6 Hidden Camping Spots Within Two Hours of Portland, Oregon for Your Next Outdoor Escape

If you’re looking to escape the city without spending hours on the road, camping near Portland offers plenty of options. The area around the city is packed with beautiful natural spots that many people don’t know about, perfect for those who want a bit more quiet and privacy.

You can find several hidden camping spots within a two-hour drive that give you a chance to enjoy the outdoors without the crowds. Whether you prefer forested areas or lakeside views, there’s something close by that fits the bill for a quick weekend getaway or a peaceful night under the stars.

Government Island State Recreation Area

If you’re into camping that’s a bit off the beaten path, Government Island is a solid choice. You’ll need a boat to get there since it’s made up of a few islands in the Columbia River. Once you arrive, you can camp almost anywhere along the shoreline, as there aren’t any designated campsites, giving you a more natural feel.

The island’s shoreline is lined with picnic tables and barbecue grills, so you can enjoy a meal with a view. The floating docks make it easy to tie up your boat. Inside the island, there are protected natural spots you can only reach with a permit. It’s great if you want to explore some quieter, preserved areas.

You’ll find a variety of wildlife around the freshwater wetlands. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and even salmon swimming in the river. Lemon and McGuire Islands are nearby if you want to paddle around or stretch your legs. Just be prepared for a bit of nature with minimal facilities.

Rating: 4.5 (233 reviews)
Location: Government Island State Recreation Area
Contact: (800) 551-6949
Website: Visit Website

Barton Park

When you visit Barton Park, you’ll find a peaceful spot right on the Clackamas River. It’s a great place to camp with over 100 campsites, many of which come with water and electric hookups. There’s a variety of camping options, including primitive sites, a bunkhouse, and even spots for hammocks if you want something different.

The park offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. You can hike along 1.5 miles of trails, fish in the river, or hit the softball and volleyball courts. If you’re into river activities, there’s a boat ramp, and you can float down the Clackamas with rentals and info nearby.

For day use, there are picnic areas, some with shelters you can reserve, along with horseshoe pits that are first come, first served. Parking requires a small fee, but it’s worth it for the easy access to all the amenities and the beautiful river views.

If you plan to camp, keep in mind there’s a nightly fee with different rates for Oregon residents and visitors. You can call ahead to reserve a spot or check on things like the entrance line with a live webcam.

Rating: 4.2 (640 reviews)
Location: 19009 SE Barton Park Rd, Boring, OR 97009
Contact: (503) 742-4414
Website: Visit Website

Oxbow Regional Park

If you want a quiet spot to camp not far from Portland, Oxbow Regional Park is a solid choice. The park sits along the Sandy River, surrounded by old-growth woods that make for peaceful hikes. You can explore about 12 miles of trails, which vary from easy riverside walks to more forested routes.

When you’re here, the campsites feel tucked away from the busier parts of town. It’s a great place to relax, listen to the river, and enjoy some downtime in nature. The park has a simple welcome center with seasonal hours if you need any info or supplies.

Keep in mind the park office closes on some holidays and has midday breaks. Planning around that can save you a trip. Also, if you visit on certain days through the year, parking at Oxbow is free, which is always a nice perk.

Rating: 4.6 (1621 reviews)
Location: 3010 SE Oxbow Pkwy, Gresham, OR 97080
Contact: (503) 663-4708
Website: Visit Website

Barton Campground

When you arrive at Barton Campground, you’ll find it nestled along the Clackamas River. It’s a great spot if you enjoy river activities like fishing or floating. The setting gives you that peaceful feeling without being too far from the city.

The campground offers over 100 sites with water and electric hookups, plus some primitive spots if you prefer to keep it simple. You can also reserve group sites or a bunkhouse if you’re traveling with a crew. It feels spacious, and the campground has some neat extras like horseshoe pits and volleyball courts.

There are a few hiking trails nearby, perfect for a short stroll or a quick morning walk. The park stays open with convenient hours through most of the year, which means you have a lot of flexibility for planning your trip. You’ll also find picnic shelters and a softball field for day use if you want to hang out without camping overnight.

Parking costs a small fee, especially if you’re towing a boat. It’s also handy that there’s a boat ramp right in the park for easy river access. If you’re looking for a casual mix of camping and river fun, Barton is worth checking out.

Rating: 3.9 (168 reviews)
Location: 19093-19299 SE Barton Park Rd, Boring, OR 97009
Contact: (503) 742-4414
Website: Visit Website

Milo Mclver State Park Campground

If you’re looking for a spot to camp that’s just a short drive from Portland, Milo McIver State Park is a solid choice. The campground sits right along the Clackamas River, giving you easy access for kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water.

The campground offers a mix of sites, including electrical hookups and tent-only areas. You’ll find hot showers, flush toilets, and even an RV dump station. If you’re bringing a group or biking through, there are special sites with water and fire rings to accommodate you.

When you want to get out and explore, you can hike or ride horses on miles of trails. The disc golf course there is a nice bonus, especially if you want a fun way to spend an afternoon. Rentals for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available nearby, making it easy to get out on the river even if you don’t have your own gear.

Rating: 4.5 (47 reviews)
Location: 7JWW+R5, Estacada, OR 97023
Contact: (800) 551-6949
Website: Visit Website

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park

If you’re looking to escape the city without going too far, this park has a lot to offer. You’ll find miles of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The landscape is mostly forested hills with a mix of open areas and shady woods, making it an easy spot to lose track of time.

Camping here is varied. You can choose from basic tent sites, full-hookup RV spots, rustic cabins, and even hike-in campsites for a more isolated experience. The cabins come with heat and electricity, so there’s some comfort if you want it.

There’s a family-friendly vibe with picnic areas, a playground, and day-use spots with scenic views. If you’re into disc golf, there are two courses nearby, including one that’s beginner-friendly. Dogs can run off-leash in a designated area, which makes it great if you’ve got a furry friend.

You’ll also find a small visitor center with helpful information about the park’s history and nature. The park connects to the Banks-Vernonia Trail, extending your adventure options.

Rating: 4.7 (1728 reviews)
Location: L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, Buxton, OR
Contact: (800) 551-6949
Website: Visit Website

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