Detroit Lake campgrounds operate at elevations between 1,500 and 2,000 feet in the Cascade Mountain range. Winter brings heavy snowfall closing many sites, while summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F during peak camping season. The Santiam River feeds Detroit Lake, creating numerous creek-side camping opportunities with water that remains quite cold even during summer months.
What to do
Hike to Red Lake: From Detroit Lake State Recreation Area Campground, take the trail to Red Lake for a rewarding day hike. "We visited in September, Beautiful place, there is a hike up to Red Lake, which is well worth the time we spent lost trying to find the trailhead. We got to the lake at dusk, and had it all to ourselves," reports Lauren B.
Explore the fish hatchery: Marion Forks Campground provides easy access to educational opportunities. "There are educational signs, short hikes, and access to water near the campground. The bathrooms are clean on site. This can be a fun site for kids and sometimes the staff will give you a tour," notes one camper. Another adds, "The adjoining fish hatchery is interesting."
Winter lake viewing: Visit Detroit Lake during lower water seasons for a different perspective. "We love Detroit Lake just as much during the off season as we do during the summer. The spots are generous and the lake is really cool without water!" shares Jill T.
What campers like
River sounds: At Whispering Falls Campground, the river creates a natural soundtrack. "Top reasons I love this campground: The incredible sound of the river... Spacious spots Crystal clear water," says one reviewer. Another mentions, "Camp above the Santiam riverbank and enjoy a night of peace and rest listening to the water flow."
Lake access variations: Southshore Campground offers good water access with varying site layouts. "Some sites have the parking spot up above the actual site and you have to walk down a short set of stairs to access. We were in spot 19 and this was the case but it wasn't a huge issue for us. The view from spot 19 made it absolutely worth it," explains Julie W.
Privacy levels: Cove Creek offers good separation between sites. "This is a crowded campsite but the water area makes up for it. Do some homework before you book because some sites are much better than others, the ones on the outer ring by the water are much better than the inside ring, but they book up fast," advises Lacey B.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Mountain weather can change rapidly year-round. "Camped there the second week of June, so weather is iffy. It did rain a couple times, but the fishing and off road trails and exploring are always great," notes a visitor to Hoover Campground.
Firewood restrictions: Many campgrounds have firewood for sale with varying prices and quality. "At the time of this review the rates were a bit expensive $24 a night, so deduct a star for price. Another star deducted for the feeble firewood stacks you can purchase for $6. Our stack contained 4 sad little logs with about 2 hours of max burn time."
Water levels: Lake conditions change throughout the season. "The water level here fluctuates quite a bit, and if you visit in late summer or early fall, the lake level is usually so low that it is not really as scenic, or as good to swim in," explains a Detroit Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground. RV dump at the horse camp turnoff. I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time!" suggests a visitor to Silver Falls State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Find safer swimming spots for younger children. "The water was a bit too rough for much water play with our 4 year old, but older kids and adults would likely enjoy some swimming and more water play," notes a Southshore camper.
Educational stops: Combine camping with learning opportunities. "This was a spontaneous one-night trip with just me, the kids, & the pup. Our spot was very small, but nestled in soft moss among towering trees. It was cool & well-shaded, with a short path to the lake," shares a Detroit Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking. "Sites vary in length and width, besides the driveway, and some are even split-level due to the terrain. Separation between sites varies, too - sometimes ferns and many big trees between sites, sometimes just one tree at the back of the site," explains an RV camper at Cove Creek.
Water access challenges: Consider how you'll get equipment to water. "There is a small/steep trail down to the water with a VERY rocky little beach next to the water," notes a Southshore camper about accessing the lake with gear.
Hookup limitations: Many Detroit-area campgrounds have limited services. "No water or power hookups, or sewage dump, but complete restrooms (although the showers were closed due to COVID-19)," reports a camper describing the amenities at one campground, highlighting typical infrastructure limitations in the area.
