Best Camping in and near Champoeg State Heritage Area

88% (9 reviews)

Explore the natural wonder, recreation opportunities and history of the Willamette Valley.

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Community favorites near Champoeg State Heritage Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Champoeg State Heritage Area

88%

(9)

Champoeg Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Champoeg State Heritage Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Champoeg State Heritage Area

98%

(613)

Action Sports Roamer Sites

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Sandy, OR

Attention... Skiers/Snowboarders, MTB'ers, Hikers, Skaters, Adventurers, all outdoor enthusiast. Our outdoor sauna is open and ready for you to heal all your mountain soreness. The year 1989 birthed the renowned Windells Camp and High Cascade Snowboard Camps at Mt. Hood, Oregon. What resulted today is a 28-acre action sports mecca that serves as the pathway for nearly every action sports professional and these special Roamer Sites give you a sampling of that experience. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Hood and its year round lift-accessible snow, these adventure rigs sites for #vanlife, roamer trucks, and nimble RVs place you on the campus of one of the world's premiere destinations for actions sports. We also offer glamping tents. With Sandy Ridge mountain bike trails within a mile, and over 40,000 sf of skateboard park, there is something for everyone. Your Roamer Site one of 18 featuring a communal campfire and picnic tables. From 5-7pm M-F and 7-10AM Sat/Sun you'll have access to our private indoor and outdoor skateboard parks, mountain bike trails, and fitness center. Want coaching and more? We have that! (additional fee and reservation apply). Guests love it here "Great camp setup with RV sites and tent Glamping site in nice big canvas tents. I had a quick in and out one night stay and enjoy the big trees and peace and quiet. Located next to an actions sports camp, and the hills which allow for lots of hiking and relaxing"

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(3942)

Naked Falls

22 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stevenson, WA

Naked Falls is the second largest waterfall on the Washougal River. This section of the river has been a hotspot for Kayakers and Cliff divers for decades. If you like watching Salmon run, this is a great place to do it. This is easy car access to a raw outdoor camping experience. You will be camping next to the crystal clear Washougal River and have access to Naked Falls and Reeder Falls. Come prepared as the nearest potable water source is at least a mile away and you won't see any lights or electrical outlets on the property. There are portables toilet now between sites 4 and 5 on the east side of the road and between sites 15 and 16 on the west side. Portable toilets taken out in Mid October and put back in in Mid March. Firewood is not delivered to each site if you order it. There are many good reasons for this, not the least of which is that it can rain and then all the wood gets wet. We keep the firewood in a small woodshed and give you instructions on where to find it and what the code is before you check in. Also, please remember that I don't live there and there is limited service on the property. If you have questions, please contact me in advance as I may be unreachable when you arrive at the property. The Campsites mostly go in the order they appear as you drive through the campground. With some exceptions. Sites 8 and 11 (in that order) are up the hill from the fork at site 2. Sites 12 through 19 are in order on the West side of the river. There are signs with the site numbers next to each site. The sites each have their own parking spaces. Please see the brief descriptions below so you have a good idea of what kind of experience you can expect at each site. If you are not familiar with the area, or even if you haven't camped there before, I recommend contacting me for directions or information about the area before you go up. Also, if you have an RV, you will want to contact me to discuss which site you really want to book depending on the size of your RV, awnings, slide outs, etc. Each booked site is allowed 2 cars or 1 RV. If you have more than 2 cars or 1 RV, there is a fee of 10.00 per additional vehicle. Camping was banned all along the upper Washougal River in 2006 due to abuse from the public. An attitude that no one could be trusted up there formed and I lost my favorite place to camp in the whole world...but I understood why they did it. In 2017 I bought the property and worked with Skamania County to restore camping and the public trust in good people who love nature. There are now 20 campsites, mostly along the river, and I'm so pleased that the vast majority of Hipcampers are reliable co-stewards of this amazing recreational resource. It is up to us to keep Naked Falls available by keeping in mind that it is a crucial fish and wildlife habitat and we are but visitors there. Be sure to stick to trails and pack in/pack out. Nothing from town should be left there and nothing there should be brought back to town. *** Site 1: Saltness Creek This is the only site with direct trail access to the river on the camping side. It's also right on a creek and encompasses a corner of the confluence of the creek and the Washougal River. It's a nice open space right off the gravel road which allows you to park right by where you will set up tents and have your campfire. It also means other campers will drive right by your site and they will need to pass by it to take the trail to the river. This site is very convenient but not very private. Site 2: Naked Falls There is a short narrow trail that leads to the campsite on the Naked Falls cliff. It's awesome! This is the original campsite at Naked Falls and has likely been there for 100 years or more. It overlooks the waterfall and island downstream. It's really the coolest campsite but it's not for everybody. The area for pitching tents is smaller than at the other sites. Only 2 medium sized tents will fit comfortably. You may be able to cram 3 tents in but should be aware that it's only really meant for 2. Groups larger than 6 may want to consider another site. Also, it is right on the cliff where people like to jump so, while you have the best view of all the fun stuff happening at the falls, you also have cliff divers coming up to say hi during the day. Site 3: Desk Job This site is just past the falls. It has a wide short trail to the camping area and a beautiful view of the river that passes right by the site about 30 ft below it. It is nice, quiet and secluded. Site 4: Middle Management This site is nice for pulling vehicles in and around. It loops around some trees in the center. The trees to the east and North are all alders so it has limited shade in the morning when there aren't leaves on the trees (winter and early spring) The trail down is wide and short. There is a small opening with a nice view of the river and it's quiet. A great place to listen to the flow of the river and the beat of your heart. Site 5: Conference Room The Conference Room is tucked into the woods a little more than the other sites. It's right over the river just like all the rest of the sites but the trees like living on that cliff...like a whole bunch. You can walk to the edge and see the river but it's not the most open view of the river. I love this site. It has two old growth stumps from the first harvest ever at Naked Falls. They tell stories of the Yacolt burn and a lot of hard winters. A short narrow trail get's you from your car to to the camping area in about 20 steps. Site 6: Printer Jam This site is quite large and has the most extensive view of the river. Great for bigger groups or bigger tents. This is a chill spot where you can roast marshmallows while watching the flow of the Washougal River 35 ft below. Site 7: Budget Meeting This site is not meant for vehicle traffic! Please do not drive your vehicle onto the site as that has caused damage to the site itself and it needs to recover. The last site on the road has the longest walk...about 50 yards. It is also a large space and is the most secluded. It's the longest distance from river access but also the most private. The walk down passes an old growth tree that must have fallen decades ago. It has a huge base and the root structure is about 12 ft tall. There are a variety of trees that hug this campsite. If you don't mind the walk, you are sure to dig the vibe at our version of a Budget Meeting. Site 8: The Slash Pile Please read this full description before booking. I'm giving this site a go because I think it's a rather unique experience for the right people. This site sits up above all the river sites. It is not on a river but has a river view and view of all the other campsites. It is surrounded by a slash pile which is the wood debris left over from logging. You can drive right to it but only if you have 4wd/AWD. The road is also surrounded by alder trees that might slap the side of your car as you go up so if you are concerned about that, this is not the spot for you. There is not much shade up there either. You may want to bring a shade tent. The site is fairly large and has plenty of room for tents but I don't recommend any trailers or RVs here due to the steep rocky road. Your walk to the river will be about as long as the walk from site 7. It will be an easy walk down and a bit of a trek up. If no one books this site, I will totally understand but It's a cool spot if you are cool with the challenges it presents. Site 9: Hard Scramble Creek This site is embedded in the woods and has the most tree cover. It is even further from the river access than site 8...about a half mile walk. There is plenty of room but only one way in and out so turning around should be thought out before you set up your tents. Also, I've seen people pull off trailering large rigs up there but I'm pretty sure it was painstaking. If you have a large RV or Trailer, I would skip this site. Smaller trailers and RVs should be fine if you have some experience and patience. This site is quiet and the sound of the creek is soothing during the day and night. Site 10: Rock Beach Woods This site is in the woods along the river near an inviting rock beach that flows into a crystal clear swimming hole. This site is not behind a gate and day use visitors are allowed to use the trail and access the rock beach. The rock beach gets less traffic than we have right by Naked Falls but it is part of the day use area. This is a park and walk site. Parking is along the main road and you hike in about 50 yards to the campsite. This is one of the coolest campsites we have. Literally cooler as it is along the river edge and not along a cliffside like most of the other sites. Also cooler because it is under deep tree cover with soft mossy terrain. If you like the sounds of the river, shady woods and very close access to swimming, you will love this site! Site 11: This One Goes to Eleven! Situated on the top of the hill, this site has the most impressive views of all the sites! About a 270 degree view of the surrounding mountain region give you a great vantage point that often includes eagles flying below you, elk across the valley and a variety of other wildlife. This site is the farthest from the river, civilization and all the other campsites. If you are looking for something remote and have a 4wd/AWD vehicle, this might be the best site for you. Sites 12-19: All of these sites are right near the West side of the river. They were designed to accommodate RVs and Trailers. They are made for one trailer or RV per site or 2 camper vans. Tents are fine here too. There is easy in and out access to each site. It is nearer to the W2000 road and the sites are a bit closer together. There is still a significant amount of treed space between each site, just not as much as the original campsites. They each have a fire pit and cleared space for tents along with the graveled area for parking your RV. The sites are fairly level but not perfect and some leveling may be required depending on the size of your RV. This area has it's own trail down to the river or you can use the day use trail just a short walk North past the wooden Naked Falls sign. There are 3 total vehicles allowed at each of these sites (no exceptions) that includes the rv or trailer. So, truck and trailer count as one and you can have one addition car...or you can have 3 cars if you are car or tent camping. There is a charge of 10.00 extra for the third vehicle. No parking is allowed along the W2000 road unless you have a Naked Falls parking pass for day use. Site 0. This is the old site 12 that I had closed down. It is just up the hill from the fork at site 2. So at the fork near site 2, you will take a left and go up the hill about a quarter of a mile. It will be on your right hand side before you get to site 8. This is a large site part way up a hill surrounded by trees about 15 ft high. Very little shade, so you will want to bring a shade tent in the Summertime.

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Molalla Ripple

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Mulino, OR

Welcome to Molalla Ripple! Enjoy the sound of the Molalla River rolling over the rocks. Wake up to birds chirping and tall trees swaying in the breeze. The campsites are sixty feet apart for privacy and one path leads to the river with two private beach areas to relax. NOTE, Please use the clean bathrooms provided. DO NOT USE THE WOODS or camp site as your bathroom room. Thank you, let's keep things clean and safe for others to enjoy! Jsm Ranch started in 2004 when we moved from Oregon City. This once was a working farm with two chicken barns and a meat locker barn. All had been fallen into disrepair before taking owner ship. In 2007 we planted 200 tree's and 100 shrubs to build a new fish and wildlife habitat along Woodcock Creek. We then focused on building fence along the Molalla River to protect water quality. From there, we started raising Black Angus in 2008 after spending four years cleaning up the fields to make it safe for animals. We strive to be good stewards with our land as we continue to work with Clackamas Soil and Water to make better working lands. You're only minutes away from the town of Molalla to grab a bite, groceries or other camp items. Also have Molalla Rodeo just 3 minutes away on July 1-4th. You won't be disappointed for a great breakfast at Tammy D's (Mulino, OR), sandwiches at Humble Pig or pizza at Bear Creek Pizza & Pub.

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Mt. Hood Enchanted Forest

4 sites · Lodging, Tents17 acres · Sandy, OR

The property is 17 acres of enchanted forestland with 300ft of Sandy River frontage. Both sides of the river are part of the Enchanted Forest There are a few walking paths and plenty of room to roam. Bring your paddle board or kayak to enjoy the river (Dependent on river level/current strength) The property is located within 2 miles from the Sandy Ridge Mountain bike trails and Barlow Wayside hiking trails. It's approximately 20 minutes to Government camp, ~ 35 minutes to Timberline for skiing and biking and an additional ~ 15 minutes to Mt. Hood Meadows. Approximately 50 min to PDX airport, and 1 hour to downtown Portland.

95%

(180)

Your Farm in the City

8 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Portland, OR

Our farm is a very special place in the heart of Portland. We have been farming continuously for 5 generations, since 1880! Our farm has seen many changes around us in such an urban setting. We focus on best sustainability practices as well as giving our local community access to agriculture. Sharing the land with fellow hipcampers helps us stay in business as well as continue to foster our positive impacts in the local community.

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Amico Roma Farm

3 sites · Lodging40 acres · Mc Minnville, OR

Our farm is a special place in Oregon, close enough to everything yet it feels so remote and private. There are trails throughout the property. Pets are allowed with a $15 pet fee found in the "Extras"

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Tillamook - Trask River

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents52 acres · Tillamook, OR

Welcome to a premier Texas Longhorn ranch where you will be staying right next to the Trask River with access to fishing, boating and kayaking. If you are needing a little sensory-deprivation from everyday life. You have found it!! We invite you to experience a relaxing, calming atmosphere on the riverbank of the Trask River. Pitch your tent or bring your RV and embrace mother nature. Please contact me by phone 503-812-0630, as you can see we have closed our sites. However, i'm willing to work with folks around time frames. Thank you, Carmen

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Akitaaru Forest Camp

1 site · Tent5 acres · Bethany, OR

***Akitaaru Homestead was named one of 2023's BEST PLACES TO PITCH A TENT. … and we just placed again for 2024! Thanks to all of our campers and to Mother Earth for sharing this beautiful place with us humans! *** We run a small active homestead with livestock, gardens, dogs, and free range children. We are happy to share our five acres of beautiful PNW forest with intrepid campers Learn more about this land: Have you ever wanted to have an entire campground to yourself? Planning a romantic getaway, private group trip, or getting your feet wet with your first trip of the year (or ever!?) We have got the perfect place for you! Camp on the edge of Forest Park and sleep underneath an evergreen canopy of Douglas fir and big leaf maple. We have one large forest glade with room for several tents. We book only one group at a time, so you are guaranteed the place to yourselves. We can accommodate up to 15 people, with a max of 5-6 vehicles (parking is tight). This is a hike-in only campground most suited to backpack style camping. The hike in has two short steep sections about 50 feet each. It takes 5-15 minutes depending on fitness level and load. This is not suitable for those with accessibility issues. The campground features: -Fairy lights strung among the tress to create the perfect magical ambiance -Large fire ring with seating for 7-10 and cooking grate -picnic table with seating for six - Composting latrine with a forest view (commune with nature!) -Photo worthy hammock, swinging loveseat , and sunset views - A huge clearing with multiple flat tent spots (5-7) -1/2 mile of trails with hidden surprises - A parking area suitable for car camping or van camping during the rainy season. -Only 20 minutes from downtown Portland, 15 from I5, and minutes from gas and Parking is separate from the campground! It is a brief but steep 1/4 mile hike to get to the main campground and latrine. Bring hiking shoes and pack light. It takes most people 5-15 minutes to hike up, depending on fitness level and load size . If you want to car camp, you will be next to a road and separate from the latrine and fire pit. Enjoy several short trails on the camp's property before heading to Forest Park's Wildwood Trail, which is just up the street, or check out all of the incredible natural and urban nearby attractions in Portland. We are about 20 minutes away Portland's International Rose Test Garden , The Oregon Zoo, and Pittock Mansion Or just swing lazily in a hammock under the trees and enjoy the sound of the forest coming to life. Inquire about a tour of the homestead and the chance to play with our tiny herd of goats who think they are dogs.

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Lake Labish Farm

14 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · Keizer, OR

Convenient rest area less than one mile off of I-5 near Keizer Station. Pull off the freeway, park your truck, trailer or RV and get some rest. This land is an active farming operation that has been going on, since 1850s. Make sure to catch the sunset or sunrise with an almost unobstructed view. We are located less than a two-minute drive from Keizer station for all your shopping needs including: Target, Lowes, Starbucks, In-N-Out, Chick-fil-A, McDonalds, a gas station and many more.

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The Secret Garden in Portland

4 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · Portland, OR

Welcome to "The Secret Garden" campground in Portland! Meet your hosts, Amanda and Dom along with their little helpers Hugo (4), Leo (2) and baby River. Our hidden oasis in the heart of the city invites you to escape into nature. Amidst the bustling urban landscape, our campground boasts secluded spots beneath lush fruit trees, a cozy fire pit for evening gatherings and a playground for the little adventurers. Embrace the serenity of the city's best-kept secret while enjoying the warmth of community around the campfire. Located between SE Division St and Foster Rd, the Secret Garden offers easy access to Portland's vibrant food, coffee and bar scene while also being in close proximity to Mt. Tabor with hiking trails and panoramic views of the city skyline. Welcome to your urban escape.

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Mother Tree Farm

6 sites · Lodging5 acres · Happy Valley, OR

Our mini Farm is a hidden 5 acres at the bluff of 600 Acres of Powell Butte Nature Park overlooking downtown Portland. Surprising serenity, panoramic views, ancient trees and deep connection to nature create an amazing getaway just minutes from the cities center. The farm includes your host Jesse and her family, plus an menagerie of donkey, horses, sheep dog, farm cat, kune kune pigs, ducks, chickens and wild bunnies. You may encounter a few other guests tucked in a Caravan, Yurt and Cabin also on the land. A food forest in development includes figs, blackberries, nettles, oregon grape and much more. Many sit spots abound under the fairy trees. At the bottom of our driveway you enter the incredible wilds of the Powell Butte Nature Park, home to the cities water supply. As you climb through old growth forest that used to be inhabited by the Grand Rhonde Indians, you will find the top a huge meadowlands and vistas of all three of our Mountains: Mt Hood, Mt St Helens and Mt Adams on a clear day. Your host is a full time Birth Doula, Forest Therapy Guide, Flower Essence Alchemist, Herbalist and Hobby Farmer. Ask her any Q's you like! Visit www.mothertree.farm for a virtual tour! Welcome to Mother Tree. @foresttherapypdx @rockythedonkey

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Cedar Root at Highland Butte

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Beavercreek, OR

Cedar Root Woods is hidden just outside of Portland on 20 acres of forests, trails, spring-fed pond and a wood fired sauna. Your host Brad who lives nearby in a Timberframe home built from the trees on the land. 2 tents and two RV camping areas allow plenty of private space for you or your family.

The best camping near Champoeg State Heritage Area guide

Overview

About

Strike a balance with recreational nature activities and history. On the shores of the Willamette River, you'll find buildings dating from the mid-1800s. This includes the Pioneer Mothers Log Cabin Museum and Donald Manson Barn.

There's also Oregon's oldest known store, the Historic Butteville Store. Take a guided walk or explore exhibits that describe the creation of Oregon's first government. Bicyclists, dog owners, and fishermen will all find something to do here. Breathe in river-scented air at Champoeg. Catch sight of a western bluebird slicing through the Willamette Valley sky.

Camping in the park includes full-hookup sites and electric sites with water. There's also yurts, cabins, group tent, and RV camping areas. An RV dump station, flush toilets and hot showers make your stay easier. Numerous other camping areas exist within 15 to 20 minutes of the park.

Notable campgrounds

B Loop: Open all year, offering full-hookup sites for a comfortable camping experience.
Cabins and Yurts: Cozy accommodations that blend the rustic charm of camping with modern comforts.
Group RV Site: Perfect for gatherings, complete with amenities and a meeting hall for events.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book up to 6 months in advance to secure your preferred spot, especially during peak seasons.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
Explore nearby camping options if your desired dates are not available.

When to go

The best time to visit Champoeg State Heritage Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for river activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters are quieter but can be wet, so prepare for rain.

Know before you go

Day-use parking permits are required; purchase a 1-day permit on-site or opt for an annual pass.
Check for any construction updates or closures before your visit to ensure access to all park features.
Remember, drones and metal detectors are not permitted within the park boundaries.
For a safe boating experience, always wear a life jacket and check for river obstructions in advance.
Accessibility is a priority, with several sites designed for campers with disabilities.