Best Campgrounds near Milwaukie, OR
Camping options near Milwaukie, Oregon include a mix of public and private facilities spread throughout the Portland metro area and surrounding countryside. Clackamette RV Park in Oregon City provides waterfront camping at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers, while Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground and Milo McIver State Park offer more traditional outdoor experiences with accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabins. Several campgrounds in the area feature yurts and glamping options alongside conventional sites, particularly at Oxbow Regional Park located about 20 miles east of Milwaukie.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though some like Milo McIver operate seasonally from March to October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when Portland-area residents seek outdoor recreation. Facilities vary significantly across properties, with RV-specific parks offering full hookups but limited natural settings, while state and regional parks provide more scenic surroundings with varying levels of amenities. Winter camping is available at several locations, though services may be reduced during off-peak months. "Right smack dab on the river. Awesome host. Easy check in," noted one camper about Clackamette RV Park, highlighting the accessible waterfront location.
The Portland metro area campgrounds typically feature paved sites and convenient access to urban amenities, though many visitors mention the proximity to highways and resulting noise. Waterfront locations are particularly valued, with campers frequently mentioning the fishing opportunities and river views as highlights. Several campgrounds restrict campfires, especially during summer fire season. Many RV parks in the region serve both short-term visitors and longer-term residents, creating a mixed-use environment. "A well cared for location. I think we got the last space! It's a busy place," commented one visitor about Roamers Rest RV Park, indicating the popularity of developed campgrounds within reasonable driving distance of Portland and Milwaukie. Private RV parks generally maintain stricter rules regarding vehicle age and site usage compared to public campgrounds.
