Camping near Willamette National Forest

Willamette National Forest has many camping options for both tent and RV campers. Black Canyon Campground gives you good shade from tall trees and a quiet place to camp. Rock State Park has well-kept sites close to hiking trails and fishing spots. You might see deer, elk, and birds while camping here, so keep food stored safely. Watch for fire restrictions during summer dry spells and follow all posted rules. Some activities need permits, and popular campgrounds fill up fast, so book ahead. The forest has trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to tough hikes. Winter snow can block some roads, so check conditions before you go. You'll find everything from thick forests to open meadows throughout the area. Most campsites come with picnic tables and fire rings, but bring your own water. The sound of nearby streams adds to the camping experience. Fishing is good in the forest's waters, with plenty of trout available. Make sure to practice Leave No Trace to keep the forest clean. Willamette National Forest works well for short trips or longer stays. The mix of natural areas and decent campgrounds draws many campers each year. Pack for changing weather since nights can get much cooler than days. Check for trail closures or wildlife alerts before heading out. The forest offers both quiet camping and plenty of activities to keep you busy.

Best Camping Sites Near Willamette National Forest (379)

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Recent Reviews near Willamette National Forest

1516 Reviews of 379 Willamette National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Willamette National Forest

Camping near Willamette National Forest, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by a river, there’s something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers love the access to beautiful hikes nearby. One reviewer mentioned, “We drove about 5 minutes down the road to the Hardesty Trailhead and did some awesome hikes during the day before coming back to the campground to cool off by the river” at Black Canyon Campground.
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes around the campgrounds are great for fishing. A visitor at Lava Lake Campground shared, “I went out onto the lake with a kayak and fished; didn’t catch anything but it was still fun out there.”
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have river access for swimming. One camper at River Bend County Park noted, “We spent most of our days at the river swimming, floating in tubes, skipping rocks and looking for crawdads.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A reviewer at Paradise In Oregon said, “Great, big, private campsites, with many right on the McKenzie. We loved this campground.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. One visitor at Casey's Riverside RV Resort mentioned, “Well maintained, clean, and a beautiful setting along the middle fork of the Willamette River.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the helpful staff. A guest at Whitcomb Creek County Park shared, “The campground was extremely clean and quiet. The park host and ranger were helpful and made sure they were available for any questions or needs we had.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain amenities. A camper at Lava Lake Campground noted, “There are no showers, but the vault toilets were exceptionally clean, odorless and well stocked with TP.”
  • Tight Campsites: Many sites can be close together. A visitor at Creekside Sisters City Park mentioned, “Some spaces are a little tight and not so level.”
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens said, “The sites aren’t very big but have a table and fire pit. The tent sites across the river that you hike to are amazing!!”

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Bug Spray: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially near water. A reviewer at Big Lake advised, “Bring bug spray, the bugs are outrageous.”
  • Plan for Activities: Keep kids entertained with swimming and hiking. A family at River Bend County Park enjoyed “playing in the river, too.”
  • Check Site Size: Make sure your campsite fits your family’s needs. A visitor at Paradise In Oregon noted, “The sheer size of Site 49 more than made up for it.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A reviewer at Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort mentioned, “All sites are paved. Space between sites is reasonable.”
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some sites can be noisy due to nearby roads or trains. A camper at Casey's Riverside RV Resort said, “If you don't like the sound of a raging river, you would want to get a site further down.”
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Whitcomb Creek County Park advised, “Book this early. From talking to fellow campers, it's usually full.”

Camping near Willamette National Forest, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy all the beauty this area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Willamette National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Willamette National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 379 campgrounds and RV parks near Willamette National Forest and 45 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Willamette National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Willamette National Forest is Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens with a 4-star rating from 21 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Willamette National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 45 free dispersed camping spots near Willamette National Forest.

  • What parks are near Willamette National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Willamette National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.