Tent camping near Scotts Mills, Oregon centers around the Molalla River corridor, with sites ranging from primitive to moderately developed. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October when temperatures average 65-80°F during summer days and 45-55°F at night. The region sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet within the foothills of the Cascade Range, creating varied terrain with riverside camping opportunities.
What to do
River activities: The Molalla River offers swimming holes popular with campers at Three Bears Recreation Site. According to visitor Kierra K., it's a "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" During summer months, campers can enjoy catch-and-release trout fishing.
Hiking opportunities: From Mount Hood National Forest Rainbow Campground, access trails connecting directly to the Clackamas River. One camper notes, "The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River. You can either hike the whole thing (about 4 miles), or detour off the trail about half a mile in and find the most private swimming hole."
Waterfall exploration: Camp near Butte Creek Falls for easy waterfall access. A camper at Butte Creek Falls Campground explains, "Near the campsite is the first fall that curtains over a little cave. You're able to walk in and under the fall which feels like you're in a movie. Take a longer hike thru the forest, over a couple old lil bridges and up onto this cliff and you'll see a giant cascading fall across the way."
What campers like
Streamside camping: Many tent campers value proximity to water. At Cedar Grove Recreation Site, visitor Kevin M. shares, "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to." Sites along creeks provide natural white noise that helps mask any nearby road sounds.
Site privacy: The spacing between campsites matters to visitors. Three Bears Recreation Site earns praise for site layout, with Connor J. noting it's a "clean and happy place. Lots of parking and two or three bathrooms I believe!" Many walk-in sites throughout the region offer better separation than drive-up areas.
Natural wildlife encounters: Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area provides opportunities to observe amphibians. One camper describes, "Very beautiful lake with Salamanders. If your lucky to have the lake to yourself it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds. It is possible to kayak with easy access."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds near Scotts Mills lack reliable drinking water. At Three Bears Recreation Site, camper Heidi warns, "The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water." Plan to bring your own water supply for most primitive tent camping locations.
Seasonal closures: Most tent camping areas follow May-October schedules. Rock Creek Campsites in Santiam State Forest operates May to September, with visitor Marie C. explaining, "The walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night." Always check current operating dates before planning trips.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating rough roads. For Rhody Lake Recreation Area, camper Chuck W. cautions, "Very steep final approach on dirt road." Vehicles with higher clearance handle these roads better, especially after rain when dirt roads may become muddy.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Look for gradual entry points for water play. At Three Bears Recreation Site, Michelle A. reports it's "Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone." Sites with accessible water features keep children engaged without requiring structured activities.
Safety considerations: Choose campsites with appropriate terrain for your children's ages. At Willamette Mission State Park, Kelly N. advises, "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer natural learning experiences. Willamette Mission State Park provides science-based activities, with one reviewer noting, "A lot of work has been done to keep this site up for public education and trails - we take elementary students to this site every spring to have a field science day. The largest Black Cottonwood tree resides at this park and is worth seeing!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping sites near Scotts Mills aren't suitable for larger RVs. Sunstrip Campground offers more primitive conditions, with Brian C. explaining, "Well situated on the banks of the Clackamas River, many camp sites open right onto the shore. However, while the price is the same as at other Mt. Hood National Forest camp sites, the spots themselves do not have paved driveways."
Space limitations: Even campgrounds that accept small RVs have size constraints. At Rainbow Campground, Tony P. shares insight about specific sites: "Out of all of the available spaces, we found space #10 to be extremely accommodating to our pop-up trailer, SUV, and one additional vehicle."
Toilet facilities: Most campgrounds offer vault toilets rather than flush facilities. Rainbow Campground has "only one double sided vault toilet for the campground," according to Katherine H., making it important to choose sites closer to facilities if needed.
