Dorena Lake tent camping opportunities range across multiple established campgrounds in western Oregon's Cascade foothills. The lake spans approximately 1,800 acres when full, with elevations of camping areas between 800-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights dropping to the 50s.
What to do
Swimming access points: Fall Creek State Recreation Area offers designated swimming areas with varying water depths. "The swimming is so nice, there is something to do for every age and swimming ability," according to Stephen T. about Steamboat Falls.
Hiking nearby trails: Several paths connect from campgrounds to forested routes. Joel D. notes that Clark Creek Organization Campground has "a great swimming hole right across the street and a good jumping platform just up the road at the next pullout. The hike from the campground up to the butte is great too."
Fishing opportunities: The reservoir supports various fish species during summer months. Rose B. mentions that Big Pool Campground is "usually not one of the busier ones out this stretch of road, and is close enough to Fall Creek to reasonably run in for supplies."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Many campsites accommodate multiple tents and provide flat areas for setup. According to Stephen T., Steamboat Falls has sites where "Site 4 is huge and definitely the one you want. It's got room for at least 3 tents and has an amazing view."
Natural water features: The area includes swimming holes and river access points beyond the main lake. Sophie C. reports that Umpqua National Forest Steamboat Falls Campground offers "River access! Great views of steamboat falls - no fishing river is protected."
Group camping options: Several locations accommodate larger gatherings with specialized facilities. Emily C. describes Clark Creek Organization Camp as "amazing, so you better book it far in advance. It is the perfect place for families. The older teens loved sleeping in the shelters, while the parents preferred tents."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water depths can fluctuate significantly throughout camping season. One camper notes, "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."
Poison oak awareness: Some camping areas contain poison oak, requiring vigilance. Sophie C. warns about Steamboat Falls Campground: "Went in April and there wasn't a person there so nice! Lots of poison oak so be careful!"
Limited drinking water: Several campgrounds lack potable water sources. Michelle F. reports about Cascara Campground: "Nice campground and great swimming, but 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."
Tips for camping with families
Life jacket availability: Some swimming areas provide safety equipment for children. Tiv P. notes about tent camping at Dorena Lake: "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."
Day use alternatives: When campgrounds fill, consider day-use options near tent sites. Ann W. shares: "Enjoyed spending a hot day playing in the river and cooling off. Very quiet campground with pretty large sites. Our site overlooked the river."
Privacy considerations: Site selection impacts family experience. Justin S. observes that "Sites are decently taken care of, pretty basic setup. Not much privacy at all between spots, though there were a couple larger ones on the edge of the loop that were tucked in away from others."
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Roads to some tent camping areas can be challenging for larger vehicles. Michael mentions, "Decent spot to get away from Eugene for a night. We went on a weekday in June and had no issue getting a nice campsite. Not a lot of privacy, and the dock/swimming area can be kind of noisy and crowded."
Multi-vehicle limitations: Extra vehicle fees and parking restrictions apply at some locations. Stephen T. advises about Steamboat Falls: "If it is full, there are about 15 dispersed campsites past steamboat on the main road."
Limited hookups: Tent camping Dorena Lake areas rarely offer RV services. Eric M. from Whispering Pine Horse Camp explains the appeal despite limitations: "The scenery is amazing. The smell of the trees in the summer is my favorite part. Lots of great trails to hike."
