Tent camping near Ridgefield, Washington often experiences mild temperatures between May and September, with average highs of 75-85°F during summer months and increased precipitation from October through April. The region's relatively low elevation (around 30-300 feet above sea level) creates accessible camping conditions throughout most of the year, though many dispersed sites lack facilities during winter months when snow can make forest roads challenging.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: Access unique camping experiences at Sand Island Marine Park Campground, which requires boat transportation. "Accessible by boat or kayak. Sites are primitive, no tables. This is on the columbia river water kayak trail," notes Daniel L., highlighting the island's connection to designated water routes.
Fishing excursions: The lakes near Cougar provide excellent opportunities for anglers. Merrill Lake allows only fly fishing with restrictions on motorized boats. "Fly fish only. Only a couple miles from a good horse camp too," explains Shannon B., making it ideal for those seeking quieter fishing spots.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer excellent wildlife spotting. At Four Directions Retreat, "you can even hang out with the goats on the property," mentions Ashley F., while Healing Ponds Farm features a scenic pond area. "We enjoyed having our coffee by the pond, watching the ducks, and the resident turtle!" shares Monika G.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many tent campers appreciate the proximity to lakes and rivers. At Government Island State Recreation Area, "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated," reports Fatima H. The boat-only access creates a more secluded experience despite being near Portland.
Secluded sites: Canyon Creek in Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers privacy even during busy seasons. "We had no neighbors in the nearby sites... 'Spaces' were far enough apart that you couldn't even tell anyone else was out there," Jeffrey P. explains, noting the river sounds create natural white noise for sleeping.
Old growth forests: The camping areas near Mount St. Helens feature impressive forest settings. Merrill Lake Campground sits "on the lake shore amidst a grove of Old Growth Cedar," according to Dan M., who also mentions the "Short and beautiful nature trail through the Cedars."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many desirable sites require special transportation or hiking. "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," cautions Ryan W. about Sand Island Marine Park.
Permit requirements: Most developed campgrounds require passes or permits. Merrill Lake needs a Discover Pass, and as Brooke S. notes, "There are 8 walk in sites and one drive up site, all first come first serve discovery pass required."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Cougar Park & Campground, "Facilities: fire pit, wooden picnic tables, dish washing water, garbage, hot showers, toilets, potable water," lists Danielle S., while dispersed sites typically have no facilities.
Road conditions: Forest service roads can be challenging. A Canyon Creek visitor warns, "Road got a little bumpy getting out here but once we found a spot right near the riverbank, you felt like you were deep in it."
Tips for camping with families
Walk-in site preparation: For families camping at walk-in sites like Brooke Creek Walk-In Campground, come prepared for the hike. "It is a 1/4 mile walk to the sites starting from the visitors center. We got there late at night and didn't notice the carts available for hauling all your stuff," shares Melissa N.
Kid-friendly animals: Several campgrounds feature animal interactions. At Healing Ponds Farm, Meg R. describes, "We enjoyed seeing the baby bunnies, cows, goats, chickens, and turkeys! My partner, myself, and teen had so much fun visiting them all."
Swimming options: Many sites offer water access for children. Yale Lake at Cougar Campground provides recreation opportunities, with one visitor noting, "The campground is right on a lake, which means I went for a swim at dusk - it was spectacular."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: While tent camping is widely available near Ridgefield, RV options are more limited. At Woodland Shores RV Park, "The rv park is next to the river. It's small but the spots are spread out more than a lot of other rv campgrounds," explains Madeline W.
Tent-only designation: Some campgrounds strictly enforce tent-only policies. Keith H. warns about Cougar Campground: "Be forewarned that this is a tent only campground. We showed up with our VW Eurovan (smaller than half the pickup trucks parked there) and were immediately lectured on not having a tent."
Alternative RV options: For those wanting to camp near Ridgefield with an RV, consider campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV campers. "There is 1 restroom and no desinated camp sites. But we love it!" notes Fatima H. about Government Island State Recreation Area, which accepts various camping styles.
