Dispersed camping options near Wilsonville range from forested riverside sites to alpine mountain views at elevations between 200-4,000 feet. The area experiences mild winters with frequent rain and warm summers with temperatures typically between 50-85°F from June through September. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations with limited sites available during winter months when precipitation averages 4-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Fishing access points: Promontory Park offers both a stocked pond for younger anglers and the 350-acre North Fork Reservoir for more experienced fishing. "There's trout fishing starting May 22 and continues through October. Cheap way to get out of the city," notes a visitor. The park also features rental options for watercraft if you don't bring your own.
Disc golf courses: Milo McIver State Park Campground maintains two competition-quality disc golf courses that attract players of all skill levels. "What other campground has a bat trail? The camping area is away from the high use river rafting area. It is also far from the extensive pair of disc golf courses. That's right, two competition quality disc golf courses," shares one enthusiast.
Trail systems: Explore the Banks-Vernonia State Trail at Dairy Creek West in L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park, where paved paths accommodate cyclists of all abilities. "We stayed in site 38. The walk in sites in Dairy Loop surround a meadow, so less private. The other walk in sites on the other side of the visitor center are very sweet. Just little sites carved out of the woods," explains a visitor who appreciated the bike-friendly nature of the park.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Campers praise Lost Lake Resort And Campground for its pristine lake views and mountain backdrop. "The sites are large and private, lots of amenities such as trails, boat rental, well equipped store, picnic tables and much more. Beautiful views of Mt Hood and the lake is breathtaking," writes one visitor who enjoyed the scenic setting.
Private hike-in sites: The hike-in camping area at Brooke Creek in L.L. Stub Stewart State Park offers a true wilderness experience just a quarter-mile from parking. "The tent only hike in camp isn't a long haul from the parking area at the welcome center – it's about ¼ mile and the trail into the campground is mostly gravel. There are carts available for hike in campers to use at the campground trailhead if needed," notes a camper who appreciated the accessibility despite the walk-in nature.
On-site activities: Families particularly enjoy the structured activities available at certain campgrounds. "The hosts were welcoming and made sure we were comfortable with our stay. We also got a scavenger hunt with stickers for our toddler. There is also a play area for the kiddos along with walking paths along the water," writes a visitor to Promontory Park who appreciated the family-friendly programming.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations near Wilsonville require advance booking, with many sites filling up months ahead during peak season. Premium options like yurts at Mt. Hood Village Resort book particularly quickly. "The outer loop sites are quiet, spacious and wooded. They are also very close to a trailhead to nice hikes and the beach. The recent upgrades to playgrounds are awesome for the kids and the new welcome center makes check in a breeze," notes a visitor to Oxbow Regional Park.
Seasonal variations: Water-based activities have limited availability outside summer months. "The stocked kid's pond doesn't have much fish throughout the summer because they can't survive the heat BUT, this information isn't on their website," cautions a camper about Promontory Park's fishing program.
Cell service limitations: Many campsites have limited or no connectivity. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," reports a visitor to Oxbow Regional Park. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing programs: Metzler Park offers designated fishing areas ideal for children learning to fish. "Great camp ground friendly staff. Nice small hike fun fishing catch and release only though," mentions one visitor. The clear creek access points provide safe wading opportunities for younger children.
Specialized youth activities: Ranger-led programs occur regularly during summer months at several parks, providing educational experiences focused on local ecology. "The campground did have awesome park staff who put on two great activities for kids every day," shared one visitor about Promontory Park's structured activities.
Protected swimming areas: Look for designated swimming zones with gradual entry points for safer water play. "The creek is refreshing on warm days to swim in. We like this because it's an easy day trip from Portland," notes a visitor to Oxbow Regional Park, highlighting the family-friendly water access.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility considerations: Silver Falls State Park Campground offers well-maintained RV sites with paved access. "Roads and campsites are paved and level. Short drive or hike to the falls," notes a reviewer who appreciated the ease of setup. Most sites accommodate rigs up to 35 feet, but check specific loop restrictions before booking.
Hook-up availability: While many Wilsonville area glamping options feature electricity, not all provide full hookups. "I have stayed here many times both in an RV and in tent sites. The campground is well maintained and the hosts have been great each time I have been there," shares an experienced visitor to Milo McIver State Park.
Off-season options: Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations with reduced services. "Showed up in the dark & rain, no reservations in February. Lots of room at each site, very clean, nice bathrooms, quiet. Easy onsite reservation/payment," reports a winter visitor to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, demonstrating the availability of impromptu camping even during off-peak months.
