Best Tent Camping near Government Camp, OR

Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Government Camp? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Government Camp with tent camping. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Government Camp campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Government Camp, Oregon (84)

    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Meditation Point Campground near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR

    1. Meditation Point Campground

    8 Reviews
    11 Photos
    220 Saves
    Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon

    Meditation Campground is a small walk-in campground on the shores of Timothy Lake. Campers should park at the Westshore Day Use area to access the campground. The rustic sites are limited to groups of six campers each. It has 7 sites and is accessible by boat, bike or hike-in only. There is a toilet there and each site is equipped with a table and fire ring.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Burnt Lake near Government Camp, OR

    2. Burnt Lake

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    146 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    This trail enters the Mt. Hood Wilderness on the west side of Mount Hood. This trail accesses Burnt Lake and Zigzag Mountain with views above treeline. The north side also has wonderful old cedar snags showing remnants of a wildfire that came through around 1900.

    Starting from the north Burnt Lake trailhead, this trail begins at Forest Road 1825-109 (2,680’) and ends at Forest Road 2627-207 (3,320’). From Forest Road 1825-109, the trail climbs steadily up to Burnt Lake (4,120’). There is a nice loop trail around the lake accessing several campsites. From the lake the trail continues up a steep climb 0.6 mile and reaches Zigzag Ridge (4,720’). Soon after, the trail reaches Zigzag Mountain Trail #775. Turn right onto Zigzag Mountain Trail #775 and follow the ridge westward 0.3 miles until Burnt Lake Trail #772 drops over the south side of the ridge descending to Devil’s Meadow area. From Devil’s Meadow the trail follows an easier grade down an old roadway to West Zigzag trailhead at Forest Road 2627-207.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    Bridget H.'s photo of tent camping at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloud Cap Saddle near Government Camp, OR

    3. Cloud Cap Saddle

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    69 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Cloud Cap Saddle is a small campground and the location of Cloud Cap - Tilly Jane North trailhead which provides access to Timberline National Historic Trail #600 and Tilly Jane Trail #600A from the north. There is CAMPGROUND HAS NO POTABLE WATER The Historic Cloud Cap Inn is just up the road from the campground and is now used by search and rescue teams on the mountain.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Lisa K.'s photo of tent camping at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Badger Lake Campground near Government Camp, OR

    4. Badger Lake Campground

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    184 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Typically open May thru Oct. depending on weather.

    Badger Lake Campground is adjacent to Badger Lake and one of the major portals to the Badger Creek Wilderness. It's a rough drive to the campground, but campers are rewarded with a beautiful lake and access to the Badger Creek Wilderness with nearby access to Badger Lake Trail #479A, and Badger Creek Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alpine near Government Camp, OR

    5. Alpine

    3 Reviews
    20 Photos
    53 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    High on Mount Hood, near the headwaters of the Salmon River, the Alpine Campground is the highest on the Forest. Snow can be present in mid-summer. This campground offers excellent acess to nearby Timberline Lodge and many hiking and mountain biking trails as well as the town of Governement Camp below it. Avg. spur length = 16'

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR

    6. NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    174 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Dispersed camping, or camping outside of designated campgrounds, can be a great way to experience the forest- as long as everyone follows some rules and guidelines to protect forest wildlife, plants, water quality, and the health of others.

    Dispersed camping is not for everyone- and that's fine as the Mt. Hood National Forest has over 70 designated campgrounds. Camping outside of campgrounds means no toilets, no drinking water, no metal fire rings, and no trash service. You are responsible for leaving the site cleaner than you found it and learning the skills of Leave No Trace camping before you head out.

    Basic Rules & Guidance Some areas are closed to dispersed camping, such as within developed recreation sites, along certain roads, and particularly sensitive areas. Contact your local Ranger District for more information. You may camp on the forest for only 14 consecutive days. Please choose an existing site rather than create a new campsite. Camp at least 100 ft. away from streams, rivers, and lakes. If you didn't bring firewood and intend to build a campfire only collect already down wood. If your campfire is too hot to touch with bare hands- it's too hot for you to leave! Bring plenty of water and a shovel to help you put out your fire. Check in advance if there are any fire restrictions in effect. Treat or filter any stream water you collect for drinking, or bring water from home. Your group must be under 75 people. If it larger you must obtain a (usually free) permit in advance from the local Ranger District. When Nature Calls Be prepared for your own sanitation! To dispose of feces, dig a hole 6” deep at least 100 feet away from any water source. When you're done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Animals might eat it, it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it, and plus it's just gross. Leave No Trace Pack out everything you brought with you! Dispose of your garbage properly off the forest. Leave No Trace is a framework minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. They apply to virtually every recreational activity and help increase your safety and enjoyment of the forest. Learn more about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. The Mt. Hood National Forest belongs to all Americans- including those who will come long after us. Do your part to keep the forest clean every time you visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Bjorn S.'s photo of tent camping at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Crossing near Tygh Valley, OR

    7. Bonney Crossing

    5 Reviews
    32 Photos
    54 Saves
    Tygh Valley, Oregon

    Located on beautiful Badger Creek, at the foot of the Badger Creek Wilderness, this popular campground appeals to those who enjoy fishing, hiking, or horseback riding. This quiet campground is located along Badger Creek at one of the portals to the Badger Creek Wildnerness. Visitors who camp at this campground can access the eastern end of the Badger Creek Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $16 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at 39 Rd Dispersed Site near Government Camp, OR

    8. 39 Rd Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    79 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    This trail was once a part of the Historic Barlow Road, one of the last legs of the Historic Oregon Trail. Where the trail meets the Still Creek Campground, there is the site of a former historic resort called Swim, which was most active during the 1920’s. Various foundations from the facility, including an old pool, can still be found.

    The Barlow Trail connects Still Creek Campground with Government Camp, OR. Due to its historic value as part of the Barlow Road, it is a bit more primitive than most trails in the area to preserve its historic characteristics. Its rocky terrain and ditch like appearance is representative of how it likely looked when wagons and stock were on it in the 1850’s.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Barlow Crossing near Government Camp, OR

    9. Barlow Crossing

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    42 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Campground closed for 2021 season due to Forest Road 43 closure (White River Fire) and a bridge closure on Forest Road 3530. Located along the Historic Barlow Road near the Barlow Creek.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Alcohol
    Ashley L.'s photo of tent camping at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED near Welches, OR

    10. Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    40 Saves
    Welches, Oregon

    Overview

    Campground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire Rainbow Campground provides ample access to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River. The campground offers a great location to enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful mountains of northern Oregon. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, biking and rafting.

    Recreation

    Fishing is very popular in the Oak Fork and anglers can expect a catch of winter steelhead, spring Chinook and late summer Kokanee salmon, as well as other species of freshwater fish. The Clackamas River also provides miles of wild water as it bends through the scenic Cascade range, making whitewater rafting a popular activity. The 5-mile Riverside National Recreation Trail, popular for hiking and mountain biking, is located not far from the campground. The surrounding area provides numerous additional opportunities for hiking.

    Natural Features

    The campground is located in Mt. Hood National Forest along the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River at an elevation of about 1,400 feet. Huge maple and Douglas fir trees cover the area, and dense shrubbery provides some privacy between campsites. The campground is not far from the Ripplebrook Ranger Station and Ripplebrook Pond. The river provides habitat for the federally protected bald eagle and northern spotted owl, as well as an occasional peregrine falcon. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Bagby Hot Springs is located about 14 miles southwest of the campground. A popular site for soaking and relaxing, the springs are in a heavily wooded area in the scenic Cascade Range. The available bathhouses are fed by three major hot water springs and several minor outlets in the area. A historic guard station was built there in 1913.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Alcohol

    $20 - $22 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 84 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Government Camp, Oregon

1460 Reviews of 84 Government Camp Campgrounds


  • Steve H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Hood Village Resort
    Jul. 8, 2019

    Mt Hood Village Resort

    Large TT/Encore Campground

    Up at the base of Mt Hood, this large resort style campground (operates by Thousand Trails/Encore) offers various areas for camping. There are full RV hookup sites, tent sites, group tent sites, E/W RV hookups and cabins/yurts throughout. It seems most, of not all, RV sites have room for at least a small tent or more and they do allow that. There also is a few group tent sites that I saw.

    As for amenities, the campground has a small store that sells the basics and some RV parts, a deli/restaurant, playground and pool.

    There are trails to get to the Salmon River, not difficult by any means.

    Being just a dozen miles or so from Government Camp, there are so many things to do when you want to get out of the campground.

    It’s open year round, and many folks use Mt Hood Village RV Resort as a basecamp for activities for all seasons.

    Overall, I enjoyed my stay, though the limited restroom and showers are oddly placed, with access only by walking the loop. There are no trails to get to them, so if you are at the other end, it’s a small hike. The plus is that the restrooms are clean and well stocked.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Hood Village Resort
    Jul. 10, 2017

    Mt Hood Village Resort

    Good family spot

    This was a good family camping spot. Pros - there is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids. Cons - if you're tent camping the bathrooms are quite the hike, the tent sites are crammed together, there's only one working faucet in the entire tent camping area and the facilities are starting to look worn down.

    The most utterly confusing part to me is that there were two huge RV areas that were virtually empty and would be perfectly suitable for tent camping. I'm not sure why they retrofit a dozen or so of those sites for "premium" tent camping? I'd gladly pay a few extra bucks a night for a 110 outlet, more space my own personal water supply.

    We were in site T4. In my opinion it's the best site in the circle. If you can get T1, that looked like the best spot.

  • Kelly H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest
    Nov. 26, 2022

    Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest

    Loved it here!

    Out of the way, a bit, but that was part of what we enjoyed.  Felt far removed from "The City" and the drive was scenic.  

    Very popular campground.  We tent camped at this one.  Good tent sites shared in our site.

    Clean shower facilities.  Boat rentals, Great walk around the lake.  

    Our site seemed very private in amongst the trees, even though the resort was busy.  Would recommend!

  • Chris H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kinzel Lake Campground
    Sep. 13, 2016

    Kinzel Lake Campground

    Great low-traffic dispersed camping near Kinzel Lake

    This is one of my favorite places to camp near Mount Hood. The road leading into the campgrounds (NF-2613/Kinzel Lake Road) is primitive and just challenging enough to keep most folks away. You will want a motorcycle or 4WD vehicle to get here. It takes me about 25 minutes by motorcycle from Government Camp.

    Once at the lake, you'll see lots of places to setup camp, even a few picnic tables and fire pits (although they are quite old). I usually camp in the grass near the lake. There are no fees and I've never seen another person down here.

  • Evan F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground
    Mar. 4, 2021

    Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground

    Quiet and Beautiful

    We tent camped at a drive-in site (8) in October 2020 and loved our experience. The whole campground felt small and peaceful, the tent sites were well spaced and surrounded by trees. It seemed to be popular with families and there were quite a few kids riding their bikes around the loop. The walk around the lake was beautiful and quiet - we did not pass many people at all.

    I think next time we’ll try the walk-in sites for the privacy and the above view of the lake.

    Would recommend, absolutely.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Milo McIver State Park Campground
    Jul. 30, 2018

    Milo McIver State Park Campground

    Incredible River Oasis

    Granted, it's been 90 degrees everyday so anything near water feels incredible. BUT nothing quite as incredible as the ice, rushing Clackamas river!!!!!

    We stayed at this park for 3 days and it was such a trip. 2 adults, 2 kids and a pup had plenty of space on a tent site. The bathrooms were great and not to far of a trek, but for convenience they set up and ADA accessible portapotty near the tent camping area. The rangers were kind and helpful, as were the park hosts.

    Whether you're going for a full day of floating down the river (rentals offered at one of the boat launch areas) or want to climb your way down to a secluded chunk of river bend and hitch your float to a tree or rock, there is so much this park has to offer!

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Springs Campground
    May. 1, 2017

    Bear Springs Campground

    Ranger Review: Marmot Limelight Tent at Bear Springs Campground

    Campground Review:

    About 20 miles from Government Camp, this is a pretty cool campground as you are hopping over Mt Hood. With its location south east of the mountain and about 3000 foot elevation, good place to camp in the early spring if you want to then drive up Hood to get to snow.

    The government website shows it as "4 groups sites" but it has about 15 individual campsites from what I saw.

    You can hear cars drive by on Highway 216 but loved the open sites, big pine and fir trees and huge group-sized firepits. It also sits on the edge of Mt Hood National Forest so the background to most sites give you a good feel of the national forest.

    ............................

    **Product Review:**

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products. At this campground, I tested the Three Person Limelight Tent from Marmot. I actually upgraded from my 10 year old tent and - wow - could not be happier.

    Top reasons I loved the Limelight Marmot tent:

    1. Easy of use: What used to be 4 separate poles with my old tent is now one pre-connected pole for the Limelight that hooks into the four corners making it super easy to use. Got to the campground late Friday night and with no directions I easily set this up in a couple minutes.
    2. Footprint included! Don't you hate it when you invest in a tent AND THEN have to buy the ground water blocking footprint? Not with the Limelight cause it comes included.
    3. Size and view: The poles at the corners are rounded to give you bonus space and the entire inner top ceiling is a net so on clear (warm) night this tent is going to be great for viewing the stars.
  • Jason G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Hood Village Resort
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Mt Hood Village Resort

    The Ultimate Mt Hood Base Camp

    Not my normal camping scene, but decided to for an early summer ski session with the kids, we didn't want to completely rough it, but also didn't want to pay hotel prices. So, one of the standard cabins here was the perfect compromise. Roof over our heads, actual beds, room for three of us to be able to gear up for the day. But still had a fire pit outside, and picnic table for outdoor cooking. (Also the standard cabins don't have bathrooms, so you still need to go to the shared restrooms.)

    The property overall was really nice, lots of amenities. We also took a walk through the RV/Tent camp sites. Its very similar to a KOA style of resort. We enjoyed it for what it was.

  • Corinna B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park
    May. 31, 2018

    Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park

    Ranger Review: Leatherman Leap at Beacon Rock Moorage Camp and Boat Launch

    Campground Review:

    There are at least four different campgrounds within Beacon Rock State Park in Washington. This review is for the Boat Launch "Moorage Camp" at the base of Beacon Rock, which has a small 2-tent area and 5-RV space down by the boat launch.

    From Camas/Vancouver, you'll come to the sign for Beacon Rock Boat Launch on your right hand side, just before passing the actual Beacon Rock. There's a large day-use area on your right, an RV area that can hold up to 5 RVs (we never actually went to this since we were more interested in tent camping), and just two tent sites right next to the parking lot and boat launch. I've also heard that if everything is full, you can spend the $10 "unattended vehicle overnight" fee and car/RV camp in the parking lot, though I'd check with one of the many rangers who come through frequently first.

    There's another day-use area right at the boat launch with grass and picnic tables, and on the lovely Spring weekend we were there many people were picnicking, kayaking, laying in the sun and fishing. The Columbia River, while protected here, is still quite fast going under (and over) the dock, so we never let the boys go in the water since we didn't bring life vests, and we didn't see anyone else swimming either. The two tent sites right at the dock are large, though not super private, and they would be great if you wanted to get up super early with your boat and go fishing. Otherwise, I wouldn't consider this a "destination" campground since, in addition to it being so small, there's a train that passes by loud and frequently enough to be annoying. That said, the flush toilets, showers and bathrooms were some of the cleanest I've visited while camping, so that's a definite plus. And the view of Beacon Rock from this spot is pretty spectacular.

    Pros: Great views, perfect for launching a boat or early-morning fishing.

    Cons: Loud annoying train and only two tent spots, though when we came only one was in-use.

    Gear Review:

    Last year we won a Leatherman gift certificate in The Dyrt camping contest, so this year we decided to try out some of our new purchases: two Leatherman Leaps (in blue and green) for my two kiddos, ages 6 and 11:

    https://www.leatherman.com/leap-358.html

    Summary/Pros: I have to admit we are biased toward Leathermans. The company is based in Oregon (where we live), completely stands behind their products, and make quality multi-tools. We even gave engraved Leathermans as bridesmaid/groomsmen gifts at our wedding 17 years ago. That said, there's some that I use more frequently than others, and for the most part we've limited the boys' Leathermans to smaller multitools with scissors and such, so this is their first larger tool. I love the fact that we can have the large blade put in or taken out depending on how comfortable we are with having them have the blade. And the boys have had a surprisingly easy time opening and closing the different attachments.

    Cons: The only downside I've found with the Leap so far is that there's no nail file, but that's my personal preference and not one that's bothered the boys so far.

    Video Review: The boys decided they wanted to create their own review, so be sure to watch the attached video to see what they think.

  • Stephanie Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Jul. 1, 2017

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Convenient Location

    The campground at Ainsworth State park feels more like an RV parking lot than an exotic Columbia Gorge camping experience. The majority of the camground it rv hookups with just a few walk in tent sites. Yet, while the campground isn't impressive in itself, it is in an amazing location for exploring neighboring Eagle Creek and the rest of the gorge just steps away!

    The parking for the tent sites is close to the walk in trail. There are only 6 tent sites and they can be reserved online so it is not easy to roll up to a free spot in hiking season.

    The sites themselves are basic and offer much more privacy than your neighbors in the RV section of the park are getting. There is water near the tent site entrance. Toilets are a bit of a walk from the tent sites.

    This site does take credit cards for campground registration.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Humbug Campground
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Humbug Campground

    Love it here

    Humbug is one of our favorite campgrounds. We love the easy access to the beach and the beautiful hikes.  Showers are hot and free, rangers are always friendly.

    Cell service is pretty iffy here, but we manage to make it work with the cell booster.

    There's a dump station and water fill, trash and recycling, water spigots throughout campground, and firewood for sale.

    Tent sites in Oregon don't currently have the 25% non-resident surcharge (though I've heard that's changing soon) and there are plenty of non-hookup/tent sites that will fit RVs. There are also FHU and pull through sites.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Nottingham Campground
    Jun. 21, 2021

    Nottingham Campground

    RV camping sites sandy AF

    Tent camping sites looked amazing next to the river! Sadly, RVs are only allowed in a handful of sites which were all very sandy and less shaded. We stayed at site #5 which was probably the worst site for both issues but it was also the only one left on a weekend. We tried to cross the river to access to Tamanawas Falls trail but the water was too deep. Moral: tent camp in the highest # site available and reserve your spot!

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park
    May. 13, 2021

    Moorage Camp and Boat Launch — Beacon Rock State Park

    Tiny but adequate

    This small campground has just 2 tent sites and 5 rv sites. We stayed at the biggest of the two tent sites and enjoyed complete privacy and easy access to water, toilet and shower. While the train track is very close and trains are frequent, they do not usually use their horns or break at night, so they are not really a bother, even at night (and I'm a light sleeper). Overall a pleasant experience.

  • Lindsey T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Milo McIver State Park Campground
    Jul. 3, 2017

    Milo McIver State Park Campground

    Wish we could have stayed longer

    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. I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites. The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers). There seemed to be a lot of hiking trails. I couldn't check them out because of our schedule, but I would 100% return. We drove to the boat launch area and it was easily accessible.

  • Heather H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Trillium Lake
    May. 17, 2020

    Trillium Lake

    Beautiful!

    This campground gets really crowded from the day use/dam side of the lake. Great for tent camping/swimming. The lake actually gets pretty warm starting in August.

  • Travis B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gorge Base Camp RV Park
    May. 28, 2023

    Gorge Base Camp RV Park

    Camping with Trains

    This camp ground is fantastic, sites are very well maintained and level. Full service hook ups including sewer. Great segregated tent camp area with available water. Bathrooms are very clean and well maintained. Dog area is very big and clean. The campground is very close to the main railroad tracks and trains come by every hour or so at all times of the day. If your inside your RV with the AC on you can hear faint noise, if your are tent camping bring some ear plugs. After 3 days you actually become accustomed to the sounds and it is a actually a cool viewing attraction, especially if you have kids. Overall great visit and if we are this way again we will be back.

  • Richard H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes River State Recreation Area
    Apr. 22, 2024

    Deschutes River State Recreation Area

    Beautiful and very clean.

    Beautiful camp right along the Deschutes River. Very peaceful except for trains that go by and blow horn. Full hook ups and tent camping areas. Bathrooms are very clean. Good hiking trails along river.

  • Kate M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park Campground
    Jul. 28, 2022

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Convenient location and nice facilities

    Great location for exploring Columbia River waterfall area. Clean and nicely laid out bathrooms and showers. Tent camping experience not great and we were in the tent only section. Road and railway noise. Our site smelled like urine. Lights from the info board and neighboring sites shining into our tent all night long.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kiwanis Road Free Camping
    Jun. 18, 2023

    Kiwanis Road Free Camping

    Tent sites

    This is a decent choice for tent camping. Most spots are just off the road. Park on the side of the road and pack your tent into the trees. Camping on both sides of the road. The east side of the road has a creek running through it Very beautiful. 

  • Cody T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Detroit Lake State Recreation Area
    Sep. 12, 2021

    Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

    Beautiful place

    Beautiful place right next to the lake! Wasn’t a fan of how open the sites are and the noise from the highway. We were tent camping however so your mileage may vary with a camper/trailer set up.

  • Kimberly Y.
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberlake Campground & RV
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Timberlake Campground & RV

    Quiet and Well Maintained

    Away from the railroad tracks. Great sites for tent camping. RV spots are a little close. Clean bathhouse. Don’t be scared away because there are no pull through spots. The management can coach you into the site. They were great.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Maupin City Park
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Maupin City Park

    Overcrowded

    The tent camp runs along a river which is nice and there is grass and each site has a table. The problem is they pack the campground like sardines and only have one facility at one end of the campground.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Detroit Lake State Recreation Area
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

    Beautiful Lake Campground

    Had a wonderful time tent camping here with our 4 month old baby. Great place to cool off on hot summer days. Love the trail that goes around the lake!

    **Might have been affected by fires in September 2020**

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberlake Campground & RV
    Jun. 27, 2022

    Timberlake Campground & RV

    Perfect spot for a Gorge Adventure

    What an incredible campground. Nice shaded, private spots. Enough distance between campers that it feels secluded. Though we were in our RV the tent camping looked spectacular! Kind front desk team. Magical, large grassy lawn that our Bernedoodle loved. We will be back!


Guide to Government Camp

Tent camping near Government Camp, Oregon, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest. With a variety of campgrounds featuring unique amenities and activities, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy.

Some prices for tent camping range from $12 to $25

  • Camping at Barlow Crossing provides a serene experience right by Barlow Creek, with sites available for just $12 a night.
  • For a more secluded experience, Keeps Mill Campground offers primitive camping for around $20, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • At Bonney Crossing, enjoy a peaceful stay next to Badger Creek for a fee of $25, ideal for families and groups.

Local activities to enjoy while tent camping

  • Explore the hiking trails around Burnt Lake, which is perfect for beginners and offers stunning views of Mt. Hood.
  • Take advantage of the water activities at Meditation Point Campground, where you can kayak or fish in Timothy Lake.
  • Enjoy fishing and swimming at Rainy Lake Campground, which is just a short walk from the lake and offers beautiful scenery.

Tips for tent camping near Government Camp

  • Arrive early at Rainbow Campground to secure a good spot, as it can get busy during peak season.
  • Bring your own drinking water when camping at Sunstrip Campground, as there are no water hookups available.
  • Be prepared for rough roads when heading to Kinzel Lake Campground, which requires a high-clearance vehicle for access.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Government Camp, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Government Camp, OR is Meditation Point Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Government Camp, OR?

    TheDyrt.com has all 84 tent camping locations near Government Camp, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.