From state parks to dispersed BLM campgrounds and private land, there are so many camping opportunities in the Pacific Northwest, it would be impossible to name them all. Here are a few, but for more ideas check out The Dyrt, Hipcamp, and local camping Facebook groups and Subreddits!
Private: Cedar Creek Farms
If you want a nearby camping getaway that's easily accessible from the Portland metro, incredibly serene, dog-friendly and free of the noise of state park camping sites, I cannot recommend this Hipcamp spot enough. It's coincidentally hosted by one of my closest friends, so I may be biased, but it's set amidst 37 private acres of creeks and trails, just a few minutes from the small town of Sandy, OR, and is absolutely my favorite last-minute camping location. Don't expect running water or electricity, but they can definitely accommodate excursion vans, tents, and RVs. Click the header above to check availability.
Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 45 min, depending on traffic.
Camp Dakota Camping and Adventures, Scotts Mills, OR
Activities offered include ziplining, a high ropes challenge course, paintball, treasure hunting and much much more! Not in the mood to camp in a tent? No worries because Camp Dakota offers the option to stay in a yurt, a teepee, a cabin tent and even RV parking. They’ve even got your large parties covered by selecting the group camp site. Heads up: Many GPS devices will lead you to a dirt road that you do not want to be on. Use Google Maps for the most accurate directions.
Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 1 hr 10 min, depending on traffic.
Silver Falls, Sublimity, OR
People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why. At Silver Falls you can find tent camping, yurts, RV spaces and cabins. There are tons of picnic tables and a day use area. While visiting, definitely take hikes around to see the 10 different waterfalls, including the famous South Fall which has a trail to walk directly behind it. For specific hikes, check out AllTrails.
Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 1 hr 15 min, depending on traffic.
Ike Kinswa State Park, Silver Creek, WA
Ike Kinswa State Park offers 46,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on the north side of Mayfield Lake in Southwest Washington. Check out the Cowlitz river across the street from the campground. Stay in a cabin, tent or your RV with the option of a full hookups site, a water & electric hookup site or one of the standard sites. Outdoor activities include boating (boat ramp available), canoeing, kayaking, fishing, water sports, mountain biking, hiking and picnicking. One of the many perks is also the wildlife viewing!
Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 1 hr 25 min, depending on traffic.
North Waldo Campground, Oakridge, OR
North Waldo Campgrounds is a favorite spot in Oregon. It is great for hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, stargazing, and just reading and napping on the beach. Trails are beautiful and the water is so clear you can see the bottom from the middle of the lake. You'll be off the grid with minimal to no cell service, so plan accordingly.
Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 3 hr 30 min, depending on traffic. Use google maps for the most accurate directions.
While you're in the area, don't forget to check out my favorite waterfalls and local landmarks!
