Tent Camping in Oregon: 10 Scenic Escapes to Pitch Your Tent

From the rugged cliffside coast to the Douglas fir woodlands, Oregon is a beautiful state in the Pacific Northwest with plenty of beautiful outdoor destinations to explore. Camping in Oregon is one of the best ways to experience the state, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural world and take in all the benefits spending time outdoors brings. Whether this is your first time visiting the state or you’re just looking for a new hidden gem, read on to discover 10 scenic escapes to pitch your camping tent in Oregon!

1. Crater Lake National Park

A prominent National Park in Oregon, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and is worth a visit for anyone traveling to the state for an outdoor adventure. 

What Crater Lake Is Great For

Aside from enjoying the park’s views from their tents, campers can participate in several outdoor activities in the area. Hiking is a natural choice and a must-do at Crater Lake. Cleetwood Cove Trail takes hikers to the lake shore’s only access point, while the summit of Wizard Island offers some of the best views of the lake from above. 

2. Silver Falls State Park

One of the most popular state parks in Oregon is Silver Falls, located in Marion County in the Northwest corner of the state. 

What Silver Falls Is Great For

The park is best known for its impressive display of waterfalls. To see them up close and personal, embark on the Trail of Ten Falls, which takes hikers on a 7-mile journey past these stunning natural sites. South Falls is a must-see, allowing visitors to walk behind the waterfall for a truly immersive outdoor experience. 

3. Sunset Bay State Park

To experience the breathtaking seaside cliffs of the Oregon coast, venture to Sunset Bay State Park off Cape Arago Highway. 

What Sunset Bay Is Great For

Enjoy this park’s sandy beaches and stunning coastal views while picnicking, beachcombing, swimming, fishing, or boating. Sunset Bay also offers cozy yurts for rent just steps from the shore for a more luxurious outdoor experience.

4. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

A scenic canyon carved by the Columbia River, this national scenic area is located on the outskirts of Portland, making it a convenient getaway for city-dwellers looking for an outdoor escape.

What Columbia River Gorge Is Great For

Multnomah Falls is the face of the Columbia River Gorge, and one of the most popular natural sites in the PNW. Campers can also hike to a number of other waterfalls, including Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the river and canyon, head to the Vista House at Crown Point.

5. Deschutes National Forest

A short drive from Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes National Forest protects over a million acres of wilderness, offering campers plenty to do on a trip to this hidden gem.

What Deschutes Is Great For

The Deschutes National Forest has many beautiful sites worth exploring, from waterfalls and rivers to mountains and caves. Canyon Creek Meadows and the Three Sisters Wilderness are notable destinations for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also fish in one of the numerous waterways of the forest.

6. Cape Lookout State Park

Another coastal gem, Cape Lookout State Park, is a scenic Oregon camping spot overlooking Netarts Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

What Cape Lookout Is Great For

Cape Lookout boasts miles of scenic hiking trails with views of both the coast and beautiful old-growth forests. Hike the Cape Trail to take in the best of the best this park has to offer, or enjoy the beaches for a more relaxed day by the water.

7. Willamette National Forest

In western Oregon, along the Cascade Mountain Range, is the Willamette National Forest. Encompassing 110 miles and over a million and a half acres, this national forest is a diverse landscape with countless recreational opportunities.

What Willamette Is Great For

While there’s a ton to see in the Willamette Forest, the Opal Creek Wilderness, and the McKenzie River are top-rated areas for outdoor recreation. Hike to one of the many waterfalls, join a rafting tour on the McKenzie River, or even ski and snowboard in one of the nearby resorts during winter.

8. Devils Lake State Recreation Area

The only coastal state park located directly in an Oregon city, Devils Lake offers visitors a natural reprieve from urban life.

What Devils Lake Is Great For

Visitors can participate in all of their favorite lakeside activities while enjoying the gorgeous scenery of the park. Rent kayaks, go for a swim, or even view local wildlife. Devils Lake is also home to a number of freshwater fish, making it an ideal location for fishermen.

9. Mount Hood National Forest

In the northern region of the state sits Mount Hood National Forest, which is home to the tallest volcanic mountain in Oregon.

What Mount Hood Is Great For

Mount Hood National Forest has several front-country campsites, but it’s also a phenomenal place for backcountry camping. Check out some of the dispersed campsites for a more authentic outdoor experience, amazing views of Mount Hood, and abundant wildlife in their natural habitats.

If you go this route, don’t forget to bring a few camping tent accessories. Tarps, for example, help to make your campsite more functional on the fly. Whether you use poly tarps to protect your gear from unexpected rain or canvas tarps to insulate your tent on a chilly night, these versatile pieces of gear are essential in the backcountry.

10. L.L. Stub Stewart State Park

Located in northwestern Oregon, L.L. Stub Stewart State Park has everything an outdoor lover could want out of an adventure in the PNW.

What L.L. Stub Stewart Is Great For

L.L. Stub Stewart boasts over 30 miles of trails that are ideal for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Plus, this state park offers year-round camping for those looking to enjoy the wilderness in the off-season. 

Wrapping It Up

Oregon is at the heart of the Pacific Northwest, giving nature enthusiasts countless world-class sites to pitch their camping tents. Whether you’re seeking a coastal cliffside campsite or looking to escape into the cozy Douglas firs in the mountains, there’s no shortage of scenic locations to help you reconnect with nature and reap the benefits of time spent outdoors. So grab your rain gear, hiking poles, and favorite tent, and get ready to explore everything Oregon’s wilderness has to offer!