Tent camping near Scappoose, Oregon provides access to diverse ecosystems within 30 miles of Portland. The region sits at the edge of the Coast Range where elevations range from near sea level along the Columbia River to forested hills reaching 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with minimal rainfall, while spring and fall camping brings cooler 45-65°F temperatures and increased precipitation.
What to do
**Creek swimming and wading: **At Elk Creek Campground, campers can enjoy multiple swimming holes where Elk Creek and Wilson River converge. "The creek was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim," notes Jessica K. The clear water creates natural recreation spots throughout summer months.
Hiking the Wilson River Trail: The trail extends 6 miles one-way from Keenig Creek Campground with moderate elevation changes. "We did most of it and it's nice and moderate," reports Sarah S. Trail access points exist at multiple locations along Highway 6, allowing hikers to create routes of varying distances.
Farm animal interactions: For families seeking unique camping experiences near Scappoose, Healing Ponds Farm offers encounters with various farm animals. "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all," shares Meg R.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in tent sites: Keenig Creek Campground provides privacy between campsites with a short walk-in requirement. "All of the sites are walk in and super private. From the site we were in (K6) we could see no other campsites and could barely hear anyone else," explains Sarah S. Sites range from 50-200 feet from the parking area.
Boat-in island camping: Sand Island Marine Park offers a completely different tent camping experience near Scappoose. "Accessible by boat or kayak. Sites are primitive, no tables. This is on the columbia river water kayak trail," explains Daniel L. The island provides separation from mainland distractions.
Mountain views from free sites: Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping provides no-cost camping with scenic vistas. "Sunrise was one of best I've ever seen, especially with the clouds below," notes Eric R. These free sites require self-sufficiency but reward campers with panoramic landscapes.
What you should know
Boat logistics for island camping: Government Island presents unique planning challenges. "Only accessible by boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own," advises Fatima H. Campers must transport all supplies and waste by watercraft.
Site availability timing: Most non-reservable campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "We were there on a coolish Saturday night and a ton of people rolled in about 4/5pm. I'm guessing in summer you'd have to get here much earlier to grab a spot," observes Corinna B. about Keenig Creek. Arriving Thursday or Friday morning increases chances of securing preferred sites.
Sound considerations: Highway noise affects some campgrounds in the region. "Don't choose a campsite close to the highway...you will hear every car/truck that goes by! My advice would be to get as close as you can to the river. You cant hear anything," recommends Julie P. River sites generally mask road sounds with running water.
Tips for camping with families
Cart availability for walk-in sites: Brooke Creek Walk-In Campground offers equipment transport assistance. "We got there late at night and didn't notice the carts available for hauling all your stuff. But the hike isn't long or difficult," shares Melissa N. These carts make tent camping with children's gear more manageable.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple sites offer nature observation possibilities. "There were tons of birds, rabbits, and chipmunks at the site," reports Justin P. about Keenig Creek Campground. Morning and evening hours provide best wildlife viewing times when animals are most active.
Water play supervision: Wilson River access points vary in current strength and depth. "The water was very cold, but refreshing on a hot day... I did enjoy seeing the newts, crawdads, fish, and tadpoles though!" notes Michelle A. Parents should check water conditions before allowing children to enter.
Tips from RVers
Loading assistance at Sand Island: JJ Collins Marine Park provides help with transporting gear. "They will help take your things to your site. Island is lovely to walk around, our site had beach access," explains Lisa D. This assistance makes island camping more accessible for those bringing substantial equipment.
RV size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Scappoose accommodate only smaller recreational vehicles. "The rv park is next to the river. It's small but the spots are spread out more than a lot of other rv campgrounds," notes Madeline W. about Woodland Shores RV Park. Maximum RV lengths typically range from 16-24 feet depending on the facility.
Seasonal road conditions: Forest service roads leading to dispersed camping require attention to conditions. "Road is fine and easy. AWD is nice but isn't necessary if the road is fairly dry," explains Seth M. Spring access often requires higher clearance vehicles due to seasonal runoff and mud.
