Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping Spots in Oregon

Embark on a journey through Oregon’s natural wonders with our Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping Spots in the state. From the rugged coastline to the towering mountains, verdant forests, and serene deserts, Oregon offers a diverse array of camping options to suit every adventurer’s taste. 

In this guide, we’ll delve into the importance of choosing the perfect camping spot to create lasting memories amidst nature’s embrace. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a novice camper, selecting the right location can truly elevate your experience from ordinary to extraordinary. 

Our goal is to showcase the top camping destinations across Oregon, providing valuable insights and inspiration for planning your next outdoor adventure. Join us as we explore the finest camping gems that Oregon has to offer, each promising a unique and unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Poplar Camping Spots Near Cities

If you aren’t looking to venture too far here’s a few of the top camping spots near a few major cities in Oregon:

Camping Spots Near Salem

• Detroit Lake State Park – Located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Salem, offering camping near the lake with fishing and boating opportunities.
• Silver Falls State Park – Located about 1.5 hours from Portland, Silver Falls State Park is known for its stunning waterfalls and offers tent and RV camping. The park also has hiking trails that lead to several of the waterfalls.

Camping Spots Near Eugene

• Richardson Park Campground –  Located about 30 minutes from Eugene, offering camping near Fern Ridge Reservoir with boating and fishing.
• Armitage Park Campground – Located just outside Eugene, Armitage Park offers tent and RV camping along the McKenzie River. The park also has hiking trails and river access for fishing and kayaking.
• McKenzie Bridge Campground: Located about 1 hour from Eugene, McKenzie Bridge Campground offers camping along the McKenzie River. The campground has tent and RV sites, as well as access to hiking trails and hot springs.

Camping Spots Near Bend

• Tumalo State Park – Located about 20 minutes from Bend, offers camping along the Deschutes River with hiking and fishing.
• Smith Rock State Park –  Located about 45 minutes north of Bend, Smith Rock State Park offers tent and RV camping with stunning views of the Crooked River and rock formations. The park is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.

Camping Spots Near Portland

• Beacon Rock State Park – Located about 45 minutes from Portland, offering camping along the Columbia River Gorge with hiking and views of Beacon Rock.
• Viento State Park Located about 45 minutes from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers several campgrounds such as Viento State Park along the river with tent and RV sites. The area is also popular for hiking, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

Popular Coastal Camping Spots in Oregon

Oregon’s coastline beckons with its rugged beauty and serene shores, offering a plethora of camping opportunities for those seeking to embrace the tranquility of the ocean. With its stunning views and diverse ecosystems, the Oregon coast provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable camping experiences.

Cape Lookout State Park

Perched on a scenic promontory near Tillamook, Cape Lookout State Park offers campers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Its miles of sandy beachfront, rugged cliffs, and lush forests beckon adventurers to explore and unwind amidst nature’s splendor.

Cape Lookout State Park is a popular spot for camping, with both tent and RV sites available. The park has a campground with over 200 campsites, as well as yurts and cabins for rent. It also offers a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Cape Trail that winds along the coastline and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Campers can also enjoy beach access, picnic areas, and hot showers within the park.

Nehalem Bay State Park

Camping at Nehalem Bay State Park is a delightful experience, offering a mix of coastal charm and natural beauty. Located on the Oregon coast near the town of Manzanita, Nehalem Bay State Park features stunning views of the bay, sandy beaches, and the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain.

Nehalem Bay State Park offers a unique camping experience on a sand spit between Nehalem Bay and the Pacific Ocean. With beach access for activities like beachcombing and kite flying, the park also features diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer, elk, and migratory birds. 

The park’s horse trails provide a special equestrian experience, and fishing and crabbing are popular in Nehalem Bay. Visitors can choose from traditional tent camping, yurts, or RV sites, and enjoy hiking and biking trails through coastal forests. The park’s visitor center provides educational programs and exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems, making Nehalem Bay State Park a memorable destination for camping.

Harris Beach State Park

Harris Beach State Park is a coastal gem located in southern Oregon, near the town of Brookings. Known for its stunning coastal views, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches, the park offers a range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s scenic trails, including the Harris Beach Trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and seals, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

For those looking to stay overnight, Harris Beach State Park offers a campground with tent and RV sites, as well as several yurts for rent. The campground is well-equipped with restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it a comfortable and convenient place to stay.

Popular Forest Camping Spots in Oregon

Oregon’s forests are renowned for their dense canopy of towering trees, including Douglas firs, Western hemlocks, and redwoods. These forests provide a cool, shaded environment perfect for camping, hiking, and exploring. Some of the most notable national forests in Oregon include the Umpqua National Forest, Deschutes National Forest, and Siuslaw National Forest.

Umpqua National Forest

Located in southwestern Oregon, Umpqua National Forest is known for its stunning waterfalls, pristine rivers, and lush forests. Popular camping areas in Umpqua National Forest include the Diamond Lake Campground and the Toketee Lake Campground. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this beautiful forest.

Diamond Lake Campground

Diamond Lake Campground is located in the Umpqua National Forest in southern Oregon, near the town of Diamond Lake. The campground is situated along the shores of Diamond Lake, a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

One of the main attractions of Diamond Lake Campground is its stunning views of Mount Thielsen and Mount Bailey, two prominent peaks in the Cascade Range. The campground is also conveniently located near the Crater Lake National Park entrance, making it a popular base camp for visitors exploring the area.

Facilities at Diamond Lake Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and a dump station. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Toketee Lake Campground

Located near the North Umpqua River, this campground offers RV and tent sites in a wooded setting. One of the highlights of Toketee Lake Campground is its proximity to Toketee Lake, a picturesque reservoir known for its clear waters and scenic beauty. The lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Nearby attractions include the stunning Toketee Falls, which can be reached via a short hike from the campground. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall.

Facilities at Toketee Lake Campground include vault toilets and potable water. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. There are no hookups for RVs, but the campground can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length. Reservations are not accepted at Toketee Lake Campground, so campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mazama Campground

Mazama Campground is located in Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon. It is the park’s largest campground and is situated in a wooded area at an elevation of about 6,000 feet. The campground is open seasonally, typically from June to early October, and offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and 214 sites each with a bear-resistant food locker.

Facilities at Mazama Campground include restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. There are no hookups for RVs, but there is a dump station nearby. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground fills up quickly.

Deschutes National Forest

Situated in central Oregon, Deschutes National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest offers a wide range of camping options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry campsites. Popular attractions in Deschutes National Forest include the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, and the Deschutes River.

Paulina Lake Campground

Paulina Lake Campground is located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument within the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon. It is situated on the shores of Paulina Lake, a stunningly beautiful alpine lake known for its clear waters, picturesque surroundings, and hot springs. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

The campground provides easy access to the lake, where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. Hiking trails in the area offer opportunities for exploring the surrounding forests and volcanic landscapes.

Facilities at Paulina Lake Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and a boat ramp. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Lava Lake Campground

Lava Lake Campground is located in the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon, near the town of Sunriver. Situated along the shores of Lava Lake, the campground offers a beautiful setting surrounded by pine forests and stunning mountain views. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent camping sites.

Lava Lake Campground is popular among campers looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway. The lake is known for its clear waters and excellent fishing, with rainbow trout being a common catch.

Facilities at Lava Lake Campground include vault toilets and potable water. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. There are no electric hookups for RVs, and the campground does not have a dump station. Reservations are not accepted at Lava Lake Campground, so campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Crescent Lake Campground

Crescent Lake Campground is also located in the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon, near the town of Crescent Lake Junction. The campground is situated along the shores of Crescent Lake, a picturesque alpine lake known for its clear waters and stunning mountain views. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

Facilities at Crescent Lake Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and a boat ramp. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Crane Prairie Reservoir Campground

Crane Prairie Reservoir Campground is located in the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon, near the town of La Pine. Situated along the shores of Crane Prairie Reservoir, the campground offers a scenic setting surrounded by pine forests and wetlands. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

Crane Prairie Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for trout and bass but the reservoir is also popular for boating, kayaking, and birdwatching. It also offers a view of South Sister and Mt. Bachelor at the campground and along several Sister’s hikes.

Facilities at Crane Prairie Reservoir Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and a boat ramp. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Siuslaw National Forest

Located along the Oregon coast, Siuslaw National Forest is known for its stunning coastal landscapes and lush forests. Camping options in Siuslaw National Forest include the Cape Perpetua Campground and the Sand Lake Recreation Area. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in this picturesque forest.

Cape Perpetua Campground

Cape Perpetua Campground is located in the Siuslaw National Forest on the central Oregon coast, near the town of Yachats. The campground is situated within the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, which is known for its stunning coastal landscapes. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

This is a very great place to camp during whale migrations. The campground is located near several hiking trails, including the popular Captain Cook Trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline. The area is also popular for whale watching, with gray whales visible from the shore during their migration seasons.

Facilities at Cape Perpetua Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. There are no electric hookups for RVs, and the campground does not have a dump station. Firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Reservations are not accepted at Cape Perpetua Campground, so campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Sand Lake Recreation Area

This area offers RV and tent camping near the sand dunes and the beach. Campers can enjoy off-road vehicle riding in dune buggies or ATVs, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.

Popular Mountain Camping Spots in Oregon

Oregon is home to several mountain ranges, including the Cascade Range, the Wallowa Mountains, and the Coast Range. These ranges offer a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and wildlife viewing.

Mt. Hood National Forest

Located just east of Portland, Mt. Hood National Forest is a popular destination for hikers and campers. The forest offers several campgrounds, including the popular Trillium Lake Campground and Mirror Lake, which offers stunning views of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake.

Trillium Lake Campground

Trillium Lake Campground is located in the Mount Hood National Forest in northern Oregon, near the town of Government Camp. The campground is situated along the shores of Trillium Lake, a picturesque alpine lake known for its clear waters and stunning views of Mount Hood. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and offers tent and RV camping sites.

Facilities at Trillium Lake Campground include vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Lost Creek & Timothy Lake Campgrounds

Mt. Hood National Forest has several other campgrounds, such as the Lost Creek Campground and the Timothy Lake Campground, which offer a range of camping experiences from secluded spots to more developed areas.

Facilities at both campgrounds include vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campgrounds. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campgrounds can fill up quickly.

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Located in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is known for its rugged beauty and stunning mountain vistas. The forest offers several campgrounds, including the Wallowa Lake Campground, which offers access to the beautiful Wallowa Lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in this picturesque forest.

Wallowa Lake Campground

Wallowa Lake Campground is located in Wallowa Lake State Park near Joseph, Oregon. It sits at the southern end of Wallowa Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding Wallowa Mountains. The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall and provides tent and RV camping sites.

Beyond the natural beauty of the Wallowas or Eagle Cap Wilderness, the lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, while the surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking and wildlife viewing. The nearby town of Joseph is also known for its art galleries, shops, and restaurants, providing additional entertainment options for campers.

Facilities at Wallowa Lake Campground include flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground. Some sites have electric hookups for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.

Other Nearby Campgrounds

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest has several other campgrounds, such as the Minam State Recreation Area and the Grande Ronde Campground, which offer a range of camping experiences and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Willamette National Forest

Located in western Oregon, the Willamette National Forest is home to the stunning Cascade Mountains and the iconic Three Sisters peaks. The forest offers several campgrounds, including the popular McKenzie Bridge Campground, which offers access to the beautiful McKenzie River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and scenic drives in this breathtaking forest.

McKenzie Bridge Campground

This campground offers RV and tent sites along the scenic McKenzie River. The campground is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and exploring the nearby hot springs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.

Other Campgrounds

Willamette National Forest has several other campgrounds, such as the Cold Water Cove Campground and the Paradise Campground, which offer a range of camping experiences and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.

Desert Camping Spots in Oregon

Oregon’s desert regions are characterized by vast expanses of sagebrush, rugged canyons, and unique geological formations. These areas are home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, bighorn sheep, and sage grouse. Oregon’s deserts also feature several hot springs, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

Alvord Desert Campsites

Located in southeastern Oregon, the Alvord Desert is a vast, dry lake bed surrounded by the Steens Mountain range. Camping in the Alvord Desert offers a unique opportunity to experience the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Visitors can camp directly on the playa and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

There are no designated campsites on the Alvord Desert playa itself, but dispersed camping is allowed. Visitors can camp anywhere on the playa as long as they follow Leave No Trace principles. There are also primitive campsites available near the Alvord Hot Springs.

Leslie Gulch Campsites

Located in eastern Oregon, Leslie Gulch is a remote and rugged canyon known for its striking rock formations and vibrant wildflowers. Camping in Leslie Gulch offers a chance to explore this unique landscape and witness the stunning colors of the canyon walls at sunrise and sunset.

Slocum Creek Campground

The Slocum Creek Campground is located within the Leslie Gulch area and offers primitive camping with basic amenities such as vault toilets and picnic tables. There are also dispersed camping options along the road leading into Leslie Gulch.

Bend and the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Campsites

Located just east of Bend, Oregon, the Oregon Badlands Wilderness is a pristine desert wilderness area known for its ancient juniper trees and rugged terrain. Camping in the Oregon Badlands Wilderness offers a chance to experience true solitude and witness the beauty of the high desert landscape.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is located in central Oregon, near the town of Terrebonne. It is known for its stunning rock formations, including the famous Smith Rock itself, which rises 550 feet above the Crooked River. The park is a popular destination for rock climbing, with over 1,800 climbing routes available.

In addition to rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park offers a variety of hiking trails that provide stunning views of the rock formations and the surrounding landscape. The Misery Ridge Trail is a popular hike that offers panoramic views of the park and the Cascade Mountains.

The park also offers camping facilities, with tent sites and RV sites available. The campground is open year-round and offers amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer months.

The Flatiron Rock Campground

The Flatiron Rock Campground is located within the Oregon Badlands Wilderness and offers primitive camping with basic amenities such as vault toilets and picnic tables. There are also dispersed camping options available throughout the wilderness area.

Desert camping offers a unique set of experiences and challenges. The extreme temperatures and lack of water and shade can make camping in the desert challenging, especially during the hot summer months. However, with proper planning and preparation, desert camping can be a rewarding experience, offering unparalleled opportunities for stargazing, wildlife viewing, and solitude in some of Oregon’s most remote and beautiful landscapes.

Fort Rock State Park

Fort Rock State Park is a fascinating destination located in central Oregon near Bend and known for its unique geological formation and rich history. The park is centered around Fort Rock, a striking volcanic tuff ring that rises abruptly from the surrounding desert landscape. This natural formation is thought to be around 50,000 years old and was created by volcanic activity.

Fort Rock State Park has a campground with tent sites and RV sites, as well as yurts for rent. The campground offers basic amenities such as restrooms and potable water.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Camping Trip in Oregon

Essential Items to Pack for Any Camping Excursion

• Tent and sleeping bags: Ensure they are suitable for the weather conditions.
• Cooking equipment: Portable stove, utensils, and cookware.
• Food and water: Pack non-perishable items and plenty of water.
• Clothing: Bring layers for changing weather conditions.
• Lighting: Flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns.
• First aid kit: Include essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and insect repellent.
• Navigation tools: Maps, compass, or GPS device.
• Personal items: Toiletries, medications, and sunscreen.
• Emergency supplies: Whistle, signal mirror, and emergency blanket.

Safety tips for camping in various environments

When camping in various environments, safety should be a top priority. Check the weather forecast before departing and inform someone of your plans and expected return date. Be aware of local wildlife and follow guidelines for food storage to avoid encounters. 

Practice fire safety and adhere to any fire restrictions in place. Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and know basic first aid to handle emergencies. Finally, respect nature and leave no trace of your visit by following Leave-No-Trace principles.

Resources for campground reservations and permits

For campground reservations and permits, resources are available to help plan your trip. Oregon State Parks allow you to reserve campsites online or by phone. For national forests, check the U.S. Forest Service website for campground information and permits. Some Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands require permits for camping, so check their website for details. Private campgrounds in Oregon also offer online reservations for convenience.

Leave-No-Trace Principles for Eco-Friendly Camping

Following Leave-No-Trace principles ensures eco-friendly camping. Plan ahead and prepare by knowing the regulations and preparing for your trip. Travel and camp on durable surfaces like designated campsites and trails. Dispose of waste properly by packing out all trash and minimizing campfire impacts by using established fire rings and keeping fires small. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and not feeding animals. Finally, be considerate of other visitors by keeping noise levels down and respecting their privacy.

Additional Resources and References

• Oregon State Parks: https://oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
• U.S. Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/centraloregon/home
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM): https://www.blm.gov/oregon-washington/recreation

Faqs About Camping in Oregon