Best campgrounds within a 2-hour drive of Portland
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Steps from the Sand Lake Estuary at Whalen Island. Photo: Meira Gebel/Axios
Camping may be a year-round hobby for some hardcore Portlanders, but summertime is probably preferable for the rest of us.
Why it matters: Oregon is home to over 250 state parks, meaning access to the great outdoors is easier here than nearly anywhere else. But not all campgrounds are made equal.
So we put together a list of some top-rated campgrounds within a two-hour drive of Portland. You're welcome.
Whalen Island County Campground
Nestled between Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda, Whalen Island is a quaint coastal getaway perfect for birdwatching or simply taking in serene sunsets across the water.
Location: Tillamook
Features: This rustic island has access to kayaking along the Sand Lake Estuary, a 1.4-mile loop trail with panoramic ocean views, and over 30 tent sites. Sorry, no water or electricity hookups.
Driving time: One hour and 45 minutes
Cost: $22 per night
L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
Less than 34 miles west of downtown, this hillside retreat is often referred to as "Portland's backyard." You'll feel like you're in the depths of the forest while still being close to home.
Location: Buxton
Features: 1,600-acre park with over 30 miles of trails, two disc-golf courses, paved and mountain biking trails throughout, playground, campsites, 78 RV hookups and hot showers.
Driving time: 37 minutes
Cost: $23 per night
Devils Lake State Recreation Area
Perfect for paddlers, fishers and boaters, this campground is far enough away from the coast not to be affected by its harsh winds but still close enough to grab some fried fish from Kyllo’s.
Location: Lincoln City
Features: Nearly 700 acres of water filled with all kinds of fish, including trout, bass and black crappie, as well as 54 tent sites, 10 yurts and boat docking.
Driving time: Two hours
Cost: $23 per night
Trillium Lake Campground
With sweeping views of Mount Hood, it's no wonder this site, sitting at 3,600 feet, is so popular among Oregonians.
Location: Government Camp
Features: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, numerous hiking and biking trails (including the 2-mile loop around the lake) and 57 tent sites.
Driving time: One hour and 30 minutes
Cost: $34 per night on average during summer