Top Tent Camping near Molalla, OR

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Molalla and then fall asleep in your tent? Finding a place to camp in Oregon with your tent has never been easier. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Molalla campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Molalla, OR (65)

    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Molalla River Recreation Area

    1. BLM Molalla River Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    18 Photos
    112 Saves

    Overview

    No cash, check, or cards are accepted on site. Make a reservations online or use the mobile app. Three Bears campsites are only available by making a reservation. Reserve a campsite on recreation.gov or Recreation.gov Mobile App prior to entering the Molalla River Recreation Corridor. There is no cell reception in the drainage.__ Situated in a picturesque grove of western red cedar 4 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge, the site has 15 tent campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, metal fire ring, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The campground also has vault toilets and access to a beautiful cobble beach and swimming hole.

    Recreation

    Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)

    Facilities

    Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)

    Natural Features

    Molalla Wild and Scenic River and forested environment.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (503) 375-5646.

    Nearby Attractions

    Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor. Table Rock Wilderness is further up the canyon and accessible through three trailheads.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Standard fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Grove Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Grove Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Grove Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Grove Recreation Site

    2. Cedar Grove Recreation Site

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    33 Saves

    Overview

    No cash, check, or cards are accepted on site. Make a reservations online or use the mobile app. Cedar Grove campsites are only available by making a reservation. Reserve a campsite on recreation.gov or Recreation.gov Mobile App prior to entering the Molalla River Recreation Corridor. There is no cell reception in the drainage.__ Situated in a picturesque grove of western red cedar 6 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge, the site has 10 tent campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, metal fire ring, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The campground also has vault toilets and river access.

    Recreation

    Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)

    Facilities

    Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)

    Natural Features

    Molalla Wild and Scenic River and forested environment.

    Nearby Attractions

    Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor. Table Rock Wilderness is further up the canyon and accessible through three trailheads.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Standard processing fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE

    3. Mount Hood National Forest Armstrong Campground - CLOSED FOR FIRE

    4 Reviews
    6 Photos
    17 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $5 - $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Group - Willamette Mission State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Group - Willamette Mission State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (or)

    5. Rainbow (or)

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    40 Saves

    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.

    Facilities

    The campground offers more than a dozen single-family sites for tent camping. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Parking surfaces are paved and gravel.

    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

    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat

    6. Alder Flat

    4 Reviews
    15 Photos
    118 Saves

    Parking area for 4-5 vehicles overflow on the Highway 224. Alder Flat Trail #574. Link to Trail Description and Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    • No image available

      7. Santiam State Forest Butte Creek Falls Campground

      2 Reviews
      12 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table
      • Drinking Water
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground

      8. Meditation Point Campground

      8 Reviews
      11 Photos
      218 Saves

      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 from Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Lake Campground

      10. Elk Lake Campground

      4 Reviews
      20 Photos
      97 Saves

      This 17 site tent-only campground, located in the Willamette National Forest, adjacent to the Bull of the Woods and Opal Creek Wildernesses, is full of beauty in the summer. Wildflowers are a beautiful sight in the campground's meadows around July. Swim or paddle in the quiet waters of the non-motorized lake, go for a great hike with views of multiple Cascade peaks, or just kick back and relax in the campground.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol

      $12 - $22 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 65 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Molalla

    1293 Reviews of 65 Molalla Campgrounds


    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayport RV Park and Campground
      Oct. 28, 2024

      Bayport RV Park and Campground

      Threatening and know it all owner

      I was contacted by the company who owns this site. Automatically the individual had threatening words to me as in, you need to go buy a tent now. We have the right to remove you from premises right now. Terrible customer service, and after spending money for the service they provide. They will just take away everything from you and kick you off the princess. The owner also likes to redefine what objects and vehicles are. Also, like to redefine vocabulary words. I would stay away from this place due to helter-kelter atmosphere.

    • Kenny L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 23, 2024

      NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

      Great Spot!

      Such an awesome find! The first campsite is small and perfect for a couple tents. The second site could easily fit 3 or 4 tents and has plenty of additional space for parking, kitchen set-up, etc… both sites also have really nice fire pits. Also don’t let the Trillium Lake camp hosts scare you. They told us the gravel road to access the sites was “rough as hell” and were completely wrong. Nothing more than a few potholes. Any vehicle could make the trek.

    • Ted D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park
      Oct. 22, 2024

      Ainsworth State Park

      Clean but small sites

      The place is clean and has a rain forest feel. Trees close in. Amazingly dark and quiet at night. A bit muddy for walking the dog.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Timothy Lake Meditation Point
      Oct. 17, 2024

      Timothy Lake Meditation Point

      The Best of Timothy Lake

      Short walk, or 7 miles in, start on west shoreline trail 528 on the NW parking lot past the day use area. Great mostly flat trail for backpacking or cart camping along the west shoreline of Timothy Lake in the Mt Hood National Forest. Sites are well marked and $10 per night fee. Northwest Forest Parking Pass required for overnight parking.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Mt Hood Village Resort
      Oct. 2, 2024

      Mt Hood Village Resort

      Great Location!!

      I really wanted to give 5 stars, but they have far too many permanent residents, which makes the campground look un-kept. The grounds were ok, bathrooms were clean, price was fair, large spaces , and very good customer service.

    • Emma R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from John Neal Memorial Park
      Oct. 1, 2024

      John Neal Memorial Park

      As of Oct 2024 - still shut

      As of Oct 2024 - still shut With gate and padlock, shut to even get into but there is a park nearby to use the restrooms if needed but no camping

    • 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.

    • James G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Point State Park
      Sep. 30, 2024

      Paradise Point State Park

      Nice campground, interstate noise

      The campground itself is nice, but there's the near constant hum of interstate I-5 traffic less than a hundred yards away.

    • Brandon K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kiwanis Road Free Camping
      Sep. 28, 2024

      Kiwanis Road Free Camping

      Tranquil Peace

      It was a 10pm arrival but thankfully we found a spot that did not disappoint. I wish we had a full weekend to stay but the overnight and breakfast on the river was a great start to our PNW visit.

    • Wood M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Beacon Rock State Park
      Sep. 25, 2024

      Beacon Rock State Park

      Nice trails nearby.

      If you enjoy hiking, this is a great campground with many beautiful trails to explore. The bathroom is clean and there's free hot shower.  There's a country store 2 miles west of here you can get firewood and some supplies. Sites are a little less private and occasionally I heard train passing by from the nearby railway (bring ear plugs if you are a light sleeper).  Check our videos for details: https://youtu.be/BrSpGhdefQ0?si=dVS7YPTZX8AplUVL

    • Elsa P.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kiwanis Road Free Camping
      Sep. 1, 2024

      Kiwanis Road Free Camping

      very convenient & gorgeous waterfall

      whole road is paved all the way up & plenty of spots to pull off plus multiple bathrooms! got super chilly even in august but was very cozy in sweats & under a few blankets in the rooftop tent. would definitely stay here again and it's a good option for vehicles w/ low clearance or non off roading folks.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Molalla Ripple
      Aug. 26, 2024

      Molalla Ripple

      Space was overbooked

      Jim did a great job of communicating and was attentive to all the campers, but they ended up overbooked so we were moved away from the river and into an open field. With no hookups and lacking riverfront, the night seemed over-priced. With van life on site and a full campground, it didn’t have the quiet feel we expected.

    • CJ S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Meditation Point Campground
      Aug. 22, 2024

      Meditation Point Campground

      Beautiful, Private, Remote

      Stayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.

    • Yoram A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Whitcomb Creek County Park
      Aug. 22, 2024

      Whitcomb Creek County Park

      WIll not come back

      Web site claims "Drinking Water" is available. However, the water coming out of the tap was brown, probably full of rust and minerals. The host told us not to drink the water, only use for toilet flushing and maybe shower. The county claims it is safe, I don't believe them.

    • R
      Camper-submitted photo from Scappoose RV Park
      Aug. 17, 2024

      Scappoose RV Park

      New Host at Park, the Park has been cleaned up including restrooms and show

      I am the new Park Host at Scappoose RV Park, I have been here for 5 months. I have put allot of time in making the park a safe and clean place for families. Please come take a looked, I have gotten so many compliments on how good the park looks again!

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake Campground
      Aug. 14, 2024

      Clear Lake Campground

      Decent Camping Location

      This is a decent camp spot within an hour and a half of Portland metro. It has limited services, potable water, garbage and pit toilets. The water was nice, plenty deep for paddling or wading. It is pretty small, so not too many sites.

      There was a Camp Host present thankfully and daily Sheriff drive by during the weekend. This was welcome due to a few obnoxious party groups. One in particular turned the forest into a rave with lights that flashed into tents, which was irritating. I think the Sheriff spoke to them because they headed out the next day. We had a nice weekend but I probably wouldn’t stay much longer than that in the future.

    • Michelle L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Falls Campground
      Aug. 8, 2024

      Sunset Falls Campground

      A new favorite close to home

      Great small campground with easy access to falls. We enjoyed 2 nights. No phone reception, no loud noises, super peaceful.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Barlow Campground
      Aug. 6, 2024

      Barlow Campground

      Convenient and Pretty

      Right by some really nice short trails for a good evening/morning hike. You can park by the road and set up a tent or hammock for some privacy in one of the riverside spots if you arrive early enough. We loved this place, right off the main highway through Mt Hood and close to the city but still felt quiet and private enough.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hoodview Campground
      Aug. 4, 2024

      Hoodview Campground

      Superb spot

      This is the most well-maintained National Forest campground I’ve ever been to. Even the pit toilets were immaculate! The sites are large and private-feeling, and every site is right near the lake. Some sites are a little close to the main road, but it’s not a heavily travelled road. We were close to it but it was barely noticeable. Definitely on my favorites list now!

    • Ricardo J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ainsworth State Park
      Aug. 4, 2024

      Ainsworth State Park

      Fine campground

      Been there many times for hiking. It's where I went to do the mystery trail. A difficult hike not for the faint of heart. A bit hard to find but very rewarding. There's a registry on the trail also. Not many trails have one. I believe it is maintained by the Mazamas.

    • Raina C.
      Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow Regional Park
      Aug. 1, 2024

      Oxbow Regional Park

      Loved it!

      Nice and peaceful, I always appreciate a campground with quiet hours to enjoy the peace and quiet of outside. Additional plus that dogs weren't allowed to disrupt the wildlife and bark at the Deer etc.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from An Oasis in Nature
      Aug. 1, 2024

      An Oasis in Nature

      Average but works

      Overall, an average place to stay and get your surroundings. Nice, quiet people that offer everything you need.



    Guide to Molalla

    Camping near Molalla, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something to offer.

    What to do:

    • Hiking the Trail of Ten Falls: This popular trail takes you past ten stunning waterfalls. One visitor shared, "The highlight for us is the Trail of Ten Falls... The entire trail is just over seven miles but there are shorter loop options."
    • Biking: Many campgrounds, like Silver Falls State Park Campground, have paved roads perfect for biking. A camper noted, "The roads are perfect for biking and there’s a bike trail in the campground that leads you straight to the park."
    • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Milo McIver State Park Campground often spot deer and other wildlife. One visitor mentioned, "We saw so many elk, water birds, and at least 5 bald eagles."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review from Champoeg State Heritage Area said, "Bathrooms have been updated... They were clean."
    • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer decent space between sites. A visitor at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area noted, "The camp spots in the H Loop are well spaced and we enjoyed our site."
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful park rangers. One camper at Milo McIver State Park Campground said, "The park rangers are quite attentive and friendly."

    What you should know:

    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially with families around. A camper at Mt Hood Village Resort mentioned, "Children would be riding their bikes up and down the campsite loop yelling and playing."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review from Champoeg State Heritage Area pointed out, "No market, no showers."
    • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons. One camper at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area shared, "A couple of raccoons would join us... Harmless really."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A visitor at Mt Hood Village Resort said, "Our kids love cruising the loops on their bikes and stopping in at the playground."
    • Plan for Noise: Be ready for some noise, especially in busy seasons. One camper at Silver Falls State Park Campground noted, "Campsites can be decently close to one another, so not secluded."
    • Pack Outdoor Games: Bring along games for the kids to play outside. A camper at Milo McIver State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s a wildlife viewing area close by."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A review from Barton County Park Campground mentioned, "The spots are tiny and not easy to fit in."
    • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Mt Hood Village Resort said, "The property overall was really nice, lots of amenities."
    • Be Prepared for Limited Wi-Fi: Some campgrounds have poor internet access. A visitor at Jantzen Beach RV Park noted, "Wifi is very bad."

    Camping near Molalla, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Molalla, OR is BLM Molalla River Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 65 tent camping locations near Molalla, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.