Hilltop picnic table at Stub Stewart State Park (Rick Obst)
L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, about 30 miles west of Portland, is a 1,654-acre forested gem in Washington County’s Northern Oregon Coast Range. It offers something for everyone —whether you’re in a tent, cabin, on horseback, two wheels, or under the stars. L.L. Stub Stewart State Park is a destination for so many fun activities—whether you’re embracing the tranquility of primitive camping, cozying up in a cabin, galloping along forest trails, pedaling remote single-track, or marveling at the night sky. With year-round accommodations, rich trail systems, and engaging public events, it’s a top-tier park just a short drive from Portland.
When the park opened in 2007 it was the first new full-service state park in Oregon since 1972. The park includes hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horseback riding, RV and tent campsites, and cabins among other amenities. The park connects to the Banks–Vernonia State Trail. The Banks–Vernonia State Trail was the first linear rail trail state park in Oregon.
The State Trail is built on the Portland, Astoria & Pacific Railroad rail line to transport timber, freight, and passengers. In the 1920s, trains on the line hauled logs and lumber from Keasey and the Oregon-American mill in Vernonia to Portland. The railroad stopped using the line in 1957 after the mills closed, and from 1965 through 1969 the Vernonia South Park and Sunset Railroad leased the line for a steam excursion train. It is now a 21 mile paved state trail.
Nearly 30 miles of multi-use trails crisscross old logging roads, shaded Douglas‑fir groves, and scenic ridges—shared by hikers, bikers, and horseback riders . You’ll find 15 miles of dedicated mountain bike terrain, including single-track graded green to double-black — a top spot for mountain biking in state parks. The Banks–Vernonia State Trail (21 miles, paved) runs through the park—great for a bicycle day-trip .
Disc golf enthusiasts can choose between a 9-hole beginner course (“Li’l Stub”) and a challenging 18‑hole “Hares Canyon” circuit .
An off-leash dog area near Hilltop allows pups to roam freely, and the Discovery Depot offers insights on local flora, fauna, and logging heritage .
Whether you’re organizing a family reunion in a meeting hall, fishing, a hike-in pond, or riding sunrise single-track, Stub Stewart offers a full forest retreat with comfort, and convenience.
Stub Stewart Memorial State Park has been a favorite astronomy spot for amateur astronomers in the area, with organizations such as OMSI hosting multiple star parties at the venue. The site is a great spot for astronomers to set up their telescopes and view the night sky as the trees shield the hilltop from the light pollution from the cities in the area.
Special Events & Programs
OMSI Star Parties: Regular stargazing events hosted by the Rose City Astronomers—perfect for viewing celestial wonders away from light pollution. Watch the Perseid showers and other celestial events.
Ranger-guided programs: Learn disc golf basics, native plant identification walks, photography tips, and volunteer stewardship days—check the park’s calendar.
Group event hosting: Weddings, reunions, educational outings—the park accommodates non-traditional gatherings with permits and meeting hall reservations .
Accommodations: From Rustic to Full Hook-ups
78 RV sites with full electric, water, and sewer hook-ups
12 walk‑in tent sites nestled near water and parking, plus 21 hike-in primitive sites at Brooke Creek Camp—perfect for quiet getaways .
15 cabins, including 5 pet-friendly options, offering real beds, electricity, heat, fire pits, and picnic tables—with communal showers/restrooms close by.
Hares Canyon Horse Camp (seasonal): 13 equestrian sites with hook-ups, corrals, and direct trail access.
Group shelters and meeting halls (Hilltop, Mountain Dale, Dairy Creek West) are reservable for gatherings—with amenities like indoor kitchens, fireplaces, and ADA access.
RESERVATIONS: Campsites and day-use facilities can be reserved up to 6 months in advance at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com
Be aware: ongoing forest-health projects mean some eastern trails may close occasionally through late 2025 .
Oregon State Parks: L.L. Stub Stewart State Park useful information