Tent camping near Blue River, Oregon offers access to pristine forests and waterways along the McKenzie River and Fall Creek corridors. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with closures during winter months due to snow conditions at higher elevations. The area features volcanic landscapes with numerous hiking trails connecting camping areas to natural attractions throughout the Willamette National Forest.
What to do
Swimming holes exploration: Big Pool Campground provides direct access to multiple swimming areas along Fall Creek. A camper notes, "We have been here a few times and absolutely love the location. Being right on the water truly can't be beat! It's usually not one of the busier ones out this stretch of road" (Big Pool Campground).
Winter recreation: Ikenick Sno-Park serves as a base camp for winter activities with numerous trails accessible directly from the parking area. "Looks like lots of trails to snow shoe," reports one visitor, who recommends, "Definitely go up the road and give Blue Pools a hike" (Ikenick Sno-Park).
Non-motorized boating: Clear Lake offers pristine waters with strict limitations on watercraft. According to one visitor, "This would be a great place for those paddle boards. The lake is for non-motorized boats. Can do fishing too" (Clear Lake Resort).
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Tent sites at Cascara Campground provide affordable camping without reservations. A camper reports, "About $21 for a night with a car. Extra vehicle extra $7. We ended up staying an extra day" (Cascara Campground).
Cell reception: Some areas provide unexpected connectivity for remote work needs. At Cascara Campground, a camper found "Great Verizon service, and bathrooms. About 40+ spots, fire ring and picnic tables in each. Clean bathrooms."
Wilderness immersion: Koosah Falls offers primitive camping for those seeking solitude along the McKenzie River Trail. A reviewer warns, "Unfortunately mountain bikers have taken this trail over with the Forest Service blessing. It's not unusual to be ran into the bushes, or trip on the ruts from the bikes" (Koosah Falls).
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir levels impact recreation opportunities significantly. One camper at Cascara noted, "This used to be one of my favorite spots, and it's still a great little campground, but you used to be able to jump off the dock right into the reservoir, and now the level is kept so low that much of the recreation is no longer accessible."
Bathroom conditions: Vault toilets vary widely in maintenance. At Lakes End Campground, a visitor reported, "Pit toilets were horrible. Of course not sure they ever have been cleaned" (Lakes End Campground).
Parking limitations: Vehicle restrictions can create challenges. At Cascara Campground, a camper warned, "There is no drinking water and very little parking. If you have more than 2 vehicles you have to park outside the camp ground and walk back in...I had to park a mile away, and this was after paying the $7 parking fee."
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: Clark Creek Organization Camp provides structured accommodations for large gatherings. A visitor shared, "Fun little bunk houses for the kids and a big covered area for cooking and hanging out. Big field for tents, frisbee, drum circles, etc." (Clark Creek Organization Camp).
Noise considerations: Sound travels easily between sites at many campgrounds. A camper at Cascara Campground observed, "If there's one group that's loud, the whole camp will be victim to their conversations all night, sound carries."
Swimming safety: Some designated swimming areas provide safety equipment for children. A Cascara Campground reviewer mentioned, "The camp sites were decent size and they have life jackets for little ones."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Most tent camping areas can accommodate small trailers alongside tents. A camper at Cascara Campground reported, "Came here with family and friends, and we were all able to fit into one spot! We had two tents and a travel trailer between us."
Off-season timing: The best tent camping near Blue River, Oregon often becomes available after peak summer months. A Clear Lake Resort visitor advised, "Was told by the Ranger to come and stay after Labor Day, they are open year round."
Rustic cabin options: For those seeking more comfort than tent camping provides, several facilities offer basic structures. A Clear Lake Resort guest shared, "Rented a rustic cabin a couple weeks ago. It was perfect. Lights out at 10 but lanterns and propane heat keep you comfortable."
