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Best Campgrounds near St. Helens, OR

1,313 Reviews

The camping areas around Saint Helens, Oregon range from state parks to riverside spots. Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground gives you hiking trails and lake access in a quiet setting. Campers looking for more developed facilities can head to Stub Stewart State Park Campground, which has both tent and RV sites with showers and restrooms. If you want to spend time on the water, Paradise Point State Park Campground sits right by the Lewis River. Keep an eye on the fire rules when you visit, as restrictions change seasonally, and many places have limits on how long you can stay. Most campers book ahead, which becomes really important in summer when sites fill quickly. Animals are common throughout the area, so hanging food or using secure containers will save you headaches. Spring and fall tend to be the nicest times to camp near Saint Helens - temperatures are comfortable and you'll deal with smaller crowds. Summer is beautiful but busy, so plan accordingly if that's when you're going. The Saint Helens area has enough different camping spots to work for most outdoor trips.

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Best Camping Sites Near St. Helens, Oregon (234)

    1. Paradise Point State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    La Center, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 226-7688

    "Relaxing Getaway at Champoeg State Heritage Area Champoeg State Heritage Area near Newberg, Oregon, is a great spot for campers seeking peace and nature."

    "Close to freeway for easy access. Nice walking paths. Typical state park yurt set up."

    2. Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Heisson, WA
    16 miles
    Website

    "Battleground is a nice and well loved state park not far from Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington."

    "My friend and I had a great three day weekend here at one of the walk-in sites. Sites fill up quick and I recommend reserving online in advance. Important takeaways:

    1."

    3. Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store

    16 Reviews
    Scappoose, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 621-3970

    "Flat gravel for most part, steps away from the Columbia River, decent space between sites with good shade depending on your site. Only reason for 4 starts is because the water is dirty."

    "Quiet area on the Oregon side of the river, rustic with a little country charm. Nice folks. Great area for birding (osprey nests)."

    4. Bayport RV Park and Campground

    10 Reviews
    St. Helens, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 397-2888

    $30 / night

    "Location is close to town but still feels like you are in your own little world. Beautiful walking paths line the water. A must visit for sure!"

    "Next to a moderately busy road, but paved spots, WiFi, lovely walking trails and bathroom and showers are clean and maintained! Must have a tent pitched, if traveling and staying with your vehicle."

    5. Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park

    38 Reviews
    Buxton, OR
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 324-0606

    $27 - $41 / night

    "As we had been here before, it was an easy drive in on US-26 to the campground (CG)."

    "Top reasons I love this campground:

    • So easy to get to from anywhere in northwestern Oregon; especially the Portland area 
    • Open year-round 
    • 18-hole disc golf course 
    • Great hiking and"

    6. Jantzen Beach RV Park

    32 Reviews
    Vancouver, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 289-7626

    $40 / night

    "Arrived here late for a single night stay on the way to the Oregon Coast. This is a very convenient stopover for those needing a place to stay near Portland."

    "The park's location is very convenient, with easy access to downtown Portland and nearby attractions."

    7. Sand Island Marine Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    St. Helens, OR
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (503) 310-0235

    $30 / night

    "Island is lovely to walk around, our site had beach access. Site to reserve has pictures. Will definitely return!"

    "This is on the columbia river water kayak trail."

    8. Camp Wilkerson

    9 Reviews
    Vernonia, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 366-3984

    $50 / night

    "Stayed the night in one of thier small cabins, very nice sat outside by the fire and just watched the stars, this is a primary horse camp and is surrounded by trails, seen a heard of elk on one of my hikes"

    "Since the camp is planned predominantly as a youth recreation center, I was a bit worried that it would be a pretty loud campsite due to lots of kids running around. That was not the case for us!"

    9. Columbia River RV Park

    22 Reviews
    Vancouver, OR
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 285-1515

    $30 - $150 / night

    "The location couldn’t be more convenient, right near Portland and just steps away from the beautiful Columbia River."

    "One star off for density, you’re right next to each other, and for the very bright street lighting in there. We thought it overkill, but perhaps they have their reasons. Super nice facilities."

    10. Scappoose Bay Marine Park

    5 Reviews
    Warren, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 397-2888

    "Plenty of parking, great ramp, and has a walking trail!"

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Recent Camping Photos near St. Helens, OR

431 Photos of 234 St. Helens Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near St. Helens, OR

1313 Reviews of 234 St. Helens Campgrounds

  • Frank B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Ike Kinswa

    Quiet

    One of the nicest State campgrounds. Very clean and quiet.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Milo McIver State Park Campground

    Great location not far from pdx!

    I decided at last minute to get out of dodge! But didn’t want to go far. This campground was perfect. Super clean and close but giving you the feeling of being out deep in the woods. The only bummer is in my app. It said camp fires allowed. And they ARE NOT allowed at this time. The park rangers are super nice and friendly and definitely efficient. You feel safe at this location. Will be back!!!

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Panther Creek Creekside Camp

    Loved It

    Not too far from the nearest town but you will feel totally immersed out here. My carrier is Verizon, I didn’t have any service whatsoever. Ice cold creek, towering trees. Seemed to be lots of sites off the road to pick from. A bit of trash but nothing crazy. Fantastic place to stop even just for one night. Would definitely visit again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Elk Creek Campground

    Beautiful, remote, minimal

    This campground has minimal facilities (pit toilets, no trash, etc). No cell service either (AT&T). Still, it's a quiet, gorgeous area next to a creek. Bring 15$ cash and be prepared for a wonderful time. I actually visited twice.

  • Willeth
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Columbia River RV Park

    Columbia River RV Park

    A great place to stop with a motorhome or tent, located on the banks of the Columbia River near Portland. The park is known for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and good amenities: paved parking, electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry facilities. There are also areas for pets and a place for dogs to run off-leash. Despite the close parking, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. An excellent choice for an overnight stay after exploring Portland!

  • marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Oxbow Regional Park

    Amazing Secret

    Nice regional campground. Has tent and RV spots. No hookups though. Mostly shady sites with just a handful having full sun.

    Restrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers. No coins needed.

    Great access to the river to keep cool in summer. Nice sandy beaches. Park also has a lot of sheltered picnic areas and playground.

    Multi-use trail great for short runs and apparently horses.

    No wifi and we had no phone reception. There are emergency phones installed throughout the park.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Sunset Falls Campground

    Sunset falls getaway

    I booked the campground. There were pictures but not of the camp spot I chose. I did because it indicated I would be by the river. Note. I was but not accessible from my spot. I was disappointed about that. I chose #13 for that reason. However I arrived and was also surprised I was not able to park by my spot. There is a little trek. Thank god I brought my cart as I had all my camp gear.
    12 and 13 are closer to parking than 14, 15 and 16. They are a little more remote.
    The drive in camping spots resembles more of a day use area. No real privacy. Then the road going through the campground was noisy with motorists and motorcycles at all hours running through.
    At this time. There isnt any camp fires allowed.
    No cell service.
    It’s beautiful with the falls and canopy of trees and decently close to town.
    But overall. For a weekend getaway it’s great. But very limited. Also no water so bring your water.

  • Melissa S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight

    Nice Spot 1st pull off

    Nice spot. Enough room for a few vehicles. Traffic during the day. Open spot for starlink. Good cell service also.

  • Susan O.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Mt. St. Helens RV Park

    Very Poor Quality - False Advertising

    This place is totally disgusting and in need of repairs. False advertising, many amenities are listed on their website and are not offered, nor are in working order. Only one bathhouse, that is very dark and dirty. Rotten old stairway that leads to dog park, very unsafe. Wooden structure in children's play area is leaning and rotted. Broken metal toys. Dried grass and tall weeds everywhere, berry bushes. No maintenance. No wifi, no cable tv, no level RV spot. No public access to game room/club house area. Which looked more like their private storage area with tires. No community kitchen. Everything in total disarray and in need of repair.

Guide to St. Helens

Camping near St. Helens, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Mount Saint Helens: This area is perfect for hiking and learning about the volcanic history. Many campers appreciate the proximity to the Seaquest State Park Campground, which is a great launch point for exploring the mountain. One visitor said, "It is a great place to launch your Mount Saint Helens exploration."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A reviewer mentioned, "Fishing, hiking, sup or kayaking if you’re interested in it. The lake is small but awesome."
  • Hiking Trails: The L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground has numerous trails for hiking and biking. One camper noted, "Lots of hiking and mountain biking trails within the park."

What campers like:

  • Privacy and Space: Campers at Seaquest State Park Campground enjoy the more private sites. A reviewer said, "If you don’t need hookups, I would recommend the loop that has 32 - 54. These were much more private."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the clean bathrooms and showers at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground. One visitor remarked, "Bathrooms were the cleanest I’ve seen at a campground."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views and natural surroundings. A review for Sunset Falls Campground highlighted, "Great small campground with easy access to falls."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Paradise Point State Park Campground, are close to busy roads. A camper mentioned, "That noise. It's not the river. It's I-5 which is right in your back yard."
  • Site Size Limitations: If you're bringing an RV, check the site sizes. A visitor at Paradise Point State Park Campground warned, "We arrived and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get our rig in that site due to the trees."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store, may lack nearby stores or restaurants. A reviewer noted, "There is also nothing around here store or restaurant wise."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family programs. Seaquest State Park Campground offers a junior ranger program that kids enjoy. One parent shared, "Kids enjoyed the junior ranger program."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A camper at Beaver Bay Campground mentioned, "Our spot was huge! Didn't have enough stuff or people to fill it up."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Make sure to check the quiet hours to ensure a good night's sleep for everyone. A visitor at Oxbow Regional Park appreciated the "quiet hours to enjoy the peace and quiet of outside."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Ensure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground noted, "We got a nice level one."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds may have narrow roads or tight turns. A visitor at Jantzen Beach RV Park warned, "You must get on the freeway to go anywhere and that is a pain with traffic."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack nearby stores, pack extra food and supplies. A camper at Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store mentioned, "There is also nothing around here store or restaurant wise."

Camping near St. Helens, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp inside Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument?

Yes, limited camping is available within Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Base Camp Mt St Helen's offers beautiful campsites close to the Science Learning Center within the monument boundaries. For those looking to stay just outside the monument, Cougar RV Park and Campground provides an excellent base for hiking adventures on the mountain. The monument does have restrictions on where camping is permitted, with much of the area designated for day use only. Backcountry camping requires permits in designated areas. Always check current regulations with the monument before planning your trip, as rules may change seasonally and some areas remain closed for ecological recovery.

Where are the best camping spots near Mt. St. Helens?

The Mt. St. Helens area offers several excellent camping options. Kid Valley Campground provides a serene forest setting that serves as an ideal base for hiking, biking, and exploring the volcanic landscape. For tent campers seeking privacy, Merrill Lake Campground offers free, secluded sites with lake access, though you'll need to pack in all supplies and hike a short distance from the parking area. Other notable options include Cougar Park & Campground for tent-only camping near Yale Reservoir, and Seaquest State Park for family-friendly sites with playground access. Each location provides unique advantages, with proximity to Mt. St. Helens visitor centers and trails being a common benefit.

Do I need to make reservations for camping near St. Helens, Oregon?

Reservations are highly recommended for camping near St. Helens, Oregon, especially during the peak season (late spring through early fall). Popular campgrounds like Paradise Point State Park Campground and Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Most state parks and private campgrounds in the area offer reservation systems, typically opening 6-9 months in advance. Some campgrounds maintain first-come, first-served sites, but these are limited and fill early in the day during busy periods. For more spontaneous trips, consider weekday visits or the shoulder seasons when competition for sites is less intense. Always check the specific reservation policies for your chosen campground, as they vary by location.

What amenities are available at St. Helens campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Mt. St. Helens offer a range of amenities depending on the type of facility. Seaquest State Park Campground provides clean restrooms with showers, playground access, and well-maintained trails, plus easy access to the visitor center. For those seeking more amenities, Silver Lake Resort offers lakefront views of Mt. St. Helens with a variety of accommodation options including RV sites, tent spaces, cabins, and motel rooms. Many RV parks in the area, such as Toutle River RV Resort, feature full hookups, bathrooms, and pools. Primitive campgrounds like Merrill Lake have basic pit toilets only. Cell service varies significantly by location, with many forested areas having limited to no coverage, so plan accordingly.

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