Tent campsites near Alsea, Oregon range from lakeside spots to high-elevation forest settings within Siuslaw National Forest. Weather conditions vary significantly between coastal and inland sites, with higher elevations experiencing temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees from day to night. Dispersed camping options typically require vehicles with adequate clearance for unmaintained forest roads.
What to do
**Waterfall exploration: Alsea Falls offers a 1/2 mile trail from the campground with additional hiking opportunities. "This was a pretty easy hike to this little falls. The terrain was a little slippery, but then again we went in March. The falls were full from all the rain and the forrest was just gorgeous," notes a visitor to Alsea Falls Recreation Site.
**Reservoir activities: Upper Lake Creek - Hult Reservoir provides non-motorized boating opportunities. A camper reports, "No motorized boats. Dispersed camping. Excellent hidden creek water. Restroom open during camping season. Store one mile away. Suggest you bring what you need and use store if needed. Nature trails. Canoe. Kayak. Fish," making this an ideal spot for paddlers at Hult Reservoir.
**Salmon fishing: River access allows for seasonal fishing opportunities. A camper at Alsea River Getaway mentions you can "fish for salmon from location. Very private and relaxing way to get a way from the city. The wood stove keeps it very nice."
What campers like
Solitude at secluded sites: Forest Road 51 sites provide significant privacy. "We found a spot at the end of the road that opened up a little bit more than other sites. 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!" reports one camper at Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek.
Minimal light pollution: Clear night skies make stargazing possible at many tent sites. "Very quiet, lovely views of the sky at sunset," notes a camper about Forest Road 51, while another mentions the deep darkness of the old growth forest: "It was dark, and I mean truly dark in there when you shut off your lights off, and silent as a tomb."
Off-grid experience: Tent campers appreciate the chance to disconnect. A camper at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping shares: "Excellent spot up 2 steep inclines. Some of the most beautiful views. Good fire ring. Do not attempt if wet."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping roads require specific vehicles. One camper warns about Forest Road 51: "Narrow and unpaved road. Vert 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!"
Early arrival recommended: Limited sites fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Forest Road 51 advises: "I only saw two spots in this area up here so get here early and you should get a spot."
Changing conditions: Weather patterns can shift rapidly. A visitor to Marys Peak Campground notes: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Small campgrounds better for groups: Look for campgrounds with adjacent sites. A visitor to Marys Peak shares: "It's a great place to take a group of friends to get away for a night."
Hiking difficulty considerations: Assess trail steepness for younger children. An Alsea Falls visitor cautions: "The hiking trails can be challenging in parts so beware if you have small kiddos."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Beaver sightings possible near water. "Beaver creek area was really cool, but the main trail was flooded out when I visited. I did see about 5 beavers close to the road though, so that was sweet," reports a camper at Forest Road 51.
Tips from RVers
Road width limitations: Forest roads often accommodate smaller rigs only. "It's a one lane road with some turnouts. Nice and quiet, but no real level spots," notes an RVer who took their Class C to Big Elk Campground.
Limited turnaround space: Plan your approach carefully. "I probably wouldn't do this if I had a trailer or an rv, but my toyota Corolla did just fine," mentions a camper about Forest Road 51.
Level site scarcity: Prepare leveling blocks for most area campgrounds. A camper at Marys Peak notes "The sites are on a slop which makes it a little challenging but well worth it."
