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Sand Island Marine Park Campground

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Sand Island Marine Park Campground, near St. Helens, Oregon, is a unique spot that offers a blend of natural beauty and a bit of adventure. Accessible by boat or kayak, this campground provides a chance to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying stunning views of the Columbia River.

The campground features primitive sites, which means you’ll be roughing it a bit—no picnic tables or electric hookups here. However, visitors have noted the friendly staff and the lovely beach access at some sites, making it a great place to unwind and soak up the sun. As one camper mentioned, “Beautiful view, hosts very nice people,” which speaks to the welcoming atmosphere you can expect.

For those who enjoy exploring, the island is perfect for walking around and taking in the scenery. While some campers have pointed out that loading and unloading gear can be a bit of a trek, the secluded feel of the island makes it worth the effort. Just remember to pack light!

If you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten path and offers a chance to connect with nature, Sand Island Marine Park Campground might just be the right fit for you.

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Location

Sand Island Marine Park Campground is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

35 minutes out of downtown Portland. West on hwy 30, to the first stop light in St Helens, which is Gable road. (Walmart on your right!). Turn right on Gable and go 2 and a half miles all the way down to the river. Go thru the stop sign, and take a left on River St, and the marina and launching ramp are at the end of river st.. Go to the launching ramp to unload your gear, and then we will help you park your car, and get your gear to the island, and then to your campsite. St Helens Marina is 134 N River St.

Coordinates

45.86776719 N
122.79217236 W

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Drive Time

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Connectivity

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    Excellent Coverage

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups

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Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

34%
17%
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34%
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3.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 27, 2023

Has potential

This place definitely has potential to be a great little getaway, that’s close to the metro area. It’s just not up to par yet in our opinion.

Pros: Friendly staff, great views, easy water access from most campsites, a handful of secluded campsites.

Cons: Loading and unloading gear (pack light, condense as much as possible) wait time… we waited over an hour on the dock in 90 degree heat to get to the island. The biggest con by far was the lack of cleanliness. We understand toilets are always an issue camping, but these were so bad we couldn’t even use them. We had to walk to the other side of the island to use the only toilets that were somewhat usable. Our campsite upon arrival had leftover empty liquor bottles, used toilet paper strung about in the bushes (clearly other people didn’t wanna use the bathrooms either) overall, they just need to step up the care of the campsites, and facilities.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sand Island Marine Park Campground by Erik M., August 27, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Island Marine Park Campground by Erik M., August 27, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Island Marine Park Campground by Erik M., August 27, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 28, 2021

Marine park?

Used to love taking the boat here, lately they’re catering more to land campers and treating boaters like second class citizens! The ones who buy a lot of fuel at their fuel dock! Very frustrating!

Sitedocks
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 22, 2021

Nice hosts, good veiw

Beautiful view, hosts very nice people. They will help take your things to your site. Island is lovely to walk around, our site had beach access. Site to reserve has pictures. Will definitely return!

Site5
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 28, 2020

Long Haul

Can be a long haul from the boat to the camp site. Lots of dock space. Sites are back from the water. Could use a map of the island and sites.

  • Review photo of Sand Island Marine Park Campground by Ryan W., June 28, 2020
  • Review photo of Sand Island Marine Park Campground by Ryan W., June 28, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Sand Island Campground in St. Helens, Oregon?

Sand Island Campground is only accessible by water transportation. You can reach the island via boat, kayak, or other watercraft from St. Helens, Oregon. The island has ample dock space for mooring your vessel. Once docked, be prepared to transport your camping gear from the boat to your campsite, which can be a considerable distance. The campground is part of the Columbia River water kayak trail, making it a popular stop for paddlers.

What do reviews say about Sand Island Campground in St. Helens?

Sand Island Campground offers beautiful river views and a peaceful island environment close to the Portland metro area. The staff is consistently described as friendly and helpful, particularly with assisting campers in transporting gear to sites. Some campsites offer beach access and seclusion, while others are set back from the water. The island provides pleasant walking opportunities and excellent water access from most sites. However, visitors note the campground has room for improvement and suggest packing light due to the potentially long haul from the dock to campsites. Boaters have expressed concerns about changing accommodation priorities compared to land-based campers.

What amenities are available at Sand Island Marine Park campground?

Sand Island Marine Park Campground offers primitive camping with limited amenities. The sites are basic without picnic tables. The island features dock space for boats, beach access from some campsites, and walking trails around the island. The campground has friendly staff who can assist with transporting gear to campsites. While the facilities are minimal, the beautiful Columbia River views compensate for the rustic experience. Pack light as gear transportation can be challenging from the dock to your campsite.

Is there a shuttle service to Sand Island Campground?

There is staff assistance available to help transport your belongings from the dock to your campsite, though not a formal shuttle service. The helpful hosts will assist with gear transportation, which is valuable since the distance from the boat landing to some campsites can be significant. For transportation to the island itself, you'll need to arrange your own boat or kayak as there is no regular ferry service. Plan accordingly and pack efficiently to minimize the carrying distance.