Camping options near Saint Paul, Oregon span from riverfront state parks to RV-focused resorts within easy reach of Portland and Salem. The Willamette Valley's moderate climate allows for year-round camping in many locations, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season. River access campgrounds may require advance planning during spring runoff when water levels can fluctuate.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Silver Falls State Park Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing along its extensive trail network. "What a find!!! We love it here. The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite," explains Thamar D. Bird watching is particularly productive in early morning hours when activity peaks.
Historical exploration: Learn about Oregon's pioneer heritage at Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground, where visitors can discover original settlement sites. "Old little pioneer town. Has yurts and lots of hiking. Pet-friendly," notes Derek B. The farmhouse area provides hands-on experiences as Ashley B. describes: "Along the way got to see the Champoeg Heritage site with period piece actors, wide open spaces, and the Willamette River."
Wine country access: Dundee Hills Resort serves as an ideal base for visiting local vineyards. "Perfect home base for wine country and only 30 minutes from Portland," shares Bradley M. Several wineries offer walking-distance tastings from this centrally located campground.
What campers like
Heated accommodations: Winter camping becomes comfortable at Silver Falls State Park Campground with their heated cabins and yurts. "The yurts are heated, and a couple of them are pet friendly, which is great for us! There is a small table in each yurt," shares Lana N. Booking these popular accommodations requires planning 6-9 months ahead for summer weekends.
Loop B campsites: At Champoeg State Park, experienced campers recommend specific areas. "Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river. We'll go back year after year. Our kids had a blast!" reports Scott W. These sites provide better river access and more shade than other sections.
Orchard camping atmosphere: Tranquil Orchards and Wine Tours offers unique camping among fruit trees. "This orchard is shady and very relaxing, although near a small airport and highway. There are showers and flushing toilets," explains Kevin R. Sites include private picnic tables with fire pits and cooking grills.
What you should know
Tent area limitations: Champoeg has restricted tent camping options compared to RV sites. Ashley B. notes, "I stayed in the 1 of 5 tent spaces. They were a bit close to the other sites, but still large enough for a few tents if needed. There was only 1 parking lot for the tent/cabin spaces, so had to carry all my stuff about 100 feet."
Seasonal flooding: Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp experiences regular winter flooding. Kelly N. advises, "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water."
Bike access preferred: Many campgrounds connect via bike trails, making cycling a practical transport option. Stephanie Z. recommends: "Champoeg State Park is on the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, and a great place to camp if you want to do a long biking getaway. Biking the loop to St. Paul is a fun countryside ride."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campsites feature dedicated play areas. Scott W. shares about Champoeg: "GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well." Ashley B. adds there was "a huge playground for the kids."
Educational opportunities: Olde Stone Village provides easy access to the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum. "Walkway to Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum. Clearly marked and paved for easy stroll over to the museum," explains Rachel H., making this an educational day trip option for families.
Swimming options: During summer months, pool access becomes important. Shari G. describes Champoeg as "dripping in green in the spring! It has a very park-like quality with manicured landscaping and very nicely laid-out sites with plenty of space in between."
Tips from RVers
Age restrictions apply: Some parks maintain RV age policies. Roamers Rest RV Park enforces these rules as Becky S. explains: "They also have RV age limit of 2010 but they allowed pictures before turning me down. Yay we got approved!"
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, site selection matters at Sun Outdoors Portland South. Jim J. notes: "This is a very nice place to get off I-5 and park an RV with all the amenities. You can walk to several restaurants and the outlet mall. There is a great laundry room, clean bathrooms and showers, pool, pet areas, and nicely paved, level, but crowded sites."
