Portland is the type of magical place where city life meets nature. With the outdoors at your doorstep, an escape to the mountains and forests is easy. The area around Portland offers plenty of family-friendly camping experiences with excursions like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Within two hours’ distance, here are 3 of the best family-friendly places for camping near Portland, Oregon.
Beaver Campground, Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Head just over an hour northeast outside of Portland towards the old maple and sycamore trees of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Nestle yourself in this scenic forest for family-friendly camping near Portland. The campsite is located along the Wind River making for a picturesque experience and an ideal spot for water sport enthusiasts.
The campground itself has 24 campsites for tents or RVs with swing sets, activity fields, picnic tables, and fire pits. You’ll also find vault toilets and water fountains on site.
If you are looking for beautiful forests, fishing, or river kayaking, Beaver Campground is a fantastic camping spot in Oregon for the whole family.
More info: Beaver Campground
Trillium Lake Campground, Mount Hood
As one of Oregon’s most stunning landscapes, Mount Hood offers excellent places for camping near Portland. At the base of Mount Hood alongside Trillium Lake, you’ll find family-friendly camping plus a great spot for hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing. The Trillium Lake Campground offers a little something for every type of camper.
The campground itself is in a shaded, tree-filled area with dozens of spots for tents and RVs. You will also find amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, grills, vault toilets, and water. Let’s not forget you’ll be able to enjoy views of the nearby Mount Hood, a potentially active stratovolcano.
The Trillium Lake Campground is also conveniently located just an hour and half outside of the city. It’s a wonderful camping spot near Portland, Oregon.
More info: Trillium Lake Campground
Beacon Rock State Park
Explore hiking trails and waterfalls with this family-friendly camping spot near Portland. Head to the Oregon and Washington border where you’ll find beautiful views of Beacon Rock. With safe hiking trails protected by metal railing and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, this area is a great nature spot for families.
Located just an hour outside of the city, Beacon Rock itself is the heart of an ancient volcano, making it well worth a visit. The area is also popular for rock climbing, waterfalls, and its impressive viewpoints.
As for the campground, it is older, settled in a forested area of the park and offers 28 standard campsites. Nearby there is a smaller area for RVs. You’ll also find basic amenities like picnic tables, and there are also two sheltered picnic areas with water and electricity.
More info: Beacon Rock State Park
There are plenty of amazing places for camping near Portland, Oregon! Spots book up quickly, so it’s never too early to start planning your trip. Reacquaint yourself with nature and enjoy the beauty of this scenic part of the world.
