Camping near Ashland, Oregon offers sites at elevations between 1,800 and 4,000 feet across diverse terrain including mountain lakes, riverside settings, and forested areas. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F and cool evenings dropping to the 50s, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter camping options remain available at lower elevations while higher sites typically close from November through April.
What to do
Riverside recreation: Valley of the Rogue State Park Campground offers excellent water access with designated swimming areas. "The walking-distance access to the river! The water was flowing fairly quickly due to the high snowfall this year, but there was a great rocked-off area just down from our campsite where you could get into the water and wade around without the fear of your dog or child getting swept away," notes a camper who visited in July.
Lake activities: At Joseph H. Stewart County Park, visitors find multiple water-based recreation options. "From our site we could walk along the lake which was nice. We kayaked the lake a few times, it was windy & quite a few motor boats. We found an area over before the dam that was calm and good bass fishing," shares a camper who used the park as a base for exploring nearby attractions.
Mountain biking: The trail system around Fish Lake Campground connects to several intermediate-level mountain biking routes. "Great hiking trails along the lake. Super well maintained, clean, water, electric hook ups and dump station. A little resort with food. Boat and kayak rentals. A quiet sleep in the trees," reports a regular visitor to the area.
What campers like
Hot springs access: The natural mineral waters at Jackson Wellsprings provide therapeutic soaking. "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. Developed hot pool for day use, with a discount if you are staying there overnight," explains a camper who appreciated the facilities.
Yurt camping: Ashland, Oregon offers several yurt options for comfortable overnight stays. The 777 Guest Ranch provides well-maintained yurt structures in a ranch setting with nearby trail access. According to one camper, "The 777 Guest Ranch has a great location near hiking and the hosts know some great spots nearby."
Spacious sites: Howard Prairie Lake Resort offers larger-than-average campsites. "Great location, many sites are right on this gorgeous lake. Boat slips and ramps, kayak and paddle. Awesome trail along the lake. Super well maintained, clean, water, electric hook ups and dump station," notes a satisfied visitor who enjoyed the lake amenities.
What you should know
Lake levels: Water levels at Howard Prairie Lake fluctuate significantly throughout the season. "Has always been one of my favorite mountain lakes, but if you're 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. This causes muddy shores and sad views," warns one regular visitor.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds near major roadways experience traffic sounds. "This campground is right off the highways. Super convenient. Very clean park facility. Fairly close sites but pretty quiet. Clean hot showers were super appreciated," reports a camper who stayed at Valley of the Rogue.
Campsite privacy: Fish Lake Resort offers beautiful settings but limited separation between sites. "Fish Lake resort is located on the beautiful Fish Lake. We had a tent site and it was huge! However limited privacy. This is definitely an RV campground. You will be right next to your neighbor," notes one tent camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature designated play areas for children. At Tree Of Heaven Campground, families enjoy "Small campground with river access. Open campsites, set in a canyon. No great hiking options from the campground, but easy access to the river make it a good spot for a hot summer's day."
Water safety: When camping with children near the Klamath River, be aware of current conditions. "We visited here while driving south on the I-5. It was far enough off the highway to be peaceful and in beautiful Klamath National Forest. There was what looked like a nice little place to swim in the Klamath river," reports a visitor who found the site good for an overnight stay.
Off-season visits: Consider camping outside peak summer months for fewer crowds and better site availability. "This is a large, sprawling, very peaceful and green Jackson County campground with several loops. It's so quiet and empty and peaceful during the week, and then practically fills up on the weekends," advises a regular visitor to Joseph Stewart County Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Medford-Gold Hill KOA, RVers should note the placement of utilities. "Pull thru sites are short; my 35 footer and car just fit. Multiple sites car were sticking in to the road making it a little close pulling out in the morning," warns one RV owner about site layout challenges.
Seasonal considerations: Most higher elevation campgrounds close for winter while valley locations remain accessible year-round. "We camped in the snow. The campsites were cleared of snow and we had a beautiful overlook of the lake. The staff/host were wonderful and accommodating," reports a winter camper at Fish Lake Resort.
Dump station access: RVers note that some campgrounds provide dump stations even at non-hookup sites. "Loop D is no hookups (though each site has a non-threaded water spigot). Sites without hookups are $28, and electric/water sites are $33. There is a dump station at the entrance, free for use by campers only," explains a visitor to Joseph Stewart County Park.
