For the unfamiliar, Battle Ground is a small city in Clark County located north of Vancouver and accessible off the I5. It’s one of vibrant, and growing, community of small towns and farms in the area. Here are some of our favorite places in the area.

Battle Ground Lake

Located just outside of town, Battle Ground Lake State Park offers swimming, picnics and camping. There’s a sandy beach, hiking trails, picnic areas, and plentiful bathroom access. Grab your favorite floatie and stake a spot in the sand. You can grab a walk-in tent spot for as low as $12, or simply park and swim with a Discover Pass. RV and drive-in camping spaces are available online, too (and include a parking spot). Day trip parking passes may be purchased online or onsite for $10/day or $30/year, but be aware–parking fills up FAST in the summer. Go early.

Pro tip: If considering an annual pass, purchase prior to October 1st when fees jump from $30 to $45. You can still use it all year and it will work at many different Washington state attractions, such as hiking at Beacon Rock in the Gorge.

Daybreak Regional Park

If you love running water and easy wading, then Daybreak Regional Park is for you. It’s the perfect spot to grab a picnic in the shade by the playground, or skip rocks into the clear water of the Lewis River. This 77-acre park is located along the east fork of the river with walking access to the water across sand and river rock. Frequently popular as a boat ramp, the ramp is closed until October 2025 allowing for ample parking and smaller crowds (at least when we visited).

U-Pick Blueberries

There are multiple blueberry farms in the Battle Ground area. Pro tip: Check each farm’s website before you go for current berry availability. Closer to town is Indigo Acres Blueberry Farm in Battle Ground, noticeable with its the big powder blue metal barn en route. Majestic Farms Blueberries is in the nearby neighborhood of Brush Prarie, with both u-pick and pre-picked. They provide buckets and bags and advertise as family-friendly with parking and basic amenities. Keep your eye out for additional pop ups, as many smaller farms advertise fresh berries via roadside signs, rather than online.

Pro tip: Plan a route and consider visiting multiple Southwest Washington farmstands.

Food Truck Fanatics

Food carts aren’t just for Portland! Battle Ground has its own food cart pod downtown called simply, Battle Ground Station that includes more than half a dozen trucks and a couple pop-ups across the street. We ate at lunchtime and got the daily special nachos from The Pit for $9 and grabbed a churro for $3 from further down the lot. We couldn’t find full listings of all the food trucks and hours, but when we visited, we saw food carts selling tacos, brunch, smash burgers, boba, BBQ, Southern/Creole and snow cones. 

Across the street in either direction, you’ll find two of the most popular dirty soda spots in the greater Portland area, Thirst Trap and Over Ice. Both locations are in walking distance of the food truck pod.

Pro tip: In addition to Southern fried savory favorites, Krisey’s Kitchen features deep fried oreos as a treat.

Bonus Stop

Technically in Brush Prairie, and not in Battle Ground, we couldn’t resist adding Alderbrook Park to our list. Head to the Friday Night Cruise In at Alderbrook Park to spy classic cars — and romp through oodles of kid-friendly activities that are all included with admission.

Here’s what we did instead:

We camped at Diamond Lake Campground, which made the perfect home base for:

• A full day at Crater Lake
• A morning at Umpqua Hot Springs
• An afternoon paddleboarding Diamond Lake

We brought our own food, snacks, and coffee from home, so once we were there, it was basically just adventure and views. Here’s the breakdown of costs:

• Camping at Diamond Lake (3 nights): $56
• Crater Lake entrance fee (1 car, 7-day pass): $30
• Gas from Portland → Diamond Lake → Umpqua → Crater → Portland: About $100
• One tiny splurge: Ruby Jewel ice cream sandwiches at Rim Village: Worth it.

Total: Around $186 + food you already have at home = an epic national park trip for under $200.

Diamond Lake: Best Budget Basecamp

We booked campsite L4, and I would absolutely stay there again. It had:

• A lake view
• Trees spaced perfectly for two hammocks
• Water access if you’re okay with a little scramble

And best of all? Top-tier campsite bathrooms. I’m talking warm, clean, with real showers and even a changing table. Best campsite bathrooms I’ve ever seen.

Yes, we heard all the bug horror stories. And yes, they were out. We came armed with Zyrtec, bug spray, and repellent—and still got bitten. But honestly? Totally worth it. The lake has non-motorized sections, and was peaceful and perfect for paddleboarding to the center for that two-mountain view.

Crater Lake: Not Just a Pretty Postcard

I went in thinking, “I’ve seen lakes. I’ve seen mountains. It’ll be nice.”
It is not nice. It is magnificent.

We arrived the day after a landslide closed Cleetwood Cove Trail (the only way down to the water), so instead we drove up to Watchman Peak Trailhead. Pro tip: you get a great view even from the parking lot. We attempted the trail, but I bailed about twenty snowy, slippery steps in. My husband and daughter made it to the top and waved from the observation station like the brave little mountain goats they are.

Then we hiked the Discovery Point Trail (flat and kid-friendly, with gorgeous views throughout!) to Rim Village. It’s not much of a “village,” more like:

• A lodge
• A visitor center
• A cafeteria/gift shop combo

BUT they had Ruby Jewel ice cream sandwiches, so we were happy.

Note: This is the last summer (2025) you can swim in Crater Lake before the Cleetwood Cove Trail closes for years of restoration. It’s freezing, and wetsuits aren’t allowed—but I was still sad to miss that last chance to touch the crystal clear water. The rockslide debris has been cleared since our trip, according to Alltrails, so don’t skip it this summer!

Umpqua Hot Springs: An Absolute Dream

This is a bucket list stop that you absolutely must add to your Crater Lake trip. The Oregonian posted on social media about “disturbing challenges,” at the hot springs just before our trip so I was a little nervous—but it ended up being peaceful, beautiful, and honestly magical.

Yes, it’s clothing optional. But almost everyone wore swimsuits, and it felt totally safe.

• The upper pools are the hottest.
• It cools down as you go lower.
• It’s very slippery—wear hiking shoes.
• The short hike is steep but manageable with the right shoes.
• The tiny parking lot means it never gets too crowded.
• We even saw preschoolers, so it’s doable with kids if you feel comfortable managing the steep slope with them.

TL;DR — What You Need to Know

Budget Highlights:

• $186 total for three days of epic views
• Bring your own food to save
• Camp at Diamond Lake for best location + bathrooms
• Don’t skip Umpqua Hot Springs
• See Crater Lake without breaking the bank

Would we do it again?
Absolutely. But we’ll aim for August next time, and I’m already planning to book L4 again. And maybe — just maybe —next time I’ll make it up Watchman Peak.

Step 1: Download the Recreation.gov App (but don’t use it to search!)

The app is great for booking, but the search function? Not so much. Instead, look for recommendations on social media, check out our recommendations, or ask your friends. Once you have a list of campgrounds you love, plug them into the app and add them to your favorites. Not every campground is on Recreation.gov, so if you can’t find your dream spot listed, don’t stress. There are plenty of great options.

Step 2: Search smart.

After downloading the Recreation.gov app, there are two ways to find an available site:

1. Enter your dates and see what’s available.
2. Use the map to find a site with great views or water access, then check availability and book accordingly.

Pro tip: It’s hard to tell from a map how close a site is to the water or if it has the best views. That’s why we always try to list the best sites when we review campgrounds.

Step 3: Set up alerts for competitive sites.

If you’re eyeing a high-demand spot like Trillium Lake, set up an alert. The app will notify you when a site becomes available. When that happens, don’t think, don’t pass go, don’t collect $200—just book it! The alert system actually works (I’ve tried it and scored a competitive spot at Cougar Rock!), but sites disappear fast if you hesitate.

Step 4: Be flexible.

New to camping? Just choose a less competitive site. You live in the Pacific Northwest—it’s beautiful everywhere.

Step 5: Book six months in advance.

Campsites open for booking six months ahead, which can be frustrating if you just want to get it done. But right now, you can book through mid-August—so we’re almost at the finish line!

Reading this post mid-summer? It’s not too late!

Not a planner? No problem! Many campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites. I’ve done this with kids and had zero trouble finding a spot. So if booking in advance feels overwhelming, don’t worry—there will still be campsites available when you’re ready to go, as long as you’re willing to arrive early.

Good luck, and happy camping! Here’s to your best summer yet.

Looking for more memory-making opportunities? Check out our Ultimate Portland Bucket List: 101 Things to Do with Kids.

Looking for proof? Adam’s Fork Campground is just one of many campgrounds with sites that are easy to snag and absolutely lovely.

What’s the best site at Adam’s Fork Campground?

It feels impossible to tell on a map which sites have a view and which are on the water, and I don’t gate-keep, so I’ll tell you the best spot — it’s site 21, which has river access, and it’s where we stayed on a recent trip. As of this writing, Site 21 has plenty of availability in June and July!

Site 23 would also be a great spot. The rest of the sites didn’t seem to have river access, but the entire campground is located in a lush forest — Gifford Pinchot National Forest — so you can’t go wrong.

Adam’s Fork does not provide hook-ups for water or electricity, but drinking water, fire rings, and vault toilets are provided. Keep in mind that there will likely be fire bans late in the summer.

How private are the sites?

This varies significantly by site. At 21 there were no natural barriers between campsites; that said, we were so far from our neighbors (the site is very large) that it felt like we had plenty of privacy.

What’s not to love?

There is nothing to do here. If you like adventure camping, this may not be your jam, but if you want to listen to an audiobook by the river or maybe play baseball with a stick and fir cone, this spot is perfect for it.

How do I book?

You may book a campsite at Adam’s Fork Campground on this website, or download the recreation.gov app and book it there. I prefer the app, as it keeps all my favorite sites saved, and my reservations can be found in one place.

Book today with no anxiety, and turn off all your alarms.

Looking for more campground recommendations? We’ve got plenty!

Without fail, whenever I share a special spot like this, I inevitably get a “Shhh!” from locals. I understand the impulse, but since sharing fun outings is sort of our thing at PDX Parent, we’ll just have to learn to embrace (or at least accept) the situation. If it helps, there are roughly a bajillion incredible campsites in Oregon; this is just one of them.

Why Nottingham Campground is a Quiet Sanctuary

Imagine a campsite where the roar of the river is so loud that you can’t hear the obnoxious generator at the site next door. This was literally the case when we snagged a first-come-first-served campsite at Nottingham this month. The only negative? I kept yelping when my daughter accidentally snuck up on me because I couldn’t hear her footsteps over the roar of Hood River.

What to Do at Nottingham Campground

Mostly, this is a campground for relaxing. The river moves too quickly for swimming, though sites 13, 15, and others have water access. We asked a park ranger if we could walk to Tamanawas Falls Trailhead for a waterfall hike, and he told us sure, we could cross the river by walking across a fallen tree at site 21. We decided to drive.

Any Negatives?

As much as I love this place, it’s not for everyone. The restrooms are well maintained, but they have vault toilets. There’s no water available; you have to bring enough with you. There are no RV hook ups, either, and when we were there, no camp host. There’s no cellular service, which fits the meditative vibe, but isn’t ideal if you have an ill relative or booked a sitter for the weekend. Perhaps most significantly, there’s nothing to “do” — you can’t even walk anywhere, unless you want to risk life and limb (see aforementioned river crossing suggestion). Because of this, active adventurers could find the campsite boring. Go here for rest, not recreation.

Which Sites are Best at Nottingham Campground

Getting a riverfront site is a must. Since it’s late in the year, the reserved sites are mostly booked. Sites 1-5 and 12-14 are first-come-first-served sites, but only 13 and 14 are on the water. On our most recent trip, we lucked out and got site 13, the best of the FF sites. All of the sites on the water are large, but 13 has an incredible view and water access.

As for reserved sites, we noticed that 21 (empty that day) has incredible privacy and water access, but it’s not ideal for rooftop tent or trailer camping, as the parking spot is separated from the site by a row of trees. As of this writing there is no map of the campground available online, but I clicked each reservable site and 6-10 and 15-21 are all marked “riverfront.” I’m not sure I would trust that assessment, though, as 12 was marked “riverfront,” too, but when we were there this month, site 12 was across the road from our site and definitely not on the water. Also, site 13 isn’t listed on the website (perhaps someone is a little superstitious?), but we definitely stayed there. Hopefully the online map will be updated before next January.

How to Book

Go to Recreation.gov to book a site at Nottingham. Plug in your vacation dates, and find sites marked “A” for available. Start checking summer availability in January or February, as the best sites will be reserved months in advance.

If you’re going to try your luck with first-come-first-served sites, this is a great place to do it. There are many other campsites nearby to try if you don’t get a spot at Nottingham. If you’re new to FF camping, we’ve got tips.

Elk Lake Campground near Mount Bachelor — not to be confused with the campground of the same name in Detroit — has mountain views, calm waters, and (wait for it) an ice cream bar window at the adjacent resort. Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your camping trip.

The Best Campsites at Elk Lake Campground

If only reservation websites would tell you which campsites have a view, which have water access, and which are located just far enough away from the bathrooms. Lucky for you, I scoped out the best sites at Elk Lake Campground and the clear winners are 9, 10, and 11. On the map it looks like they’re hike-in sites, but they aren’t. Car campers rejoice! These sites are only steps away from the day use area, and they have great lake views (especially 11). If your children are young and you are concerned about water safety, it’s an easy walk to the lake from all the campsites (unlike at Lost Lake, where it’s a trek). We were in 16, and the lake still felt very close, even rolling our kayak and paddle board back and forth every day. Of the campsites farther back, 17 has the best view, but 18 and 19 are also great choices.

What to Bring to Elk Lake Campground

Beyond the typical camping necessities, I highly recommend bringing a hammock. There are so many spots perfect for one along the shore, and most campsites have great hammock trees, too.

Don’t forget funds for the ice cream window! We went daily, and it was such a treat (literally) in the hot afternoons. Scoops are $4 each, with very generous portions. Any ice cream can be made into a milkshake for $10. They also have cold brew (it was just okay), root beer floats, chai, hot chocolate, and more.

There’s a casual restaurant at the resort, but we didn’t go; all of our money was devoted to our ice cream habit. If you want to skip cooking one night, it could be a great option. There’s also a little general store in the corner of the restaurant, with propane, toothpaste, sunscreen, ice, and everything else you forgot to pack enough of.

We brought our kayak and SUP, but you don’t have to — you can rent both, plus canoes, from the resort. Prices range from $30 to $45 per hour. If you’re on the fence about renting a paddlecraft, do it! We paddled across the lake and swam alone near a tree lined shore, and it felt like we were the only people there.

Speaking of swimming alone, the water truly isn’t crowded, possibly due to the small parking lot and size of the lake. To me, at Lost Lake (which I do also love), the vibe feels like a party, and at Elk Lake, it feels like a retreat.

What’s not to love about Elk Lake Campground?

I had to try hard on this section, because I’m obsessed with this campground, but here’s why you might not love it as much as I do.

Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, though they were the vast minority. We floated in the middle of the lake for hours and only saw one motorized boat and it was far away. While relaxing on the shore, we saw one more, and that was it. There are sailboats, too, but, again, none ever came close. If your kids are inexperienced paddlers and you prefer lakes where motorized boats are banned, this site isn’t for you.

While there are trees at every campsite, most still get a lot of sun. The afternoons are very hot, and you’ll want to spend them on the lake, not relaxing at your campsite. We brought one cold drink for each day, and I wished we had brought twice as many. That said, the mornings and evenings were delightfully cool when we were there in late July.

Elk Lake Campground has vault toilets. Sigh. I hate them as a general rule, but these were cleaned daily and the air fresheners made them more bearable.

How to Book

A note about reservations: We always book campsites the second they become available (usually in January or February), but we dragged our feet this year and were still able to find a weekend day at Elk Lake Campground when we reserved in March. When I say “less competitive,” that’s what I mean — you’ll still have to plan ahead. That said, sites 6 and 7 are first come, first served all season long, and they’re only a short walk from the lake. If you’re reading this in the height of summer, you’ll likely have to try for one of the first come, first served sites. If you’re planning ahead at the beginning of the year, book here.

Elk Lake > Lost Lake, change my mind.

Looking for more campgrounds? We have suggestions.

Because of our unpredictable weather, it takes a lot of gear or an optimistic spirit to go camping in the fall or spring. But this year, I decided to rent an RV and go camping along the coast. We were motivated by the 25% Black Friday discount to book a Cruise America standard RV (that fits 5) for 3 nights. And when the forecast threatened rain, I didn’t have to cancel our plans, because we would be camping inside! Here’s my guide to RV camping:

Setting Up and Traveling in the RV

Check-in was a breeze, since we already watched Cruise America’s YouTube video on the basics of connecting the electric, sewer, and water sources from the RV. Pro tip: We brought our own kitchen gear, as well as our own bedding, and lots of card games and art supplies, instead of paying for their “bedding” or “kitchen” extras.

Some cons: Traveling in an RV was an adjustment. It was louder inside the cabin because of all the rattles and shifts in the RV. There is no back-up camera but there is cruise control and bluetooth in the RV.

The pros: My boys took out their Exploding Kittens game right away and started playing on the card table. We didn’t have to stop to find a bathroom, since it was already available to us. We didn’t have to stop for food, because we had a bunch of drinks in the fridge and all the snacks in the cupboards. It made the drive so much easier. 

Where We Camped

Stop 1: Cape Blanco State Park

Our first stop was Cape Blanco State Park south along Oregon’s coast, about four hours from Portland.

Upon our arrival, we quickly heated up a lasagna in the microwave when we got in and ate inside since the picnic table on the campsite was wet from the rain. The next morning, we pulled their bikes out from the storage compartment and the kids explored the camp. It is a gorgeous site with a trail that goes straight to the lighthouse (pictured above). 

Stop 2: Bay Point Landing

Our next stop was Bay Point Landing, a luxury RV park in Coos Bay that also rents out tiny houses and decked out Airstreams. Pro tip: Bringing our own RV was definitely the cheapest way to go, and we still had access to all their amenities—an indoor saltwater pool (pictured below), a fitness center equipped with a Peloton and treadmills, a kids den that has an old-school arcade table, and private showers and laundry facilities. The view of the bay is astounding and I imagine in the summertime, it would be fun to bring a kayak or paddle board. Still, in our spots of sun, we got to walk along the sandy beach and explore, and then make a fire for s’mores at the end of the day. It rained hard all night, rocking our RV and us to sleep. 

Stop 3: Jessie M. Honeyman State Park

Our final full day was to Jessie M. Honeyman State Park in Florence. We found a two-hour window of no rain, so we went to explore the sand dunes. Pro tip: If you stay in the H-loop, there is a trail that will lead you directly to the dunes. The tent sites nearby were covered in giant puddles. There were no tents here, only trailers and RVs. So glad we didn’t have to worry about waking up in a puddle! 

We got up early to make the three-hour drive home to return our RV at 11am. We spent $250 in gas and $400 for the rental (including miles).

It wasn’t as cheap as tent camping, but it sure was the easiest “camping” trip we’ve had! 

That said, sometimes spontaneity wins the day, and that’s especially true with camping. Normally, my husband and I start booking campsites in January and February when our calendar reminds us that it’s time, but last year all our careful planning was foiled by wildfires and unexpected guests. Summer was coming to a close and we had only camped — gasp — once. Since most campsites are booked months in advance, we had one option: first-come-first-served sites.

Why First-Come-First-Served is Better

I used to hate FCFS sites. They seemed unnecessarily stressful. What if I pack all our gear and there are no spots? Just let me book online! Here’s what changed my mind:

They’re fair.

First-come-first-served campsites are truly egalitarian. Usually planners like me get all the good stuff, and free spirits who didn’t set an alarm in January to start booking summer campgrounds — or people who have limited access to the internet — are out of luck. For FCFS sites, it only matters who arrives first.

It’s easier to pick the site with the best view.

One of the great trials of booking online is guessing which site is the best. It may look close to the water on the map, but is there access to the water? Can you even see the river or are there trees blocking the view? How much privacy does the campsite have? And most importantly, which ones have hammock trees? All of these questions and more are easy to answer when you’re actually driving through the site.

Children move faster.

I’m sure my kids aren’t the only ones who drag their feet when it’s time to get out the door. As soon as it becomes a race, though, it’s actually fun to be on time.

The weather is predictable.

In January, I have no clue if the summer weekend I’m booking will be sunny or damp, and we’ve definitely camped in a downpour as a result. With FCFS, you generally know exactly what you’re getting, weather-wise.

How to Camp at First-Come-First-Served Sites Like a Pro

If you, like me, were born an oil tanker but would like to have the flexibility of a jet ski, here are some tips that made it easier for me.

• Stay close to home. If you only drive 45 minutes, it is far less disappointing to find all the sites full than if you drive four hours.
• Make a Plan B. Have a backup campground or two in mind.
• Go as early as you can, ideally early morning. If you can’t leave until Friday after work, pack everything on Thursday so you only have to hop in the car and drive.
• Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. If you keep circling the campground looking for perfection, you could miss out altogether. Stop at the first free spot that ticks most of your boxes.
• Bring cash. You might be able to pay with card, but you don’t want a lack of cash to ruin your trip.
• Avoid crowds. Pick a cloudy weekend, or go on a weekday. Try to avoid the most popular FCFS campgrounds. Holiday weekends will be busier.
• Be willing to wait. If you arrive before checkout, stick around, and look for campers who seem to be packing up.

Why I Love Tucker Park Campground on Hood River

Our inaugural first-come-first-served experience was at Tucker Park Campground on Hood River. It’s a short drive from Portland, and the campsite is great for bikes, has cell service, flush toilets, and running water.

This campground is definitely for people looking to relax. There are not easily accessible hikes, though you can walk a short trail along the river.

We camped at Maple 64, which was the best spot in the campground as far as I could tell. We had access to the water, plenty of shade, and the all-important hammock trees.

Even though we arrived on a Friday, there were plenty of spots available. Best of all, the website for the campground offers a live status update, letting you know how full the campground is. (You better believe I checked it every ten minutes of our drive.)

If you go, be sure to stop at Apple Valley Country Store — their pear dumplings are life changing, and they’re worth the drive alone.

This summer, we’re venturing all the way up to Seattle to for a first-come-first-served campground. We’ll see if this free-spirited streak of mine holds.

Looking for more family-friendly campsites? Check out our favorites here.

Since our family likes novelty above all else, every time we camp it’s typically at a site we’ve never seen before. The past two summers have been incredibly good to us, and we’re here to share the wealth. No guesswork for you! You’ll know exactly what you’re booking, minus the weather forecast. We still haven’t figured out how to control for that.

Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck, WA

The peaceful waters at Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck, WA, are perfect for kayaking and paddle-boarding, and the views are stunning. Playgrounds are tucked into the campsite areas, and the restrooms have flush toilets and running water, plus showers for a fee (our teen’s favorite feature). Because the restrooms are so well maintained, you don’t have to worry about trying to book a site far from them to avoid odors. The campsites are thickly wooded, creating plenty of privacy at our campsite (site 18) and we had a great spot for a hammock. We were close enough to the playground to be able to hear kids playing, so if you have older kids, they could be within earshot at the playground while you cook dinner. This is one we highly recommend.

The only con for us was the distance we had to walk to get to the beach. Even with a kayak cart, it was a trek from our site, and we couldn’t drive the kayaks down, because we have a rooftop tent on our SUV. If you are only bringing lightweight gear to the water, it shouldn’t be a problem. The rocks on the beach were sharp enough to cut our dog’s paws, so beach shoes are a must, and the water is cold, so bring a wetsuit if you have one.

Big Lake in Sisters, OR

Two words: water access. Like I said, we almost never go back to the same site, but with Big Lake Campground in Sisters, OR, we are definitely tempted. Because the site we chose (10) has its own private little shore, my daughter and I were able to paddle out to the center of the lake and watch the sunset, without worrying about lugging the kayaks back to the campsite in the dark. The lake is mostly shallow, perfect for kids. My son loved having cell reception the entire trip. We loved the gorgeous mountain views. Sites 10-14 all have great views, and our followers on Instagram tell us that site 19 is a gem, too.

On our way out of town, we added on a hike to Blue Pool, which is absolutely stunning (see our reel on Instagram for footage). Our kids found the hike exhausting in the heat, so go early or late in the day if you plan to hike it in the height of summer.

There are a few cons. First off, if your children are very young, water access is actually a hazard; it’s hard to relax when you have to be constantly vigilant about water safety. The bathrooms are standard vault toilets. The sites can be dusty in the wind, and they aren’t private at all – you’ll have a clear view of your neighbors. Because of the lack of trees, finding a site with good space for a hammock is tricky. I tied one side of my hammock to a dead tree, because I would rather risk injury than camp without a hammock, but that was probably ill-advised. And if you can’t book a site on the water, don’t bother. Without the views and water access, the sites themselves are nothing to write home about.

Nottingham Campground in Mt. Hood National Forest

With the constant roar of the river, Nottingham Campground feels like a meditation retreat. Site 15 does have access to the water, but the river moves too quickly for play. If you are the type of camper who wants to read by the fire, this is the spot for you. We went for a short walk in the woods, but mostly we binge-read books and ate delicious food by the river. We came home relaxed and rested after a few days in this quiet, peaceful campground. The vault toilets were surprisingly clean, too.

Why is it so quiet? There’s not much to do, there are no RV hook ups, and you have to bring your own water. As long as no one brings a loud generator for their RV, you’re pretty much guaranteed a peaceful trip. It is very cold at night at this site, so come prepared with layers to keep warm.

Alsea Falls near Alsea, Oregon

While the campsites themselves aren’t exciting, spectacular views at Alsea Falls are just steps away. It rained a lot on this trip, but that made everything absolutely lush when the sun (briefly) came out. We stayed in site 01, but all the sites seemed similar. This is a great campground for hikers and waterfall enthusiasts. We did not bring bikes, but there are over 12 miles of mountain bike specific trails within walking distance of the campground.

The campsite itself is pretty basic, and because of the way the sites are cleared and fenced, there is no place to hang a hammock. We own a Mock ONE for dire situations like this, but – as the name suggests – a mockery is not the same as the real thing.

Lost Lake in Hood River, OR

We highly recommend camping at Lost Lake. Camping is much more peaceful than a day trip begun by waking at dawn to try to get a parking spot. Lost Lake itself is a treasure, with peaceful waters (no motorized boats allowed) and unbeatable views. The campsites are tucked into the woods, a long walk from the lake itself, but lovely in their own right. We stayed in site D003 on D Loop, and it felt relatively private with plenty of trees for a hammock.

Pro tip: Head to the lake early and snag one of the lakeside picnic areas. These former campsites are right on the water and make for a lovely spot to spend the day, since your campsite is too far away to pop back for a quick lunch. You won’t even have to pack a picnic, because of the well-stocked general store on the lake. The Grille and Café are open weekends seasonally, with burgers and shakes and a coffee bar.

The only thing that would make this campground perfect would be the ability to go back in time and enjoy those original lakeside campsites. But for the health of the lake, we’re willing to hike to the woods and back without complaint.

Detroit Lake near Gates, OR

Southshore Campground at Detroit Lake is one of those campsites that seems to be on the water, but it’s actually a little more complicated. Yes, it is possible to scramble down the rocky slope from the campsite to the water (we did it), but it isn’t ideal. If we go back, we’ll choose a site close to the boat ramp and enter the water there. We stayed in site 022 on loop 2 of Southshore Campground, but site 27 has a spectacular view of the lake. Our site was spacious and had the all-important hammock trees, but not a lot of privacy; we had a clear view of our neighbors.

Detroit Lake is a great place for star-gazing. Watching the annual Perseid meteor shower on our trip is one of our favorite camping memories. And the shore near the campground is separate from the day-use area, so crowds are reduced on that side. Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but it is still a nice place to kayak and paddle-board. Fishing is also allowed, and the lake is stocked by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The shore is very rocky, so lake shoes are strongly recommended.

Read more about our trip to post-wildfire Detroit Lake here.

Happy camping! We hope you love these sites as much as we did. Find even more options for family-friendly camping here.

Forget four seasons; Oregonians know we also have a second winter, fake spring and plain ol’ mud season. So by the time summer rolls around, you’re ready. 

With an entire state to explore, though, you might start to feel like your kid at a dessert buffet: so many amazing choices, so little time!

That’s why we’ve broken down some of our favorite Oregon destinations by activity. So whether you can’t keep your kids out of the water, you want to hit the trail or you want to lounge at a family-friendly resort — we have you (and your vacay plans) covered.

If You Like Water

Water is the state’s lifeblood. It powers your home, keeps Oregon green and, of course, provides the splish-splash so necessary to the perfect summer. So grab your water shoes and swimming suits — it’s time to get wet!

Go to: Trillium Lake

Even if you’ve never visited Trillium Lake, you’ve seen its iconic photo. You know the one: majestic Mt. Hood’s snowy peak reflected in a placid lake — with or without a sherbet-colored sunset (pictured above!). 

This Mt. Hood lake is more than just a photogenic spot. It’s also an ideal summer getaway for families. Whether you stay overnight or head up for a day trip, there’s a lot to love about Trillium Lake. 

At around 20 feet deep at its deepest, Trillium is warmer than you might expect of a mountain lake. It’s also close enough to Portland (just over an hour’s drive) that you can spend a day playing in the lake and be home before dinner. Here’s how to take advantage of this gem.

Fun things to do:

Water rules at Trillium Lake. BYO floaties, paddle board or motorless boat, or rent one from the lakeside kiosk (starting at $20/hour). Pro tip: Rent your craft early in the day, especially on weekends, as they often sell out. Paddle around the petite lake, especially near the water lily fields, where giant dragonflies may hitch a ride on your boat — or your kiddo’s nose!

Little fisher folk can also cast for rainbow trout, which are stocked here. Cast from the dock, the gravel along the southwest shore or from a canoe. Don’t forget to get a state fishing license (from $10 for youth).

When it’s time to dry off, hike around the lake. This easy, flat 2-mile trail is typically a loop, meaning you can start your stroll at any point around the lake. As of press time, though, a section of boardwalk on the north side of Trillium is still under construction, making the trail more of a horseshoe than a loop. The ranger district hopes to complete repairs by summer; check trail conditions with the Zigzag Ranger District. 

As you walk, keep an eye out for early summer wildflowers, including Columbia lily, cow parsnip and monkeyflower. Download the PictureThis app ahead of time to identify flowers along the way. 

Where to stay:

If you can nab a campsite, Trillium Lake Campground is one of my family’s favorite places in Oregon to camp. The lakeside sites are usually booked months in advance, but there isn’t a dud spot in all the 57 sites. Pro tip: Look for midweek openings and check the reservation site often, as folks cancel their bookings last-minute. 

Campsites are all within walking distance to the lake, though if you’re bringing paddle boards and coolers, you’re better off driving to the campground boat ramp and schlepping your stuff from there. 

The campground is equipped with vault toilets, potable water and firewood for sale. You’ll need to drive into nearby Government Camp for ice and other supplies. 

Looking for less rustic accommodations (or a flushing toilet)? Check vacation rentals in Welches, Rhododendron or Government Camp. My family also loves the cabins and tiny houses for rent in Mt. Hood Village Campground, where you’ll also have access to the indoor pool. 

Grab a bite:

Bring picnic supplies to Trillium Lake — chances are, you’ll barely be able to get your kids out of the water long enough to nom a sandwich. Then on your way home, grab dinner at Mt. Hood Brewing Company in Government Camp or Wrapitude in Welches, which has a large fenced outdoor area for kids to roam while they wait for food.  

Go to: Newport

With 363 miles of shoreline, it’s hard to highlight just one Oregon Coast spot. That said, Newport is consistently our go-to beach destination (pictured above). 

A list of the Central Coast town’s attractions is like an all-star lineup. Long sand beaches, an active fishing fleet, natural beauty, and of course, hand-holding otters — what’s not to love? 

At less than 2 ½ hours from Portland, plan to hit up Newport at least once this summer. 

Fun things to do:

When it’s time to get sandy, head to one of Newport’s many great beaches! Our favorite is Yaquina Beach, within the Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site. You’ll walk a short but semi-steep trail down to the enormous, driftwood-studded beach. Or check out South Beach State Park on the other side of Newport’s bridge, where you can play on the playground or throw a round of disc golf in addition to walking the miles of beach. 

Leave time to visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, too (tickets from $15). Watch the resident raft of sea otters play, meet sea stars and anemones in the touch pool, admire the sea lions’ underwater ballet, and of course, walk under sharks in the stunning Passages of the Deep exhibit (pictured below). For a more budget-friendly alternative, meet an octopus and play with hands-on activities at the Hatfield Marine Science Center (by donation). 

Then head to the Port of Newport. Grab an ice cream from Doodlebugs (they also have taffy and other sweets!), watch the fishing fleet bringing in the day’s catch and pose in front of sea-themed murals. Pro tip: Doodlebugs is cash only, but there’s an ATM inside.

If you’re staying overnight, take the time to explore a few of the unique attractions just outside Newport. Hunt for fossils at Beverly Beach, visit the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse and hike inside Devils Punchbowl at low tide. 

Where to stay:

You have plenty of accommodation options, from the budget-conscious to upscale. Camp at South Beach or Beverly Beach State Parks, both of which are home to yurts, too. Search the many vacation rentals in Newport. Or splurge at the Inn at Nye Beach, which is walking distance to the beach and features an infinity pool overlooking the Pacific. 

Grab a bite:

Is a trip to the Oregon Coast complete without seafood? Local Ocean serves up just-caught seafood from their local fishing partners, both in the nicer upstairs restaurant and the downstairs counter-service spot. Similarly, the Fish Peddler Market cooks up the day’s catch, from whole Dungeness to clam chowder to fish and chips. Rogue Brewery is a family-friendly favorite with an extensive kid’s menu in addition to their beers for the 21 and older set. 

If You Like Hiking

Go to: Crater Lake National Park

Oregon’s one national park is definitely a bucket-list travel destination. And with much of the area snowed in until June in a typical year, summer is by far the best time to visit. 

Pro tip: To make the most of your trip to the deepest lake in the U.S., leave your four-legged pals at home. Many trails are off-limits to pets. 

Take advantage of Every Kid Outdoors, which grants free national park access to every family that has a fourth grader. Just register online and make sure to print out your pass; folks at the fee station won’t accept an image on your phone. 

Fun things to do:

For easy hikes, half-mile Castle Crest Trail’s wildflowers in July and August can’t be beat, though the .8-mile Sun Notch Trail — with its views of Phantom Ship island — gives it a run for its money. For an off-the-beaten jaunt, check out the dragon teeth — I mean volcanic spires — sticking out of the ground at the .8-mile out-and-back Pinnacles Trail.

For a hike with a big payoff, head to the Watchman Peak Trail. The trail switchbacks up to a lookout tower, with 360-degree views overlooking Crater Lake, Wizard Island and even Mt. Shasta on a clear day. The 1.7-mile out-and-back trail is steep in sections, but the switchbacks make it doable for elementary-aged kids; vault toilets are available at the trailhead. 

To give little legs a break, ride the Crater Lake Trolley (from $25/person; kids 5 and under free). It runs most of the way around the lake’s rim, formed when a 12,000-foot volcano collapsed. Stopping at vista points via the trolley is a great alternative to driving and fighting for parking spots. 

Where to stay:

Within the park, stay at historic Crater Lake Lodge or the Cabins at Mazama Village. Don’t be fooled by the name; the cabins are more like hotel rooms, with queen beds and private baths. You can also pitch a tent or park your RV in Mazama Campground. Outside the park, camp at Farewell Bend — with an epic wooden playground/fort — or stay in the cabins and lodge rooms at Union Creek Resort, both a 40-minute drive from the rim. 

Grab a bite:

While you’re in the Union Creek Resort area, sample one of the dozen flavors of fresh-baked pies at Beckie’s Cafe. The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room’s buffets are delicious but limited to lodge guests; all visitors can order apps to eat on the patio and in the Great Hall from 3 to 9 pm. For more casual fare, head to the Annie Creek Restaurant, which serves reasonably priced sandwiches and burgers, plus pizza. Don’t expect Michelin-star food at the Rim Village Cafe, but it will definitely head off hanger emergencies.

If You Like Family-Friendly Resorts

Go to: Sunriver Resort

I’m living proof that a Sunriver family trip makes memories that last. Having grown up in Oregon, my family vacationed at this Central Oregon resort — and I can still remember the hours and hours of fun my siblings and I spent bike riding, exploring and swimming. 

Lying 20 minutes from Bend and 3 ½ hours from Portland, Sunriver is full of enough fun activities to fill a summertime bucket list. See how many you can pack in or choose your favorites to play on repeat.

Fun things to do:

Beat the Central Oregon heat in the water. Swim at SHARC, the homeowners’ aquatic center with a lazy river (pictured below), or The Cove resort aquatic center, with two water slides and a poolside restaurant. You can also float a calm 6-mile stretch of the Deschutes River by putting in at the Sunriver Marina, which also rents kayaks, rafts and canoes.  

Walk or bike the 40 miles of paved bike trails, perfect for both young speedsters and kids on training wheels. For a longer hike, trek from the Sunriver Trailhead past the Deschutes River to Benham Falls (6.7 miles). Or giddyup on a horseback trail ride, where you can mosey through ponderosa forest or along the Deschutes (kids ages 7 and up).  

Keep the fun going post-sundown at the Sunriver Observatory. Reserve tickets ahead of time for a nighttime visit, which includes a chance to peep far-off nebulae and planets through high-powered telescopes ($20/person). For an epic interstellar encounter, visit during the Perseid Meteor Shower, which peaks August 11-12.   

You could spend a whole trip inside the resort grounds, but there’s so much else to explore nearby! Hike by flashlight underground at the Lava River Tubes, take a moonlight canoe trip on the Cascade Lakes with Wanderlust Tours or spend a half-day at the High Desert Museum. 

Where to stay:

Post up in the resort or rent a home for your stay. All lodge rooms include a cozy fireplace and deck; suites include a kitchenette and living area. Opt for a condo or rental home if you’re traveling with a big crew or pets; many homes also come with their own hot tub. Pro tip: When choosing a home rental, read the description carefully; you may get bonuses like free tennis, boat rentals or SHARC passes.  

Grab a bite:

Entertainment — via the windows to both the kitchen and the outdoors — comes with the food at the Lodge Kitchen; save room for the s’mores brownie. Settle in at the Owl’s Nest in the Lodge for pub fare (fries by the bucketful — perfect for fueling the day’s adventures). Or belly up for Sunriver Pub’s casual vibe and kid-friendly service; the juniper-seasoned elk burger is as local as it gets. 

Looking for more summer fun? Check out these pieces on how to make your Oregon summer splendid, and special places to travel with the family.