along the road. Boondocking is allowed."
"It is a ways from the highway noise or any other noice for that matter but it was definitely a little creepy down there but well worth the stay if your trying to escape everyday life."
"We reserved a spot in the Brooke Creek walk-in tent site. It is a 1/4 mile walk to the sites starting from the visitors center."
"this was so awesome.. we used the walk-in camp sites that had been closed till the moment we asked after closing due to a tree falling in one of the bathrooms.. so me and my friend were the only ones out"
from $17 / night
from $25 - $45 / night
RangerThis place was one of the busier sites and the most difficult to find a private spot. Tons of people were just in pull offs - which I tend to try and avoid as a solo traveler. Found a spot by the creek that was pretty private, but getting in and out was a bit challenging. Definitely needed my 4WD. However, the road leading in was totally fine.
ScoutI tent camped and had half the campground to myself. Water and toilets in good condition. Nice and quiet. I booked on their website beforehand, was about $26 after fees.
ScoutBeautiful sites and camping.
RangerThis was a hell of a drive for just spending the night, but it was certainly beautiful. I found a place by the creek. Backing out of it was a bit sketchy, but I liked the seclusion of the spot so I went for it. Ugh, I love Washington weather. It was elevated so not too hot or cold. Lots of just pull off spots along the way and I didn’t drive high enough for the views other’s were raving about.
TravelerWe camped here for 4 days, rangers were nice we hauled in our wood since we didn’t want to buy a lot, and can’t gather wood there. Plenty of trees between campsites, The Bathroom and showers were really nice and clean!! lake was also nice but small. Enjoyed our stay!!
RangerThis site is great! Lots of rules listed but not enforced, would recommend having the discovery pass though as signs are prevalent. If you can avoid going the route alongside the correctional facility, you’ll have much less dirt roads and pot holes. There isn’t room in the non horse sites for a rig more than say 25 feet long. No cell service or Starlink, but if you drive to a clearing nearby you can find a satellite .
ScoutJessica was extremely responsive, warm, and very accommodating :). The Sublime site is spacious, beautiful, and private. We planned for 2 nights and extended to 3rd because we were having such a great time. Our 25’ class C RV was a little tough to get up the site due to tight steep turns. Exiting the site was much easier.
GuideSite was OK for a one night stay. When we arrived we immediately noticed trash in the site. As this campground is next to dunes there is a ton of noise. Our neighbors were revving their dirt bikes (not even riding them) past midnight. No hookups. Close to the water.
GuideWe stayed in the RV area. As stated in other reviews, the spaces are pretty much on top of each other, with little privacy. It would be nice if they cut a few spaces out and added some trees or bushes between the spaces. Bathrooms are hit and miss, like most campground bathrooms. Nice playground for kids, easy access to the beach.
Tillamook State Forest tent camping options near Gaston, Oregon, span both established campgrounds and dispersed sites in the coastal range. Elevation varies from 500 to 2,000 feet throughout the region, creating diverse microclimates where summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F. Fall and spring camping often brings fog and rain with overnight temperatures dropping to 40°F, requiring additional gear preparation.
Swimming holes: Access the Wilson River from multiple camping locations for summer recreation. At Elk Creek Campground, a visitor noted the "confluence of Elk Creek and the Wilson River" provides excellent swimming areas with "clear, cool water" and rocky beaches suitable for wading.
Hiking trails: Tackle challenging terrain within a short distance of campsites. One camper at Jones Creek mentioned the "trailhead for the Willson River trail within the campground which makes for a great early morning hike." Another reviewer described Elk Mountain as having "2,000 ft of elevation gain in less than 2 miles."
Mountain biking: Explore dedicated trails close to camping areas. A reviewer described the area as having "mountain biking—some really good stuff—is very close at hand," while another mentioned "frequent water and swimming holes" along the trail system, providing natural rest stops during rides.
Privacy between sites: Most tent campers appreciate the separation between camping spots. A reviewer at Keenig Creek Campground noted, "From the site we were in (K6) we could see no other campsites and could barely hear anyone else. Loved the cozy feel of our site."
Natural sound barriers: Many sites feature creek or river proximity that masks other noises. A camper described how "at night when the traffic dies down you can hear the river," creating a more immersive experience despite Highway 6 being relatively close to some areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides chances to observe local animals. At Trask River County Park, a reviewer mentioned, "If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas," while others noted seeing "newts, crawdads, fish, and tadpoles" in the waterways.
First-come availability challenges: Most sites fill quickly during peak season. At Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping, a reviewer advised, "If you're looking for a place to relax and immerse yourself in nature...this is definitely an option not to be missed," but warned that "the road to the campsite can be bumpy and narrow, so you need to prepare carefully."
Walk-in requirements: Several tent areas require carrying gear from parking areas. A camper at Keenig Creek shared, "The trails between the sites are well maintained to drag a cooler to your site," but another warned, "no wheelbarrows or anything on site so only bring what you're able to carry."
Limited cell service: Most forest camping areas have poor or no connectivity. One camper noted "No cell service whatsoever up at the campground," while another specified "Verizon cell service is nonexistent in the area."
Cash payment systems: Some campgrounds require exact payment. A reviewer stated, "Bring 15$ cash and be prepared for a wonderful time," highlighting the need to arrive with physical currency rather than relying on card payments or electronic options.
River access for children: Several campsites feature kid-friendly water features. A visitor to Brooke Creek Walk-In Campground noted the "beautiful seclusion" with "nothing but a hill" to traverse to reach the site, making it accessible for families with older children who can help carry gear.
Playground equipment: Some campgrounds include built-in entertainment options. A Trask River County Park camper mentioned "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around," providing recreation beyond natural features.
Safety considerations: Main roads often run between campsite areas. One reviewer warned, "There is a main road in between the campgrounds since sites go from A-C. People fly up and down that road at 50+ MPH so watch your kids and pets."
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies seasonally. A reviewer advised, "Bring bug repellant with the mosquitos being an abundant during June," helping families prepare for the sometimes intense insect activity in early summer.
Limited hookup availability: Most of the best tent camping near Gaston has minimal facilities for larger vehicles. One RVer noted, "No full hook up so bring your own water and power," while another mentioned sites are "walk-in only, which is great if you're in a tent, but out-of-luck if you're in a trailer or RV."
Small trailer accessibility: Some campgrounds can accommodate compact RVs despite limitations. A reviewer mentioned that "many sites are suitable for small trailers or campers" despite the lack of dedicated RV hookups at certain locations.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management in advance. Several reviewers note the need to travel to Tillamook for full services, with one mentioning, "It's only 20 miles from Tillamook if you want to do some exploring or shopping," which includes access to sanitation facilities not available at the forest campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gaston, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gaston, OR is Keenig Creek Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 15 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Gaston, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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