Best Campgrounds near Happy Valley, OR

The outskirts of Happy Valley, Oregon feature a diverse range of camping options within a 30-minute drive, from state parks to riverfront RV sites. Milo McIver State Park, located 20 miles southeast near Estacada, offers spacious campsites with tent areas, RV hookups, and yurts nestled among towering evergreens. Oxbow Regional Park provides year-round camping with river access and hiking trails. Barton County Park Campground along the Clackamas River accommodates both tent and RV camping with 110 sites available from May through October. Clackamette RV Park in Oregon City sits at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers, providing urban camping with fishing opportunities and proximity to Portland.

Most campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, particularly during the peak season from late spring through early fall. Milo McIver State Park operates from March 15 to October 31, while several RV parks remain open year-round. Cell service varies significantly, with stronger coverage at campgrounds closer to urban areas and limited or no reception at more remote sites. As one camper noted about Milo McIver: "The campground is well maintained and the hosts have been great. Estacada lake is within walking distance, and there is salmon fishing within driving distance inside of the park." Highway noise can be a factor at some locations, particularly those near major roads, though sites deeper in forested areas offer more seclusion.

Riverside camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds offering direct water access. The Clackamas and Willamette Rivers provide popular fishing spots and water recreation opportunities. According to one reviewer, Clackamette RV Park offers "simple RV sites with access to everything. The river is right there, bike trails, grass area, walk to town, everything." Wildlife viewing is another highlight, particularly at Milo McIver where campers report seeing "elk, water birds, and at least 5 bald eagles." Site privacy varies considerably across campgrounds, with state parks generally offering more spacious and secluded options compared to more densely arranged RV parks. Tent campers will find the most options during summer months, while RV camping remains available year-round at several facilities.

Best Camping Sites Near Happy Valley, Oregon (312)

    1. Milo McIver State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Estacada, OR
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 630-7150

    $8 - $78 / night

    "Just 45 minutes outside of Portland, and near the town of Estacada, is Milo McIver State Park, which I consider to be a quintessential Oregon State Park: lots of huge evergreen trees, large campsites,"

    "Estacada lake is within walking distance, and there is salmon fishing within driving distance inside of the park. There is also a "bat" barn that is close by."

    2. Oxbow Regional Park

    36 Reviews
    Corbett, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 797-1850

    $25 / night

    "Close proximity to Multonomah Falls. Pros - bathrooms with electric outlets, free showers, deer come close and are fun to watch, quiet & fairly private stay."

    "There is distance between you and other guests but if you want to meet your neighbors you can. They have ADA sites, a lake, play grounds and a welcome center."

    3. Barton County Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Eagle Creek, OR
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 742-4422

    $28 - $81 / night

    "Close to Portland so it gets a lot of day traffic. Access to river so it has summer activities. Sites for large get togethers."

    "The kids enjoyed the playground and biking around the loop. The river access down at the day use was lovely. All the park staff were friendly."

    4. Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

    72 Reviews
    Donald, OR
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 678-1251

    $24 - $168 / 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."

    5. Jantzen Beach RV Park

    31 Reviews
    Vancouver, OR
    15 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."

    6. Clackamette RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Oregon City, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 496-1201

    "Simple RV park with access to everything. The river is right there, bike trails, grass area, walk to town, everything."

    "Right off the exit of 205, it's very easy to get to, and a beautiful spot where the Clackamas flows into the Willamette."

    7. Columbia River RV Park

    21 Reviews
    Vancouver, OR
    13 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."

    8. Portland Fairview RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Fairview, OR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Most spots were pull-though with decently wide streets to drive in. Even though it's just off a semi-major street, it's set back enough and surrounded by trees to be more quiet."

    9. Sun Outdoors Portland South

    11 Reviews
    Wilsonville, OR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 532-7829

    "There’s a fenced in dog area and lawn you can walk on leash. The only downside is that the standard sites are small and very close to neighbors."

    "It is located right of the interstate but feels secluded. They have both back in and pull through sites, a little tight with neighbors but I was told it is better than other RV resorts."

    10. Mt Hood Village Resort

    47 Reviews
    Rhododendron, OR
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy."

    "We were parked next to the bathroom that was in the area and the facilities were very clean. The river that runs along the property was very beautiful."

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Recent Reviews near Happy Valley, OR

1904 Reviews of 312 Happy Valley Campgrounds


  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Milo McIver State Park Campground

    Great location not far from pdx!

    I decided at last minute to get out of dodge! But didn’t want to go far. This campground was perfect. Super clean and close but giving you the feeling of being out deep in the woods. The only bummer is in my app. It said camp fires allowed. And they ARE NOT allowed at this time. The park rangers are super nice and friendly and definitely efficient. You feel safe at this location. Will be back!!!

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Panther Creek Creekside Camp

    Loved It

    Not too far from the nearest town but you will feel totally immersed out here. My carrier is Verizon, I didn’t have any service whatsoever. Ice cold creek, towering trees. Seemed to be lots of sites off the road to pick from. A bit of trash but nothing crazy. Fantastic place to stop even just for one night. Would definitely visit again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Elk Creek Campground

    Beautiful, remote, minimal

    This campground has minimal facilities (pit toilets, no trash, etc). No cell service either (AT&T). Still, it's a quiet, gorgeous area next to a creek. Bring 15$ cash and be prepared for a wonderful time. I actually visited twice.

  • Willeth
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Columbia River RV Park

    Columbia River RV Park

    A great place to stop with a motorhome or tent, located on the banks of the Columbia River near Portland. The park is known for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and good amenities: paved parking, electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry facilities. There are also areas for pets and a place for dogs to run off-leash. Despite the close parking, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. An excellent choice for an overnight stay after exploring Portland!

  • marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Oxbow Regional Park

    Amazing Secret

    Nice regional campground. Has tent and RV spots. No hookups though. Mostly shady sites with just a handful having full sun.

    Restrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers. No coins needed.

    Great access to the river to keep cool in summer. Nice sandy beaches. Park also has a lot of sheltered picnic areas and playground.

    Multi-use trail great for short runs and apparently horses.

    No wifi and we had no phone reception. There are emergency phones installed throughout the park.

  • Brad and jamie L.
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Promontory Park

    Small wedding destination

    We got married here on 8/30/25 It was absolutely perfect. Sky and Phil were our absolutely amazing camp hosts. They were more than help and accommodating. Our day was so special and when we had complications with our reservations they fixed it without hesitation. Sky even brought Jr. Camper art projects for our kids. We had an amazing stay! Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total. They have electric hot plate stations for community cooktops. The yoms have electricity and bunk beds this has one of our favorite spots.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Sunset Falls Campground

    Sunset falls getaway

    I booked the campground. There were pictures but not of the camp spot I chose. I did because it indicated I would be by the river. Note. I was but not accessible from my spot. I was disappointed about that. I chose #13 for that reason. However I arrived and was also surprised I was not able to park by my spot. There is a little trek. Thank god I brought my cart as I had all my camp gear.
    12 and 13 are closer to parking than 14, 15 and 16. They are a little more remote.
    The drive in camping spots resembles more of a day use area. No real privacy. Then the road going through the campground was noisy with motorists and motorcycles at all hours running through.
    At this time. There isnt any camp fires allowed.
    No cell service.
    It’s beautiful with the falls and canopy of trees and decently close to town.
    But overall. For a weekend getaway it’s great. But very limited. Also no water so bring your water.

  • Greg W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Wind Mountain RV Park

    Grest place

    This is a great RV park with short and long-term camping. It's perfect for the traveling worker, fisherman or people who want enjoy all the outdoor activities in the Gorge.

  • Roman P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    North Arm Campground

    Mesa Verde

    Not sure how we ended here, but it is a really nice camp. The only disadvantage is that it couldn't be reserved through recreation.org. Toilets, water, showers (free), washers (1,75 or 2,25 $, dryer .25 for 5 min) and free wifi at store. Sweet


Guide to Happy Valley

Camping near Happy Valley, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: There are great trails nearby. Campers at Champoeg State Heritage Area enjoy the trails, with one reviewer saying, "A nice spot nearby to Portland. Nice enough place to visit and spend some time."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: If you love fishing, check out Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest. One visitor mentioned, "The lake is fun for fishing and renting a little boat or canoe to get onto the water."
  • Exploring Nature: Oxbow Regional Park is perfect for wildlife watching. A happy camper shared, "The camp ground is in the middle of the forest... There is distance between you and other guests."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer from Milo McIver State Park said, "Great restrooms and showers."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. At Mt Hood Village Resort, a visitor noted, "Staff was very nice and helpful."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One reviewer at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The lake is small but awesome," highlighting the nice space around the sites.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Paradise Point State Park Campground warned, "That noise. It's not the river. It's I-5 which is right in your back yard."
  • Accessibility Issues: If you need accessible facilities, be cautious. A reviewer at Lost Lake Resort And Campground expressed disappointment, stating, "This location is far from being accessible for handicapped visitors."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Ainsworth State Park Campground mentioned, "Restrooms were incredibly clean and there are hot showers," but noted the price was a bit high.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places with playgrounds or activities for kids. Mt Hood Village Resort has a playground that kids love, as one parent shared, "Our kids love cruising the loops on their bikes and stopping in at the playground."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which can help with family rest. A camper at Oxbow Regional Park appreciated, "I always appreciate a campground with quiet hours to enjoy the peace and quiet of outside."
  • Pack for All Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Milo McIver State Park mentioned, "The actual park/forest/river are amazing," indicating the beauty of the area regardless of the weather.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Paradise Point State Park Campground had trouble, stating, "We put the size of our RV in the state website and it gave us site 50... it was IMPOSSIBLE to get our rig in that site."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. Mt Hood Village Resort offers these amenities, making it a popular choice.
  • Be Ready for Train Noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks. A visitor at Cascade Locks KOA noted, "The train was very loud (especially at night)," so be prepared if you're sensitive to noise.

Camping near Happy Valley, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to check the specific campgrounds for what they offer and any potential drawbacks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reid Park in Happy Valley open for overnight camping?

Reid Park in Happy Valley does not offer overnight camping facilities. The park is a day-use recreational area only. For overnight camping near Happy Valley, consider Oxbow Regional Park, which is just a short drive away and offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities. Another option is Barton County Park Campground, which provides similar amenities and is also convenient to Happy Valley.

Where are the best campgrounds near Happy Valley, Oregon?

The best campgrounds near Happy Valley include Clackamette RV Park, located in nearby Oregon City at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers with great fishing access and proximity to urban amenities. For those willing to drive a bit further, Trillium Lake offers gorgeous views of Mt. Hood, shady campsites, and excellent swimming and paddleboarding opportunities. Other solid options include Mt Hood Village Resort for full amenities and Clackamas Lake Campground when other nearby sites are full.

What amenities are available at Happy Valley camping areas?

Camping areas near Happy Valley offer various amenities depending on the location. Silver Falls State Park Campground provides access to hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife viewing, tent sites, and yurts. For RV campers, Jantzen Beach RV Park offers full hookups, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic facilities like restrooms and potable water, while some offer additional amenities such as showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby recreational opportunities including fishing, swimming, and hiking.