Tent campsites near Yamhill, Oregon sit between 200-800 feet of elevation with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during peak season. The region's mild climate allows for year-round camping opportunities in many locations, though facilities may be limited during winter months. Most dispersed camping in the Tillamook State Forest requires vehicles to stay within 100 feet of designated forest roads.
What to do
Swimming at Wilson River: The Wilson River provides multiple swimming spots with varying depths for different skill levels. At Keenig Creek Campground, one visitor noted, "The water was very cold, but refreshing on a hot day... I did enjoy seeing the newts, crawdads, fish, and tadpoles though!"
Hiking the Wilson River Trail: This 6-mile trail (12 miles roundtrip) connects several campgrounds and offers moderate terrain suitable for most skill levels. A camper mentioned, "We did most of it and it's nice and moderate," making it accessible for day hikers or overnight campers.
Fishing opportunities: Streams throughout Tillamook State Forest offer fishing for native trout species. At North Fork Trask, campers can access the river directly from their sites, with "plenty of pull offs along the river" as one reviewer mentioned.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot elk, deer, and various bird species. At Trask River County Park, "If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas," according to one camper's experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation provides separation between tent sites at many campgrounds. At Elk Creek Campground, a visitor appreciated that "each campsite is well screened by trees, has its own parking, a fire pit with a grill for cooking, and a special platform for a tent."
Water access: Many campsites provide direct access to creeks or rivers. One camper at Jones Creek shared, "The river is awesome on a hot day," highlighting the natural water features that draw summer visitors.
Affordability: Most campsites in the region cost $10-15 per night. A reviewer at Keenig Creek Campground noted, "This is a great site if you like 'rustic' since the sites are walk in-only. Adorable sites with picnic tables, fire rings and just enough privacy... for just $10."
Quieter weekday camping: Weekday visits offer significantly less crowded conditions. One camper at Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping observed that while "OHV vehicles are incredibly loud and ran throughout the weekend," they had "a feeling it's very quiet on the week days."
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Most tent campsites near Yamhill operate on a first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly on summer weekends. A visitor to Keenig Creek warned, "We had hoped to stay at Keenig but arrived on a Friday early afternoon to find all the sites full."
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds offer vault toilets but no showers. As one camper at Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping noted, there are "no real amenities or ATT/Verizon service," so come prepared with necessities.
Access road conditions: Forest roads leading to dispersed camping areas may require careful navigation. A camper advised, "Be careful with Apple Maps, I think they routed us to the historical campground and had us going about 10 miles past the site."
Limited cell service: Most camping locations have minimal or no cellular coverage. One reviewer mentioned, "No wifi (at least with AT&T)," while another noted, "Verizon cell service is nonexistent in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Look for gradual water entry points at campgrounds with river access. A visitor to Healing Ponds Farm Retreat mentioned that children enjoyed "seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all."
Playgrounds and open spaces: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Trask River County Park, a camper noted there are "nice swing sets and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around."
Safety near roads: Several campgrounds are divided by access roads where vehicles may travel at high speeds. A visitor to Trask River County Park warned, "There is a main road in between the campgrounds since sites go from A-C. People fly up and down that road at 50+ MPH so watch your kids and pets."
Wildlife education opportunities: Morning wildlife viewing provides natural learning experiences. One camper at Keenig Creek enjoyed "seeing the newts, crawdads, fish, and tadpoles," which can entertain and educate children during water exploration.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most tent campgrounds near Yamhill have no RV hookups or accommodate only small trailers. A camper at Elk Creek Campground advised, "No full hook up so bring your own water and power."
Alternative to tent sites: Some RVers find success at Jordan Creek OHV Campground. A reviewer noted it's "much less populated than those you find along the Wilson River Highway," making it easier to find space during peak season.
Site access considerations: Many forest roads have tight turns and limited clearance. At North Fork Trask, a visitor observed the road is "in great condition and is passable with a 2WD without any issue," but cautioned about potential logging truck traffic.
