Glamping close to Cascadia, Oregon attracts visitors seeking outdoor recreation with modern comforts. Located in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains at an elevation around 850 feet, this area experiences mild summers with daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights. Winter visitors should prepare for frequent rainfall, with glamping sites that remain accessible year-round typically requiring advance reservations during peak season.
What to do
Water recreation: McKenzie River access: At Mckenzie Bridge, visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming and boating opportunities. "Some sites are very small and close together, others are large and more wooded. Some are right on the water also. Vault toilet and boat ramp," notes a camper who awarded the site five stars.
Hot springs soaking: Natural thermal pools: Detroit Lake provides a cooling alternative to thermal soaking. "Detroit Lake campground is spacious with 6 different camping loops and lots of RVs and trailers. The lake is very nice - we took our kayak out early evening and had a nice time. Most campers seem to bring speed boats and we saw a few sail boats," mentions one visitor at Southshore At Detroit Lake.
Disc golf: Course near camping: Waterloo County Park offers an enjoyable disc golf course adjacent to camping areas. "The small bit of driving you have to do to get to Waterloo is well worth it - what we have here is a spacious, friendly campground with good nearby attractions, including a moderately raging waterfall, disc golf, etc. There are 120 sites, with over a mile of frontage to the healthy South Santiam River."
What campers like
Privacy options: Walk-in tent sites: Many campers appreciate the more secluded walk-in sites at certain campgrounds. "The small walk in sites for smaller tents are much more private and have the greatest views of the lake. This is another busy summer time family campground but in the spring and fall its quiet and perfect for the solo camper," reports a visitor at Southshore At Detroit Lake.
River access: Private beach areas: Some sites offer direct water access from camping areas. "We camped in Mid June and were 1 of 3 sites occupied. The campground was extremely clean and quiet. There is a fairly flat open area for tents, and access to a small private 'beach' on the lake. Very doable to get kayaks or paddle boards down," notes a camper at Whitcomb Creek County Park.
Natural pools: Swimming options: The McKenzie River provides swimming opportunities throughout the region. "You can check in online or in person, which is extremely convenient. It's a scenic drive on your way there, once you get there they have spots for RVs, or tents. They do have outhouse style bathrooms and no showers though, hence why it's so cheap likely. Great for a weekend getaway though!"
What you should know
Limited amenities: Water and facilities: Many glamping sites near Cascadia have restricted amenities. "There is not water or electricity, bring it in and pack it out. Can accommodate big rigs, or small tents. There are four pull through sites. Best to RSVP through ww.linnparks.com on popular weekends or take your change for any open sites," advises a camper about Whitcomb Creek County Park.
Seasonal closures: Access planning: Several campgrounds have limited seasonal availability. At Olallie Campground, "The campground has river front sites and an upper section by the road which is where we stayed. There's a bit of road noise but mainly quiet in the evenings. Sites can fit up to 2 medium tents and 2 cars, and have a picnic bench and fire pit."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity: Most glamping sites have limited or no cell reception. "There's no cell phone reception at all in that whole area so this is truly a place to disconnect," notes a visitor to Olallie Campground. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and bringing necessary information.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Activity options: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. "This is a great spot for mostly private sites with plenty of shade and close proximity to the water. Some sites have the parking spot up above the actual site and you have to walk down a short set of stairs to access. The view from spot 19 made it absolutely worth it," reports a camper at Southshore At Detroit Lake.
Water safety considerations: Supervision needed: Certain water access points require careful monitoring of children. "Campground offers easy access to the lake with motor boats and nice docks to fish from. The sites are spacious and have large fire rings. The camp host will enforce the quiet rules after 10pm…she'll also remind you multiple times," mentions a visitor at Southshore At Detroit Lake.
Site selection for families: At Waterloo County Park, spacious sites accommodate family gatherings. "Campground with something for everyone! Right on the river for swimming or fishing. If you drive up the road, you can float down the river to your campground! This park even has a disc golf course to enjoy while you camp. There's a park area with a playground for the kids to play. Spaces are large, and nicely spaced out."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pull-through availability: At Waterloo County Park, RV sites include utilities. "This place has it, a dog park, play disc golf, hiking trails, fish, with ADA fishing deck, boat launch, playground, and two camping loops. Loop 'A' is reservable and Loop 'B' open in summer as first come/first serve. Has sites with electric and water, and those without. Does have a dump station, and bathrooms with showers."
Size limitations: Space constraints: Many glamping sites near Cascadia have restrictions on RV size. "Nice campgroud lots of spaces and not over crowded. Only complaint is that the camp sites are pretty small. They were mostly paved driveways which are good if you have a trailer but isn't as convenient with a tent," notes a visitor at Whitcomb Creek County Park.
