Camping near the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Camping near the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Explore campsites within 5 miles of this historic, state-spanning route.

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The Lewis & Clark Trail isn’t a single path—it’s a vast network of parks, rivers, and historic landmarks connected across 11 states and 3,700 miles from from Illinois to the Oregon Coast. Camp your way along it: Book a Hipcamp site to pitch your tent by a quiet river or park your van near a mountain pass—supporting local conservation and community projects as you go. Each stop offers a chance to learn, reflect, and connect with the land, with local communities, and with the layered history that continues to shape this route, from the banks of the Mississippi River all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

What once took over two years today makes for an unforgettable camping road trip. Start at Camp Dubois in Illinois, where Lewis and Clark began their journey, and trace their path through wide-open prairies, river valleys, and rugged mountain passes. In Omaha, Nebraska, walk the same stretch of the Missouri River they once navigated. Out west, stand on the cliffs in Oregon where the expedition finally reached the Pacific and take in a view that looks nearly unchanged since 1805. Take the chance to connect with this shared history—to experience rivers, mountains, and coastlines that shaped both the journey of the explorers and the lives of the Indigenous communities who guided, fed, and sustained them.

189 campgrounds

The Retreat at Cannon Beach

1. The Retreat at Cannon Beach

91 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cannon Beach, OR
Stay, Relax & Wander in Cannon Beach Make your escape to the west coast where the sea meets the wilderness. Find yourself relaxing in a cozy cabin, or in the outdoors with a tent, or bring your RV for a ride. Stay a while, and live the good life. At The Retreat at Cannon Beach, you’ll find a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Whether you’re relaxing in the cozy interiors or exploring the scenic surroundings, every aspect of your stay is crafted for comfort and enjoyment. Enjoy The Town Explore the charm of Cannon Beach right from The Retreat’s doorstep. Stroll through the quaint town filled with unique shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries. Take in the stunning coastal views, visit iconic landmarks like Haystack Rock, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Cannon Beach offers something for everyone, making your stay at The Retreat even more memorable. Our Tent Camping Experience the true essence of outdoor camping with our tent camping options at The Retreat at Cannon Beach. Tucked away in a quiet and relaxing environment, our tent sites offer the perfect blend of nature and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the experience, our tent camping provides an ideal escape into the beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
The Forest Cupcake

2. The Forest Cupcake

99%
(190)
1 site · Lodging · Lyle, WA
This unique place in Lyle, Washington - part of the Columbia River Gorge scenic area - is magical and utterly beautiful. The property is set in a magnificent meadow as far as the eye can see with soft rolling hills, edged up to a deep oak woodland/ponderosa pine forest. Wildlife, stars, trails, and rivers all abound here. We think it is one of the finest, most precious and beautiful places on the planet. For outdoor recreation, this area is a windsurfing and kiteboarding mecca. Mount Adams and Mount Hood, await hikers and skiers, and kayaking is popular on the Klickitat and White Salmon Rivers. Heart-stopping beauty and peacefulness whichever way you turn. You will feel like you have gone to your own little Shangri-La and you will not soon forget the experience. Even sleeping is special here, as you look up into the dome of the yurt and behold the stars, while twinkle lights gently illuminate the interior. We live in a slice of heaven, and we want to share it with others.
Pets
Toilets
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from 
$95
 / night
WindWoodRivers

3. WindWoodRivers

97%
(916)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Home Valley, WA
One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, St. Martin homestead-started in the late 1800s. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply in these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, 60 minutes east of Portland, 25 minutes west of Hood River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Sandy Springs Campground

4. Sandy Springs Campground

100%
(29)
5 sites · RVs · Stout, OH
Nestled between the Ohio River, Shawnee National Forest and river bluffs.  This campground is one of Adams county's best kept secrets.  We just purchased this property ourselves in November of 2018 and fell in love from the moment we placed our feet here.  Enjoy the views and simply watch the river go by.  
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$65
 / night
Elkenmist

5. Elkenmist

97%
(62)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Skamokawa, WA
Welcome to the the alchemy of Elkenmist! 125 acres nestled into 250,000 acres of mossy, mushroomy, forested fairy lands. Where the Willapa hills meet the mouth of the Columbia River. We are a mellow regenerative agriculture farm and portal to liminal landscapes. Come meet the sheep, feed the horses, drink from the spring, meditate in the yurt, hike the hills and feed your spirit. Let the land attune you.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
The Rock On The Columbia

6. The Rock On The Columbia

97%
(17)
1 site · RV · Chinook, WA
Welcome to our RV site nestled along the picturesque Columbia River! Wake up to sea lions, the melodies of birds, and the sight of eagles soaring overhead. As the day unfolds, watch the stunning sunsets behind the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge. Situated just across the river from Astoria, our property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. A quick five-minute drive will take you to Astoria, while the charming shores of Long Beach await just 15 minutes away. Immerse yourself in outdoor adventures with hiking trails, historical sites, and the Discovery Trail all within a 10 to 20-minute drive. Please note that our site provides electrical hookups only; there is no potable water or bathroom facilities available onsite. We kindly ask that you carry out any trash with you. Amenities such as picnic tables are currently in the works and coming soon. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$85
 / night
Appalachian Retreat Camp

7. Appalachian Retreat Camp

100%
(40)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Newport, OH
Bring a friend and rent this site in conjunction with some of our other sites or split up your camping trip with a night in our backcountry camp site. Located in the rolling Appalachian hills of Southeast Ohio. This farm has been in our family since 1869 when our relatives settled here from Germany. Originally farmed for cattle and sheep with many orchards over the years our property is now mostly mature forest. Southeast Ohio, including our property is known for its hilly topography and microclimates. Hills range from 400 to 1,100 feet. Nearly 500 acres of land with an additional 200+ acres of Wayne National Forest adjacent to our farm and close proximity to other Wayne areas for outdoor activities. We have nearly 10 miles of available trails for hiking. Many activities can be done at or centered around our property. Such as excellent and challenging road biking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, kayaking and boating. We are two miles from the Little Muskingum River. A great river for kayak trips. The Wayne Kinderhook horse and hiking trail is roughly 5 miles from our location. Hike to the Irish Run Natural Land bridge trail also a short drive to the trailhead from our property. Ride your motorcycle up Rt. 26 a great Ohio byway for scenic driving. This is also a great home base for dual sport or adventure bike motorcycle riders to camp while adventuring along gravel roads through Appalachia. If motorcycles aren't your method of entertainment and travel. Bring your horse and ride on several of our trails. From steep ascents to long flat ridge lines, you will have lots of time to immerse yourself with nature while hiking. We're next to a section of the Wayne National Forest and a short drive to other similar Wayne activity sites. If you like to camp, but don't want the busy public park experience then you will enjoy the privacy of our camping location. We are also only about a 20-minute drive to downtown Marietta. Where you can find restaurants, bars, and many other fun activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Quiet wooded park, near beaches.

8. Quiet wooded park, near beaches.

96%
(105)
27 sites · Tents, RVs · Ilwaco, WA
Dwell Seaview is a relaxing vacation spot on the Long Beach Peninsula. Located right in the middle between Ilwaco, Long Beach, and Cape Disappointment. Dwell Seaview is the place for you to enjoy your next vacation. There are many activities pretty much every weekend from spring through fall each year. Some larger events include Jeeps Go Topless in May, Beach to Chowder Run in June, Independence Day over 4th of July, Sandsations in July, Kite Festival in August, and the very popular Rod Run in September. Pictures of some of these events are posted in our Photos tab. There are 20 full hookup sites with a majority of them being 50/30/20-amp services, water and sewer is at each site!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
Carriage House Farm

9. Carriage House Farm

95%
(111)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · North Bend, OH
We are an Ohio Century Farm located in historic North Bend, Ohio. Single-family owned since 1855, our farm is located only 20 minutes outside of downtown Cincinnati but feels as if you are in the country side. Our campsites are located within a easy 5 minute walk of our on-farm distillery, winery, market, and food truck. Part of our 300 acre property is part of the conservation easement that makes up the "Oxbow," a migratory bird and waterfowl area that is popular among birdwatchers in the spring and autumn seasons. We have a large eagle population along with a host of other raptors.
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$39
 / night
Your Farm in the City

10. Your Farm in the City

96%
(314)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Portland, OR
Our farm is a very special place in the heart of Portland. We have been farming continuously for 5 generations, since 1880! Our farm has seen many changes around us in such an urban setting. We focus on best sustainability practices as well as giving our local community access to agriculture. Sharing the land with fellow hipcampers helps us stay in business as well as continue to foster our positive impacts in the local community.
Toilets
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Potable water
from 
$41
 / night
Owl Creek Cabins

11. Owl Creek Cabins

95%
(10)
2 sites · Lodging · Independence, MO
Owl Creek is a beautiful secluded wooded valley with a spring fed stream running down the center with a beautiful waterfall, We have a miles worth of walking trails and beautiful bluffs to explore. Pet fee needs to be paid under extras. One dog allowed on a leash on site.
Pets
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from 
$59
 / night
Twisted Tree Camp

12. Twisted Tree Camp

100%
(20)
1 site · Tent, RV · Long Beach, WA
Twisted Tree Camp s a 13 acre property about 5 miles north of Long Beach, Washington. The property is long and skinny, we have built road that accesses the back of the property. The campsite is in the middle of the woods, you can wake up to many birds singing and no neighbors in sight. In the evening you can listen to the frogs singing while you stare at th campfire. The road winds thru the trees and this is not suitable for vehicles longer than 23 feet or wider than 8 feet. There are multiple twisted trees along the road as you drive in to the campsite. We have recently built the road to the campsite at the back of the land so there is still evidence of recent construction along the road. There are two cameras on site - one at the entrance along Pacific Way and one by the campsite at the end of the road. Cameras are there to monitor the site after hipcampers have left and will not be on while campers have rented the space. Nearby there is SnowPeak Campfield that has a sauna and hot tub. There are many restaurants and public beaches to experience. During the summer there are numerous events like the kite festival, sandcastle festival, Rod Run and others.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
Pheasant's Hideaway

13. Pheasant's Hideaway

98%
(115)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Billings, MT
Come enjoy a quiet night on 2 acres just outside of the busy city of Billings. It feels like country living but is just minutes to downtown shopping and everything else the city has to offer. Located with easy access to the I-90. Stop to rest your eyes or stay a while and enjoy the big city life and rich history of this part of Montana. We have a fire ring for those chilly evenings. 15, 30 and 50 amp electric hookups with Sewer and potable water connections at your site. Most mornings can be greated by pheasants, deer and rabbits. On the lucky occasion one might see an owl. DanWalt gardens just two houses down the road is the best way to enjoy your cup of coffee in the morning.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
Blue Tin Ranch

14. Blue Tin Ranch

97%
(151)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Burbank, SD
Hello and welcome to the peaceful countryside! Proud to be named HipCamp's 2022 Top 10 Properties! We are a luxury hunting lodge here in South East South Dakota and love offering people the chance to camp, park, and explore our property! We are fifth generation farmers and are so proud of our farm and of South Dakota. Ask us about guides for the way out west to the Black Hills. We have 10 acres to share and are excited to host you! On property you can find, corn crib swings, a winding enchanted path to a gazebo perfect for sunsets, a gravity wagon basketball game, a romantic lit pavillion, a balcony overlooking both Iowa and Nebraska, and fields of corn and beans! Bathrooms can be found centrally on the property, we have 2 womens, 2 mens and one family/ handicap accessible. Now with Shower AND WIFI!
Pets
Electrical hookup
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from 
$23
 / night
Urban Surprise

15. Urban Surprise

98%
(27)
1 site · RV · St. Louis, MO
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area full hookups 20, 30 and 50 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium 3 miles, Gateway Arch 2.8 miles, Forest Park and Zoo 7.2 miles, St Louis City SC 2 miles, Convention Center 2 miles and Worldwide Technology Raceway 5.3 miles. Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area (6' Chain link) with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'. Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires. Unfortunately, due to multiple irresponsible pet owners, we no longer allow pets. The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history. We offer discounts for stays over 7 days. Just message us your proposed dates. There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

16. Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

99%
(1020)
33 sites · Tents, RVs · Wellington, MO
Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathroom with shower, trash bins, and an outdoor grill house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
VanGoBoon Campground

17. VanGoBoon Campground

83%
(866)
19 sites · Tents, RVs · Bozeman, MT
PLEASE NOTE: VanGoBoon is a campground, not a RV Park! Much like a NFS campsites but close to town, with easy access off Hwy 90. There's water on the property available in several areas of the campground. Some sites have water at the site. Otherwise we are considered a "dry" campground. Welcome to our campground! We are a "Roadside" Campground that offers the convince of easy on/off access to Hwy 90 and the close proximity to Bozeman. We are adjacent to Hwy 90 and the Montana Rail System. We have a variety of options that should suit just about anyone. We are near Yellowstone National Park as well as Bozeman, MT which offers all types of recreational opportunities e.g. hiking, fishing, climbing, skiing, cycling and running trails. VanGoBoon is the perfect "Pull-in for the Night" as well as week-long stays! Most of our sites are SELF-CONTAINED. We have 4 sites that have electric and water hookups. (20,30,50amp) The lawn area has horseshoes, frisbee golf, and corn toss. We mostly offer dry campsites for overnight stays for vans, tents or RVs . Most sites are on concrete slabs so they are level and the property has grass areas with trees as well. FYI: Great site if you like trains! An important part of Montana’s commerce is transportation by rail so there will be highway and train noise. If you are a light sleeper, you may want to have noise-cancelation devices handy. Private spots between trees but near freeway for easy access. Our 2 horses have been a favorite with young campers along with the open yet private campsites! We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
N Foss Camper

18. N Foss Camper

100%
(9)
1 site · Lodging · OR
This camper is new and well-stocked. It has heating and AC. The bathroom is small, but is hooked up to the city sewage. Note the bed is an RV queen size. Wifi is free. The camper is located between St Johns and Kenton in charming North Portland. It is safely located in the backyard of the property, and is surrounded by tall fences and shrubbery, allowing for absolute privacy. Beautiful yard with outdoor dining area and hot tub access (hot tub available starting September 2025). We are located a half a block away from the historic Columbia Park, with a long walking path through mature Doug firs, sports fields, pickleball courts and a play area/splash pad in the summer. There are many wonderful restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops located nearby. The neighborhood is safe and we have free parking. We are pretty quiet here:)
Toilets
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Hot Tub
from 
$72
 / night
Selby Farm Horse Retirement

19. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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from 
$24
 / night
Rhett's Ranch

20. Rhett's Ranch

93%
(23)
11 sites · Tents, RVs · Chinook, WA
Rhett's Ranch is more than just a piece of land—it's a living tribute to the memory of Rhett, a beloved son who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Nestled on 30 acres of fields surrounded by trees, Rhett's Ranch is a sanctuary for those seeking solace and connection with nature. At the heart of the ranch is a large open barn, a versatile space that serves as the focal point for gatherings and events. With three stalls and an indoor/outdoor concrete floor, the barn offers shelter and flexibility for a variety of activities, rain or shine. Rhett's Ranch is just 5 minutes to the Port of Ilwaco where you can reserve local Charter boat to go out fishing or crabbing. There are many hikes available as well as North Head and Cape Disappointment Lighthouses to enjoy and Waikiki beach with weekly live music. Saturday Market in Ilwaco is May through September. Long Beach is just a 10 minute drive where visitors can check out the beach, fly kites, enjoy many eateries and shop the Friday Market and local shops! Fun towns also nearby are Astoria, OR, just a 15 minute drive south and Oysterville and Ocean Park are a quick 25 minute drive North! The Rodeo Grounds are located on Sandridge Road in Long Beach. The 2024 Long Beach Rodeo is July 27th and 28th, 2024. Limited horse stalls are available to rent during this time. But Rhett's Ranch is more than just a venue—it's a place where memories are made and cherished. Animals are not typically at the property however, at special events or extended stays (4+ nights) visitors can encounter a menagerie of animals, from mini ponies and donkeys to goats, pigs, and cows. These furry friends serve as a reminder of Rhett's love for all creatures great and small, and they provide endless joy and companionship to those who visit the ranch. For those seeking privacy and tranquility, individual "bump outs" offer secluded spaces for camping and reflection. Tire climbing structures provide entertainment for the young and young at heart, while community horseshoe pits and cornhole boards offer opportunities for friendly competition and camaraderie. Above all, Rhett's Ranch is a place of peace and healing, where the beauty of the natural world serves as a balm for the soul. Whether you're seeking solace, connection, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation, you'll find it at Rhett's Ranch—a place where the spirit of a beloved son lives on in every blade of grass, every rustling leaf, and every joyful laugh.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

Lewis and Clark Trail Guide

Where to go

Camp Dubois, Illinois

This is where the Corps prepared to head west in 1804. Visit the reconstructed fort, then take time to learn about the Peoria, Osage, and Illini peoples who called this land home for generations.

Omaha, Nebraska

Walk the Missouri River where the expedition once traveled—and explore cultural centers that highlight the Omaha, Ponca, and Otoe-Missouria Nations whose histories are intertwined with this river valley.

​Great Plains and Mountain Passes

Cross sweeping prairies and rugged ranges that remain vital homelands to many tribes, including the Lakota, Mandan, Hidatsa, and Nez Perce. Visit tribal museums, community-run interpretive sites, or local events that share Indigenous perspectives on the land and its history.

Oregon Coast

Stand on the bluffs overlooking the mouth of the Columbia River, where the expedition finally reached the Pacific—and where Chinook and Clatsop peoples have lived for millennia. The view is timeless, but so is the ongoing story of stewardship and community here.