RV camping near Tigard, Oregon places visitors within 30 miles of the Columbia River and Sandy River watersheds, with elevations ranging from 250 to 1,100 feet throughout the camping region. Most RV parks in the area remain open year-round with western Oregon's mild climate allowing for extended camping seasons. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing while summer highs average 80-85°F with minimal rainfall from July through September.
What to do
River access activities: Sandy Riverfront RV Resort provides direct access to swimming and water activities. "The absolutely best part about this park is that it's across the street from Sugarpine Drive-in. Somewhat expensive (for a drive-in) but oh-so-delicious food. It's also right on the Sandy River where you can enjoy the beautiful views and swim (very carefully...bring life-vests to be safe) and next to Glenn Otto Park," notes one visitor.
Urban exploration: Most RV parks offer convenient bases for Portland day trips. At Portland-Woodburn RV Park, campers appreciate the shopping proximity. "The location is within easy earshot and access to I-5 freeway. Great for 'I'm on my way to…'" mentions one reviewer. Another adds that the park "sits right behind the Woodburn Outlet Mall with own private entrance."
Mountain activities: For travelers seeking outdoor adventures, Mt Hood Village Resort serves as a base camp for mountain recreation. "There is easy bike riding in the RV park, and right across Hwy 26 is some of the best Mountain Biking in the country at the Sandy Ridge Trail System. Using this RV park as a jumping off point, there are endless hiking trails and lakes to paddle and explore in the Mt Hood wilderness," explains one experienced camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Jantzen Beach RV Park receives positive reviews for maintenance. "The park is beautiful the bathrooms and showers are clean," reports one camper. Another notes, "Office staff seemed a little disorganized. But straighten things out right away. Clean Park friendly people."
Pet-friendly policies: Most RV parks near Tigard accommodate pets, with some offering dedicated areas. At Columbia River RV Park, one visitor appreciated the convenience: "The laundry room had a designated pet washer and dryer, which I always love, so we washed all of our dog bedding here." Another mentioned, "There's a small neighborhood dog park right across the street."
Riverside views: Several parks provide water access with scenic settings. At Clackamette RV Park, campers enjoy the confluence location. "The confluence of the Clackamas and Willamette river's, this is a great spot with most amenities, still inside Portland metro, right off 205 but incredibly serene nonetheless," reports one visitor. Another adds, "Dog friendly too as there is a park with walking paths. View of Williamette and Clackamas rivers are scenic."
What you should know
Space constraints: Many parks feature tight spacing between RVs. At Roamers Rest RV Park, one camper noted, "The staff was really nice, and they received all our Amazon pkgs with a smile. However, the spaces are quite tight! Considering the location and appreciating the fact that they are one of very few RV parks in the Portland area, I can understand why."
Noise considerations: Urban proximity means traffic and transit sounds. One reviewer at Scappoose RV Park shared, "Worst camping experience of my life. Noisy. Highway and airport. It's terrible." At Sandy Riverfront RV Resort, a camper mentioned, "Between the Sandy River and a creek. You do hear noises from the distant freeway and airport. There is a train bridge visible from the park, which is both entertaining and a bit noisy at times."
Age restrictions: Some parks maintain RV age limitations. One Roamers Rest visitor noted, "They also have RV age limit of 2010 but they allowed pictures before turning me down. Yay we got approved!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several parks offer swimming facilities for children. At Mt Hood Village Resort, a parent shared, "This was a good family camping spot. Pros - there is a playground, swimming pool, small store, cafe, bathrooms with showers (and warm water) and activities during the day for kids."
Playground access: Many parks provide recreational areas for children. As one Scappoose RV Park visitor noted, "On the positive side it has big beautiful trees and a playground for the kids."
Site selection strategy: Choosing the right location within parks affects family comfort. At Mt Hood Village Resort, one family advised, "The most utterly confusing part to me is that there were two huge RV areas that were virtually empty and would be perfectly suitable for tent camping. I'm not sure why they retrofit a dozen or so of those sites for 'premium' tent camping? I'd gladly pay a few extra bucks a night for a 110 outlet, more space my own personal water supply. We were in site T4. In my opinion it's the best site in the circle. If you can get T1, that looked like the best spot."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Many parks accommodate late arrivals with systems in place. One Columbia River RV Park visitor shared, "We arrived late and were greeted by staff and lead directly to our spot. That was really nice as it was after dark."
Hookup quality: Water pressure varies between locations. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, one RVer noted, "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. Maybe because we're on an island?"
Local provisions: Nearby shopping options provide convenient access to supplies. At Portland-Woodburn RV Park, a long-term camper explained, "Park sits right behind the Woodburn Outlet Mall with own private entrance. Off I-5 and convenient shopping for groceries or gas nearby. Close to Portland and Salem."
