The Fall Creek Reservoir area east of Dexter offers several camping options situated among western Cascade foothills at elevations between 800-1000 feet. Water levels in Fall Creek Reservoir fluctuate significantly throughout the year, typically reaching highest levels in spring and early summer. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while nights cool to 45-55°F even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fall Creek Reservoir contains rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and other species. Fisherman's Point Group Campground provides direct reservoir access. "Fisherman's Point is a family favorite, and I'll always remember the great times we've had there. Even though the water's been low lately, we always find a place to swim," notes one camper at Fisherman's Point Group Campground.
River activities: Several campgrounds offer river access instead of reservoir recreation. At Casey's Riverside RV Resort, campers appreciate the Middle Fork Willamette River. "The river runs right next to the campground with part of the sites right along it," explains a visitor. Casey's riverfront sites are particularly valued: "The high 30s through mid 40s will give you the best river view plus you can really hear the rushing of the river."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to forested trails. Black Canyon Campground features paths along the river. A camper notes, "I really liked this campground. I really enjoyed our 3 days here and the dogs loved swimming in the river. There are nice trails running through this campground."
What campers like
Space between sites: While some campgrounds have tight layouts, others provide more privacy. At Black Canyon Campground, visitors appreciate the spacious sites: "This is a HUGE campground. Every site is gorgeous, lots of forest in between so you have privacy. All of the best spots along the river with a view are first come first serve."
Swimming access: Many campers value direct water access for swimming. One visitor at Cascara Campground mentions: "About 40+ spots, fire ring and picnic tables in each. Clean bathrooms. Fee is $19/night (Park Rangers check)." Dolly Varden Campground also offers water recreation: "So relaxing and many swimming holes. Trails to walk and see the waterfalls."
Affordable tent camping: The region provides budget-friendly options. A Cascara Campground visitor shared: "Beautiful. About 30 min away from groceries and stores. Came in late to this campground. No reservation needed. Lucky they had a couple of tent sites open. We ended up staying an extra day."
What you should know
Campground accessibility: Many campgrounds in the Dexter region have specific open seasons and road conditions. Black Canyon Campground operates from mid-May to mid-October. One camper advises: "Pulled in here after a long night driving with a cranky toddler around 3am and found a perfect lil site to toss the tent up quick and sleep until morning."
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or rail lines. A visitor at Black Canyon noted: "The train tracks are literally across the river. Maybe 200 ft away. The train runs all day and sadly all night. If you fall asleep easily to the sound of a train horn and train cars along a track then you'll love it here."
Reservation requirements: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served. A COE Dorena Reservoir Schwarz Campground camper shares: "Overall its a great last minute campground not far from town (Cottage Grove- Eugene), but doesn't make my list of top 5 if I can make reservations ahead of time."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites available: Families or larger groups can reserve dedicated areas. "This is a very big size camp it is reserve camp for group camping," notes a visitor describing Fisherman's Point Group Campground, which offers spaces specifically designed for larger gatherings.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. A reviewer at Armitage Park & Campground mentions: "Nice place to stay. If your staying here on the weekend make sure you reserve your spot early they are always booked on the weekends. It was right next to the river. The sound put me right too sleep. They have awesome showers and front load washers and dryers."
Water safety considerations: Reservoir levels vary significantly, affecting swimming areas. A camper at Cascara Campground mentions: "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. Plenty of room and its a great setting. There's a dock and swimming area, as you can imagine it was packed with kids."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds provide electric, water and sewer connections. At Dexter Shores RV Park, "I had an easy stopover here on the way to Eastern Oregon. I didn't want to use my tanks, so I used their restrooms. They were warm, clean, and well-lit. Walking back and forth from my trailer, I felt safe."
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limitations for big RVs. A visitor at Black Canyon advises: "Sites on the river are spectacular. Other sites are mostly small or have issues with road noise. Plan on reserving a site on the river if possible. They do not disappoint!"
Navigating tight roads: Many of the best places to camp near Dexter, Oregon have challenging access roads. A Schwarz Campground camper warns: "The campground roads can be tight if you have a big rig so be careful. Because there is no power in the sites people were running generators for hours, even the tent campers."
