Situated along the Willamette River in the Willamette Valley, Saint Paul sits at approximately 180 feet elevation in Oregon's rich agricultural region. The area experiences moderate rainfall with dry, warm summers and mild, wet winters creating optimal camping conditions from late spring through early fall. Nearby glamping options provide access to diverse ecosystems from riverfront locations to foothill forests.
What to Do
Hiking trails network: Silver Falls State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for all experience levels. "Awesome hikes, the main one being the one with 10 waterfalls - dogs aren't allowed on this one though and it takes about 3 hours to hike it, so heads up on that," notes one visitor. The park also features bike paths for alternative exploration.
Disc golf courses: Milo McIver State Park Campground maintains competition-quality disc golf facilities. "Milo McIver may be best known for its twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," shares a regular visitor. The course hosts sanctioned National Tour events, attracting international players.
Water recreation access: River access points throughout the area provide swimming and fishing opportunities during summer months. "The river is easily accessible for rafting, tubing, swimming, or fishing," reports one Milo McIver visitor. Many campgrounds offer direct water access, with boat launches available at select locations for canoes and kayaks.
What Campers Like
Private camping spaces: Cape Lookout State Park Campground features sites with natural screening. "We love how much privacy is usually found between sites. For the most part, trees and bushes are substantial enough to make your site feel like you have your own sanctuary," explains one repeat visitor. The A and B loops nearest the beach typically offer the most seclusion.
Clean, modern facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between glamping locations near Saint Paul. "Free, very private showers! Soap in the bathrooms! Super nice and clean!" reports a Cape Lookout visitor. Many established campgrounds maintain flush toilets, hot water showers, and regularly serviced facilities.
Historical features: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground includes educational exhibits. "Old little pioneer town. Has yurts and lots of hiking. Pet-friendly," notes one camper. Another mentions, "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" These historical elements provide rainy day alternatives to outdoor activities.
What You Should Know
Advance reservations required: Most glamping sites require booking well ahead, particularly for premium accommodations. "Make reservations early," advises one visitor about L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. Reservation windows typically open 6-9 months in advance for peak season.
Seasonal accessibility: Several campgrounds near Saint Paul operate seasonally or with reduced services in winter. "The campground is well maintained and the hosts have been great each time I have been there," notes a Milo McIver visitor, though some facilities close during off-season months.
Noise considerations: Location relative to highways impacts sound levels. "The park's proximity to I-5 means that you can still hear the traffic but not so much that it disturbs sleep," reports one Champoeg camper. Sites deeper within park boundaries typically offer quieter conditions.
Variable cell coverage: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center... Would be great if there was better connectivity," notes an Oxbow Regional Park visitor. For remote work needs, verify service availability before booking.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play facilities. "Great family getaway. Champoeg has a little everything. GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly," shares one family. Many locations offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Proximity to bathrooms: Select sites strategically based on bathroom access. "We didn't stay even 24 hours... but I'm eager to return and stay longer. I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites. The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers)," explains an Oxbow visitor.
Adventure elements: Camp Dakota provides structured activities beyond traditional camping. "We had a great time at Camp Dakota. Our yurt was comfortable and we enjoyed disc golf, archery, axe throwing, a fun general store and an escape room," shares one visitor. Many glamping sites near Saint Paul incorporate educational and adventure components.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Most RV sites around Saint Paul feature full hookups with electric, water and sewer. "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling of seclusion," notes a Mt. Hood Village visitor. Electric amperage options typically include both 30 and 50 amp service.
Site dimensions: Check length restrictions before booking RV sites. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots," reports one Mt. Hood Village visitor. Many campgrounds accommodate large rigs, but access roads and turning radiuses vary.
Utilities placement: Utilities location can affect setup convenience. "The water and sewer hookups were in the middle of the site, with electric being at the back of the pad. The water pressure was not very good at around 35 psi," advises an L.L. Stub Stewart visitor. Consider hose and cord lengths when planning your setup.
