Places to Camp near Salem, OR
Camping near Salem, Oregon
Camping near Salem, Oregon, offers a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or a family-friendly adventure, the campgrounds around Salem have something for everyone. From the stunning waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park to the historical charm of Champoeg State Heritage Area, you'll find plenty of options to suit your camping style.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Salem, what activities you can enjoy, what campers like and dislike, and tips for families and RVers. Get ready to discover the best spots for your next camping trip!
What to do
The campgrounds near Salem offer a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Hiking, biking, and exploring historical sites are just a few of the options available.
One of the highlights is the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park Campground. This trail takes you past ten stunning waterfalls and offers both long and short loop options. As Lee D. mentions in their review, "The entire trail is just over seven miles but there are shorter loop options. The best access is from the day-use area but you can get there from the campground to add mileage."
At Champoeg State Heritage Area, you can enjoy a mix of history and nature. Matthew B. highlights the trails in his review, saying, "A lot of good trails for hiking and biking with the dogs."
For a more relaxed experience, Smith Creek Village — Silver Falls State Park offers easy lodging and beautiful walking paths. Derek N. shares in his review, "There was nice walking paths and a large grass area supplied with lawn games."
What campers like
Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities and beautiful natural surroundings at the campgrounds near Salem. Clean bathrooms, friendly staff, and a variety of accommodation options are some of the highlights.
At Silver Falls State Park Campground, Khylen C. notes in their review, "They have the nicest camp bathrooms I have seen, and include showers with hot water."
Jessica also praises the cleanliness and convenience at Silver Falls in her review, saying, "Clean bathrooms, easy to use firewood and ice purchase and super friendly camp hosts."
At Champoeg State Heritage Area, Caitlin P. shares in her review, "The tent sites were clean as well as the bathrooms and showers. Super peaceful and the park hosts were very nice and accommodating."
What you should know
While camping near Salem offers many positives, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience. Some campgrounds can get busy, and certain amenities might be limited.
At Silver Falls State Park Campground, Lee D. mentions in their review, "The only thing missing was a garbage receptacle and there were signs indicating you needed to take your garbage out."
Dan A. had a challenging experience at Champoeg State Heritage Area, as noted in their review, "If you show up late for a Yurt rental, things will get hectic real fast! The information on their website conflicts with their actual practices."
At Smith Creek Village — Silver Falls State Park, Jeff K. points out in his review, "The forecast was for rain but it held off long enough for us to have dinner and a campfire. Then rained all night which make for incredible waterfalls the next day."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families near Salem can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.
At Silver Falls State Park Campground, Khylen C. notes in their review, "This is also a very family-friendly campsite, but that meant hearing screaming children well into 10 at night and early in the morning."
Derek N. shares his positive experience at Smith Creek Village — Silver Falls State Park in his review, "Smith Creek Village is such a great place for easy lodging in nature. My family stayed in one of the tiny cabins."
Avery C. highlights the safety and family-friendly atmosphere at Silver Falls State Park Campground in their review, "When we visited, there were a ton of families with children so it felt safe."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Salem that cater to their needs, with amenities like electric hookups, sanitary dumps, and spacious sites.
Matthew B. shares his experience at Champoeg State Heritage Area in his review, "Sites in Loop A are close together and pretty open, but sites in Loop B are much further spaced and more private."
Jessica praises the RV sites at Silver Falls State Park Campground in her review, "Rv sites were quite private for a state park."
Richard H. highlights the well-maintained facilities at Champoeg State Heritage Area in his review, "Great stay. Park is well maintained."
Camping near Salem, Oregon, offers a variety of experiences for all types of campers. Whether you're exploring the waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park, enjoying the historical charm of Champoeg State Heritage Area, or relaxing at Smith Creek Village, you're sure to have a memorable trip. With these tips and insights, you'll be well-prepared for your next camping adventure near Salem.