Camping sites near Ashland, Oregon range from free primitive sites at 7,500 feet elevation to full-service RV parks with boat access. The region's summer temperatures typically stay moderate in mountain locations while valley campgrounds can reach the 90s. Many campgrounds in higher elevations close between October and April due to snowfall.
What to do
Mountain biking and hiking: At Mount Ashland Campground, trails wind through forests with views extending to Mount Shasta. "Lovely place, lovely drive in. Spots are scattered and hard to find at night. Had dear running around while I was setting up the tent," reports one camper. The campground connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, making it popular with thru-hikers during summer months.
Fishing and boating: Jackson County Howard Prairie Lake Resort offers boat rentals and fishing access from spring through fall. "Great family campground, plenty of bike and lake side hiking trails. Nice shade during the hot months," mentions a visitor. The resort operates seasonally from April 15 to October 31, with the store selling basic supplies and fishing gear.
Water activities: Several campgrounds feature water access for swimming and cooling off during summer months. "In mid-October, the lake is a little more than a big puddle but still fishable if you desire. Short hop to Ashland and many wineries in the area," notes a camper at Emigrant Lake Point Park. Waterslides at Emigrant Lake Recreation Area operate during summer, weather permitting.
What campers like
Hot springs access: Jackson Wellsprings combines camping with mineral pool access. "We camped in our van for $25 per night. Tent and car camping available. There are RV hookups too. Some small cabins and yurt structures for rent too. On site showers and bathrooms," reports one visitor. The camping fee includes day use of the developed mineral pool for one person, with additional guests paying an entrance fee.
Cooler temperatures: Mountain campgrounds provide relief from valley heat. "This lake is empty now (2021) and it's a nice surprise to cross the barren lake bottom to see many different terrains. Would be a nice discovery trip for kids finding lake bottom treasures," shares a Howard Prairie Lake Resort visitor. Most mountain campgrounds sit above 4,000 feet elevation, offering temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than Ashland.
Accessibility to town: Many campers appreciate quick access to Ashland amenities. "The views are STUNNING with Mt Shasta in the distance and forest land extending as far as the eye can see. Very quiet and peaceful even in the parking area," notes a Mount Ashland visitor. Most campgrounds are within a 20-30 minute drive of downtown Ashland.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake levels fluctuate dramatically through the season at several campgrounds. "Has always been one of my favorite mountain lakes, but If your looking for recreational fun, pass. Howard Prairie is ran by Jackson county parks and rec but managed by the feds. They drain the lake for irrigation of lower fields and lakes," warns a camper.
Wind conditions: Some lake campgrounds experience significant wind. "We stayed for 4 days while attending some Shakespeare plays in Ashland. Be aware the wind picks up in the afternoon but tends to die down after sundown and there's not a lot of shade trees," notes a visitor at Emigrant Lake Point Park.
Reservation requirements: While Mount Ashland Campground remains first-come, first-served, most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer. "This lake is disgusting and slimy. There is a boat launch and were people fishing on the lake with boats. There are warnings for pregnant or nursing women not to eat fish from the lake," reports one camper about Emigrant Lake during late summer.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visits: For a quieter experience with more availability, consider camping during weekdays or before mid-June. "We checked out the 3 RV options (Creekside, Jackson Wellness, and Emigrant). This was by far the cleanest, most open, and best views," reports an Emigrant Lake Point Park camper visiting in November.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "Fenced off leash dog park, bike trails, fishing, clean bathrooms and showers, tent and yurt camping and more!" reports a visitor at Valley of the Rogue State Park. Though located 35 miles from Ashland, this park offers well-maintained facilities and river access.
Alternative swimming options: When lake conditions aren't ideal, consider Ashland's reservoir. "At that point we got out and decided to try to find a different place to swim. I found out that there's a swimming reservoir at the very top of Lithia Park. The water was very cool and very clear with a nice pebbly bottom," recommends a visitor who found Emigrant Lake unsuitable for swimming.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "The view was absolutely stunning on the first day then it turned to rainy with harsh winds and very cold the second day. This campground is really only set up for tent campers. The place to park for vehicles is far from level," notes a Mount Ashland visitor.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer sewer hookups. "There is an RV dump here. Cell reception with ATT, Verizon and TMobile," reports a visitor at Ashland's Creekside Campground. Most RV parks charge an additional fee for dump station use if not staying in a full-hookup site.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies dramatically between valley and mountain campgrounds. "No cell service & spotty starlink. Great place to sit and enjoy cooler weather," reports a camper at Hyatt Lake Recreation Area. Valley campgrounds typically offer reliable cell service with mountain locations providing limited or no connectivity.
