Camping areas near Vernonia, Oregon sit at elevations between 600-800 feet in Oregon's Coast Range, creating a temperate climate with mild summers and rainy winters. The region's annual rainfall of approximately 60 inches supports lush forests of Douglas fir and western hemlock. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months.
What to do
Trail access from camp: At Anderson Park campground, visitors can connect directly to the Banks-Vernonia Trail. As one camper notes, "The trail comes through camp and you can walk anywhere in town from camp. Grocery, laundry, several good restaurants and shops" (Ben I.).
Disc golf opportunities: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers disc golf courses as part of its recreation options. One visitor mentioned, "The park has recently renewed trail signage. Open feel, but sites are spacious. Nice playground for kids, fun disc golf course and wonderful access to biking (paved or dirt)" (Ryan W. and OregonSteve).
Astronomical viewing: The higher elevations in the area provide excellent night sky viewing at certain campgrounds. A camper at Hares Canyon Horse Camp observed, "The top of the park shows a vast section of sky which is perfect for meteor shower watching" (Jeff H.).
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Nehalem River Park & Campground offers quieter experiences away from crowds. As one camper reported, "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" (Chris D.).
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camp Wilkerson provides chances to observe local wildlife. A camper shared their experience: "Stayed the night in one of their 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" (Guy S.).
Good facilities for groups: Many campgrounds accommodate larger parties. A camper at Camp Wilkerson noted, "The campground was nice and quiet despite some larger groups and the shelters were perfect for sliding a tent in with bunks even. Great trails near" (Kayden G.).
What you should know
Tent site considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for tent setups. At Dairy Creek East, a camper observed, "I was unimpressed. Okay local if you need to camp in Portland. Not so nice bathrooms. Tent camping was in a big field with weird gravel bits that got louder in the morning. No barriers between campsites" (Erin P.).
Shower facilities vary: Big Eddy Park provides showers for campers without their own facilities. A camper reported, "If you don't want to use your bathroom and shower they have restroom and two showers on the grounds" (Al A.).
Reservation policies: Many campgrounds charge extra for same-day bookings. At Big Eddy Park, "Pay an extra $5 transaction fee if you didn't reserve your spot and you can only stay one night if no reservations" (Schona K.).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mountaindale Cabin Village at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park provides family-friendly amenities. A camper mentioned, "Absolutely love the cabins at this place! We live 30 minutes away so it's the perfect quick get away. Our dog LOVES the dog park too" (Jamie B.).
Water play opportunities: Several campgrounds provide river access for kids. At Big Eddy Park, "This campsite is very pretty and the hosts are lovely. They have fire wood for sale for 5 dollars a bundle, bathrooms and showers on site. There is a spot to load a very small boat into the water" (Nicole S.).
Pet-friendly options for families: Most campgrounds around Vernonia welcome pets. The Brooke Creek Hike-in Camp has dedicated pet areas. One camper noted, "Since we were here last time, they now have an off-leash fenced dog area. What makes this CG so special is the multitude of hiking, biking, and horse trails" (MickandKarla W.).
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Dairy Creek West, campers should note the utility arrangements. "The water and sewer hookups were in the middle of the site, with electric being at the back of the pad. The water pressure was not very good at around 35 psi" (MickandKarla W.).
Satellite reception: Connectivity can be challenging in wooded areas. A camper at Dairy Creek West observed, "We had a clear shot to the north sky for Starlink, but it's doubtful we'd get a southern sky shot from this site due to the mature trees. We got 3 bars LTE on Verizon" (MickandKarla W.).
Site dimensions: RV sites vary in size and layout. One camper at Dairy Creek West reported, "Our spot was very spacious as the length was 45 feet deep on asphalt. It had a picnic table and a fire ring in a well-groomed gravel area about 30' x 30'. The back of our spot was against very high trees" (Robert D.).
