The park, which is open year-round, boasts 1,673 acres of land which includes over 15 miles of trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders that hook into the popular Banks-Vernonia Trail, an abandoned railroad bed that was transformed into a 21 mile, partially-paved recreational trail. The park also features 12 walk-in tent sites, 23 primitive camping sites and 15 rental cabins along with 16 full hookup sites with corrals in the Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
However, the two campground loops, Dairy Creek Camp East and West, are where RVers will be most pleased. Complete with 78 full hookup sites, each site is 50 feet long with 50 amp service. No more worrying about driving your RV into this campground. The roads are wide and the sites are spacious enough to accommodate even the big rigs. The roomy, level site design is perfect for multiple slides and there’s still plenty of space left for lounging in front of your site.
This park does have a different feel than many state parks because it is so open and the trees and shrubbery are so new. But, it is a good feel. And those that aren’t as impressed with the immature landscaping will be in awe of the variety of hiking trails and the expansive views of the Coast Range that can be seen from the Hilltop Day-use area.
For those in need of extra provisions, the park is just a short drive into Vernonia, where all the essentials can be found including many restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations. And, for all you Twilight fans, it is interesting to note that the city of Vernonia also served as an on-location spot for some scenes in the movie.
Whether you are a Portlander making a quick weekend escape from the busyness of city life, or a traveler welcoming a nice detour from the I-5 corridor, you’re sure to be pleased with the newest addition to the Oregon State Park system.
Note: Be sure to make all of your necessary cell phone calls before you enter the park because there currently isn’t great coverage.
