The Chetco River Valley area surrounding Cave Junction sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, creating a transitional zone between the coastal climate and inland mountains. Cabin camping near Cave Junction, Oregon provides access to the Illinois River watershed, with summer temperatures typically ranging 80-95°F during peak season. Winter cabin options remain available at several locations, though facilities may operate with reduced services during the off-season.
What to do
River access for swimming: Lake Selmac Resort offers direct water access where campers can enjoy swimming or fishing. "The campsites were all so beautiful with all the amenities one may want. You really felt removed from the world while there BUT not to far from a grocery store that has all you need. Boat rentals are cheap and very easy to access," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Bloom provides riverside camping with multiple water access points. "There are 2 areas with river access, a shallow area and a deep swimming hole, with the option to float down some mild (and fun!) rapids," explains a reviewer. The property also features a communal kitchen and sauna.
Redwood forest exploration: Jedidiah Smith Campground sits among ancient trees just across the California border. "This is a surreal place. Stayed 2 nights. Tent camping spots were great everything was nicely maintained. Foot traffic was a bit heavy from noon-4pm. To stand amongst this beautiful trees it is very breathtaking," shares a camper who rated it 5 stars.
What campers like
Private riverside settings: Alfred A. Loeb State Park Campground offers cabin rentals with river views. "The front porch provided a fabulous view to the Chetco River. If you fish and don't have a trailer or camper these cabins are perfect. Fire ring and table are provided as well," notes a visitor who stayed in one of the cabins.
Hot showers and facilities: Laughing Alpaca Campground + RV Park maintains clean restroom facilities and provides river access. "Owner is super friendly and chill. Gave us a site backed-in to the river. He also pointed to the direction where we can see Neowise comet (he was spot on!)...restrooms are clean. WiFi works but a bit spotty at times. Our kids enjoyed the river and used the park's kayaks and paddle boards (for free!)."
Unique accommodations: Several properties provide specialized lodging beyond standard cabins. Lone Mountain RV Resort features tipi camping options. "Really cool Tipi! A bit more secluded from the RVs and trailers. Surprisingly enough I booked through air b n b!" according to a visitor who enjoyed the alternative camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin rentals require preparation but offer a different experience. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park, "We've been here both in summer and winter, and the winter months is by far better in our opinion. Summers are too hot, when you have the coast and the town of Brookings so close. But in the winter! We love this park. It was peaceful, the Chetco River is just gorgeous, lots of rain but if you're ok with that."
Bathroom facilities vary: Cedar Bloom uses composting toilets rather than flush facilities. "The composting toilets were a cool touch knowing that our 'waste' would soon become a gardening resource again one day," notes one camper. Most other cabin rental locations provide standard toilets and showers.
Reservation requirements: Walk-up availability exists at some locations but can be limited. "Drove in, no reservation, two sites available. Friendly owners, nice camp spot, very quiet, seems like a popular place to stay, all sites taken except the one we got," reports a visitor to Laughing Alpaca Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Smoke on the Water offers lakeside cabin rentals with amenities for children. "This campground was very nice. They had a great family atmosphere, my kids loved running around here with other kids. They were nice and clean and just a minute walk from the lake," shares a family who visited with children.
Educational opportunities: Cedar Bloom incorporates environmental elements children can learn from. "Super pretty scenery, hosts were super kind. Great for kids with a river on site nearby. One part of the river is designated as a nudist-friendly beach but is well-marked. Several showers and compost toilets available and picnic tables."
Pack for variable weather: Even summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night. Cabins at most locations provide shelter but limited insulation. Bringing appropriate bedding remains necessary for comfort regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Lake Selmac Resort, certain sites provide better access and drainage. "Some sites here are very private feeling because you park the car up top and walk down (not far at all) to the tent that sits close to the lake. Toilets but no showers," advises an experienced camper familiar with the property layout.
Hookup availability: Most cabin camping areas also offer RV sites with various hookup configurations. Harris Beach State Park Campground provides numerous amenities for RVers seeking more developed options while maintaining cabin access. "The showers and other amenities are really nice. Our campsite was about a 2 minute walk from the river."
Road considerations: Some cabin locations require navigating narrow or winding roads. The drive to Alfred A. Loeb State Park involves "an 8 mile drive up a nice windy (paved) road from Brookings so not far from supplies and gas," according to a visitor who found the location worth the drive.
