Camping near Tualatin, Oregon offers unique outdoor experiences within 45 minutes of the city. The region sits at the edge of the Willamette Valley with elevations ranging from 100-1,000 feet and receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for consistent precipitation between November and March.
What to do
Creek exploration: Metzler Park provides access to Clear Creek with multiple swimming areas. "Metzler Park offered beautiful, shaded campsites along Clear Creek. My site was just above the creek and I fell asleep to its calming sound. There were huge playing fields in the sunshine, trails to explore with the kids and the creek has a swimming hole!" notes Maureen H.
Mountain biking: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers extensive trail networks just 30 miles northwest of Tualatin. "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," shares Joel H. The park includes multiple difficulty levels across its trail system.
Fishing: Promontory Park features a stocked pond specifically for young anglers. "Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total," reports Brad and Jamie L. The Small Fry Lake is reserved for youth up to age 17 with a two-fish limit per day, though fishing is seasonal as "the stocked kid's pond doesn't have much fish throughout the summer because they can't survive the heat," warns Jill T.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While luxury camping in Tualatin area often means proximity to others, Milo McIver State Park Campground offers more spacious sites. "The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers). There seemed to be a lot of hiking trails," notes Lindsey T. The park includes riverfront campsites along the Clackamas River.
Clean, modern facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at many parks. "Bathrooms are actually flushing water visible ones. Showers are available at a cost. It's not bad at all, easy to use. Well maintained," says Susan P. about Paradise Point State Park. Similarly at Metzler Park, "Super nice, clean restrooms" impressed Jill R.
Proximity to Portland: The convenience of camping near Tualatin without long drives appeals to many. "Oxbow feels like it is in the middle of nowhere but it's easy to get to and practically within the city limits of Portland," writes Stephanie Z. Most campgrounds in the area sit within 20-45 minutes of Tualatin, making glamping near Tualatin, Oregon a practical weekend option.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most parks fill quickly, especially during summer months. "We only stayed for a place to sleep overnight, but I'm eager to return and stay longer," mentions Lindsey T. about Milo McIver. Booking 6-9 months in advance is recommended for summer weekends.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience roadway noise. "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," warns Susan P. about Paradise Point State Park.
Site differences: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground offers varied camping experiences depending on which loop you choose. "Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river. We'll go back year after year," explains Scott W. Similarly, at L.L. Stub Stewart, "the Dairy Creek West loop has more shaded and privacy for most of the sites if thats what you are seeking, while the East loop is more open," explains Shane B.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kids' activities: Some parks offer structured programming. "The campground did have awesome park staff (Matthew was AWESOME) who put on two great activities for kids every day," shares Jill T. about Promontory Park.
Consider hike-in options: For a more authentic camping experience while glamping in the Tualatin area, try walk-in sites. "The hike in is pretty easy--about a quarter mile down the up. They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful," explains Jenny R. about L.L. Stub Stewart's Brooke Creek sites.
Plan for water activities: Many parks have swimming options during summer. "Great access to the river to keep cool in summer. Nice sandy beaches. Park also has a lot of sheltered picnic areas and playground," notes Marcus K. about Oxbow Regional Park, which sits on the Sandy River.
Tips from RVers
Site selection tips: Many campgrounds have varied access for larger rigs. "I have a 36' rv and had a little trouble getting my rv into my reserved site, but there are others that have easier access for large rigs," advises Hahns R. about Promontory Park.
Consider RV-specific amenities: Oxbow Regional Park offers good facilities for RVers despite not having hookups. "Nice regional campground. Has tent and RV spots. No hookups though. Mostly shady sites with just a handful having full sun. Restrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers. No coins needed," explains Marcus K.
Hookup quality varies: Water pressure can differ significantly between parks. "The water pressure was not very good at around 35 psi," notes MickandKarla W. about their stay at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park. This matters particularly for RVers who rely on consistent pressure for showers and appliances.
