Rey R.
Guide
GuideThousand Trails Seaside
Cute place.
One night tent camping on my way to Texas. It rained but it’s was still good.
Best Campgrounds near Vernonia, OR
Camping options around Vernonia, Oregon include several established campgrounds with varying amenities and access types. Anderson Park provides in-town camping with easy access to the Banks-Vernonia Trail, while Big Eddy Park offers riverside sites with electrical hookups and showers approximately 7 miles north of town. Nehalem River Park & Campground features tent and RV sites with vault toilets and access to the river. Both L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park (15 miles southeast) and Camp Wilkerson (12 miles northwest) offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options.
Most campgrounds in the Vernonia area require reservations, particularly during summer months when tourism increases along the popular Banks-Vernonia Trail. The region experiences wet winters and moderately warm summers, with most facilities operating year-round. "The camp is run by the city and it is very clean. I've seen boyscout troops come through on packs of bicycles and single joggers on the Banks Vernonia trail which is easy and scenic," noted one visitor about Anderson Park. Road access to most campgrounds is well-maintained, though some forest service roads may require higher clearance vehicles. Cell service can be limited at campgrounds outside town limits, especially at Camp Wilkerson and areas deeper in the Coast Range forests.
Riverside camping represents a common feature of the Vernonia area, with the Nehalem River providing scenic settings for several campgrounds. Campers frequently mention the convenience of town access from Anderson Park, allowing easy walks to restaurants and shops. According to reviews, Big Eddy Park is "clean, has restrooms and showers, small playground and all sites have electric." The region's extensive trail system remains a primary draw, with multiple reviewers highlighting the Banks-Vernonia Trail as an excellent biking and hiking route directly accessible from campgrounds. Horse camping facilities at Stub Stewart State Park and Camp Wilkerson accommodate equestrian travelers with dedicated corrals and trail access, receiving consistently high ratings for cleanliness and trail connectivity.
Best Camping Sites Near Vernonia, Oregon (218)
1. Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
39 ReviewsBuxton, OR9 milesWebsite+1 (503) 324-0606$24 - $39 / night
"The upper area encircles a large open are perfect for games and running around. There is a nice disk golf course and a lot of large paths for waking and biking."
"Had a great visit brought the mountain bike to explore the numerous bike trails for all levels of riders, rode to the town of Vernonia all on a paved bike trail plenty to do here for everyone on your list"
2. Camp Wilkerson
9 ReviewsVernonia, OR8 milesWebsite+1 (503) 366-3984$5 - $45 / night
"Stayed the night in one of thier small cabins, very nice sat outside by the fire and just watched the stars, this is a primary horse camp and is surrounded by trails, seen a heard of elk on one of my hikes"
"Since the camp is planned predominantly as a youth recreation center, I was a bit worried that it would be a pretty loud campsite due to lots of kids running around. That was not the case for us!"
3. Hares Canyon Horse Camp — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
6 ReviewsBuxton, OR8 milesWebsite+1 (503) 324-0606$39 / night
"Lots to do with the Banks / Vernonia trail running through the camp that has over 15 miles of paved walking / biking trails."
"When we came back from the shower my wife and I observed a dark shadow darting from the table around the back corner of the tent. Figured it was a raccoon or something."
4. Healing ponds farm retreat and healing center
6 ReviewsBuxton, OR10 miles+1 (503) 709-0706$45 / night
"The pond area is beautiful with all the statues found around it. Highly recommend and we plan to visit again :)"
5. Dairy Creek East — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
6 ReviewsBuxton, OR9 milesWebsite+1 (503) 324-0606$33 - $39 / night
"This spot was across the road some ways away from the kids play area that was still closed due to COVID. One day we took a trip into Vernonia 11 miles away and had lunch at The Black Iron Grill."
"One of our favorite Oregon SPs. In the middle of a mountainous forest with lots of hiking, paved path & mtb biking, disc golf, horse trails and more."
6. Nehalem River Park & Campground
4 ReviewsVernonia, OR4 milesWebsite$20 / night
"Proximity to Vernonia was great as the town is lovely. There are good parks, a swimming hole and a rails to trails trail."
"Tucked away with very little traffic on a May Friday night. Lots of barking dogs in proximity to the sites which can be heard all night"
7. Paradise Point State Park Campground
34 ReviewsLa Center, WA23 milesWebsite+1 (888) 226-7688"Relaxing Getaway at Champoeg State Heritage Area Champoeg State Heritage Area near Newberg, Oregon, is a great spot for campers seeking peace and nature."
"Close to freeway for easy access. Nice walking paths. Typical state park yurt set up."
8. Anderson Park
3 ReviewsVernonia, OR1 mileWebsite+1 (503) 429-2531$20 - $35 / night
"I've seen boyscout troops come through on packs of bicycles and single joggers on the Banks Vernonia trail which is easy and scenic."
"This campground is adjacent to a couple of really awesome bike paths, so I parked here for day use. I haven't camped here YET but I thought I could add some photos!"
9. Big Eddy Park
3 ReviewsVernonia, OR5 milesWebsite+1 (503) 366-3984$7 - $31 / night
"I like big Eddy Campground it’s about a half hour drive from home I’m in the woods right next to the Nehalem river. Campsites are good size for my a 22 foot trailer and two vehicles ."
"Might be ok for a stop in between for a night but if you are looking for an away from it all campground this isn’t it."
10. Mountaindale Cabin Village — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
3 ReviewsBuxton, OR8 miles+1 (503) 324-0606$33 - $69 / night
"This is such and easy and fun getaway if you live near Portland, OR. 45 minutes and you are transported to nature. "
Recent Camping Photos near Vernonia, OR
359 Photos of 218 Vernonia Campgrounds
Al A.
Big Eddy Park
Ashley Y.
Camp Wilkerson
Erin P.
Dairy Creek East — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
Salih K.
Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
Meg R.
Healing ponds farm retreat and healing center
Steve M.
Clatskanie City Park
John P.
Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight
Daniel S.
Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground
Paul A.
Gales Creek Campground
Rich G.
Hudson-Parcher Park
Brian C.
Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground
Corinna B.
Elk Creek Campground
Recent Reviews near Vernonia, OR
1537 Reviews of 218 Vernonia Campgrounds
Adamcalgary
ScoutColumbia River RV Park
Stunning Location, But Recent Changes Raise Concer
This park offers one of the best riverfront locations in the region, with spectacular views of passing ships and beautiful sunsets right from your campsite. The facilities consistently earn high marks, showers and bathrooms are clean, well-stocked, and well-maintained, and the staff is generally friendly and helpful. However, recent reviews reveal significant changes: a new gravel processing plant has opened next door, bringing periodic loud noise and truck traffic throughout the night. The landscape is mostly gravel with minimal greenery, and some sites feel tight with limited privacy. The beach area has drawn complaints about litter and driftwood, making it less inviting for families. At$85–$100 per night, many longtime visitors feel the value has diminished and are choosing to look elsewhere. Bottom calgaryprayertimes.com line: if you snag a riverfront site and don't mind industrial noise, it's still lovely, but manage expectations accordingly.
Image R.ScoutChampoeg State Heritage Area Campground
Peaceful Riverside Camping with Clean Facilities and Scenic Trails
I recently stayed at Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground and honestly, it turned out to be one of the most relaxing camping trips I’ve had in a long time. The place has a beautiful natural setting with wide open fields, river views, and peaceful walking trails that make it easy to unplug and slow down. The overall rating is about 4.5 out of 5 from 70 reviews, which felt accurate after my stay. What really stood out to me was how clean and well-maintained everything was. The bathrooms and showers were spotless, and the grounds felt thoughtfully laid out with plenty of space between many sites. Several campers mentioned that Loop B offers more privacy than Loop A, and I’d definitely agree if you’re someone who likes a bit of distance from neighbors.
Kateryna P.ScoutChampoeg State Heritage Area Campground
state park
Nice office staff, and clean facilities including laundry, clubhouse, group kitchen area and free wi-fi. Grass in-between most spots, with some back-in sites and others being pull-through.
- SShawn V.
TravelerTrask River Campsites
Lovely site
Camped in January where it got pretty cold at night. Definitely not for the faint of heart but worth it. Many dispersed campsites, some designated, and some not. Wild elk roams the area and ATV events are held here.
- JJonathan C.Traveler
Tiny Digs Hotel of Tiny Houses
Tiny Digs was Awesome
My friends and I couldn't find a hotel in Portland so we rented a couple of these Tiny Homes for a weekend and it was a pretty neat launchpad. Got to discover Portland without the vast expense of RV storage or Big Name hotels. Just a matter of time though, it being Portland , before the locals ruin it
- WWilliam C.Scout
Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping
Pretty good
I've camped at Canyon Creek and it’s such a hidden gem! The dispersed hollow knight sites really let you connect with nature—perfect for escaping the daily grind. Just remember, pack out what you pack in! It’s all about preserving these beautiful spots for future adventurers. Happy camping!
Maria C.ScoutClackamette RV Park
Good view
Clackamette RV Park is well located in the heart of Oregon City, offering easy access to the river, nearby bike paths, and the town itself. While it’s fairly basic, it’s well suited for a brief stay or overnight stop. The riverside setting is a pleasant bonus, the rates are fair for the area, and the on-site host provides a sense of security and organization.
- review from Geometry Dash
- JJeff C.Guide
Trask River Campsites
Hidden Gem
Tough drive in from Tillamook b/c of the rain - winding, mud over a part the road from a small hill slide, some road washed away creating a one-lane stretch but crews were already on it. There’s an RV camp w/ store before you get too deep in.
Awesome location on the river. We found 5 clearly marked campsites that appeared pretty flat. All had fire pits and were w/in steps of the river. Site #1 is farthest from water Site #2 is on the river, large enough for a couple camper vans, it had several muddy areas and a pile of trash under a tarp. Site #3 was across the road from the river and slightly elevated (no flooding) w/ room for one camper van. We have an EXT van so getting in and out did require a little maneuvering to be sure we cleared our rear bumper. Site #4 is right on the river, has room for a couple camper vans but was next to some log clearing machinery and rubble piles. Site #5 is on the river, looked dry, w/ room for a camper van and maybe another car.
Quiet, nice spot. We felt safe. The river was an easy place to explore.
There was some trash at our site (#3) and the trash pile at #2 but we didn’t look closely at the other sites.
We’d definitely come back here - preferably in the summer!!
Guide to Vernonia
Camping near Vernonia, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "Great for families, fisherfolks and those looking for a quiet break from the city" at Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground.
- Fishing and Boating: The local lakes and rivers are perfect for fishing. A visitor at Skamokawa Vista Park said, "Had a great time inside V4. Campground is nice clean restrooms and right on the beach."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper noted, "Bald eagles flying overhead" while staying at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were the cleanest I’ve seen at a campground."
- Friendly Staff: Many visitors have praised the helpfulness of campground hosts. One camper at Cannon Beach RV Resort said, "Check in process easy and friendly! Bathrooms and showers clean and warm!"
- Privacy in Campsites: Campers enjoy sites that offer some seclusion. A review from Seaquest State Park Campground highlighted, "These were much more private and actually had better Wi-Fi than our location."
What you should know
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Paradise Point State Park Campground mentioned, "That noise. It's not the river. It's I-5 which is right in your back yard."
- Site Size Limitations: Be aware of the size of your RV or tent. A visitor at Paradise Point State Park Campground expressed frustration, stating, "We couldn't even continue out the secondary loop because it was so narrow and had trees on the inside of turns."
- Water Access: Some campgrounds may have limited water access. A reviewer at Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store warned, "Due to increasing health issues, my husband and I discovered arsenic levels so high that... issued a 'Do Not Drink the Water' alert."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and activities for kids. A camper at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground noted, "Kids enjoyed the junior ranger program."
- Plan for Privacy: Opt for campsites that are more secluded to keep the family comfortable. A visitor at Seaquest State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites were large and well graded. They were also well separated from each other with lots of vegetation dividing them."
- Pack for Activities: Bring along fishing gear, bikes, or hiking shoes. One camper at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground said, "Lots of hiking and mountain biking trails within the park."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Seaside RV Resort mentioned, "The sites were very close together."
- Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Cannon Beach RV Resort appreciated, "All spots have full hookups though!"
- Arrive Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up fast. A visitor at Keenig Creek Campground advised, "Would definitely recommend arriving before noon to snag better spots!"
Camping near Vernonia, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the campground details and reviews to find the best fit for your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available at Vernonia Lake?
What camping options are available at Vernonia Lake?
Vernonia Lake itself doesn't offer designated camping, but nearby Big Eddy Park provides camping opportunities close to town. For a fuller camping experience near Vernonia, Anderson Park is an excellent option situated right on the Banks-Vernonia Trail. This city-run campground is clean and convenient, allowing easy access to town amenities including grocery stores, laundry facilities, and restaurants. The scenic trail runs through the camp, making it popular with cyclists and hikers exploring the area.
Are there developed campgrounds in Vernonia, Oregon?
Are there developed campgrounds in Vernonia, Oregon?
Yes, Vernonia offers developed camping options. The city-managed Anderson Park provides clean facilities and convenient access to the Banks-Vernonia Trail and town amenities. Just a short drive away, L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers modern camping with well-maintained restrooms, clean showers, and spacious campsites on asphalt pads. The park features multiple camping areas including Dairy Creek East and West loops, with the West loop providing more shade and privacy for those seeking a more secluded experience.
What facilities are available at Nehalem River Park and Campground near Vernonia?
What facilities are available at Nehalem River Park and Campground near Vernonia?
Nehalem River Park & Campground offers family-friendly facilities in a natural setting. The campground features numerous trees perfect for hammocks and a shallow river ideal for wading and water play. Adjacent to the campground is an open field (by the small airport) that's great for frisbee, soccer, and other activities. The campground provides ample sites for camping and is especially well-suited for families with young children who can safely explore the natural surroundings. The shallow river access is a particular highlight for visitors during warmer months.
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