Best Campgrounds near Vancouver, WA

There are tons of spots here. Some are tucked back in the trees and are more "prime" spots, otherwise there's a huge middle area that tons of cars can squeeze into as long as you don't mind neighbors. The proximity to Trillium lake is of course lovely, but I'm only giving it 3-stars because of a few things... First, there is road noise from the highway. Second, most spots offer minimal privacy. Third, people really disrespect the area. We tried to camp in a spot and someone had literally left their human feces smack-dab in the middle of the campsite... In the site we ended up in, our dog found a bag of human feces buried only 1-inch below the surface of the dirt. She easily dug it up and made a disgusting mess. I never understand how people can disrespect nature like this. It's a good area as a "last resort" in my opinion.

We have spent the past week driving from campsite to campsite each night trying to find something free, available, safe, and beautiful. Today was our last night before flying home and weren’t loving the options (or reviews) of the other sights around Portland. We stumbled upon this AMAZING site and decided to splurge and give it a chance. It was worth every penny.

There are (3!) TOILETS that flush (omg)

SHOWERS (desperately needed) with hot and cold water.

Waste disposal

Privacy from other campers between the orchards

Shade from the trees

Private picnic tables with fire pit (+ grill to put over it and fire extinguisher)

Potable water

The NICEST owner

This is the safest I’ve felt any night of our trip. This was the perfect way to spend the last night of our road trip. Just being able to grill the steaks my boyfriend had dreamt of all week amongst beautiful surroundings (not in a Walmart parking lot of with fear of attracting hungry bears) made it worth it.

Treat yourself and book this place!!!

We did have trouble booking through The Dyrt which was a bummer. You can find them on HIPCAMP or Airbnb instead. I believe there are 15 sites for different size vehicles. They are very accommodating to you vehicle size and needs if you contact the owner. We stayed a Friday night and there were still available sites. There were vans, cars, pull-around, RVs, and tents spending the night.

I got 1 bar of AT&T 5G. It was easy to find. Booking before arrival is necessary (we just booked on Airbnb 2 hours before) .

Pets are allowed, but keep on a leash away from their animals. They have a dog, some horses, goats, and maybe other animals.

We weren’t disturbed by other campers or the road.

Shane (the owner) is very clear and through with information when you book which was great. He was super helpful when I called (I was having trouble booking through DYRT)

It is possible to get picked up for a wine tour at the farm:)

There are two clearings for playing games/throwing frisbees etc. There is a little shed with extra amenities that campers can borrow:) it is also occasionally possible to buy firewood.

Campers arriving at Milo McIver State Park are greeted by expansive riverfront sites along the Clackamas River, each offering level ground suitable for both tents and larger RVs. The mist rising off the water in the early morning creates a serene atmosphere, while a convenient boat ramp allows paddlers to launch kayaks and canoes directly from their campsite. Mature fir and alder trees provide ample shade, and every site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring for evening cook-outs. The park’s well-maintained facilities include potable water stations and a modern bathhouse with hot showers, ensuring comfort even on extended stays. Outdoor enthusiasts will find an on-site disc golf course and miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. After a day of adventure, guests often unwind by the riverbank, watching local wildlife—herons and kingfishers are frequent visitors—and spotting rafters drifting downstream. To streamline travel plans, many visitors pre-book an airport transfers service, allowing them to arrive at Portland International Airport and head straight to the campground without the hassle of car rentals. Those planning multi-destination itineraries across the Pacific Northwest appreciate the provider’s reliable city-to-city rides, which offer door-to-door transport in comfort and style. All in all, Milo McIver State Park combines picturesque riverfront camping with a wealth of recreational options and modern conveniences, making it an ideal destination for families, solo adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Campers seeking both relaxation and activity will find it hard to beat this versatile Oregon treasure.

On a Friday, I was still able to snag a site early afternoon. I planned on a hike but really ended up taking a leisurely stroll a short ways to Emerald Falls. The area is regrowing after a 2024 wildfire. It's already lush and green but the trails running from the camp still haven't been cleared fully, and you hike at your own risk.

The campsite loop is about 15ish sites with a hiker/biker section as the camp is right on the off-road trail system running the Gorge. Everything is green and tall and possibly poisonous. I really have a hard time recognizing poison oak, so I always wear pants in a place like this.

The Gorge is famous for its wind, but here I was protected from gusts by the natural landscape. The sites all push up against the Cascades that hook around the camp. Winds still moved the trees around up high but on the ground it was minimal. I didn't have a campfire, but I could see where it would be deceiving if a spark caught an updraft and took off, so please be careful. 

The host was non-existent for the entire stay. There was a tent in the host site, but no people or vehicles. However, the camp was fairly well maintained. The bathrooms are dated but with flush toilets and running water. Reasonable rate at $20 makes this a great stop if you're passing through or exploring the waterfalls along the river highway. Plus, easy access to Hood River or Bridge of the Gods to Washington.

No campfire wood for sale.