Camping opportunities near Troutdale, Oregon vary dramatically in terrain and facilities due to the area's position at the convergence of the Columbia River and Sandy River watersheds. The region sits at elevations ranging from 30 to 1,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates that influence camping conditions year-round. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and increased precipitation that can affect tent camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Year-round access at Oxbow Regional Park where the Sandy River provides diverse fishing conditions. "Plenty of hiking, swimming, and fishing through the park. It's truly a great oasis just outside of Portland," writes Blaine B., who appreciates the park's 1,000-acre size.
Disc golf: Multiple course options at Milo McIver State Park, featuring twin 18-hole courses or a 27-hole tournament layout. "Milo McIver may be best known for its twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," explains Steve C., who notes it hosts the annual Beaver State Fling tournament.
Swimming: Sandy River access from several campgrounds, though water temperatures remain cold even in summer. One camper mentions, "The river is refreshing on warm days to swim in. We like this because it's an easy day trip from Portland."
What campers like
Private camping spaces at Lost Lake Resort provide secluded options despite popularity. Jason S. describes his experience: "D022 was very secluded. Could fit at least 2 tents. There is no Wi-Fi, Verizon was there but I don't know where. Not at the site."
Clean facilities at several campgrounds, with varying levels of amenities. At Paradise Point State Park, "Bathrooms are actually flushing water visible ones. Showers are available at a cost. It's not bad at all, easy to use. Well maintained," reports Susan P.
Family-friendly activities organized by campground hosts. At Promontory Park, one camper appreciates the kids programming, noting, "The hosts were welcoming and made sure we were comfortable with our stay. We also got a scavenger hunt with stickers for our toddler."
What you should know
Cell service limitations affect most campgrounds in the area. At Oxbow Regional Park, Zach S. reports, "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through."
Highway noise can impact camping experience at several locations. Susan P. warns about Paradise Point: "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."
Winter season closures affect many campgrounds from November through April. While Eagle Creek Campground operates May through October, others like Lost Lake have even shorter seasons. Check schedules before planning winter camping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas for recreation. At Champoeg State Park, one visitor notes, "There was a huge playground for the kids. There was also a large field area for dogs to roam around, just no fence."
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities for children. At Promontory Park, Jill T. describes, "The campground did have awesome park staff who put on two great activities for kids every day... the main reasons our friend booked this campground was to teach their daughters to fish in the stocked 'kids only' pond."
Junior ranger activities: Available at select parks throughout summer months. "Sky even brought Jr. Camper art projects for our kids. We had an amazing stay! Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total," shares one family who held their small wedding at Promontory Park.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions can limit larger RVs at certain campgrounds. One camper at Paradise Point warns, "We put the size of our RV in the state website and it gave us site 50. 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."
Hookup availability varies widely between campgrounds. At Roamer Sites, Colin B. appreciates that "They have power/water hookups at each parking spot. The glamping tents have heaters, lights etc. There are heated indoor bathrooms with nice free hot water showers just a short walk away."
Alternate glamping in Troutdale, Oregon options include platform tents at Roamer Sites. "Although we didn't stay in one of the tents, they looked really nice and comfortable," notes Sarah S. about this glamping option near Troutdale that combines outdoor experience with modern amenities.
