Tent camping near Wilsonville, Oregon features sites located within 45 minutes to an hour drive through the Willamette Valley's agricultural landscape. Most accessible campgrounds lie along Highway 6 corridor toward Tillamook State Forest, where summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler 55-65°F evenings. Winter camping remains available at select locations though seasonal road closures affect access from November through March.
What to do
Swimming in Wilson River: Elk Creek Campground offers excellent water access where Elk Creek meets Wilson River. "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," notes one camper, while another mentions "The river was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim."
Hiking forest trails: The area around Keenig Creek Campground features multiple trail options. "There is also a 6 mile trail (12 miles roundtrip) that leaves right from the campground and goes to Footbridge. We did most of it and it's nice and moderate," shares a visitor. Trails connect to multiple day-use areas for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Fishing opportunities: At Three Bears Recreation Site, you can fish directly from streamside campsites. "There is water access and good catch and release trout fishing. You can also catch salmon in the river, but I have not tried," reports one camper. The Molalla River corridor provides multiple fishing spots within short walking distance of tent sites.
What campers like
Creek-side privacy: Campers appreciate the secluded spots at Cedar Grove Recreation Site along the Molalla River. "Stunning river views and small with only 11 sites that are first come first served. Refurbished a few years ago. This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full," explains one regular visitor who adds, "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to."
Natural sound buffers: The rushing water creates natural white noise at many sites. "From the site we were in (K6) we could see no other campsites and could barely hear anyone else. Loved the cozy feel of our site," reports a Keenig Creek camper. Another mentions, "But at night when the traffic dies down you can hear the river."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Healing ponds farm retreat, "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all." The wooded settings around most tent sites shelter various birds and small mammals.
What you should know
First-come basis: Most tent-specific sites cannot be reserved. "This is an easy enough drive from Portland, about an hour or so. Secondly, you can't reserve sites which is perfect for those of us who never reserve sites and just show up hoping to find something," explains a Keenig Creek visitor. Arrive early on summer weekends, especially between June-August.
Limited facilities: Prepare for basic amenities at most sites. "Vault toilets aren't great, but they are useable. The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water," notes a Three Bears Recreation Site camper. Another visitor warns, "No potable water- luckily my family and I brought enough water!! We planned to do some hiking, so we definitely brought enough water to last us the weekend."
Seasonal considerations: Willamette Mission State Park experiences seasonal closures. "This 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. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water," warns a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Stream access: Three Bears Recreation Site offers safe water play areas for children. "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" recommends a parent who visited with children.
Educational opportunities: Consider visiting the nearby interpretive center. "A 7-minute drive from the awesome Tillamook Forest Center, which has really cool exhibits on the area," notes an Elk Creek camper. This provides a good backup activity during inclement weather or as a break from outdoor activities.
Site selection: Choose carefully for the best family experience. "Don't choose a campsite close to the highway...you will hear every car/truck that goes by! My advice would be to get as close as you can to the river. You can't hear anything," suggests a Keenig Creek visitor with practical noise management advice.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most of the best tent camping near Wilsonville, Oregon offers few amenities for RVs. "We were planning to bring our smaller RV, but found out they didn't have electrical hookups. We just brought tents, instead," explains a visitor to Keenig Creek. Consider alternatives like Government Island State Recreation Area for those requiring hookups.
Size restrictions: Most forest service roads accommodate smaller vehicles only. "No full hook up so bring your own water and power," advises an Elk Creek camper. Check road conditions before attempting access with larger rigs, especially during spring when muddy conditions prevail.
Pack-in requirements: Many sites require carrying gear from parking areas. "The 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," notes an Elk Creek visitor.
