Tent campsites near West Linn, Oregon provide access to the Cascade foothills with elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet within a 40-mile radius. The region averages 42 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and seasonal water features. Camping sites typically remain open from April through October with fire restrictions commonly implemented by mid-July.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Government Island State Recreation Area offers direct Columbia River access with natural beach areas. "Fishing, boating, campfires. There aren't any hookups for electricity or running water, but really, it's a nice place to take a break from boating all day, maybe spending the night then getting back to the mainland," explains reviewer Eva W.
Wildlife viewing: Diverse native habitats near West Linn camping areas support multiple ecosystems. At Healing Ponds Farm Retreat, campers can observe both wild and domestic animals. "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all," writes Meg R.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail networks. At Rainbow Campground, "We hiked from Rainbow to another campground, walking mostly next to the water," notes Kevin L. The area also features "an awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River," according to Katherine H., who discovered "the most private, delightful swimming hole" half a mile from camp.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer good separation between campers. At Cedar Grove Recreation Site, one camper noted, "This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full. Last year I went in June for a solo night and I had the place to myself."
Natural sound barriers: Water features provide ambient noise that enhances privacy. "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to," reports Kevin M. about his Cedar Grove experience.
Accessibility on weekdays: Many tent sites maintain availability midweek. At Three Bears Recreation Site, weekday campers typically find open sites. "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms," reports Kierra K.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds have intermittent water safety issues. At Sunstrip Campground, facilities are intentionally primitive. "Of all the campgrounds on the Clackamas River in this general area, Sunstrip is one of my least favorite because it is intentionally the most 'primitive,' which in this case means it has the most weeds and the grossest bathrooms," notes Corinna B.
Seasonal conditions: Weather patterns affect campground accessibility. Willamette Mission State Park "floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool," writes Kelly N., who adds that "mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water."
Transportation requirements: Some sites require specific access methods. JJ Collins Marine Park requires water transportation. "Love taking the boat here, although the homeless can sometimes be an issue," mentions Michael. Similarly, Government Island State Recreation Area is "accessible by boat only" according to Fatima H., who adds "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated."
Tips for camping with families
Water play access: Multiple sites offer child-friendly water features. At Elk Creek Campground, "We spent most of our time on the Elk Creek side since we have kiddos and the stream was the perfect size for playing and swimming without the stress of a larger river," explains Corinna B.
Safety considerations: Terrain varies significantly between sites. At Rainbow Campground, one reviewer cautions, "Close to water, some places have drop of cliffs watch little ones." For families seeking established facilities, Elk Creek offers "two vault bathrooms (decently clean) but no showers. Fire pits. New picnic tables. Hand-pump water."
Activities for children: Several sites provide natural play features. Three Bears Recreation Site offers engaging water features where kids can catch "crawfish something for everyone," according to Michelle A. Another camper reports it's a "Great camp spot to keep kids busy!"
Tips from RVers
Limited accommodations: Most tent-specific areas near West Linn prohibit larger vehicles. For RV camping, options diminish substantially. Rainbow Campground has space #10 that is "extremely accommodating to our pop-up trailer, SUV, and one additional vehicle," according to Tony P., adding that the space "is large enough to fit maybe 3 medium sized tents."
Parking logistics: Walk-in sites require parking planning. At Elk Creek Campground, "Sites are walk in, so you park in the general lot and huck your stuff in but never very far; no wheelbarrows or anything on site so only bring what you're able to carry," advises Aria R.
Primitive facilities: Most tent campgrounds near West Linn lack RV hookups. At Healing Ponds Farm Retreat, Bobby S. notes the site is "Quiet and convenient. Reasonably priced, for the situation," while offering "everything you need" despite having minimal amenities.
