The best camping in Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, WA

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100% (12)

The best camping in Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, WA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Akitaaru Forest Camp

2. Akitaaru Forest Camp

97%
(247)
7.5mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent · Bethany, OR
***Akitaaru Homestead was named one of 2023's BEST PLACES TO PITCH A TENT. … and we just placed again for 2024! Thanks to all of our campers and to Mother Earth for sharing this beautiful place with us humans! *** We run a small active homestead with livestock, gardens, dogs, and free range children. We are happy to share our five acres of beautiful PNW forest with intrepid campers Learn more about this land: Have you ever wanted to have an entire campground to yourself? Planning a romantic getaway, private group trip, or getting your feet wet with your first trip of the year (or ever!?) We have got the perfect place for you! Camp on the edge of Forest Park and sleep underneath an evergreen canopy of Douglas fir and big leaf maple. We have one large forest glade with room for several tents. We book only one group at a time, so you are guaranteed the place to yourselves. We can accommodate up to 15 people, with a max of 5-6 vehicles (parking is tight). This is a hike-in only campground most suited to backpack style camping. The hike in has two short steep sections about 50 feet each. It takes 5-15 minutes depending on fitness level and load. This is not suitable for those with accessibility issues. The campground features: -Fairy lights strung among the tress to create the perfect magical ambiance -Large fire ring with seating for 7-10 and cooking grate -picnic table with seating for six - Composting latrine with a forest view (commune with nature!) -Photo worthy hammock, swinging loveseat , and sunset views - A huge clearing with multiple flat tent spots (5-7) -1/2 mile of trails with hidden surprises - A parking area suitable for car camping or van camping during the rainy season. -Only 20 minutes from downtown Portland, 15 from I5, and minutes from gas and Parking is separate from the campground! It is a brief but steep 1/4 mile hike to get to the main campground and latrine. Bring hiking shoes and pack light. It takes most people 5-15 minutes to hike up, depending on fitness level and load size . If you want to car camp, you will be next to a road and separate from the latrine and fire pit. Enjoy several short trails on the camp's property before heading to Forest Park's Wildwood Trail, which is just up the street, or check out all of the incredible natural and urban nearby attractions in Portland. We are about 20 minutes away Portland's International Rose Test Garden , The Oregon Zoo, and Pittock Mansion Or just swing lazily in a hammock under the trees and enjoy the sound of the forest coming to life. Inquire about a tour of the homestead and the chance to play with our tiny herd of goats who think they are dogs.
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$23
 / night
The Secret Garden in Portland

6. The Secret Garden in Portland

97%
(69)
8.8mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 4 sites · Lodging · Portland, OR
Welcome to "The Secret Garden" campground in Portland! Meet your hosts, Amanda and Dom along with their little helpers Hugo (5), Leo (3) and baby River. Our hidden oasis in the heart of the city invites you to escape into nature. Amidst the bustling urban landscape, our campground boasts secluded spots beneath lush fruit trees, a cozy fire pit for evening gatherings and a playground for the little adventurers. Embrace the serenity of the city's best-kept secret while enjoying the warmth of community around the campfire. Located between SE Division St and Foster Rd, the Secret Garden offers easy access to Portland's vibrant food, coffee and bar scene while also being in close proximity to Mt. Tabor with hiking trails and panoramic views of the city skyline. Welcome to your urban escape.
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$87
 / night
RV pad at the end of this private drive.

7. A Visitors Haven

95%
(56)
9.6mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · RV · Vancouver, WA
We would love to share our beautiful wooded 8 acres. We live here but your site is far enough from our house for privacy. The RV pad is surrounded by trees. Our RV space will easily park a 38ft. RV. It has full hookups with either 30 amp or 50-amp power. You are only 2 miles from shopping and only miles from Lackamas Lake and Battleground Lake for hiking, swimming, biking, boating and fishing. Down the road about 1/4 mile is Velvet Acres barn where you can buy fresh produce in July, August and September, then in October it's a Pumpkin Patch. Be sure while you’re here you visit Vancouvers waterfront downtown. Great shops and excellent places to eat. On weekends there’s a large farmers market that has all kinds of fresh produce. While here be sure to drive out to the gorge, it is one of the more breathtaking sites in the NW. We are 10 miles from the Columbia River and 36 miles from Multnomah Falls. On a nice day you can drive to the beach to cool off, it's about 90 miles to Longbeach. Being in the wetlands we have a lot of trees for privacy. The RV area is at the end of an area that is gated for security. There is a grassy area outside your door and a grassy area out back of your RV. We have trails you are welcome to use. You will see bunnies and all kinds of birds as well as deer that visit now and then. Although they have built homes on the west side the fence and trees give plenty of privacy. They recently started a home that should be done within a month. Contact me for updates. This is a perfect place if visiting the area or it’s a great place for snowbirds or workers that are in this area for weeks or months. Text me ahead for openings. We do consider long term stays. Please email me about exceptions on dogs weight and group size.
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$45
 / night
Table on Deck

8. The Old Barn In The Woods

95%
(109)
9.7mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 6 sites · Lodging · Portland, OR
We offer various accommodations, so be sure to check out each listing for information. The new door code is 2215 Tucked away in the woods, you will forget you are less than a ten-minute drive from Portland and Beaverton. You will feel as if you are in a forest on Mount Hood, and yet, just minutes away, is all the best the area has to offer. From Northwest Portland with wonderful and trendy restaurants and eateries like Salt and Straw to Voodoo Donuts, the waterfront, and Washington Park. From the balcony, you may see golden and bald eagles, huge owls, woodpeckers, garden snakes, coyotes, deer, chipmunks, rabbits, and squirrels. Here, it is a place of peace, of quietude. No parties or loud music etc. Currently I'm offering one occomdation, The Old Barn, as my other spots are being rented out by long term renters. Please do not explore the property. Just enjoy the solitude and view from the Old Barn. Pets are allowed but must be leashed.
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$79
 / night
Margaux | Airstream Glamping in PDX

9. Margaux | Airstream Glamping in PDX

96%
(28)
9.9mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging · Portland, OR
Margaux is a 1969 Airstream Bambi tucked into a quiet garden in PDX. She may be small, but she’s full of light, charm, and nostalgia. Put a record on, slip into the hot tub, or just curl up and enjoy the city from your own little hideaway. Inside you’ll find a kitchenette, pull out bed, and simple glamping-style bathroom. The backyard, screened porch, chimenea, and spa tub are all yours to enjoy year round. Towels, linens, shampoo, coffee, and basic cooking supplies are provided. Our commissary offers wine, beer, and pre-rolls for purchase (let us know if you would prefer these items removed). Guest access: The garden, hot tub, and firepit are available year-round (quiet hours start at 10 PM, so please keep voice and music low). While this is a shared space, we respect our guests’ privacy and follow your lead. You may see us doing light gardening, home maintenance, or letting the pups out but we always do our best to give you the right of way. Other things to note: Margaux is a queer household. All are welcome, but kindness and respect are required. Intolerance of any kind is not permitted. Shared Spaces & Pets: You may see us doing some yardwork or taking the dogs out but we do our best to give you as much privacy as we can. We do live in an active neighborhood so a little noise is normal but minimal. We have three dogs and a cat who use the yard, so if you’re bringing a pet, make sure they’re friendly with other animals and leashed if needed. Mt. Tabor Dog Park is nearby for zoomies! Please help us keep the garden intact by making sure the is no digging or running through the plants. Guest Policy & Smoking: Only registered Airbnb guests may use the Airstream, yard, or hot tub. Smoking is allowed on the deck and please use the ashtray. Bathroom & Kitchen: The kitchen is small but has a stovetop, sink, and mini-fridge and is best for light meals. The bathroom has an RV toilet and handheld propane shower—please make sure you’re comfortable with these features. Entertainment & Amenities: Record player, VHS collection, books, garden firepit, and spa tub. Essentials provided: towels, shampoo/conditioner/soap, coffee/tea, and basic cooking supplies. Guests 18+ only unless accompanied by an adult (13+ allowed).
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$75
 / night
Garden & Galaxy PDX Urban Retreat

11. Garden & Galaxy PDX Urban Retreat

94%
(79)
11mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging · Portland, OR
Our Garden & Galaxy Retreat in Portland, OR is a stunner. It is built with salvaged materials from nearby painted lady Victorian home that are the pillars at the entrance and the siding is from a nearby barn. The sliding door as you enter is a salvaged US Federal Building Door that glides on barn rails and it has the original mail slot in the door. The retreat is an indoor/outdoor experience as there are two walls that feature beveled shutters that open and the roof is a see through experience to watch the birds, wildlife and stars. The queen bed is super comfortable and there is a small desk filled with maps of nearby places to play. There is a small cabinet outfitted with slippers to slip on and take the path to the garden pergola - the swinging twin bed or the main house. Follow us at @gardengalaxypdx My home for the last 34 years; I have put care, love and abundance in creating a magical garden with surprises throughout. My desire to provide charm and delight has driven most of the details that also includes a pergola that has a swinging twin bed and chairs to gather and chat. There is gorgeous outdoor lighting for at night and hanging chandelier at night surrounded in the deep of summer with mature jasmine bushes that waft their sweet scent from May into September. To turn on the shower, refer to the photos or watch a video here - https://bit.ly/3WNoheG There is an outdoor fridge in the garden for your use and we provide beverages and creamer for coffee or tea provided in the room for your enjoyment. There is a fan provided in summer and a heater provided in the Spring and Fall for the room evenings can be a bit crisp so you can customize your temperature to your comfort level.
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$115
 / night
Oh-Deer-Me

13. Oh-Deer-Me

95%
(82)
11mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Ridgefield, WA
Secluded private site centrally located just a mile from Interstate 5 off of exit #11, and 6 miles from the Interstate 5 / Hwy 205 intersection so most places in Clark County are less that 20 minutes away. Please Input 23102 NE 3rd Avenue into your GPS. Clicking the link on the Hipcamp map will bring you here with an Androuid device, but send you to a gated community West of us on an Apple device. Located 5 minutes from the Amphitheater,10 minutes from Ilani Casino, and less than 30 minutes from some of the nicest freshwater lakes around. This is a secluded, Park Like property with walking trails all the way around it, and some interesting things for kids to spot, especially up Fairy Lane. Walking access is permitted, but you must keep pets on leash and keep an eye on your kids. In the dry season, typically May through the end of September, fires are not allowed, and please USE EXTREME CAUTION IF YOU CHOOSE TO SMOKE ONSITE. If you are one of those who just tosses your butts in the underbrush, you will be asked to leave for the safety of our property and guests. There is no smoking allowed inside the cabin, bathroom, or anywhere near the sawmill, or any area North of it. There is a public bathroom in the middle of the property beside the tree fort. It's well lit and open 24 hours a day. It has a flush toilet and a hot water sink and a HOT shower. * PLEASE NOTE To keep from freezing, the instant hot water heater is disconnected, and hot water, and hot showers ARE NOT AVAILABLE FROM NOV 15TH TO MAR 1ST. Cold water to flush the toilets and wash your hands is available all year. You can use the discount code NOHOT To reduce your booking rate during those times We try to keep rules to a minimum, but people seem to find creative ways to cause issues. Please park outside the yellow gate in the parking areas noted on the map. Please park on gravel and DON'T DRIVE OFF THE GRAVEL ROADS ONTO THE GRASS. Anita hates it, as you can cause a fire in the summer, and leave muddy ruts in the wet seasons. If you're driving through the trees, you're doing something wrong. There is plenty of wildlife on the property especially in the couple hours before dark. Best place to spot deer, racoons, porcupines and beaver are down near the pond. Enjoy your stay. Stuart and Anita
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$34
 / night
Full hookups on cement pad beside single family home- NOTE: driveway is steep to enter and requires skilled driver.

14. The Back 40 (full hookups)

98%
(42)
13mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · RV · Gresham, OR
The RV site backs up to Southwest Community Park, 41.9 acres, an undeveloped nature park in the Southwest Gresham Neighborhood (East Portland). The Park is partially wooded and slopes east towards 19 acres of Fairview Creek Headwaters. Views include Grant and Jenne Buttes and Mt. St. Helens. The Park contains a large Western Red Cedar/Mixed Tree Grove and a Douglas Fir Grove, both of which are identified on the City’s significant tree list. The Park provides valuable wildlife and fish habitat, and will be preserved, protected and enhanced as part of the City’s conservation effort. Learn more about this land: This is a great neighborhood spot to park with full amenities just outside of Portland, while having immediate access to 40 wooded acres with walking path and .7 mi to the Springwater Trail for biking/running. 25 mins to downtown Portland; Easy day trips that are ~30 minutes drive to Waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge (Bridal Veil, Multnomah Falls) or under an hour to Mt. Hood for time in the snow!  Fenced in backyard for any of your 4-legged friends to stretch. Gas fire pit, gas grill and patio table + lounge chairs are all open for sharing. Our previous homeowner had a trailer and set up this nice pad with built in hookups. We have grandparents with a 27' RV that come visit a few weekends a year, but we would love to share this corner of the woods with others looking for an accessible home base to access Portland/Mt. Hood/Gorge +.  Note: Our driveway entry is steep, but navigable. We limit the trailer/RV length to 27' in order to avoid bottoming out. Novice trailer drivers may want to avoid.  For quick bearings if you are booking while on the road, we are located just off 26 (Powell), 5 miles from I-205 or 11 miles from I-5 via the Ross Island Bridge. If you are traveling along I-84, we are 4 miles south from the exit.
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$50
 / night
Helvetia Hideaway

17. Helvetia Hideaway

100%
(35)
14mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hillsboro, OR
Wander through the woods Say “Hi” to the chickens. Cut lavender and seasonal flowers including dahlias and sunflowers Grab a burger at Helvetia Tavern Find dinner at nearby Helvetia Market All things you can do at this Hipcamp site. My wife and I have 7 acre property and on the end away from our home is large level gravel area for your RV we’ve had RV’s up to 30 feet. WE HAVE NEW ASPHALT PLEASE ROLL FORWARD OR BACKWARDS YOUR TIRES BEFORE TUNING YOUR WHEEL. OTHERWISE YOU WILL BE DAMAGING THE DRIVEWAY. PLEASE, LET US KNOW WHEN YOU ARRIVE - I WILL HELP YOU GET SITUATED. We have a fresh water hookup as well as one 110 extension power cable. If you request to use them. There is large grassy area for a tent or games. We also provide a picnic table that can accommodate 8 people. No sewer hookup and no dump station - sorry. Also, there are no camp fires allowed, the setting is heavily wooded and the fire danger is too high. Propane based cooking stoves are fine to use outside. Dogies are welcome and need to be on a lead 100% of the time if outside. We are located 10 minutes from Hillsboro, 30 minutes from downtown Portland, 5 minutes to North Plains and 3 minutes to two wineries - Helvetia Winery and Eagles Nest Winery. We like things chill and would love to have you enjoy is special setting.
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$45
 / night
Mt Hood

18. Pendarvis Farm

100%
(39)
15mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Happy Valley, OR
Year round, close in to Portland, 80 private acres of field and forest, with 3+miles of trails. Nearby restaurants and urban amenities for your convenience, with all that the beautiful Pacific Northwest has to offer. In the rainy season, parking is limited to our hard surface areas: the court, our small orchard, or across the road for larger camping rigs. We can accommodate campers of all sizes. Although our drivable surfaces for vehicles are closer to the road, you will have access to enjoy our private trails and property. Hike-in camping is also available. In the dry season we allow driving up the property for a more secluded experience. Camping is leave no trace. We have view of Mt Hood. We host weddings, and we host Pickathon music festival. We book for private events, so please reach out prior to booking to ensure we can accommodate you. And, if you know someone planning a wedding, tell them about us!
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from 
$50
 / night
Camp beside the serene beauty of the East Fork of the Lewis River...Kayaks available to explore the quiet river and enjoy  nature.

19. Bar UK River Ranch Camp & Ride

99%
(826)
15mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · La Center, WA
Erik's Swedish parents Ulf and Petsy Kahn purchased the Ranch in 1969, raising horses and cattle (200 head at one time). They rode the trails, tended the cows, and had great times fishing, swimming and camping. Campers can enjoy Kayaking, Horseback Riding ...and Swimming at our beautiful riverside location! Camp by river with tent, trailor or RV, RV "Boondockers" are welcome. Tour the beautiful Lewis river valley by horse back and ride into town for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Perfect first experience with horses for the kids, Erik is great with the little ones and makes sure everyone is comfortable and has a wonderful time. Kayakers and Paddleboarders will love the location, camping right on the 32 mile John Pollack water trail. The Quaint town of La Center can be your destination, an easy paddle, about four miles of natural wetlands and wildlife along the way. Visit The new IIani Casino 15 minutes away, offering entertainment and five star restaurants. We are really excited to share some of the most beautiful areas by creating a few private campsites overlooking the river. We want it to be everything the crowded campgrounds are not!
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$85
 / night
The most amazing outdoor hot tub heated with a wood stove. It was an incredibly beautiful  relaxing experience.

20. Sweet Relief

100%
(238)
16mi from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging · Damascus, OR
Close to Portland but far from the hustle.  The forested 20 acre property slopes South, making it ideal to keep our solar powered cabins and wifi fully charged.Water, outdoor shower and composting outhouse are never more than a five minute walk on our groomed trails.    In early spring you may see taps on some of the beautiful Maple trees.  .  (Why buy Maple Syrup from the store when you can spend days of hard work laboring to make your own!)Summer Brings the berries, Eat the Blueberries and Blackberries to your hearts content.  Find refuge from the summers heat by relaxing by the year round spring fed brook or maybe take a nap on a hammock.Chilly fall evenings can still warm your heart by relaxing in the the Greenhouse or near the campfire.  We are exited to share our little slice of heaven with you, and our extensive personal knowledge of Oregon's hiking and recreational opportunities.
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$175
 / night
100% (12)

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The best camping in Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, WA guide

Overview

About

Tucked between bustling city and stunning mountain peaks, history thrives on the banks of the Columbia River. Explore the natural landscape and learn the storied history of the Pacific Northwest. Wander through the Vancouver Barracks, immerse yourself in history, or take in the artwork of local, native artists. This bastion of cultural relics lies right at the foot of towering mountains, making it a favorite excursion of history buffs and hikers alike.

Head to the main site of Fort Vancouver, just north of Portland, Oregon, for a lesson in American settlement. Take a close look at the fur trading post of the Hudson's Bay Company, or explore the archaeological sites and reconstructed buildings. For a change of pace, put on your running shoes and take in the sights at top speed.

One of the best ways to see this historic site is by booking a nighttime tour. Enjoy the living history and live demos under the glow of a lantern and the bright, starry sky. But be sure to book your tour well in advance, as spots fill up fast.

The Pearson Air Museum brings visitors face to face with restored aircraft from the early twentieth century. The nearby McLoughlin House is a favorite stop on the Oregon National Historic Trail. Live demonstrations, working gardens, and guided tours make it a popular spot for kids and families. The proximity of mountains, forest and rushing rivers make this historic day-trip the ideal addition to a camping trip in the mountains. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the stunning peak of Oregon's Mount Hood.

100%
12 ratings · 3 reviews

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