Tillamook State Forest offers numerous rustic camping near Hillsboro, Oregon with elevations ranging from 700 to 3,000 feet across its terrain. Most primitive sites feature compact, level areas with natural ground cover rather than established camping pads. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations, though seasonal road closures frequently affect access between November and March depending on conditions.
What to do
Fishing spots: Along Trask River Campsites, visitors find multiple access points for angling. "River rushing near the spots makes for a really nice sound to fall asleep to. Not crowded and really peaceful," reports Dylan B., who found the riverside camping areas readily accessible from the gravel road.
Waterfall hikes: Short trails lead to scenic cascades from several forest roads. "The waterfall is amazing and only a 15 minute hike down," writes Jaden J. about Beaver Falls Trailhead, noting it makes a perfect day trip from your campsite despite some trash issues near the parking area.
Stargazing opportunities: Higher elevation sites provide exceptional night sky viewing during clear weather. "Clear skies so got to see a beautiful array of stars. This spot was really a 10/10 for me," writes one camper about their experience at Trask River Campsites, highlighting the minimal light pollution in these remote areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas provide substantial separation from other campers. "We checked out a few dispersed sites before we picked our spot. We managed to get a spot that was a 1 minute walk to the water, and about the same to the vaulted toilets," notes Gerard R. about South Lake, appreciating the ability to select a site with adequate spacing.
Morning vistas: Higher elevation camps offer dramatic valley views particularly at dawn. "This was a really fantastic campsite! Definitely quite the long and slow drive up a narrow backcountry road - steep in sections but overall quite manageable. There are a few options up here but one really phenomenal site with wide ranging views," writes Emma T. about the Scenic Overlook near Foley Creek.
River proximity: Many primitive sites sit directly adjacent to flowing water. "We caught trout every day we were there. Most are small but was fun nonetheless. There is an old boat without a motor tied up for anyone to use," shares Gerard R., describing the accessible fishing at South Lake.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access difficulty changes dramatically with weather. "Went up at the end of the snow season and I couldn't quite make it. My 4wd rav only has road tires and I eventually got to a point I wasn't able to make it," reports Logan K. about Tillamook Forest Dispersed - Shots and Pecks, highlighting winter access challenges.
Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic facilities requiring self-sufficiency. "No amenities besides a vault toilet and no fee. Nothing fancy, but really beautiful, clean, nice rangers, and not busy at all. Get ready to dodge loads of potholes and deer as you travel up the gravel roads to get here," warns Sam L. about South Lake.
Overcrowding on weekends: Popular areas fill quickly during peak season. "This was a last minute find for us on the 4th of July. There were a few sites left for us to choose from. The sites are not numbered but are designated by a rock ringed fire pit," explains Tracy H., suggesting midweek visits for better site selection at South Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Safest access routes: Some forest roads present challenges for vehicles with children. "Road is fine and easy. AWD is nice but isn't necessary if the road is fairly dry," advises Seth M. about Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping, providing reassurance for families concerned about rough roads.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer best chances to spot native animals. "Loved this spot. Such an amazing view will definitely be coming back again. Hopefully, next time I come back, it won't be taken," shares Israel S., who appreciated the undisturbed natural setting at Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping.
Advanced preparation necessities: Pack all supplies as no services exist near most sites. "For being about an hour outside of Portland, this place is magical. If you're into disbursed camping, you have to give this place a visit," suggests Casey B., emphasizing the proximity to urban areas despite the primitive conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Limited level areas present issues for larger vehicles. "Relative to other options in Northwest Oregon this was an easy to find, plenty of space place to park the car," notes John P. about Beaver Falls Trailhead, though he mentions it works better for car camping than RVs.
Turning radius considerations: Some forest roads lack adequate turnaround space. "This spot requires a good climb up Mt Hebo. The road is paved but quite narrow in places. We came up in the dark and had to take it pretty slowly around the turns," cautions Mike S. about Dispersed Camping Near Pioneer-Indian Trail, adding that while challenging, their truck camper managed fine.
Ground conditions: Surface stability varies with recent precipitation. "The dirt was solid -- I wasn't worried at all about getting stuck in the mud (and I'm here in the middle of winter with tons of recent rain). Plenty of room to turn around with ease," reports Jeremy B. about Beaver Falls Trailhead, providing valuable information for RVers concerned about getting stuck.
