Best Tent Camping near Sandy, OR

Tent campsites in Mount Hood National Forest surround the Sandy, Oregon area, providing multiple options for overnight stays in forested settings. Government Island State Recreation Area offers tent-only sites accessible by boat, while dispersed camping is available at 39 Road Dispersed Site. Burnt Lake provides walk-in tent camping with several established sites around the lake perimeter, approximately 4 miles from the trailhead.

Most tent campgrounds require campers to pack in their own water and supplies, as amenities are minimal or nonexistent. Serene Lake offers free tent camping with picnic tables and fire rings but no toilets or running water. Sites at Kinzel Lake Campground sit on natural, ungraded surfaces with primitive access roads. A camper described the route as "pretty bumpy road all the way there and some deep dips" that required "a motorcycle or 4WD vehicle to get here." Seasonal access varies, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until late spring due to snow. Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer months, particularly in drought conditions.

Tent camping areas provide direct access to hiking trails and water features throughout the Mount Hood region. Burnt Lake tent sites are scattered around the lake, offering privacy and mountain views. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "There are about 8 different sites scattered around the lake. Take a walk around the lake first to find which one suits your needs." The primitive nature of these tent campgrounds means fewer crowds at sites farther from main roads. Kinzel Lake remains particularly secluded, with one camper noting they've "never seen another person down here." Most tent campsites feature fire rings and flat tent pads, though many lack designated parking. Morning fog often blankets these forested tent areas, creating ethereal camping experiences before burning off to reveal mountain vistas.

Best Tent Sites Near Sandy, Oregon (90)

    1. Mount Hood National Forest Sunstrip Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSE DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE

    6 Reviews
    Welches, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 630-5721

    $22 - $24 / night

    "Stayed in site 6 a few years ago, sites 5 and 6 have an incline, but flat space for tents. Mostly, if not entirely shaded. Steep, short climb to river. Can access the river from other locations."

    2. Government Island State Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Fairview, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 280-6844

    "No potable water, so bring your own. There is 1 restroom and no desinated camp sites. But we love it!"

    3. Burnt Lake

    5 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    23 miles
    Website

    "My group and I had a great overnight backpacking trip here last weekend! A good, well-maintained trail for beginners. It is clearly defined and not overly challenging, with only one blowdown."

    "I highly recommend this backpacking campsite to anyone who has explored around the Mt. Hood area. This is a hidden gem that I had never been to!"

    4. Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED

    8 Reviews
    Welches, OR
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 630-5721

    $26 / night

    "The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River."

    "Rainbow campground is a great little campground that is nestled up right next to ripplebrook."

    5. Dougan Falls- State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Bridal Veil, WA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 577-2025

    "Explore along the creek by taking one of the trails along the north side of the campground. Toilets only; water and wood (no g'tee) at host site."

    6. Naked Falls

    2 Reviews
    North Bonneville, WA
    21 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "Naked Falls is a private campground with primitive sites. I’d recommend tent only, although sites 1 & 2 seemed to work ok for small trailers or pop up campers."

    "The falls are really close by for some great swiming."

    7. Kinzel Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 668-1700

    "This is one of my favorite places to camp near Mount Hood. The road leading into the campgrounds (NF-2613/Kinzel Lake Road) is primitive and just challenging enough to keep most folks away."

    "Took the NF route out there was about 35-40 minutes in my husband and I’s ford ranger 4x4. Pretty bumpy road all the way there and some deep dips."

    8. Serene Lake

    2 Reviews
    Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    22 miles

    "Beautiful little mountain lake on the slopes of Mt. Hood. We did the 12-mile loop in two days from the trailhead below Shellrock Lake."

    "Limited campsites"

    9. 39 Rd Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 622-3191

    "Nice spot up road 39 with lots of spots to pull off and park or set up a tent. Primitive camping right next to the stream and with comfortable spots. Spent two days here. Nice quiet no frills spot."

    "Right by some really nice short trails for a good evening/morning hike."

    10. Carter Bridge Campground

    1 Review
    Estacada, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 630-8700
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Tent Camping Reviews near Sandy, OR

1776 Reviews of 90 Sandy Campgrounds


  • Alyson M.
    Aug. 14, 2023

    Camp Creek

    Perfect Spot

    Camped here for the second year in a row, and it did not disappoint. We got lucky with a nice spot on the creek this year, which I would recommend for the best experience. The sites are spacious and most are pretty private which is great. It is primitive, no showers and just one vault toilet. I will say that the site did have a fair amount of trash on it which was disappointing, but we cleaned it up before heading out. Remember to leave no trace!!

  • CJ S.
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Meditation Point Campground

    Beautiful, Private, Remote

    Stayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.

  • j
    Jul. 25, 2021

    Cougar RV Park and Campground

    Tent sites are large, minimal grass and shade.

    The tent sites are very large however they have minimal grass or shade. RV sites are very close to each other. There are two bathrooms of one toilet, shower area combined. The shower is coin operated so unless you plan ahead with quarters you are out of luck. It has a card option but does not work. The bathrooms are also not clean. There are 2 portable toilets that were very clean. They advertise quiet hours after 10 pm but it is not in-forced. There was a group partying until 1am next to us. Neighboring property was also blasting music into the morning. There are many other options in the area I would look into one of those.

  • F
    Jul. 23, 2020

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Nice, small campground

    I camped there in my RV several times and always tried to get slot A13. It’s all the way at the end and has a nice amount of space and only a potential neighbor on one side. I also tent camped and, after scouting the sites, chose C6. That site is a bit small but is away from the rest and above them on the slope so you don’t need your rain fly for privacy.

  • C. W.
    May. 30, 2021

    Mount Hood National Forest Lost Creek Campground

    Clean dispersed camping

    Read up on this location with some good info. Flat paved sites for dry camping.

    Lost Creek Campground has 10 single-family campsites and is located on one of the largest pyroclastic volcanic mudflows from Mt. Hood’s “Old Maid” eruption in the 1700s. Fortunately all of the mudflows have cooled. Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Two yurts are also available. Campground amenities include a picnic area, drinking water and vault toilets. Firewood is also available for sale from the camp host.

    Lost Creek / Mt. Hood Area Recreation

    Outdoor recreation includes fishing. Visitors also enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing.  The Wild and Scenic Sandy River is also not far from the popular Ramona Falls Trailhead. Mt. Hood is just southeast of the campground offers visitors the opportunity for a nice a day trip.

    AMENITIES

    BBQ Grills

    Campsite Tables

    Comfort Station

    Drinking Water

    Fire Pit

    Fire Rings

    Firewood Available

    Golden Age & Access Passports accepted

    Grills

    Pets OK

    Picnic Tables

    Restrooms (Vault Toilets)

    ACTIVITIES

    Biking

    Bird Watching

    Creek

    Fishing

    Hiking

    Mountain Biking

    Nature Trails

    Photography

    Picnicking

    River

    Walking Trails

    Wildlife Viewing

  • Jess G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2018

    Merrill Lake Campground

    discover pass only

    another site where you park and walk in! 8 sites, some are more private than others. 2 vault toilets, fire rings and picnic tables! great lake to kayak on.

  • Jill T.
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Piety Island Boat - In Campground Boat Landing

    Island camping

    Top reasons I love this campground: 

    - It’s an ISLAND! How cool is it to camp on an island! 
    - Beautiful views from the middle of the northern end of Detroit Lake. 
    - Great for swimming, boating, exploring, hiking, and fishing. 
    - I bet it’s amazing to stay there over the 4th of July. 
    - The firework display from the other side of the lake should be spectacular! 
    - Cheap-$10. 
    - Only 22 sites. 
    - I had cell service with AT&T. 

    **Things to note: **

    - This should be obvious but, you’ll need a boat to get to and from the island. It’s a quick canoe from either side. 

    - The vault toilets are maxed out. Hopefully, they will be serviced SOON! 

    - No drinking water, no shower, and no guarantee for the serviced toilets. 

    - Bring water and TP. 

    - Fires are allowed and there are several picnic tables.

  • Angela  A.
    Jul. 8, 2019

    Memaloose State Park Campground

    A nice place to rest off the freeway.

    Connected to a rest area. $19 camping no hookups. Water, pad, picnic table, and fire ring in site. Free showers. Clean bathrooms. Freeway noise not bad.

  • Lauren A.
    Jul. 20, 2021

    Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest

    Pricey but beautiful

    The campground is pretty remote-don’t expect any cell service-I didn’t have any with AT&T. The last 15 miles on the road to the campground is very winding and narrow-you have to drive 25mph for safety. The road was in good condition though. The campground is also very hilly. The C loop that I was on was pretty steep but the campsites had some privacy and decent space between spots for the most part. My campsite had 3 different areas that you can set up a tent on. The parking area at my campsite was actually pretty flat despite having to back up the hill to get to the spot. My campsite had quite a bit of shade in the afternoon which was great since it was in the 80’s and kinda humid. The only complaint I had was the flies! There were TONS of them everywhere and bug-spray did nothing to keep them at bay-then again you are in the forest so it’s bound to happen. My suggestion is to bring a screen tent. Parking is a premium by the general store and the boat launch and lake. It was packed when I got here around 4pm on a Saturday (not surprised) and I couldn’t get a spot so I drove to my campsite and walked there on the trails instead. It is a lot longer of a walk than I really thought and I was exhausted by the time I got to the lake and then even more tired when I got back to camp. The old growth trail and rhododendron trail had some beautiful trees. I was the only one on the trails at the time. The walk along the lake itself by the north day use area was shaded, flat, and pretty nice. Lots of picnic areas that were tucked away just off the trail. Some picnic spots were literally right on the waters edge. There was a fire ban but I saw people with little propane grills or hot plate stuff to cook yummy food. Lots of people were swimming. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards. The water was super clear and clean and a bit chilly but refreshing on a hot day. The toilets in the campground loops are vault toilets but they are pretty clean and even had hand sanitizer in them-which was a first that I have seen this summer. The showers are near the general store and you have to pay to shower. It was $6. They give you a key and take your ID and when you give back the key they give you back your ID. The shower room was super nice. Definitely looked like something that would be in a fancy hotel and was very clean. For $46 for 1 night with no electric or water hookup I was hoping that the shower would be included so that was a bit disappointing-although I was just grateful for the shower so $6 was worth it. The general store had lots of souvenirs and clothes (I bought a lost lake puzzle, a new hat, and water shoes). The store also sold hot food, coffee, snacks, soft serve ice cream, and some basic camping gear-which is nice in case you forgot something. Overall I would come back here.


Guide to Sandy

Tent camping near Sandy, Oregon offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat.

Tips for tent camping near Sandy

  • Pack plenty of water: Many campgrounds, like Rainbow (OR) - TEMP CLOSED, do not provide water hookups, so it's essential to bring your own supply.
  • Arrive early for the best spots: Campgrounds such as Burnt Lake can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so getting there early can secure a prime location.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions: Campgrounds like Sunstrip Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSE DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE offer basic amenities, so expect a more rustic experience.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Secluded sites: Kinzel Lake Campground is known for its low traffic and beautiful scenery, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.
  • River access: Campgrounds like Zigzag River Camp provide easy access to rivers, perfect for cooling off or enjoying a peaceful day by the water.
  • Fire pits available: Many sites, including Naked Falls, come equipped with fire rings, allowing campers to enjoy evening campfires under the stars.

Local attractions for outdoor enthusiasts

  • Hiking trails: The area around Burnt Lake features well-maintained trails suitable for beginners, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Scenic views: Campers at Devil's Peak Lookout can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mt. Hood after a rewarding hike to the lookout.
  • Fishing opportunities: The nearby waters at Carter Bridge Campground provide excellent fishing spots, making it a great destination for anglers looking to catch some local fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sandy, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sandy, OR is Mount Hood National Forest Sunstrip Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSE DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE with a 3.3-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Sandy, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 90 tent camping locations near Sandy, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.