Top Glamping near Vancouver, WA
Camping near Vancouver, Washington
Camping near Vancouver, Washington offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to bustling RV parks close to urban amenities. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway in nature or a convenient spot to explore the city, the campgrounds around Vancouver have something for everyone. With beautiful landscapes, friendly staff, and plenty of activities, it's no wonder that campers keep coming back to this area.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Vancouver, Washington, and provide helpful tips and insights from fellow campers. From what to do and what campers like, to what you should know before you go, we've got you covered. Let's dive into the best camping spots and what makes them special.
What to do
Camping near Vancouver offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water, there's something for everyone.
At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing, hiking, and kayaking. One camper mentioned, "Fishing, hiking, sup or kayaking if you’re interested in it. The lake is small but awesome. Bald eagles flying overhead." - Eric P.
For those who love waterfalls, Sunset Falls Campground is a great choice. "Great views of falls from just a short hike away. The tent sites looked nice as well. Sound of the east fork of the Lewis River from all parts of the campground." - Eric P.
If you're looking for a campground with easy access to the city, Oxbow Regional Park is just 30 minutes away from Portland. "It gets you out of the hustle of city living, even if just for the night." - Sheryl H.
What campers like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities at the campgrounds near Vancouver. Here are some highlights from their experiences.
At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, one camper shared, "The campground host who greeted us upon arrival was friendly too. We came to this campground with friends on the first summer-weather like weekend. The lake was nice and just a little walk from the campsite." - Taryn L.
Campers also love the peaceful atmosphere at Oxbow Regional Park. "Very peaceful. Lots of wildlife. I watched a woodpecker breaking open a log for over an hour. It was such a peaceful getaway." - Sheryl H.
The friendly staff and clean facilities at Sun Outdoors Portland South are also a hit. "Level pads, fantastic landscaping, very nice staff. Indoor pool, hot tub. Must say one of the best parks I’ve stayed in." - Harry S.
What you should know
Before you head out, there are a few things you should know about camping near Vancouver, Washington. Some campgrounds have specific rules or conditions that might affect your stay.
At Paradise Point State Park Campground, be prepared for some noise from the nearby I-5. "That noise. It's not the river. It's I-5 which is right in your back yard. And it goes on all night long." - John P.
If you're staying at Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store, be aware of the water quality. "Due to increasing health issues, my husband and I discovered arsenic levels so high that Steve Wabashall at Oregon's Drinking Water Services has, since 2019, issued a 'Do Not Drink the Water' alert." - Kathi G.
For those camping at Barton County Park Campground, note that the grass and bushes might not be well-maintained. "The grass hasn’t been mowed, bushes not trimmed and it just looks like crap. I understand with Covid things have changed, but this is a serious fire hazard." - KimAnn E.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right campground. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip near Vancouver enjoyable.
Choose a campground with family-friendly amenities like Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground. "Stayed here for one night on spring break with my grandsons. Fishing, hiking, sup or kayaking if you’re interested in it. The lake is small but awesome." - Eric P.
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and open spaces for kids to play, like Oxbow Regional Park. "They have ADA sites, a lake, playgrounds and a welcome center. Awesome location just 30 minutes away from Portland." - Jade A.
Consider the proximity to urban amenities for convenience, such as Clackamette RV Park. "Just a gravel parking lot with hookups. But conveniently located right off of 205 and close to a lot of amenities in the suburbs of Portland." - Mary F.
Tips from RVers
RVers have unique needs and preferences when it comes to choosing a campground. Here are some tips from experienced RVers to help you find the best spots near Vancouver.
Look for campgrounds with spacious sites and good hookups, like Sun Outdoors Portland South. "Level pads, fantastic landscaping, very nice staff. Indoor pool, hot tub. Must say one of the best parks I’ve stayed in." - Harry S.
Consider the proximity to urban areas for easy access to supplies and services, such as Columbia River RV Park. "We wanted to find a place that was out of the city and a bit isolated but still a very close drive. A bonus was the proximity to the Columbia river and the nice view." - Erin M.
Be aware of potential security issues and choose campgrounds with good safety measures, like Jantzen Beach RV Park. "Office hours 9-5 means if you arrive after 5pm you will not receive your access card until 9am. No bathroom, shower, pool. 'There is no secure way to leave it for you' seems like an easy fix." - Judy K.
Camping near Vancouver, Washington offers a variety of experiences for all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or a convenient spot close to the city, there's a campground that will suit your needs. With these tips and insights from fellow campers, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable camping trip.
