Sunstrip

Star4.32
16 reviews
Sunstrip
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are currently listed for the campground.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Clackamas River, Sunstrip Campground offers adventurous souls a back-to-basics camping experience where the rhythms of nature take center stage. This intimate, tent-only sanctuary provides an authentic wilderness escape, though visitors should note it remains temporarily closed following the 2020 Riverside Wildfire. When open, this secluded hideaway strips camping down to its essence—just you, your tent, and the soothing sounds of the river flowing past your doorstep. While amenities are minimal, the reward is an unfiltered connection with Oregon's stunning natural beauty.
Sunstrip Campground is a primitive campground catering to tent campers. It offers basic facilities and a natural setting.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground may be brief, the surrounding lands whisper ancient stories. These forests and riverbanks have witnessed countless generations of travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace, from indigenous peoples who first knew these lands to modern adventurers continuing that timeless tradition of riverside camping.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with the Pacific Northwest's signature temperate climate, Sunstrip enjoys comfortable conditions that make it an ideal basecamp for outdoor adventures. The region's characteristically dry summers provide perfect camping weather with moderate temperatures that rarely become oppressive. Cool mornings give way to warm afternoons, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain air that makes sleeping under the stars so memorable. The area's reliable weather patterns create an extended camping season, though visitors should always pack layers for those crisp riverside mornings.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 1,000 feet above sea level, Sunstrip occupies that sweet spot where mountain air meets river valley comfort. This moderate elevation creates an inviting microclimate where towering conifers thrive and temperatures remain pleasant throughout the camping season. The forested environment at this elevation provides natural air conditioning in summer and spectacular fall colors as the seasons change, all while keeping you close enough to the river for easy access to swimming holes and fishing spots.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald cathedral where ancient Douglas firs draped in emerald moss create a living tapestry of Pacific Northwest splendor. The star attraction, the federally designated Clackamas Wild and Scenic River, provides both a stunning backdrop and endless entertainment as it tumbles over smooth river rocks. Lucky visitors might spot majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, while the patient observer could glimpse the elusive northern spotted owl or witness peregrine falcons in their dramatic hunting dives. Every corner reveals nature's artistry, from delicate ferns unfurling in the understory to the play of dappled sunlight through the forest canopy.
Geological RegionSunstrip Campground sits within the spectacular Mt. Hood National Forest, part of the volcanic Cascade Range that defines Oregon's dramatic landscape. This geologically young and active region showcases the raw power of tectonic forces through its rugged terrain and the Clackamas River's determined path through ancient lava flows. The lush environment, sustained by abundant Pacific moisture and volcanic soils, creates one of the most biologically diverse temperate forests on Earth. Here, where fire and water have sculpted the landscape over millennia, campers experience firsthand the dynamic forces that continue to shape the Pacific Northwest.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityVault toilets are described as accessible, but there is no further information about other accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground offers large tent sites. According to a user, 'Large sites,' and another user noted, 'Stayed in site #4, which, to me has the best light, open space & river access.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy appears to be limited at some sites. One review noted, 'No privacy between spaces 5 & 6, our tents were maybe 50 feet apart,' while another remarked, 'Very open and not at all private from one lot to the next.'
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider booking sites #3 and #4 for river views and light. Sites #5 and #6 lack privacy due to proximity, as noted by reviewers.
Best CampsitesReviewers have praised certain waterfront sites like #3 and #4 for their river access and views.

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
14 nights within a 30-day period.
Groups
Specific details about group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of eight tent-only sites, half of which are by the river. The layout is small and compact, with limited privacy between some sites.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is currently closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information available on walk-up site availability.
Cancellation Policy"Changes" to reservation dates incur a $10 fee. "Late cancellations" (starting from midnight the day before scheduled check-in) will subtract the first night's recreation fee and possibly incur a $10 cancellation fee. No-shows will forfeit the first night’s fee and incur a $20 no-show fee.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Sunstrip Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and water-related sports. The Clackamas River is a central feature for many of the activities.
Hiking
A trail runs along the riverbank, allowing for scenic hiking both north and south of the campground. No details are provided about trail difficulty or length.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity on the Clackamas River. Anglers may catch winter Steelhead, spring Chinook, and late summer Kokanee salmon, among other species of freshwater fish.
Boating
Whitewater rafting is a favorite activity on the Clackamas River, which offers 12.5 miles of Class III-IV whitewater.
Wildlife viewing
The campground's location supports wildlife viewing, with habitats for the bald eagle, northern spotted owl, peregrine falcon, and other species.
Water Sports
Whitewater rafting is a highlighted water sport on the Clackamas River.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.

Hazards

General hazardsThe campground lacks drinking water, and trash management has been a noted issue in some reviews. Wildlife such as bald eagles and other animals may be present.
Active alertsThe campground is closed as of the latest information due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.

Weather forecast

51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 71%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 4.3 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services available in Estacada, 21 miles away.

Good to know

Trash and recyclingA user noted that the trash bins were overflowing. Another mentioned, 'Wish the grounds were cleaner (lots of trash all around).' There are no specific details about recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated on the banks of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River, which offers fishing, rafting, and river views.
Common complaintsTrash and cleanliness issues, noise from the nearby highway, and a lack of privacy between sites were frequently cited by reviewers.
HostNo onsite host is available, and firewood must be brought by campers or purchased at Ripplebrook.

Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for about 21 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via a 21-mile drive east from Estacada along Highway 224.
Nearby places
Estacada (21 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Estacada, 21 miles away.

Camper Reviews

4.3
16 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Sunstrip is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sunstrip Campground receives mixed reviews. Many appreciate its proximity to the Clackamas River and the natural setting. However, complaints about cleanliness, lack of privacy, and highway noise are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's river access and scenic location. One user wrote, 'Great tent camping ground - easy access to Clackamas River,' while another mentioned, 'Large sites and many...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Common Concerns

Cleanliness and highway noise are recurrent complaints. Reviews mention overflowing trash bins, 'lots of trash all around,' and issues with vault toilet cleanliness. Another concern is the lack of...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend planning for the lack of amenities. For example, one user wrote, 'No on-site host, so either bring firewood or plan a trip to Ripplebrook.' Another tip was to select waterfront sites...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal reviews indicate that the campground is suitable for off-season camping, as traffic and noise levels may decrease. 'Good for off-season camping also,' wrote one user.
Based on 16 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Absolutely one of our favorite places to enjoy on the Clackamas River spot #3 is the best.' 2. 'The bathroom smell was horrible and their trash bins had garbage overflowing.' 3. 'Stayed in site...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #3 and #4 are frequently highlighted for their quality. One user stated, 'Spot #3 is the best,' while another said, 'Stayed in site #4, which, to me has the best light, open space & river...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no detailed reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 16 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No user reviews specifically address pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 16 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Oregon

Campgrounds
Sunstrip