Tent camping around Sherwood, Oregon provides access to several forested public lands within a 45-mile radius. The Tillamook State Forest offers over 364,000 acres of terrain with elevations ranging from 750 to 3,000 feet. Camping season typically runs May through September, with occasional fire restrictions during the drier months when precipitation drops below 1 inch monthly.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Wilson River Trail near Keenig Creek Campground offers a 6-mile moderate hike (12 miles roundtrip) directly from the campground. "There is also a 6 mile trail (12 miles roundtrip) that leaves right from the campground and goes to Footbridge. We did most of it and it's nice and moderate," notes one reviewer.
Fishing access: Prime fishing spots at Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp provide catch-and-release opportunities along the Willamette River. A camper observed, "There is lots to outdoor activities at Willamette mission state park. there is everything from disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, shooting range, hiking, and large enough to host an event."
Swimming holes: The Wilson River features natural swimming areas with rock formations for jumping at several points along the water. Keenig Creek Campground has "a beyond perfect swimming hole, that we all quickly discovered was plenty deep enough to jump off the rock formation next to it. It was busy on a hot saturday afternoon, but not crowded in the least."
Educational exploration: Visit the Tillamook Forest Center, located 7 minutes from Elk Creek Campground, featuring exhibits on local ecology and forest history. "A 7-minute drive from the awesome Tillamook Forestr Center, which has really cool exhibits on the area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Elk Creek Campground offers secluded sites with natural barriers. "Located within the Tillamook State Forest, Elk Creek campground has about a dozen or so sites located on a slight incline heading down to where the sweet, beautiful little Elk creek and the larger Wilson River converge. The sites are decent size though not huge, and are surrounded by beautiful trees, ferns and greenery."
River sounds: Sites positioned near water features provide natural white noise that masks road sounds. "At night when the traffic dies down you can hear the river," mentions one Keenig Creek visitor.
Affordability: Cedar Grove Recreation Site offers budget-friendly tent camping options with basic amenities. "Stunning river views and small with only 11 sites that are first come first served. Refurbished a few years ago. This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full."
Weekday solitude: Several campgrounds remain uncrowded midweek, even during peak season. One Cedar Grove camper noted, "Last year I went in June for a solo night and I had the place to myself."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Summer burn bans frequently affect the area, limiting cooking options. A Three Bears Recreation Site visitor warns, "The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water."
Walk-in requirements: Three Bears Recreation Site features sites accessible only by foot paths from parking areas. "The sites are walk in with well maintained paths. There is water access and good catch and release trout fishing."
Limited facilities: Dispersed camping in Tillamook State Forest requires complete self-sufficiency. "There is no potable water- luckily my family and I brought enough water!! We planned to do some hiking, so we definitely brought enough water to last us the weekend. Highly recommend buying jugs of water."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds, particularly sites closer to major roads. A Keenig Creek visitor advises, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: For tent camping near Sherwood with children, select sites with gradual river entry points. "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!"
Nature education: Government Island State Recreation Area offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities for children. "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own. There is 1 restroom and no desinated camp sites. But we love it!"
Weather preparation: Spring camping often encounters periodic flooding in lower elevations. "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."
Seasonal timing: Visit Tillamook State Forest in late spring to view wildflowers and avoid summer crowds. "If you love horses and the outdoors, this is a must-visit!"
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive tent camping sites near Sherwood cannot accommodate larger RVs or trailers. "These sites are beautiful and really meant for tent camping—but you can park an rv in most of the spots."
Alternative options: Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping offers undesignated sites for smaller rigs without hookups. "My mistake, these coordinates took us to the top of the mountain. It is currently an active logging area, so the truckers are out at 3am. The road up was a very narrow road. So careful if there's other cars coming through, especially the logging semis."
Access roads: Forest service roads vary in condition and width. "Road is fine and easy. AWD is nice but isn't necessary if the road is fairly dry."
Vehicle spacing: Tent camping sites that accommodate vehicles typically have limited parking space away from the actual tent pad. "The sites are walk in with well maintained paths."
