RV sites near Molalla, Oregon provide convenient access to the scenic Cascade foothills and Clackamas River basin. Located at approximately 400 feet elevation, the area experiences mild winters and warm summers with peak camping season extending from April through October. Most campgrounds in the area sit within a 30-minute drive of Molalla's city center and serve as strategic bases for exploring Mount Hood wilderness trails.
What to do
Fishing access: Clackamette RV Park offers immediate river access at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers. "The confluence of the Clackamas and Willamette river's, this is a great spot with most amenities, still inside Portland metro, right off 205 but incredibly serene nonetheless. RV hookups, boat launch, great fishing," notes a visitor. The park provides boat launches and shoreline fishing opportunities within a 25-mile drive from Molalla.
Mountain biking trails: The Sandy Ridge Trail System across from Mt Hood Village Resort features some of the region's premier mountain biking routes. "Using this RV park as a jumping off point, there are endless hiking trails and lakes to paddle and explore in the Mt Hood wilderness. You will never get bored in the Mt Hood area," explains one camper. The trail system offers over 15 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty.
Swimming opportunities: Many campgrounds near Molalla offer swimming options during summer months. "There is easy bike riding in the RV park, and right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System," comments an RV camper. Natural swimming holes can be found along the Clackamas River between Estacada and Molalla, typically accessible from May through September.
What campers like
Indoor amenities: Mt Hood Village Resort receives praise for its facilities that remain open year-round. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches. Food was adequate. There is a playground onsite for those with children and plenty of bike paths and walking paths to keep you busy," shares one camper. The resort maintains heated indoor facilities regardless of outdoor weather conditions.
Convenient shopping access: Many RV parks in the area offer proximity to retail options. A reviewer at Portland-Woodburn RV Park notes: "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." The park sits within walking distance of Woodburn Premium Outlets, featuring over 100 stores.
Wooded privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded settings with natural screening between sites. "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling is seclusion. The lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition," reports a visitor to Mt Hood Village Resort. Established trees between sites provide natural sound barriers and shade during summer months.
What you should know
Water pressure variations: Several parks report inconsistent water pressure. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, campers note: "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same." Bringing a water pressure regulator and extra hoses can help manage these inconsistencies.
Age restrictions: Some parks enforce RV age restrictions. One camper at Roamers Rest RV Park comments, "They also have RV age limit of 2010 but they allowed pictures before turning me down. Yay we got approved!" Always check age policy requirements before booking at parks near Molalla.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sound levels at certain parks. "While the park is nice and well maintained, the B lot backs right up to the highway with unbearable road noise. Had two nights planned but will be leaving after the first," reports a visitor to Silver Spur RV Park. Request interior sites when possible to minimize traffic noise.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activities: Some parks offer structured programs for children. "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," reports a family staying at Mt Hood Village Resort. Many parks schedule weekend activities during summer months.
Consider bathroom proximity: When tent camping with children, check bathroom locations. "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," notes a family at Mt Hood Village Resort. Request sites closer to facilities when traveling with young children.
Swimming options: Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort offers regulated swimming facilities ideal for families with children. "The resort has laundry, which is clean, they have a wonderful pool and hot tubs," mentions a visitor. Most family-oriented pools in the region operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some indoor options available year-round.
Tips from RVers
Site angles matter: RV parks with angled sites prove easier to navigate. A traveler at Silver Spur RV Park notes: "The RV spaces are very easy to get into being angled. We stayed in a pull through space, easy in and easy out. Only giving a 4star rating for the very small RV spaces. Was very crammed for anything more than a last minute stay." Angled pull-through sites reduce maneuvering challenges, particularly for larger RVs.
Delivery services available: Some parks accept package deliveries, a convenience for long-term stays. "There is no mail service but UPS and FedEx can deliver to your campsite," reports a visitor at Mt Hood Village Resort. This allows campers to receive supplies or replace equipment without leaving the campground.
After-hours arrival protocols: Many RV parks near Molalla have specific procedures for late check-ins. "If the office is closed there is a cabinet around the corner that may contain the map with your name and directions to your spot," explains a camper at Portland Fairview RV Park. Call ahead if planning to arrive outside standard office hours, typically 9am-5pm.
