We were on our way out to the Oregon coast and thought we would scout the Gnat Creek Campground as we were going by it. This small, walk-in-only public site in Clatsop State Forest (managed by Oregon Department of Forestry) sits right along Gnat Creek, with the constant sound of water and easy access to fishing and trails. It’s about 18 miles east of Astoria on Hwy 30.
Quick Specs
- Location: Clatsop State Forest, near Astoria/Clifton, OR (Hwy 30 milepost ~78)
- Type: Tent-only; no RV/trailer camping
- Fee: $15/night (includes 2 vehicles; pay on-site)
- Reservations: First-come, first-served – no booking
- Pets: Allowed on leash
- Open: Year-round (best May–October)
- Max Stay: 14 days typical
- Cell Service: Spotty to none
Our Personal Experience
Photos Gallery
As we were passing through and just stopped in to check the place out on the way by to the Oregon coast, so our perspectives into the Gnat Creek Campground are a bit limited.
That being said, the sites all seemed pretty decent, level and reasonably well laid out. The fact that all of them are close enough to the creek to hear it is a big plus.
I won’t say that the spaces are comfortably far apart, but they aren’t small either. The fast that there are only 7 could be an issue when it gets to the busy season.
The bank down to the creek is pretty steep, but better access to the creek can be found back towards the road where the bridge crosses the creek.
Map & Directions
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Things to Do & Nearby
- Fish Gnat Creek (salmon/steelhead seasonal)
- Hike Gnat Creek Trail (7.2 mi out-and-back, moderate)
- Visit Gnat Creek Hatchery (educational, free)
- Explore Astoria (30 min: Column, museums, breweries)
Tips & Packing Advice
- Bring plenty of water (no potable on-site) and trash bags
- Pack bug spray, bear spray (rare), layers for coastal fog
- Arrive early on weekends – limited sites
- Check fire restrictions
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Peaceful and natural forest setting
- Affordable ($15/night)
- Creek access for fishing/relaxing
- Nearby trail and hatchery
- Clean basic facilities
Cons
- No water – haul your own
- Pack-it-out trash
- Limited sites – fills fast weekends
- Primitive/no hookups
- Potential litter from others
- Logging trucks at odd hours
FAQs
Is Gnat Creek pet-friendly?
Yes, leashed pets allowed.
Can RVs go there?
No – walk-in tent sites only.
Is there drinking water?
No – bring or filter (at risk).
Reservations required?
No – first-come, first-served.
Best time to visit?
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Final Thoughts
Have you camped here? Share your tips in the comments! Subscribe for more honest campground reviews from our Pacific Northwest travels.
