Tent camping near St. Helens, Oregon ranges from lake-accessible islands to remote forest sites with elevations from near sea level along the Columbia River to 1,000+ feet in surrounding hills. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with moderate rainfall averaging 45 inches annually. Many tent sites require walk-ins of varying distances, from 100 feet to quarter-mile treks.
What to do
Water activities on Yale Lake: At Cougar Park & Campground, campers enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing. "The camp is very nice, shady and walking distance from big lake. There are a lot of activities around: hiking and biking St. Helens mountain area; all kind of water activities on Yale lake," notes Max M.
Kayaking on motor-free waters: Merrill Lake Campground offers a peaceful paddling experience with no motorized boats allowed. "The lake is the real attraction here. Great for paddle boarding or kayaking. There's a boat launch," explains Kathy B. Fly fishing only regulations keep the lake quiet.
Hiking nearby trails: Canyon Creek dispersed camping puts you close to wilderness trails. "Really relaxing next to the sound of the river. Would definitely recommend sleeping mats if you're in a tent as the ground's rather hard," says Jeffrey P. The road can be challenging, with multiple reviewers mentioning the rough gravel access route.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Sand Island Marine Park offers isolation despite proximity to St. Helens. "Accessible by boat or kayak. Sites are primitive, no tables. This is on the columbia river water kayak trail," writes Daniel L. The campground requires water transportation but rewards with privacy.
Private sites with natural barriers: Campers appreciate the separation between sites at many campgrounds. "Our site was secluded and we had privacy. The pond area is beautiful with all the statues found around it," shares Meg R. about An Oasis in Nature. Some campgrounds naturally create isolation through vegetation and terrain.
Walk-in campsite experiences: Brooke Creek Walk-In Campground provides tent-only sites requiring a short hike. "The sites don't have fire pits but there is a communal fire pit, which is great for meeting your fellow campers!" explains Melissa N. The walk-in requirement creates a more immersive camping experience.
What you should know
Limited facilities at remote sites: Many dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. At Canyon Creek, "You felt like you were deep in it. Wood was kinda sparse in the spot we were in too but you're close enough to your car that you can just bring some," notes Jeffrey P.
Boat-only access requirements: Several campgrounds require water transportation. "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own," warns Fatima H. about Government Island.
Pack light for walk-in sites: Walking distances vary significantly between campgrounds. "We used the walk-in camp sites... but the walk in and out is nothing but a hill. But that was a small price for the beautiful seclusion," shares FeSTeR 1. at Brooke Creek. Many campgrounds provide carts for hauling gear.
Tent site surfaces vary: Ground conditions differ across the best tent camping near St. Helens. "They are leveled out in a crushed rock space so be sure to bring a tarp for under your tent," advises Shannon B. about Merrill Lake Campground. Canyon Creek campers also recommend sleeping pads for hard-packed ground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with farm animals: At An Oasis in Nature, families can enjoy interaction with animals. "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all," shares Meg R. This provides built-in entertainment for children.
Consider boat transportation logistics: JJ Collins Marine Park requires water access, which adds complexity for families. "Love taking the boat here, although the homeless can sometimes be an issue," mentions Michael. Plan extra time for loading/unloading gear with children.
Check walking distances for younger campers: Brooke Creek's quarter-mile walk might challenge families with small children. "We got there late at night and didn't notice the carts available for hauling all your stuff. But the hike isn't long or difficult," explains Melissa N. Always check if equipment transport assistance is available.
Prepare for tent-only restrictions: Some campgrounds strictly limit accommodations. "Be forewarned that this is a tent only campground. We showed up with our VW Eurovan (smaller than half the pickup trucks parked there) and were immediately lectured on not having a tent," warns Keith H. about Cougar Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options in the immediate area: Most camping near St. Helens caters to tent camping, with few dedicated RV sites. "The rv park is next to the river. It's small but the spots are spread out more than a lot of other rv campgrounds," notes Madeline W. about Woodland Shores RV Park.
Consider tent camping if traveling with small RVs: Some campers with smaller rigs report mixed experiences. At Cougar Park & Campground, travelers with compact RVs like VW Eurovans have faced enforcement of tent-only policies despite being smaller than many trucks at the campground.
Look for drive-in tent sites for van camping: Some campers report success parking vans at campgrounds with drive-in tent sites. "I met up with some folks who were in tents and occupied the tent spots and spent the night in the parking lot in my van. Several other folks did this as well," shares Kathy B. about Merrill Lake Campground.
