Camping near Beatty, Oregon offers visitors access to high desert terrain at approximately 4,300 feet elevation, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F while dropping significantly after sunset. The surrounding Fremont-Winema National Forest transitions between dense pine forest and more open sagebrush landscapes. Camping options range from established campgrounds with amenities to primitive dispersed sites throughout Bureau of Land Management lands.
What to do
Kayaking the Williamson River: Put in near Waterwheel RV Park & Campground for direct river access. "There is a dock and boat ramp. The sites were very close together however," notes Kevin H., who appreciates the riverside setting.
Explore historic logging equipment: Visit the outdoor logging museum near Collier Memorial State Park Campground, featuring vintage equipment and educational displays. "Follow the walking trail to the logging museum. Logging equipment, buildings, train cars (all outdoors) with guided tours and a gift shop," reports Jessica P.
Fishing at Gerber Reservoir: The 3,800-acre reservoir offers trout and bass fishing opportunities from shore or boat. "The boat ramp and dock looked great. Interestingly we saw pelicans in the morning," shares Shawn A. about Gerber Reservoir.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise the site layout at Williamson River Campground. "Quiet, well spaced and flat sites. Pit toilet, no hookups or shower. Very helpful camp host. Fire pit and picnic table," notes Heather E.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms were beautiful and very clean. The whole campground was very clean. They had a nice laundry room too," shares Kodi R. about Waterwheel RV Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report diverse wildlife sightings. "Little bit of shade from the trees and great views," reports Reeves about Frog Camp BLM, a more remote option across from Gerber Reservoir.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in higher elevations operate from late May through early October, with limited off-season facilities. "The camp host said May 1 he hoped there'd be water. There was a recent fire and we had to drive through a burned section of forest to get there," notes Karin about Williamson River Campground.
Water quality concerns: Some campsites have inconsistent water quality. "We used one to fill up but the water was very dirty," reports Daniel S. about Williamson River Campground's pump water.
Limited cell service: Remote campgrounds often have spotty connectivity. "Cell signals from AT&T and Verizon provided enough connectivity for us to work during the week. AT&T, in particular, had a very good and strong signal," notes one reviewer about Waterwheel RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Fish Lake Resort offers family-friendly amenities and lake access. "We are traveling in a 20' van. We are at lake view. Big rigs around us, but we don't feel crowded. Trails around. Fishing and just relaxing," shares Kirsten G.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "This campground is near the highway, and you can hear traffic occasionally, but there are a number of hiking trails (easy) and you can get down to the cold, clear river," notes Susan L. about Collier Memorial State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for curious local wildlife. "Beware of the Chipmunks! They are everywhere and for some reason people lift the goods to protect their cars," warns Melynda L. about Collier Memorial State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and spacing: Many campgrounds have limited space between sites. "The sites were small. There are a couple of sites that are a little bit bigger, especially those sites facing East. Site#11 is the best, in my opinion, as your patio would be right on the river!" advises an RV camper about Waterwheel RV Park.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "This campground is a couple miles of dirt road off of hwy 97," notes Brittney G. about Williamson River Campground.
Dump stations and hookups: Only select campgrounds offer full hookup services. "If you need an RV dump site, head over to Collier, where there's a dump site and water hook-up for free/donation," suggests Corinna B. when staying at more primitive campgrounds.
