Camping sites near Portland offer year-round options within a 30-60 minute drive from the city center. The region's temperate climate allows for extended camping seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing at lower elevations. Many campgrounds sit at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, providing diverse terrain from riverfront locations to forested hillsides.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Silver Falls State Park Campground has twin 18-hole disc golf courses, making it popular with sports enthusiasts. "Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event, Milo McIver is an excellent host for the international players that come to the Pacific Northwest for a chance to win the tournament," says one camper at Silver Falls State Park Campground.
River activities: The Sandy River at Oxbow Regional Park offers swimming and fishing from late spring through early fall. "The river is refreshing on warm days to swim in. We like this because it's an easy day trip from Portland," notes a camper. During summer, the water level drops enough for safe wading at designated beach areas within the park.
Mountain biking trails: Access premier riding routes directly from Mt Hood Village Resort, where you can reach the Sandy Ridge Trail System with minimal driving. "Right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System. 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," shares a visitor.
What campers like
Historical sites: Champoeg State Heritage Area offers more than just camping with its pioneer history exhibits. "Old little pioneer town. Has yurts and lots of hiking. Pet-friendly," notes one visitor. The park includes restored buildings and interpretive displays about Oregon's early territorial government, with weekend programs during summer months.
Waterfront views: At Lost Lake Resort And Campground, the mountain backdrop creates memorable camping experiences. "The only positive aspect of our trip was the stunning view of the lake and Mt. Hood," mentions one visitor despite other concerns. The lake remains swimmable from June through September, though water temperatures rarely exceed 68°F even in midsummer.
Trail connectivity: Dairy Creek West at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park connects directly to the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. "The campground is on the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, and a great place to camp if you want to do a long biking getaway," shares one camper who appreciates the paved 21-mile rail-to-trail route accessible directly from campsites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Oxbow Regional Park, "You can book sites online up to 24 hours in advance, or you can show up to camp one night at one of the few non-reservable first come sites."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity despite their proximity to Portland. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," reports a camper at Oxbow Regional Park.
Winter closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Milo McIver State Park Campground only runs from "March 15 to October 31," according to their seasonal information, while Silver Falls and Champoeg remain open throughout winter with reduced services.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond camping. "Kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground," notes one visitor. The playground includes equipment suitable for ages 3-12 and sits within 200 feet of several prime camping sites.
Educational opportunities: Champoeg State Heritage Area provides interactive historical activities for children. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" shares a family who visited with children. Ranger-led programs run weekend mornings during summer, teaching pioneer skills and natural history.
Swimming safety: Families should note that most natural water bodies near Portland lack lifeguards. At Lost Lake Resort, one visitor mentioned "The lake is always cold no matter the season. Really easy fishing if you're just learning. They have tons of rentals."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park, RV campers recommend specific loops for more seclusion. "The Dairy Creek West loop has more shaded and privacy for most of the sites if thats what you are seeking, while the East loop is more open and affords a more social experience for those who like the chance to interact with their neighbors a bit more," advises a regular visitor.
Hookup variations: Full hookups aren't available at all Portland-area campgrounds. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," reports an RVer at Mt Hood Village Resort, noting the campground accommodates larger vehicles better than many in the region.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping near Portland offers significantly better availability. "Showed up in the dark & rain, no reservations in February. Lots of room at each site, very clean, nice bathrooms, quiet," shares a camper about their experience at Stub Stewart, highlighting the benefits of off-season visits when most glamping sites near Portland have greater availability.
