The Sandy River basin offers camping opportunities between 1,000-3,500 feet elevation, creating distinct seasonal experiences throughout the Mt. Hood corridor. Winter temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds can drop below freezing even in late spring, while summer brings warm days with cool evenings. The area's volcanic soil drains quickly, making many campsites usable soon after rain.
What to do
Fish the Clackamas River: The North Fork Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities at Promontory Park, where "there is easy water access with a pier for fishing. Within a mile up the road is a marina and boat ramp." For families, "the stocked kid's pond doesn't have much fish throughout the summer because they can't survive the heat," so plan accordingly.
Hike mountain trails: Access numerous trails directly from Milo McIver State Park Campground, where campers note the park has "private feeling hiking trails around the large park." One visitor mentioned, "There seemed to be a lot of hiking trails. I couldn't check them out because of our schedule, but I would 100% return."
Enjoy water recreation: The Sandy and Clackamas Rivers offer multiple water access points. At Barton County Park, one visitor explains it's a "great place to put into the river to float or kayak. lots of parking. also a campground. perfect for a close weekend getaway." Many campers use this location as "the gateway to our annual Float With Friends."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: At Lost Lake Resort And Campground, "the sites are large and private, lots of amenities such as trails, boat rental, well equipped store, picnic tables and much more." One camper described site D022 as "very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents."
Convenient location: Campers appreciate how Oxbow Regional Park "feels like it is in the middle of nowhere but it's easy to get to and practically within the city limits of Portland." One review noted, "Easy distance from Portland on the Sandy River. Down a steep hill (important if you're biking)."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain good facilities. At Barton County Park, campers found "very clean campsites. Sites are very close together but they have tried to make some more secluded. Close to the river and a good area to launch from for a day of rafting."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds have limited seasons. At Ainsworth State Park Campground, which operates from March through October, visitors often find availability during off-peak times: "As one of the closest state parks to Portland and in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, Ainsworth can get busy during the summer months, but sometimes you can get a reservation during the week. I like to come in the off season."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely. At Lost Lake, "There is no Wi-Fi, Verizon was there but I don't know where. Not at the site. But as we walked around the phone would connect in my pocket." Similar issues exist at Oxbow Regional Park where a camper reported "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center."
Site selection matters: At Milo McIver, "The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers)." Barton Park has similar issues where "The tent spaces are a little small if you need to set up multiple tents."
Tips for camping with families
Youth fishing access: At Promontory Park, "One of the biggest attractions to this park is the stocked pond called Small Fry Lake. It was developed for kids and is stocked from October to April. Youth up to 17 can catch a limit of two fish per day." One family reported, "Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total."
Playground availability: Many campgrounds offer play areas. At Barton County Park, "The kids enjoyed the playground and biking around the loop. The river access down at the day use was lovely." Another parent noted, "The play area/park is one of my kids favorite. Lots of area to play. Volleyball, gagaball, playground."
Ranger activities: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. At Promontory Park, a visitor shared that "the campground did have awesome park staff (Matthew was AWESOME) who put on two great activities for kids every day." Another family mentioned, "Sky even brought Jr. Camper art projects for our kids."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up options: Mt Hood Village Resort provides comprehensive RV amenities. A camper stated, "Full hook ups worked well for us. There was a group of tent campers across from us, so it seems they do allow tents in RV spots as well." Another visitor noted, "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."
Site spacing considerations: RV parks vary in spacing between sites. At Portland Fairview RV Park, campers report it's "a nice, clean RV Park with newer models, greenery and a pool." However, one visitor noted, "Most RVs aren't spilling over with 'extras' like some places."
Winter accessibility: Year-round RV camping is limited but available. At Mt Hood Village Resort, which operates all year, a winter visitor reported, "Great location, good sized spaces and a nice country store. Unfortunately some amenities still closed due to Covid!" Another camper added, "Nice indoor pool and hot tub."
