Gervais, Oregon sits in the heart of the Willamette Valley at 185 feet elevation, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The camping season in this area typically runs from April through October, with the most reliable weather from July through September. Most campgrounds in the region sit along river corridors or near agricultural lands, creating diverse camping environments within short driving distances.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Silver Falls State Park Campground offers two competition-quality disc golf courses. "Probably the easiest accessibility to the most awesome waterfalls per few square miles in Oregon. Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from," notes Jeremy A.
Historic exploration: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground provides access to pioneer history exhibits. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" reports Leslie C., making this an educational option for families interested in Oregon's settlement history.
River access: Multiple boat launches at Milo McIver State Park Campground allow easy water entry. "Milo McIver State Park has large sites w great river access," writes Gryphon D. The park provides opportunities for fishing, floating, or simply enjoying time on the Clackamas River.
Horseback riding: Extensive equestrian trails are available at Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp. "This site is soooo beautiful! stayed here a couple times and always enjoyed it," mentions Brandi L. The campground primarily serves those traveling with horses but offers scenic riding opportunities through forested areas.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: During summer months, several parks offer river access for cooling off. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" says April F. about Milo McIver State Park.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds provide adequate room between sites. "The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite," notes Thamar D. about Champoeg State Heritage Area.
Indoor amenities: Olde Stone Village features heated indoor facilities. "This is probably the cleanest park we have been to over the last 18 months. The spots were spacious and a lot were pull through. The bathrooms were super clean and big as well, single person set up," reports Curt S.
Seasonal activities: Different parks offer varying recreational options throughout the year. "What can I say? Silver Falls is a magical place and everyone should experience it. You can just get lost in the beauty of it all," says Jeff K., highlighting the year-round appeal of Silver Falls State Park Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Seasonal flooding affects some campgrounds. "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool," warns Kelly N. about Willamette Mission State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Gervais require advance bookings, especially during peak season. "I would recommend this place, just make reservations early," advises Ashley B. about Champoeg State Heritage Area.
Pet restrictions on trails: Despite being pet-friendly, some parks limit where dogs can access. "The campgrounds are nice. The hike is amazing and beautiful though most of the trails are closed to dogs," notes Krystle K. about Silver Falls State Park.
Traffic noise levels: Several campgrounds are located near highways. "While the park is nice and well maintained, the B lot backs right up to the highway with unbearable road noise," cautions Scott S. about Silver Spur RV Park & Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Great family getaway. Champoeg has a little everything. GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well. Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river. We'll go back year after year. Our kids had a blast!" shares Scott W.
Educational opportunities: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground provides historical learning experiences. "Along the way got to see the Champoeg Heritage site with period piece actors, wide open spaces, and the Willamette River," reports Ashley B., making this an excellent choice for educational family outings.
Pool facilities: Some RV parks include swimming pools for children. "We love the indoor swimming pool, laundry room and dog park. It felt like a country club for RV resorts," says Belinda about Sun Outdoors Portland South, providing an alternative when river swimming isn't practical.
Biking opportunities: Flat, paved paths suit families with varied skill levels. "Champoeg State Park is on the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, and a great place to camp if you want to do a long biking getaway," recommends Stephanie Z., noting its suitability for cycling enthusiasts of all ages.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Portland-Woodburn RV Park offers standard amenities but with space limitations. "Definitely not the worst RV Park our there. Decent size patches of grass between RV's, conveniently located by numerous shops and restaurants, right off I-5 so anyone needing a place to crash or working nearby it works great," explains Lacey W.
Hookup reliability: Most campgrounds near Gervais maintain functional utilities. "Great historic park with no issues with hookups in the RV area. Spring and summer can be a bug challenge so bring lots of insect repellant!" advises C.W. about Champoeg State Heritage Area.
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness varies between locations. "Superclean. Love this rv resort. Cleanest and most comfortable shower I've had in weeks! The swimming pool is also very nice! It's pretty expensive but all worth it," reports Hilde H. about Sun Outdoors Portland South.
Pet exercise areas: Dog friendly campgrounds near Gervais typically include designated pet spaces. "We have been staying here full time since October 2021 and will be moving on in about a month or so. Many full timers live here but it's a convenient spot to park for a few days at a time or full time. On-site office, laundry, pool, full baths," shares Laurie about Portland-Woodburn RV Park.
