St. Helens, Oregon camping destinations sit just over an hour from Portland at an elevation of approximately 60 feet above sea level. The Columbia River and nearby Scappoose Bay create a camping environment primarily focused on water recreation opportunities, with multiple boat launches providing direct water access. Several campgrounds offer year-round availability though seasonal water shutoffs occur during winter months.
What to Do
Hiking trail access: At L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, numerous paths accommodate hikers, bikers, and equestrians. "Lots of hiking including a nice trail between the campground and the day use area," notes one visitor. The park features both forest trails and a paved rail-to-trail path.
Disc golf: Paradise Point State Park provides a unique 9-hole course for disc golf enthusiasts. "The disc golf course is entertaining, but not super challenging. Located on barely 10 acres the designers have done a good job using every bit of theland here," writes a reviewer. Hole one plays under a freeway overpass for an unusual start.
Boat watching: Columbia River campsites offer close-up views of marine traffic. At Columbia Riverfront RV Park, "The host told us about app vessel finder to track boats coming by the camp area." Commercial ships, pleasure craft, and occasional cruise vessels regularly pass within viewing distance.
Kayaking: Bayport RV Park provides direct access to Scappoose Bay's protected waters. "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay," explains one camper. The calm waters make this location suitable for beginners.
What Campers Like
Island camping: Sand Island Marine Park offers boat-in camping on an island in the Columbia River. "Sites are primitive, no tables," notes one visitor. The island provides a unique camping experience that requires watercraft to access but rewards with seclusion.
River proximity: Many campsites feature direct Columbia River access and views. At Reeder Beach RV Park, "We got a river view campsite and it was completely worth the extra fee. Seeing the big ships was an absolute favorite." Sites along the riverfront often command premium pricing but provide unobstructed water views.
Clean facilities: Battle Ground Lake State Park maintains well-kept facilities. "This campground isn't near some major hwy so you don't hear car noise... The campsite was clean and raked upon arrival too! They have a camp store open for snacks and they have flushable bathrooms!" reports a recent visitor.
Natural swimming: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas in natural settings. Battle Ground Lake State Park contains "a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," according to one camper. Designated swimming areas with floating markers appear at several parks.
What You Should Know
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds report water concerns. At Reeder Beach RV Park, "The water is dirty. It's brownish and smells like metal. Make sure to bring your own fresh water." Similarly, at another campsite, water contains "arsenic and is no good to drink or cook with. You have to bring your own water, or buy theirs."
Highway noise: Paradise Point State Park sits adjacent to a major interstate. "It's basically two different types of campgrounds in one: there's the sites more out in the open that are closer to the freeway. Then there's a bunch further away in both a meadow and the woods. Obviously if possible, stay away from the freeway," cautions one reviewer.
Limited privacy: Jantzen Beach RV Park features closely spaced sites. "Feels more like a small village with a combination of a trailer park on one side, full-timer RVers in other places as well as spots for overnighters," explains a visitor. RV parks closer to Portland generally offer less privacy than more distant options.
Site selection importance: At Camp Wilkerson, choosing the right site matters significantly. "The tent loop only has a porta potty but it doesn't stink... The lower bathroom is old and needs updated. The showers are free but the water just sprays everywhere and you have to keep pushing the button for more water. The upper bathrooms are amazing and worth the walk near the horse camp."
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Battle Ground Lake State Park provides designated swim areas with kid-friendly features. "There's a swim area roped off, and a small sand area for the kids to play," one visitor notes. Water depth gradually increases, making this lake suitable for various swimming abilities.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Jantzen Beach RV Park, "my kiddos absolutely loved the three pools, playground, and basketball hoops. Plenty to check out and explore for them even if this was not your typical 'campground' experience."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours often present wildlife sightings. At Reeder Beach RV Park, "This morning, Dec 1st, I woke up to the sound of frogs croaking, birds chirping... I can hear nature, farm, and city here from my picnic table or lying in bed with my window open." The park also features "osprey nests" observable from campsites.
Multiple accommodation options: For families not ready for tent camping, cabin options exist at several parks. L.L. Stub Stewart State Park "has tent sites, RV spots, yurts, and cabins" while Camp Wilkerson offers "lean to that can accommodate many people in the bunks."
Tips from RVers
Boat launch access: For RVers with boats, Bayport RV Park offers conveniences. "All sites have water, 20/30 or 50amp service, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Both paved and gravelled sites are available." The adjacent boat launch provides easy water access without having to detach towing vehicles.
Size restrictions: Paradise Point State Park has limitations for larger RVs. "We put the size of our RV in the state website and it gave us site 50. We arrived and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get our rig in that site due to the trees. We couldn't even continue out the secondary loop because it was so narrow and had trees on the inside of turns."
Park quality variations: Columbia River RV Park receives positive reviews despite urban proximity. "Located at the northern end of Portland not too far off the 1-5 freeway. RV campground with wide streets, nice office staff, and clean facilities including laundry, clubhouse, group kitchen area and free wi-fi."
Mt St Helens camping alternatives: When camping near St. Helens, Oregon doesn't meet needs, consider Woodland, Washington sites with better mt st helens camping access. Columbia Riverfront RV Resort offers "a cool setting right on Columbia River" while remaining within driving distance to the mountain.
