Where to Find VanLife Community This Summer: Top 5 PNW Hot Spots
June rolls in and shit is heating up—literally. If you’re sweating it out in the Southwest, dodging bugs, swamp-ass, and the annual A/C betrayal, let this be your sign to head north. Each summer, Vanlifers migrate to the Pacific Northwest, leaving a wake of wanderlust behind them. And for good reason: it’s lush, cool, and bursting with community-centered campgrounds where connection and alone time can coexist.
These aren’t just pin drops on a map. Each one of these locations has been scouted and VLC-approved by at least one of us, which means you can roll in knowing the vibes are dialed, the amenities are solid, and there’s room to throw your panels in the sun and your feet in the river (or some body of water).
Whether you’re a seasoned caravan boss or still figuring out how to find your Vanlife community, start by checking out our last blog. Then keep reading. This one’s your map to the top communal VanLife hotspots in the Pacific Northwest.
🌊 California: Coastal Chill & Redwood Retreats
Shelter Cove Campground – Whitethorn, CA
Follow your nose to the scent of salt and freedom, and you’ll find Shelter Cove Campground. Nestled along California’s Lost Coast, this spot offers all the chill: from the sea-soaked scenery and solitude to the coastal camaraderie and yes, karaoke.
Oceanfront campsites with full hookups & boondock spots
On-site deli with wine, beer + local snacks
Weekend movie nights + patio karaoke
Fire rings, shaded parking, and bluff-top views
Short drive to Cape Mendocino Lighthouse + tide pools
Mystic Forest Campground – Klamath, CA
Right off U.S. Highway 101 between Klamath and Crescent City, you’ll find this not-so-hidden gem: Mystic Forest Campground. Family-run and surrounded by redwoods, it’s perfect for groups and solo-travelers looking unplug and hug some trees.
50 acres of redwoods with hiking trail
Full hook-up & boondock/tent spots nestled in the trees
Mini golf, game room, horseshoes
Hot showers, restrooms + laundry
🌲 Oregon: Nature, Nonsense & Nomads
In my opinion, Oregon has yet to lose. Our new VLC Selma location is a vanlifer’s version of love at first sight. Tucked into 70 shady, solar-friendly acres in Oregon’s Illinois Valley abutting endless BLM forest, it’s the kind of place where you roll in for a weekend and accidentally stay all summer – because the community’s real, the vibe is peak, and adventure is always a few steps away. VLC Selma is one of the top off-grid vanlife campgrounds in Oregon and a perfect destination for long-term stays and summer vanlife travel.
Indoor clubhouse (Mon–Thu): Wi-Fi, pool + ping pong
Putt-putt disc golf course
Wide open field space, perfect for solar
Pool area and 10 min to swim holes on the Illinois River
1 hr to coastal redwoods, 2 hrs to Crater Lake
Next to BLM land with trails to get lost in
Events nearby: Northwest Nomads, Descend on Bend
Ah, VLC summer camp. With 25 acres of riverfront real estate, Mollala is where hammock hangs, barbecue buddies and all the games get together. Don’t forget to hit the farmer’s market for some solid sourdough.
Riverfront communal space with beach access
Paddle boats, fire pits + shaded gathering zones
Porta-potties, hot showers, and open fields for solar
Skydiving and paintball nearby
1 hr from Portland, near Silverton’s Trail of Ten Falls
Hosting this summer’s infamous Molalla Olympics
🌧️ Washington: Mossy Magic & Mountain Energy
Compass Rose Farms – Port Townsend, WA
Intentionally designed and druid-inspired, Compass Rose calls to those who listen. Follow winding paths to find a warm communal kitchen, garden, and other spaces to connect. Built for slow mornings, it’s where nomads go to feel held by the land and the people on it. It’s especially ideal for solo women Vanlife travelers and digital nomads seeking a slower pace and welcoming community.
Propane outdoor shower + full bathrooms
Semi-commercial kitchen + indoor communal space
Walking trails through druid-style forest paths
Forest hammocks, fire circle + artistic vibes
Close to Port Townsend + Olympic National Park
🎪 Before You Roll Out…
If you’re already mapping your summer route, here’s a short do-not-miss list of PNW events:
Northwest Nomads: September forest festival vibes – come see VLC there!
Descend on Bend: Labor Day community throwdown
Molalla Olympics: May the pickle pong odds be ever in your favor
Looking for friends as you head north? Don’t forget to use the Crossroads App. Broadcast to meet other Vanlifers on your route or check out some beacons to connect. They just launched messaging, too.
Don’t sit and sweat it it out. Nomadic community seekers, Vanlife couples, solo travelers looking to thrive off-grid – the PNW beckons to all. Come on up.
And while you’re at it, stop by at a VLC! See you there.
