Best Tent Camping near Tygh Valley, OR

Tent campsites near Tygh Valley, Oregon range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites, with several options located along creeks and rivers. Bonney Crossing Campground in Mount Hood National Forest offers tent camping from May to October with access to Badger Creek Trail, while Oak Springs Campground provides riverside tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Little Badger Campground and Keeps Mill Campground also accommodate tent campers in the area, with seasonal availability typically from May through September.

Most tent campgrounds in the Tygh Valley region have basic amenities but limited services. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, though campers should verify if fires are permitted as restrictions vary seasonally. Vault toilets are available at most established campgrounds, but drinking water is rarely provided. According to one visitor at Oak Springs Campground, "Spots are located all along the BLM road and are marked. Easy access to the river for fishing." Road conditions can vary significantly, with some campgrounds accessible by standard vehicles while others require high-clearance or four-wheel drive, particularly after rain or during early spring.

The tent camping experience near Tygh Valley offers notable seclusion compared to more developed areas closer to Portland. Walk-in tent sites at Bonney Crossing provide proximity to hiking trails and Badger Creek, with one camper noting it was "quite nice to hike in a bit, prop up a small tent and just blend into the forest as night floated down." Many backcountry tent locations feature creek or river access, providing both water views and natural sound barriers from other campsites. Tree cover varies significantly between locations, with eastern sites offering less shade than those closer to Mount Hood. Campers seeking solitude should consider weekday visits, as even the more remote tent campgrounds can fill on summer weekends. Most tent sites accommodate 1-2 small tents, though some larger group areas exist at established campgrounds.

Best Tent Sites Near Tygh Valley, Oregon (64)

    1. Bonney Crossing

    5 Reviews
    Tygh Valley, OR
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    $16 / night

    "Campground Review

    An open, relatively unused campground next to a sleep-calling stream right in between the last forested part of Mt."

    "The campsites are all well spaced out parallel to a nice clean looking river. We stayed in the off-season, so that is probably why it was empty."

    2. Oak Springs Campground

    1 Review
    Maupin, OR
    5 miles
    Website

    "Awesome spot on the river, clean spots, with fire rings and picnic tables. Spots are located all along the BLM road and are marked. Easy access to the river for fishing."

    3. Carbon Farm Yard

    1 Review
    Dufur, OR
    11 miles
    Website

    $55 / night

    "Carbon Farm is private camping on a farm a few miles outside of Dufur on the east side of Mt Hood National Forest."

    4. Little Badger Campground

    1 Review
    Tygh Valley, OR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    $10 / night

    5. Macks Canyon Recreation Site

    4 Reviews
    Moro, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    $8 - $35 / night

    "We went during weather transition from rain to clear. The result, high winds in the canyon. This only lasted the one night. Fantastic weather the rest of the time. A slight bit of small trash around."

    "We were so glad we kept driving down this road until the very end."

    6. Badger Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    $10 / night

    "This is a fairly easy trail to backpack on with lots of great sites to camp. If you’re hiking up to the lake you might want to make it a two day trip to really enjoy it."

    "The drive up the the lake is not super peaceful but once you get there it's pretty great."

    7. Pebble Ford Campground

    4 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    "Not too far from Meadows and Parkdale ... and even not to far for an overnight or weekend away from Portland.

    The first come sites are just off of Forest Road 44 >> Dufur Valley Road."

    "Very quiet and even has a few dispersed camp spots outside the main area. Had some deer walk right through our camp spot while we sat by the fire."

    8. Hike in from Lower Deschutes State Rec Area

    4 Reviews
    Moro, OR
    19 miles
    Website

    "We stayed in the big open field next to it.

    I don’t think this is technically an “official” campsite but it has a lovely composting toilet that smells like fresh cedar."

    "Bike-packing Campground Review:

    The lower Deschutes River from Pelton Dam to the Columbia River, goes about 100 river miles along the water and was designated an Oregon Scenic Waterway in 1970."

    9. Keeps Mill Campground

    3 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    "Google will tell you to drive in from North - this won't get you to the CG. You gotta approach from the South. 

    You MUST have a high-clearance 4x4."

    "This is a super secluded campsite that is very difficult to drive to. Amazing place to stay. Beautiful stars and an incredible spot to play in the river."

    10. Barlow Crossing

    4 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 352-6002

    "Decent, well stocked vault toilet. Thumbs up all around, I will definitely return to this gem."

    "Super easy to drive in, with lots of options for spots we parked at the top of the hill and walked about 5 min down to our spot right on the creek, however there were many spots that you could drive right"

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Tent Camping Reviews near Tygh Valley, OR

1223 Reviews of 64 Tygh Valley Campgrounds


  • Alyson M.
    Aug. 14, 2023

    Camp Creek

    Perfect Spot

    Camped here for the second year in a row, and it did not disappoint. We got lucky with a nice spot on the creek this year, which I would recommend for the best experience. The sites are spacious and most are pretty private which is great. It is primitive, no showers and just one vault toilet. I will say that the site did have a fair amount of trash on it which was disappointing, but we cleaned it up before heading out. Remember to leave no trace!!

  • T
    Aug. 5, 2020

    Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park

    Hot, dusty, dry and windy

    This campground in along the John Day River with access to the river from the campground but no water views.  Most sites have a pergola over the picnic table for shade and a sturdy wooden fence, I assume for wind protection.  The sites are nicely spaced but the wind, blowing dust and heat made it pretty uncomfortable to be outside. The river here is broad and shallow so not deep enough for watercraft.  The water was pretty warm.  There are several hiking trails along the river.

  • CJ S.
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Meditation Point Campground

    Beautiful, Private, Remote

    Stayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.

  • F
    Jul. 23, 2020

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Nice, small campground

    I camped there in my RV several times and always tried to get slot A13. It’s all the way at the end and has a nice amount of space and only a potential neighbor on one side. I also tent camped and, after scouting the sites, chose C6. That site is a bit small but is away from the rest and above them on the slope so you don’t need your rain fly for privacy.

  • C. W.
    May. 30, 2021

    Mount Hood National Forest Lost Creek Campground

    Clean dispersed camping

    Read up on this location with some good info. Flat paved sites for dry camping.

    Lost Creek Campground has 10 single-family campsites and is located on one of the largest pyroclastic volcanic mudflows from Mt. Hood’s “Old Maid” eruption in the 1700s. Fortunately all of the mudflows have cooled. Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Two yurts are also available. Campground amenities include a picnic area, drinking water and vault toilets. Firewood is also available for sale from the camp host.

    Lost Creek / Mt. Hood Area Recreation

    Outdoor recreation includes fishing. Visitors also enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing.  The Wild and Scenic Sandy River is also not far from the popular Ramona Falls Trailhead. Mt. Hood is just southeast of the campground offers visitors the opportunity for a nice a day trip.

    AMENITIES

    BBQ Grills

    Campsite Tables

    Comfort Station

    Drinking Water

    Fire Pit

    Fire Rings

    Firewood Available

    Golden Age & Access Passports accepted

    Grills

    Pets OK

    Picnic Tables

    Restrooms (Vault Toilets)

    ACTIVITIES

    Biking

    Bird Watching

    Creek

    Fishing

    Hiking

    Mountain Biking

    Nature Trails

    Photography

    Picnicking

    River

    Walking Trails

    Wildlife Viewing

  • Angela  A.
    Jul. 8, 2019

    Memaloose State Park Campground

    A nice place to rest off the freeway.

    Connected to a rest area. $19 camping no hookups. Water, pad, picnic table, and fire ring in site. Free showers. Clean bathrooms. Freeway noise not bad.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 17, 2023

    Justesen Ranches - Lower Twin Lakes

    Camping in a High Desert Oasis!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt! We want to welcome this property owner to our platform. "Camp beside a private spring fed lake. You’ll have this high desert oasis all to yourselves. This is a leave no trace camp site, pack it in pack it out. Fishing is NOT included in your stay. You can inquire about fly fishing rates." Book your stay today and leave them some love!

  • D
    Apr. 2, 2021

    Giles French Park Primitive Camping

    Great Views, Few Amenities, Good Fishing

    Giles French Park  (GFP) is one of two adjacent free camping / bookdocking sites owned by the US Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) along the Columbia River near the town of Rufus, Oregon.  I was there on opening day, 2021.  I didn't see any tents.  I also didn't see any signs saying tents aren't permitted.  I saw several motorhomes and travel trailers parked far apart.  I think the Native American fishermen dropped off some of the trailers to stay in when the spring salmon run begins.  There's a 7-day stay limit.  No open fires (campfires) are permitted.  I assume this is is because of the frequently gusty wind conditions.  I used a butane camp stove.  There's no television reception unless you have a satellite dish.  Cell service is good on both Verizon and AT&T.  The water is unsafe to drink unless it is boiled first for five minutes.  (I have no idea why.  Don't the dam employees have potable water?). There's exactly one flush toilet (for men anyway.) It's in the restrooms nearest to the dam.  This restroom is in poor condition.  The stall door lock is broken.  The urinal is out of service.  The lavatory drain is clogged.  (You get the picture.  If not, look at my pictures.)  All the other restrooms have vault toilets and no running water.  The restrooms are spaced very far apart.  The only trash dumpster is near the vault toilet that serves the boat ramp parking lot.  No camping is permitted near the restrooms.  Keep all this in mind when you select your site.  There are only a few picnic tables.  Most are situated where there's not much of a view.  The best views are in the third parking lot away from the dam, where the Native Americans have several closely spaced fishing scaffolds.  That was where I parked.  I had one neighbor on April 1-2, 2021.  A couple of non-Native American anglers showed up at the crack of dawn.  They didn't have any success as far as I could tell.  But, the spring salmon run had not started yet.  Similar to an island if you didn't bring it, it isn't at GFP.  There are no amenities other than the mentioned restrooms and non-potable water.  The views are spectacular, especially at sunset.  GFP sits in a canyon with sheer basalt cliffs on either side.  The play of sunlight on the Oregon side at sunset is colorful.  The dam is lit up with red, white and blue lights at night.  Barges sometimes pass through the lock at the north end of the dam.  Trains run along both sides of the Columbia River, BNSF on the Washington side and UP on the Oregon side.  These are noticeable but not particularly noisy since there are no crossings nearby.  I-84 creates more noise than the trains do.  Since the site is free and the amenities are few, it's good for a night or two in my opinion, but not much more.  I rated it low because of the poor condition of the restrooms.  Apparently the Army Corps of Engineers cannot open a stopped drain.

  • Thomas B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Handy Stopping Point

    We kind of stumbled into this free spot while heading to a more formal campground near Pelton Dam. As the daylight faded I spotted a pullout/turnaround area which then led to a rather private loop with a great view of the Deschutes River and Lake Simtustus. I had to confirm with the Dyrt BLM map overlay, but I was glad to find myself on public land. It’s not really a place I’d choose to spend more than one night, since it doesn’t really connect to any trails or walking areas, but it was a handy en-route overnight spot, complete with a nice view and bright sunset. It’s only a few miles off Rt. 26, following signs to Pelton Dam. There was plenty of room to turn around my 26’ skoolie. However, I didn’t really see a good place for a tent, but I didn’t look very hard. There were signs of previous users, including a fire ring (which I didn’t use). Since it was the eve of Earth Day, I did collect a bagful of empty cans and trash. Leave no trace, people!


Guide to Tygh Valley

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Oregon, Tygh Valley offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Enjoy fishing and rafting along the Deschutes River while camping at Macks Canyon Recreation Site, where you can immerse yourself in nature and spot local wildlife.
  • Explore the scenic trails near Bonney Crossing, which provides access to Badger Creek and offers a peaceful environment for hiking and family outings.
  • Experience the beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest with a visit to Pebble Ford Campground, where you can hike, bike, or simply relax by the creek.

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • Badger Lake Campground features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great spot for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • At Keeps Mill Campground, you'll find a secluded atmosphere with basic amenities like toilets, perfect for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
  • Barlow Crossing offers a variety of spots along the creek, allowing campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of water while having their own fire pit.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Tygh Valley

  • Bring your own drinking water when visiting Bonney Crossing, as the campground does not provide potable water.
  • Be prepared for rough roads leading to Keeps Mill Campground; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for access.
  • For a more primitive experience, consider camping at Hike in from Lower Deschutes State Rec Area, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature without the distractions of modern amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Tygh Valley, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Tygh Valley, OR is Bonney Crossing with a 4.8-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Tygh Valley, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 64 tent camping locations near Tygh Valley, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.