Best Tent Camping near Albany, OR

The area around Albany, Oregon includes access for tent camping in several forested settings within an hour's drive. Marys Peak Campground in Siuslaw National Forest offers primitive tent sites at higher elevation, while Alsea Falls Recreation Site provides a more developed camping experience with access to waterfall hiking trails. Quartzville Recreation Corridor east of Albany offers dispersed tent camping along a National Wild and Scenic River, with sites situated directly along the water.

Surface details at most tent campgrounds vary considerably, with many sites set on natural forest floors with minimal improvements. Vault toilets are common at established campgrounds like Marys Peak and Alsea Falls, but dispersed areas like Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek lack facilities entirely. Most tent sites include fire rings and picnic tables, though seasonal fire restrictions frequently limit campfires during summer months. Water availability is inconsistent - Alsea Falls provides drinking water, while at Marys Peak and dispersed areas, campers must bring their own supply. A visitor commented that Marys Peak Campground is "one of the most primitive campgrounds I've seen. There were a few old picnic tables, fire rings, and one vault toilet."

Areas farther from town offer deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking quiet experiences. The Sweet Home Ranger District along US Highway 20 provides backcountry tent access with minimal facilities but greater privacy. Walk-in tent sites at BLM Molalla River Recreation Area require short hikes from parking areas but reward campers with riverside locations and better separation from neighboring sites. Tent campers at higher elevations should prepare for temperature fluctuations, as Marys Peak can experience cold nights even in summer due to its altitude. A recent review noted that Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek offers "peaceful" camping with "lovely views of the sky at sunset," though limited spots are available in this more remote location.

Best Tent Sites Near Albany, Oregon (31)

    1. Marys Peak

    6 Reviews
    Blodgett, OR
    25 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "This is a great small campground for those close to Corvallis. It is easy to get to, just a windy road. The winter does close this early, depending on the amount of snow that falls."

    "Setting is wooded but not a ton of privacy across the CG. Mary’s peak hiking is incredible. The peak is the highlight, unbeatable views. There’s also great old growth forest trails."

    2. Sweet Home Ranger District (US Highway 20)

    3 Reviews
    Sweet Home, OR
    25 miles

    "All areas are secluded, you can choose any place to camp at many options, no phone service but great area to fish and explore the forests, it’s a bit of a ways in but the drive is quite nice."

    3. Alsea Falls

    6 Reviews
    Alsea, OR
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 574-3100

    "The grounds offer two pit toilets; that were kept very clean, water bibs, dish water dumps, along with fire pits and picnic tables at all sites."

    "Tall trees, dense greenscapes, long, well-marked switchback trails and a wide, long wall of whitewater that is Alsea Falls."

    4. Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp — Willamette Mission State Park

    6 Reviews
    Keizer, OR
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 393-1172

    $20 / night

    "The campsites are horse friendly and the trails are absolutely gorgeous- it felt like being out in the wild."

    5. Quartzville Recreation Corridor

    6 Reviews
    Cascadia, OR
    32 miles
    Website

    "Bring it in Pack it out, be kind to others and take your trash. Nobody should pick up after messy campers who can camp FREE. Only thing you get is a Fire Ring and that shows where you can camp."

    "It is dispersed so only a few areas have bathrooms, and not being a regular campground some neighbors can get rather rowdy. But, overall it is a definite favorite."

    6. Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek

    16 Reviews
    Seal Rock, OR
    45 miles

    "Last campers left pit and firewood- will leave some more for the next. We listened to another review and headed left when the road split up near the top and took that first site on the right."

    "There were others around here and not a huge amount of site options, so be weary of spaces filling up. Lots of forest and greenery surrounding the area!"

    7. Big Elk Campground

    2 Reviews
    Eddyville, OR
    32 miles
    Website

    "Two pit toilets and potable water available. The area is well-maintained. There is no cell service in camp or along most of the 60-mile C2C (Corvallis to Coast) Trail."

    "Only about 10 sites here , the camp host was very nice and sold us firewood! Not a very busy campsite but it is pretty!"

    8. Whispering Pine Horse Camp

    2 Reviews
    Eugene, OR
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 323-1746

    $25 - $27 / night

    "They offer professional help that can elevate your academic experience. Enjoy the serene beauty of the forest and create lasting memories at Whispering Pine!"

    "Lots of great trails to hike."

    9. Santiam State Forest Rock Creek Campsites

    1 Review
    Gates, OR
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 859-2151

    $15 - $20 / night

    "Nice place to camp right by the creek the walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night I personally have only camped at the drive-up sites and it's super pretty and peaceful there"

    10. BLM Molalla River Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Molalla, OR
    41 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!"

    "I usually stay at Cedar Grove nearby, but stayed here this year (2020). The campground is clean with water sometimes available."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Albany, OR

950 Reviews of 31 Albany Campgrounds


  • Sara R.
    Sep. 5, 2018

    Marys Peak

    Very basic and secluded.

    This is one of the most primitive campgrounds I've seen. There were a few old picking tables, fire rings, and one vault toilet. We were the only ones there during the peak of camping season. There were lovely flowers and raspberries growing nearby. A few dead branches feel during the night, which was a little underling.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2022

    South Beach State Park Campground

    Huge Park, Huge Mosquitos, Lots of Activities

    We showed up here in early June with no reservations and had no problem getting a spot.

    Oregon State Parks now charge a 25% surcharge for non-residents for RV / hookup sites.

    Tent/non-hookup sites are only $22 (whether resident or no), and electric/water sites are  $35 for Oregon residents and $44 for non.  There are no sewer hookups here but there's a free dump and water fill at the entrance. There are water spigots throughout the campground.

    The RV loops are more like your basic crammed in RV park sites, with all sites closely in a row.  The two tent loops, H and I, have a nicer feel, more spaced out, more trees, and quieter.  RVs are allowed to camp in tent sites, and no generators are allowed (yay!).  There is some tree cover but there are plenty of sites with enough open sky so you can use your solar panels easily.

    Showers are really nice, and free.  They are set up in individual units, which I prefer.

    The trails to the beach are nice, but were really swampy when we were here and the mosquitos were really aggressive (bit me through two layers of clothes!).

    There's a cool disc golf course but we didn't get to play, mainly because of the mosquitos. 

    Campground is close to the cute town of Newport.

    Overall we liked it here.

    ATT phone had good coverage.  Verizon was usable but weak, but the cell booster helped.

  • Jill T.
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Piety Island Boat - In Campground Boat Landing

    Island camping

    Top reasons I love this campground: 

    - It’s an ISLAND! How cool is it to camp on an island! 
    - Beautiful views from the middle of the northern end of Detroit Lake. 
    - Great for swimming, boating, exploring, hiking, and fishing. 
    - I bet it’s amazing to stay there over the 4th of July. 
    - The firework display from the other side of the lake should be spectacular! 
    - Cheap-$10. 
    - Only 22 sites. 
    - I had cell service with AT&T. 

    **Things to note: **

    - This should be obvious but, you’ll need a boat to get to and from the island. It’s a quick canoe from either side. 

    - The vault toilets are maxed out. Hopefully, they will be serviced SOON! 

    - No drinking water, no shower, and no guarantee for the serviced toilets. 

    - Bring water and TP. 

    - Fires are allowed and there are several picnic tables.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2023

    Hult Pond

    Secluded Pond Great for a Quick stay

    Great spot for a quick stay. There are only a few flat spots for RVs but quite a few decent spots for tent camping next to the pond. The west side of the pond has at least 2 spots that are a good distance away from the others. At the moment, no fires or barbecues allowed but propane stoves and lanterns are fine. Look for Bandits blue squeaky disk! We lost it and never found it.

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 25, 2018

    Yukwah Campground

    ADA access camping sites and great day use area

    Yukwah campground is found along hwy 22 East of Salem along the Willamette National Forest in Linn County. Most of the sites along this stretch are first come, first serve walk up sites - but you can reserve by connecting with Linn County Parks and Rec (see photo for info) for $18/night plus $5 additional vehicle fee and reservation fee. This campground has ada access camp sites and tent sites. Most of the RV sites along the Willamette National Forest can be used for tent camping. The day use area at this site is great for swimming, fishing, and possibly a small hike. I advise camping near the day use area (#3) if you have a large family or kids for larger sites and easy access. Yukwah is near wagon wheel bridge with access to trails for those wanting to hike while camping. Vault toilets are available (bring soap) - there are no showers or additional amenities. There is access to potable water at this location.

  • Kelly-Shane F.
    May. 15, 2023

    Beverly Beach State Park Campground

    Perfect camping in the woods

    The tree cover was fantastic, it was 85 out in the sun but much cooler at the site. Sites were open but still secluded enough to not be bothered by your neighbors. Sites were large, had a nicely maintained picnic table. Showers were clean and hot!

  • Aria R.
    Jul. 30, 2017

    Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

    Crowded Disc Golf Fun

    I am going to try staying here again in the winter, the sites are small and close enough together that in peak summer season it’s pretty darn noisy, the joyful din of summer break.

    Lots of trees around the tent sites so there is a lot of shade which is nice. Shorter driveways though so not a lot of room for extra cars. The ADA accessible spots are great, paverstones under the picnic areas and such; very nice.

    If you like disc golf this is definitely the place to go, huge sprawling shaded course is very inviting and everyone who was playing looked like they were having a good time. Great destination for lazy bike rides, miles of paved low incline trails. Plus as well, they have a bike tools available as well, a work station for light repairs.

    Full service campgrounds, yurt sites have more space around ‘em so it may be a better option for in the future.

    Good river and fishing access, lots of low-key trails to explore. Dogs are welcome on leash and there is a designated area for them to romp too.

  • Cindy U.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2018

    Yukwah Campground

    Trees, stream, and nature

    Just off Hwy20 within the Willamette Forest. Set along the South Santiam River. About 20 miles from Sweet Home, Oregon. Nestle in the Forest made for small size trailer (under 20ft) or tents but nice swimming holes for July and August weather. Fishing for early spring. Open from May to Sept. There are 20 sites, this year 2018 there was no host. Can reserve spots or try your luck with 7 first come first serve sites. Has a wheel chair primitive trail with a fishing platform. Does require a day fee. Even though its close to HWY 20, road noise is minimal, no semi are to use the road except logging trucks. Has three vaulted toilets, and two water spicket. The Linn County manages the National Forest Campground. Also close to several hiking trails.


Guide to Albany

Tent campsites near Albany, Oregon spread across several ecosystems, from coastal forest to high desert foothills. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-90°F during the day and can drop below 50°F at night at higher elevations. Most dispersed camping areas limit stays to 14 days within a 28-day period, with seasonal closures common on forest roads from November through May due to snow and muddy conditions.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Quartzville Recreation Corridor offers excellent year-round fishing access along its National Wild and Scenic River. "Fishing (last time I was there) has been great. It is great for fly fishing and for plunk and wait fishing," notes one camper who visits regularly.

Mountain biking: Forest trails near Big Elk Campground connect to the 60-mile C2C (Corvallis to Coast) Trail. A reviewer mentions it's the "only official campground along the C2C Trail" with about a dozen campsites plus a hiker-biker area priced at "$10 for an individual campsite, $5 per hiker/biker."

Swimming holes: Several tent campsites around Albany feature natural swimming areas. BLM Molalla River Recreation Area has "great swimming holes" where families can enjoy cooling off during summer months. A camper notes it's "great for swimming, kids fishing and catching crawfish - something for everyone."

Gold panning: Amateur prospectors can try their luck at finding gold in Quartzville Recreation Corridor. "A little bit of luck head to the stream and find some gold," suggests one experienced camper familiar with the area's geological features.

What campers like

Wildlife viewing: Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. One visitor reported, "Beaver creek area was really cool... I did see about 5 beavers close to the road though, so that was sweet."

Stargazing: Secluded tent sites away from city lights offer excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Forest Road 51 commented on the "lovely views of the sky at sunset" from the campsite pulloffs.

Trail access: Marys Peak Campground offers direct access to mountain summit hikes with panoramic views. A regular visitor notes, "Mary's peak hiking is incredible. The peak is the highlight, unbeatable views. There's also great old growth forest trails."

River camping: Several tent sites provide direct water access. A visitor to Quartzville Recreation Corridor writes, "I have camped at the quarry a few times with my friends that have a camp trailer. I have also camped in the pull outs," noting that riverside spots offer relaxing settings.

What you should know

Road conditions: Many forest campsites require traveling on rough forest roads. At Forest Road 51, a camper warned that it's "a one lane road with some turnouts" and another noted, "I probably wouldn't do this if I had a trailer or an rv, but my Toyota Corolla did just fine."

Campfire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and location. A Quartzville Recreation Corridor camper advises: "Always follow the guide for the area about campfires. Such as August most times there are NO Camp Fires! Be prepare for fire danger, have axe, shovel and 5-gal of water."

Limited facilities: Most dispersed tent camping near Albany lacks amenities. "BLM Molalla River Recreation Area is clean with water sometimes available. There is spring water near milepost 7 when the pump in campground is not available," writes a regular visitor who notes to prepare accordingly.

Site availability: Most rustic camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Forest Road 51 advised, "I only saw two spots in this area up here so get here early and you should get a spot."

Tips for camping with families

Swimming locations: Families looking for kid-friendly water activities should consider BLM Molalla River Recreation Area. A visitor describes it as "a great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!"

Educational opportunities: Willamette Mission State Park offers nature learning experiences. "A lot of work has been done to keep this site up for public education and trails - we take elementary students to this site every spring to have a field science day. The largest Black Cottonwood tree resides at this park and is worth seeing!"

Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially at higher elevations. A Marys Peak visitor cautions that it "can get cold at night since it is at a higher altitude and weather changes quickly. Great hikes around the peak as well."

Site spacing: For families wanting separation from other campers, choose more remote locations. A camper at Rock Creek describes the area as "super pretty and peaceful" with good site spacing and basic amenities including "3 garbage cans and a porta potty."

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Many forest roads near Albany have tight clearances. An RVer at Forest Road 51 warned: "Narrow and unpaved road. Very narrow, My trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!"

Alternative parking: When forest roads prove too tight, consider parking at designated areas and walking in. One RVer noted: "I did it in a class c rv... It's a one lane road with some turnouts. Nice and quiet, but no real level spots."

Pre-trip scouting: First-time RVers should consider scouting routes before bringing larger rigs. "Windy narrow road a couple state campgrounds and day use areas... limited places to turn around... But well worth the adventure!" wrote one RVer about accessing Quartzville Recreation Corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do campgrounds near Albany, Oregon cost for tent campers?

Tent camping fees near Albany vary by location and amenities. At Elk Lake Campground, a more remote site requiring high-clearance vehicles, camping is available for primitive tent sites. For developed campgrounds, expect to pay around $19 per night at locations like BLM Molalla River Recreation Area, which offers clean facilities with sometimes available water. Some areas have been converted from free to fee-based camping in recent years. Many Forest Service and BLM sites are in the $15-20 range for basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings.

What are the overnight camping options and regulations in Albany, Oregon?

For overnight camping near Albany, you'll find both developed and dispersed options. Alsea Falls offers primitive camping with no hookups and smaller sites ideal for tent campers, plus access to hiking trails. For those seeking dispersed camping, Quartzville Recreation Corridor provides riverside spots with multiple fire rings, suitable for small groups. Most public campgrounds in the area require payment of established fees, typically collected by park rangers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, properly dispose of waste, and check current fire restrictions during your visit.

Where are the best tent camping sites near Albany, Oregon?

Several excellent tent camping options surround Albany. Cascara Campground — Fall Creek State Recreation Area offers over 40 spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables, plus a dock and swimming area - perfect for families. For a more primitive experience, try Marys Peak Campground which features rustic sites with old picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. While more secluded, you'll be rewarded with lovely wildflowers and natural surroundings. Both locations provide a peaceful escape from Albany while offering different amenities to match your camping style.