Scappoose, Oregon sits at just 16 feet above sea level in the Columbia River floodplain, surrounded by wetlands that create unique camping conditions. The area experiences mild winters with rainy periods from October through April, making summer and early fall the optimal seasons for pet friendly camping experiences. Most campgrounds near Scappoose remain open year-round with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Kayaking at Bayport: Explore the quiet waters at Bayport RV Park and Campground where water access is conveniently close to campsites. "Next to a marina to drop a boat in the water," notes one visitor, while another adds, "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay."
Swimming at volcanic lake: Take a 30-minute drive to Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground where pets are welcome at camping areas around a small volcanic lake. "They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," explains one camper. Another visitor mentions, "The campsite was clean and raked upon arrival too! They have a camp store open for snacks and they have flushable bathrooms!"
Disc golf with your dog: Several parks in the area offer disc golf courses where dogs can join you. L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park has a course within walking distance of pet-friendly sites. Paradise Point also offers this activity, with one visitor noting, "The selling point for this camp ground was the disc golf course."
Horseback riding trails: If traveling with equestrian friends, Camp Wilkerson welcomes both pets and horses. "This is a primary horse camp and is surrounded by trails, seen a heard of elk on one of my hikes," shares one visitor. "There are tent sites, rv sites and even a horse camp area! Hiking and horse trails meander through the forest along a creek or two as well!!"
What campers like
Columbia River views: At Reeder Beach RV Park, pets can enjoy waterfront experiences. "Or park your chair on the bank and watch the occasional ship putter by just a stone's throw from shore," says one camper. Another notes, "The direct river access is the real star here—perfect for morning coffee with a water view."
Well-spaced sites for pets: Campsites at many locations provide adequate room for pets to relax. At Bayport, sites are "a generous 25' wide with 10' separating, so even with slides and/or awnings out, you're not on top of your neighbor(s)." Another visitor comments on the park being "small but clean and the sites are well spaced out. Lots of greenery around."
Off-leash opportunities: Several campgrounds offer designated pet areas. Columbia River RV Park provides specific pet amenities: "The laundry room had a designated pet washer and dryer, which I always love, so we washed all of our dog bedding here." Another camper mentions, "There's a small neighborhood dog park right across the street."
Walking paths: Most campgrounds feature trails where dogs can stretch their legs. At Camp Wilkerson, "Hiking and horse trails meander through the forest along a creek or two as well!" One visitor appreciates that "a small stream runs through" the campground, giving pets access to water during walks.
What you should know
Tent requirements: Some campgrounds have strict rules about tent setup. At Bayport, one visitor warns: "Must have a tent pitched, if traveling and staying with your vehicle." Another camper had a difficult experience: "I was contacted by the company who owns this site. Automatically the individual had threatening words to me as in, you need to go buy a tent now."
Bathroom access limitations: Facilities may have restricted hours that affect pet owners. At Scappoose Bay Marine Park, "the bathrooms are closed and locked from 8pm to 9am… 9am? Seriously I could understand maybe 6/7am but 9????" This can be challenging for early morning pet walks.
Water quality issues: Some locations have water concerns. At Reeder Beach, "the water is dirty. It's brownish and smells like metal. Make sure to bring your own fresh water." Another camper specifically mentions, "Water has arsenic and is no good to drink or cook with. You have to bring your own water, or buy theirs."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near major roads. At Paradise Point, one camper warns, "Freeway is really really close to the whole camp site. You can hear vehicles at night. If you're a light sleeper or need nature noises when camping - this is not the site for you."
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming options: Battle Ground Lake State Park offers family-friendly water access. "They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing," with "a small sand area for the kids to play." A parent adds, "kids especially loved the pools and playground."
Choose sites with amenities: Paradise Point State Park offers facilities for families with pets. "Great state park with all the usual amenities: fire pits, trees, ranger station," notes one visitor. Another mentions, "It's basically two different types of campgrounds in one: there's the sites more out in the open that are closer to the freeway. Then there's a bunch further away in both a meadow and the woods."
Consider walk-in requirements: Some pet-friendly sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At L.L. Stub Stewart, "you have to park down below and walk to the site, the furthest ones being over a quarter mile away." However, "They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful."
Plan for limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. Camp Wilkerson has "no signal for sure and no Wi-fi is available," which affects planning for families with pets who might need emergency veterinary information.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Many RV sites have limitations that aren't obvious when booking. At Battle Ground Lake, one visitor warns: "We arrived and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get our rig in that site due to the trees. We couldn't even continue out the secondary loop because it was so narrow and had trees on the inside of turns."
Water pressure considerations: Water supply can be inconsistent in the area. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, "the water pressure was lower than expected, which seemed to be a common issue among other guests as well." Another visitor confirms, "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same."
Watch for full-timers: Several RV parks have long-term residents. Columbia River RV Park "is a quiet park and mostly locals living here long term," while Jantzen Beach has "some full-times but sites are nice and well maintained." This affects the camping experience for traveling pets as the atmosphere may be more neighborhood-like than wilderness.
