Camping opportunities near Camas, Washington range from developed state parks to dispersed forest sites. Situated where the Columbia River Gorge transitions to the Cascade foothills, this region averages 51 inches of annual rainfall with most campsites at elevations between 200-800 feet. The camping season typically runs from April through October, though several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Water recreation: Spend time at the Sandy River swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. At Sandy Riverfront RV Resort, visitors appreciate the riverside location: "The absolutely best part about this park is that it's across the street from Sugarpine Drive-in... It's also right on the Sandy River where you can enjoy the beautiful views and swim (very carefully...bring life-vests to be safe)."
Hiking: Explore the forested trails throughout the region, especially those connecting directly to campgrounds. Ainsworth State Park Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring Columbia Gorge hiking trails. As one visitor notes, "Ainsworth State Park is a gorgeous state park in the heart of the Gorge with great hikes and views of the Columbia river, all not far from Portland."
Disc golf: Play a round at Milo McIver State Park, which offers championship-level courses. "Milo McIver may be best known for it's twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress. Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate secluded spots at Oxbow Regional Park. "Oxbow feels like it is in the middle of nowhere but it's easy to get to and practically within the city limits of Portland. Accessibility and quiet is why I chose it for a weekday beginning of the season camping adventure."
Natural swimming holes: The refreshing waters at Dougan Creek Campground attract summer visitors. "Incredible location with well spaced out sites right on the river. Plenty of watering hole options and beautiful falls... The water was quite cold when we went in early June, but was worth the cold plunge."
Proximity to Portland: Campers value locations that feel remote while remaining accessible. "This makes a nice weekend or day trip from Portland. They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size."
What you should know
Reservation timing: The most popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer. At Milo McIver State Park Campground, one camper advised: "You can book sites online up to 24 hours in advance, or you can show up to camp one night at one of the few non-reservable first come sites."
Highway noise considerations: Some campsites experience road noise that can be bothersome. "Road noise can be loud here. Try to get a site as close to the river as you can so you can avoid the highway noise at night."
Seasonal limitations: Facilities and amenities vary throughout the year. "Down a steep hill (important if you're biking). Nothing that incredible, but nice enough for one night or a weekend away."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Family-friendly facilities enhance the experience at Barton County Park Campground. "The kids enjoyed the playground and biking around the loop. The river access down at the day use was lovely. All the park staff were friendly."
Swimming safety precautions: Many water areas require careful supervision. "The river is refreshing on warm days to swim in. We like this because it's an easy day trip from Portland."
Site selection for convenience: Choose family sites strategically. "Next time we learned and got a site closer to the real bathrooms. Sites are pretty private though you will hear your neighbors!"
Tips for RVers
Full-hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete RV services near Camas. At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, "Rolled in January 1st. Self pay. About 5 sites with power and water. We got a nice level one. There are only 5 other sites in the whole campground occupied. Short walk to the lake to fish."
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds limit larger RVs. "Nice place, close enough to Portland to work for us. We don't have a tow car so we relied on public transportation to get to downtown, which was great (though it is a 1 mile walk to the bus stop)."
Utilities and amenities: Check for specific RV services before arriving. "Clean and generally friendly, the Jantzen Beach RV Park is right inside of Portland (at the northern end, close to Vancouver, Washington). It's more in an industrial/commercial area, with things like a Target Store across the street."
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