Dorena, Oregon offers primitive to full-service camping experiences along the North Umpqua River and Layng Creek. The area sits at approximately 800-1,000 feet elevation with mild summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall temperatures drop to 50-65°F with increased rainfall, making May through September the optimal camping window for most visitors.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 6 miles from Rujada Campground you'll find three impressive waterfalls - Pinard, Moon, and Spirit Falls. "Each are around 2 easy hiking miles and worth hitting, you can easily do all three in one day. I highly recommend these falls as they are some of the better, lesser known falls in Oregon," notes a Rujada camper.
Disc golf at Whistlers Bend County Park: Try the disc golf course that's "rated number 2 in nation," according to Tim W. The park spans 147 acres with expansive areas for camping, recreation and water activities.
Creek swimming holes: Near Umpqua's Last Resort, find secluded swimming spots. One visitor mentioned, "A cool creek swimming hole in the forest is very nearby," offering refreshment during summer heat. The resort also offers "white water rafting tours" and "kayak rentals on Toketee Lake."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campsites at Susan Creek Campground provide direct river access. According to one visitor, "All sites are level and paved. An extra-large picnic table, bbq, and fire pit complete the site. You will likely hear the river from all sites but the best sites back up to the river (3-7; 22-30) and sites 4-7 have a view of the river."
Privacy between sites: At Rujada Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "The sites are quite unique to each other, some offering privacy, some larger and open, and a couple just off the 'Swordfern trail' next to the creek. You can hear the creek's small waterfall from most of the sites."
Year-round accessibility: Big Pool Campground offers unique glamping opportunities throughout multiple seasons. "We have been here a few times and absolutely love the location. Being right on the water truly can't be beat! It's 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," says Rose B.
What you should know
Reservations required: Many campgrounds in the Dorena area require advance booking, particularly for glamping structures. At Susan Creek Campground, "what has changed is that it is now reservation only."
Facilities vary significantly: Baker Bay Campgrounds offers "no hookups in this little campground but you can't beat the location," while other properties provide full amenities. One camper noted Baker Bay has a "big bathroom and separate shower room," though facilities may change seasonally.
Site selection matters: At Schwarz Campground near Dorena Reservoir, "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." This noise can impact your glamping experience if seeking quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Baker Bay Campgrounds & Marina offers "a large play structure, horseshoes, and a sand volleyball pit" making it ideal for families with children. One visitor reported, "Great for families. Not the most quiet spot but the view makes up for it."
Swimming options: Several glamping sites near Dorena offer swimming opportunities. At Baker Bay, "There are several huge inflatable water structures in the bay which kids can play on for a fee." A visitor noted, "We got a lakeside camp site which made it a simple walk down to the lake where we could swim and fish."
Child-friendly trails: Rujada Campground features "the 'Swordfern trail' starts at the day use area; where you can find a large ball field, horseshoe pits and a tiny playground. The trail continues into the forest following the creek... It is an easy to moderate 2 or so miles, that I feel is family and dog friendly."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Casey's Riverside RV Resort provides "nice paved sites with full hookups and a beautiful river setting." One RVer noted, "Every site is big-rig friendly and almost perfectly level. Minimum work getting setup."
Site specifications: At Umpqua's Last Resort, RV sites come in various sizes: "petite RV sites (RVs up to 20' with FHU 20-30 amp), deluxe RV sites (RVs up to 29' with FHU 30-50 amp), Super RV sites (RVs up to 60' with FHU 50 amp)." A visitor described, "We were in a deluxe RV site that had a level gravel camper pad, electric hookup, fire ring, and picnic table."
Dump station access: While glamping in Dorena, Oregon at sites without sewer hookups, campers can use nearby dump stations. One visitor to Baker Bay noted, "You are allowed to dump at the facility up the road for no cost."
