If you’re anything like us, when Friday hits, you yearn for a weekend retreat with friends or family that doesn’t require weeks of planning, research and reservations. You just want to get away.

That’s where camping comes in! We’ve compiled the 25 best campgrounds within two hours of Portland, Oregon. While Portland is a metropolis, many are surprised to learn it’s also home to one of the largest urban wildlife parks in the US. With a variety of campers in mind, we found campgrounds to fit every style and need. Whether you prefer to stay in a cabin, RV, tent or even a teepee, this list has it all. Not to mention, these Portland area campsites offer a multitude of outdoor activities – from hiking, swimming, and fishing to disc golf, berry picking and wine tasting.

MOUNT HOOD / COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

Trillium Lake Campground: Mount Hood, OR

Located alongside Trillium Lake and at the base of Mount Hood, this peaceful retreat offers amazing views of the mountain’s summit. Well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Trillium Lake is a great place to swim, boat, and fish. A two-mile hiking and biking trail circles the lake, while other nearby trails provide a little more rugged terrain. The campground provides many tent and RV sites that come with a picnic table and fire pit with a grill rack. We love this site not only for its scenic beauty but also because the tall trees of the Mount Hood National Forest provide shade and privacy between campsites.

Recent campers say: Day of reservations, “Can be very crowded,” “Huge campsites,”

Trillium Lake Campground
Mt. Hood, OR 97055
$34 per night

Lost Lake Resort & Campground: Hood River, OR

Also located in the Mount Hood region, the Lost Lake Resort & Campground is secluded in the Mount Hood National Forest just 76 miles from Portland. Along with the 148 tent and RV sites, Lost Lake also offers lodge rooms and cabins equipped with a king bed and a small kitchen for those who enjoy a more luxurious camping style. We love this place because it is accommodating to anyone and everyone, with two miles of handicap-accessible trails. On the edge of Lost Lake itself, the resort rents out fishing boats, paddleboards, and canoes for all kinds of water activities.

Recent campers say: “Plenty of space,” “Maybe a little overpriced,”

Lost Lake Resort & Campground
9000 Lost Lake Rd.
Hood River, OR 97031
Lodge: $160+
Camping: $41+ per night

Beacon Rock State Park: Skamania, WA

If you really want to get back to the basics of camping, Beacon Rock State Park is the place for you. With only 26 tent sites and a few spaces for RVs less than 20 feet long, this seasonal campground across the Washington state line is located in the center of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This site is mostly primitive with only five utility sites throughout the grounds with electricity and water. However, it features equestrian campsites for campers traveling with horses. The Beacon Rock that juts out 840 feet above the river is the park’s main attraction, offering 360-degree views of the gorge.

Recent campers say: “Campground is clean with nice facilities,”  “Primitive campsites are the place to stay,”

Beacon Rock State Park
34841 SR 14
Skamania, WA 98648
For Reservations, Call 888-226-7688 ($10 reservation fee)

Eagle Creek Campground: Cascade Locks, OR

Forty miles east of Portland on the Columbia River Gorge lies Eagle Creek Campground. With only 14 tent sites available for reservation and 3 first come first serve, it is not a very popular spot for summer tourists. However, that doesn’t mean you should stay away! The campsites are positioned on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River and Eagle Creek, with tall trees for plenty of shade. Hike along the Gorge on one of the many Eagle Creek trails and end up at Punchbowl Falls right near the campsite. We love this campground because it’s a peaceful and relaxing weekend getaway for you and your significant other or the whole family.

Recent campers say: “Perfect for multiple families,” “Clean restrooms,” “Some noise from I-84”

Eagle Creek Campground

Cascade Locks, OR 97014
For Reservations, call 541-308-1700 or email [email protected]

Beaver Campground: Carson, WA

If you’re looking for something even more off the radar, Beaver Campground is calling your name. This quiet camp with just 24 sites for tents and RVs is a location made for solitude seekers. Hike along the Trapper Creek Wilderness trails towards the two-tiered falls with a crystal-clear pool of water at the top – perfect for a quick dip on a hot summer day. The Wind River allows for plenty of kayaking and canoeing, as well as salmon and trout fishing for anglers. We highly recommend giving this spot a look.

Recent campers say: “Clean campground,” “The sites are large and spread apart from one another,” 

Beaver Campground
Gifford Pinchot NF Mt Adams Ranger District
Carson, WA 98610
$32+ per night

Sunset Falls Campground: Yacolt, WA

Sunset Falls Campground is located in the southern part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The 18 standard campsites offer space for both tents and RVs up to 22 feet, however, no hookups are available. Each is equipped with a fire ring, grill and picnic table. Multiple vaulted toilets are dispersed on the grounds. As far as outdoor activities go, the Lewis River runs alongside the sites, making it perfect for kayaking and fishing. Hiking trails are also scattered throughout the grounds – the Silver Star trail leads to a scenic lookout of Portland.

Recent campers say: “Nice little campground,” “No place to get water besides the creek,” campsites near roads

Sunset Falls Campground
NE Sunset Falls Rd
Yacolt, WA 98675
Prices Vary

Tollgate Campground: Rhododendron, OR

Conveniently located an hour from Portland, Tollgate campground is a popular place to explore the Mount Hood area. The Zigzag River runs parallel to the grounds and provides access to many hiking trails, fishing holes, and scenic picnic spots. Multiple historic sites are scattered throughout Tollgate as well, including points on the well-known Oregon Trail. There are 15 sites for mostly tenting and small RVs up to 16 feet. For campers not interested in doing their own cooking there is a trail that leads to a few diners in the neighboring town. Tollgate Campgrounds tends to fill up quickly, so be sure to get there early!

Recen campers say: “Nice campground with pit toilet,” “Friendly camp hosts,” “Peaceful and small campground,”

Pioneer Tollgate Campground
Rhododendron, OR 97049
$26+ per night

Bear Springs Campground : Maupin, OR

A relatively quiet campground, Bear Springs’ 21 campsites are scattered in the southeast corner of Mount Hood National Forest. This is a great weekend spot if traveling with a group, as there are several group recreation and group picnicking areas. Bear Springs sits along Indian Creek and makes for excellent fishing. A variety of trails run through the grounds for both hiking and RVs, perfect for further nature exploration. The tall pine trees provide lots of shade for those hot summer days. Bear Springs has sites for tents and RVs, but there are no hookups available.

Recent campers say: “Visiting in the off-season is ideal,” “Nice and quiet with big shade trees,” “No water. No power. Bring your own TP,”

Bear Springs Group Campground
Maupin, OR 97037
$17+ per night

North Arm Campground: Government Camp, OR

Best For Fishing

Located on the shores of Timothy Lake, this campground offers a variety of water activities including sailing, boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers love this spot for catching kokanee salmon and a variety of trout. If you’d rather stay on land, there are numerous trails that loop around the lake for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. One of them connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail that extends from Canada to Mexico. There are fourteen sites for both tent and RV campers but hookups are not available. Most sites are surrounded by a thick understory that provides shade between you and your camping neighbors.

Recent campers say: “[Management] does an amazing job,” large campsites, “Camp hosts were extremely accommodating,”

North Arm Campground
NF-58, Government Camp, OR 97028
$34+ per night

Clackamas Lake : Rhododendron, OR

This is a perfect alternative when nearby North Arm campground is full. This is a smaller lake with scenic views of Mount Hood and a great place for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. It is located less than a mile from the Clackamas Lake Ranger Station Historic District where you can see the unique architecture of the cabins built for forest service workers in the early 1900s. This campground has single-family sites for RVs and tents, as well as eleven equestrian sites with horse corrals. Accessible vault toilets are located among the sites.

Recent campers say: “The campground is lovely,” “Sites with corrals are only for those with horses,” “Simple amenities,”

Clackamas Lake Campground
70220 E Highway 26, Rhododendron, OR 97049
$33+ per night

GREATER PORTLAND

Oxbow Regional Park: Gresham, OR

This is a great location for all of you water lovers. Right along the Sandy River Gorge, Oxbow Regional Park provides an oasis for swimming, fishing, rafting, and kayaking. If you venture here in the fall, it’s hard to miss the spawning salmon. You may encounter different wildlife species along the site’s sandy beaches and 12 miles of trails. Oxbow offers drive-up campsites that include a picnic table, fire pit, and cooking grill, as well as 10 pull-through RV sites. Whether a day trip or a weekend stay, this is truly is a beautiful place to camp.

Recent campers say: “Very accessible,” “Busy on weekends,” “Very clean,”

Oxbow Regional Park
3010 SE Oxbow Pkwy, Gresham, OR 97080
Prices vary

Gales Creek Campground: Gales Creek, OR

Just forty minutes west of Portland, Gales Creek Campground is a prime spot for the whole family. There are excellent mountain biking and hiking trails right along the water. The 21 tent sites are spread out far enough from one another that you have a private space and the sound of the running creek drowns out any nearby neighbors. If you want to venture a bit offsite, Browns Camp just down the road has great ATV trails. Gales Creek runs on a first-come-first-serve basis, so be sure to get a spot early or you may be out of luck.

Recent campers say: “Sites are secluded but with plenty of space,” “Love this campsite,” “Well maintained,”

Gales Creek Campground
Gales Creek, OR 97117
Prices vary

Columbia River RV Park: Portland, OR

Great for RVs

This is an extremely popular park for many travelers and long-term residents. It is right on the edge of the Columbia River with excellent views of the water. All of the sites are paved and have a 20amp, 30amp, or 50amp full hookup option. We recommend this park because of its close proximity to downtown Portland and within walking distance to lots of dining and shopping. Columbia Edgewater Golf Course is also just down the road. The park offers free wifi, a place to do laundry, and an area for your pets to run without a leash. Reservations are required so be sure to call ahead!

Recent campers say: “Concrete padded sites,” Clean and well kept,” “Spaces are hard to determine,”

Columbia River RV Park
10649 NE 13th Ave
Portland, OR 97211
$46+ per day

Jantzen Beach RV Park : Portland, OR

Great for Kids

Just 7 miles from downtown Portland and a perfect getaway for the whole family. While no tent camping is allowed at Jantzen Beach, each RV site comes with free wifi, 20, 30, or 50 amp hookups, and water and sewer connections. It is located on the shores of the Columbia River and has a swimming pool, fitness center, game room, and basketball court to keep everyone busy. If you come for the weekend, we recommend you stop by the Portland Saturday Market, the nation’s largest open-air crafts market, and stroll down rows and rows of handcrafted items and homemade foods.

Recent campers say: “Clean and quiet,” “Easy access to highway,” 

Jantzen Beach RV Park
1503 N Hayden Island Drive, Portland, OR 97217
Daily: $55
Weekly: $300
Monthly: $600

THE COAST

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: Buxton, OR

A beautiful state park just 34 miles west of Portland. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the 1,800 acres of rolling hills, flowing streams, and hiking/biking trails will keep you exploring for hours. L.L. Stub also caters to equestrian enthusiasts with its horse staging area and designated horse trails. One downfall is that the streams onsite aren’t big enough for swimming, but nearby Vernonia Lake is great for both swimming and fishing. This campground has 78 spots that include primitive campsites, full RV hookups, and 1-2 bedroom cabins. It also offers flush toilets and hot showers to keep you feeling fresh. Don’t forget to bring your pets – they are welcome too!

Recent campers say: “Generously sized 2 room cabins,” “Enjoyed my stay here,” “Very family oriented,”

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park
Buxton, OR 97109
$33-47+ per night

Cape Lookout State Park: Tillamook, OR

If you really want to get away, head an hour and a half west of Portland to the oceanfront of Cape Lookout State Park. Swimming, hiking, beachcombing, and whale-watching are only a few of this park’s various outdoor activities. It offers 35 full hookup sites and more than 70 tent sites with nearby water. If you forget your tent or are more into glamping than camping, Cape Lookout also has yurts and deluxe cabins for rent. This is the perfect weekend getaway with friends or family whether you want to “rough it” for a few nights or maintain your luxurious lifestyle.

Recent campers say: “Nice place to camp,” “Among the best state parks on Northern Orgeon,” “Road was in poor condition,”

Cape Lookout State Park
13000 Whiskey Creek Rd
Tillamook, OR 97141
$33-47+ per night

Cannon Beach RV Resort: Cannon Beach, OR

Great for RVs

Escape to the coast for a weekend to stay at Cannon Beach RV Park. As a full-service and full hookup facility, this resort accommodates any RV camper’s need. We highly recommend this park because it is open all four seasons – not just when it’s warm. In addition to being a few short blocks from the beach, Cannon Beach has countless amenities that make it extra family-friendly. The indoor heated pool and spa, game room, convenience store, and free cable and wifi will keep the kids entertained for hours. The Lodge clubhouse is also a great place to meet other travelers and hear about their time on the road.

Recent campers say: “Love this RV Park,” “Beautiful spacious sites,”

Cannon Beach RV Resort
340 Elk Creek Rd
Cannon Beach, OR 97110
$51-80 per night

Coyote Rock RV Resort & Marina: Lincoln City, OR

If you don’t mind an extra 20 minutes, Coyote Rock RV Resort & Marina sits on the banks of the Siletz River in Lincoln City, Oregon. Park your RV in one of the 64 spots along the water and drop in your boat at the boat launch for some of the greatest fishing in the area. Kayaking, crabbing and clamming in the river are popular things to do at the resort as well. In addition to the RV spots, Coyote Rock has 4-person tree houses for rent and tent sites for those who want to get out of the RV. This is an awesome place to cross a few unique activities off your bucket list.

Recent campers say: “Beautiful area to camp with the family,” “Sites were not clean,” Good customer service

Coyote Rock RV Resort & Marina
1676 Siletz River Highway Lincoln City, OR 97367
$37.50+ per night

Reeder Beach Resort : Portland, OR

Just 30 minutes north ofPortland, Reeder Beach Resort is located on Sauvie Island and overlooks the Columbia River. Who doesn’t want to say they went to an island over the weekend? This park is only a few miles from warm water fishing, sandy beaches (one where clothing is optional), and numerous wildlife viewing areas. Sauvie Island is home to many small farmers’ markets where guests can choose from an assortment of locally-grown fruits and veggies. Between swimming, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and kiteboarding, there is something fun for everyone in the family. Reeder Beach is for RVs only and has full 30amp hookup sites.

Recent campers say: “RV sites are perfect,” “The staff was really friendly,” “Bring your OWN drinking water,”

Reeder Beach Resort
26048 NW Reeder Rd. Portland, OR 97231
Daily: $40-50 per night

Fort Stevens State Park: Hammond, OR

This is one of the more unique campgrounds on our list. Right at the mouth of the Columbia River, Fort Stevens State Park lies on the Northern Coast. This area was once a primary military fort and much of the history still remains today. The park offers a tour of different parts of the fort and a historic shipwreck site, in addition to the traditional swimming, hiking, fishing, and canoeing activities. Fort Stevens accommodates all campers, whether you prefer to stay in a tent, RV, yurt, or cabin. This site is relatively large, too, with more than 500 sites, so it is easy to find the perfect spot.

Recent campers say: “Good camping sites,” “Restrooms: well maintained,”

Fort Stevens State Park
100 Peter Iredale Rd
Hammond, OR 97121
$33-47+ per night

WILLAMETTE VALLEY

Camp Dakota RV Park: Scotts Mills, OR

Great for Families

Located on 45 acres in the Cascade Foothills, Camp Dakota is just an hour south of Portland. With accommodations for any camper, it offers RV pull-throughs with 50-amp service and tent sites that include a picnic table and fire pit. Teepee rentals and cabin tents are also available. The on-site adventure park will keep you and the family plenty busy, where disc golf, zip-lining, and rock climbing are just a few of many unique activities. Camp Dakota also has waterfalls and hiking trails through the state forest for those that want a more relaxing camping experience.

Recent campers say: Fun for kids ages 5-teens, “Awesome staff,” “Fun, friendly camp,”

Camp Dakota RV Park
1843 Crooked Finger Rd. N.E.
Scotts Mills, OR 97375
$60+ per night

Champoeg State Heritage Area: St. Paul, OR

Just 30 miles from Portland, Champoeg State Heritage Area lies in the heart of Willamette Valley wine country. Hiking and biking trails wind through the prairie-like vineyards, and the open grassy fields are great for tossing a frisbee. If you’re a history buff, you can check out the Log Cabin Museum onsite to learn about pioneer life at Champoeg. This park includes tent sites, full hookup RV sites, yurts, and cabins to fit the style of any camper, plus their pets! Hot showers and flush toilets are also located throughout the five camping areas. If you venture here in August, don’t forget a berry bowl for blackberry picking!

Recent campers say: “Well maintained state park,” “Pristine facilities,”

Champoeg State Heritage Area
St. Paul, OR 97137
$33-47+ per night

Silver Falls State Park: Sublimity, OR

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Silver Falls State Park is one of the largest and most popular state parks in Oregon with more than 9,200 acres of land. Not only can you hike, bike, or horseback ride across 25 miles of trails, but you also pass ten different waterfalls along the way. If you need a way to cool off, you can actually walk behind four of the falls and feel the mist. Silver Falls has tent sites, RV hookup sites, cabins, and even a dorm-style bunkhouse for those traveling with a large group. Not far from the grounds are a number of tasty restaurants for some post-hike grub.

Recent campers say: “Cool place for family hikes,” “Dogs allowed on certain trails,” “Road is a bit muddy,”

Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385
$33-47+ per night

Albany/Corvallis KOA : Albany, OR

Just south of Salem, Albany/Corvallis KOA is perfect if you want easy access to surrounding attractions. Within miles of various wineries, Oregon State University, and Albany’s Historic Museum, this KOA also has mini-golf, a pool, and a basketball court right onsite. This site will keep everyone entertained and having fun. It offers space for tents, 50-amp hookups for RVs, and cabins available for rent. If you are seeking a longer stay whether house hunting, job-related or whatever the case may be, look no further. This KOA also has an extended stay option.

Recent campers say: “Well kept campground,” “Very clean and the staff is great,” “Quiet,”

Albany / Corvallis KOA
33775 Oakville Road South
Albany, OR 97321
$43.38+ per night

Milo McIver State Park: Estacada, OR

A hidden gem that is an awesome spot for bird watching. Waterfowl, American Dipper, osprey, bald eagles, four species of woodpeckers, and many more birds all reside in Milo McIver State Park. It is only 45 minutes from Portland and is situated on the Clackamas River. Fishing, boating, hiking, and disc golf are only a few of the many recreational activities offered here. There are sites for tents and RVs with 44 electrical sites with water. Hot showers and flush toilets are also available to keep you feeling clean. Milo McIver State Park has three group tent sites that make it great for exploring with friends or family.

Recent campers say: “So much to do,” “Great campground,”

Milo McIver State Park
Estacada, OR 97023
$33-47+ per night

Raab Campground: Estacada, OR

TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO Riverside Fire Damage

Great for Families

A newer group-only campground accommodates those traveling in numbers. It is located on the Collawash River about an hour and a half from downtown Portland. There are many trails for hiking and biking and great river access for fly fishing. Rafting and kayaking are a few other popular activities at Raab. It has six group campsites to accommodate up to 60 people and three of these sites are suitable for RVs. The tall Douglas Fir trees provide plenty of shade and privacy between campsites. The only downfall of the campground is there is no accessible drinking water, so remember to bring your own!

Recent campers say: “Perfect campground for large families,” “Sites are pretty well set up,”

Raab Campground
NF-63
Estacada, OR 97023
$55-$76