Best Tent Camping near Dorena, OR

Tent camping options in the Willamette National Forest surrounding Dorena, Oregon provide access to secluded sites along creek beds and near mountain lakes. Fall Creek State Recreation Area's Cascara Campground offers designated tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, while Clark Creek Organization Campground provides group camping facilities for larger parties. Several primitive tent campsites can be found scattered throughout nearby forested areas with varying levels of accessibility.

Most tent sites feature packed dirt pads under tree cover, with minimal site preparation or leveling. Campers should be prepared for variable conditions, as many tent campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from May through September. The vault toilets at Cascara Campground are regularly maintained, though during busy summer weekends they can become heavily used. Fire restrictions often apply during late summer months. According to one visitor, "About 40+ spots, fire ring and picnic tables in each. Clean bathrooms. Fee is $19/night (Park Rangers check)."

Areas near Fall Creek provide excellent swimming opportunities for tent campers, with multiple waterfall-adjacent primitive tent setups available. Walk-in tent sites at Island Campground offer direct river access for fishing and cooling off during hot summer days. Sites are generally well-shaded but offer limited privacy between neighboring campsites. The most secluded backcountry camping spots require higher-clearance vehicles to access. One camper noted, "We drove in and heard the sound of screaming rafters. The location is gorgeous right next to the water. There is a bit of highway noise but it is mostly drowned out by the river." Most tent campgrounds feature easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and swimming holes, making them ideal bases for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Best Tent Sites Near Dorena, Oregon (45)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Dorena, OR

659 Reviews of 45 Dorena Campgrounds


  • l
    Jul. 22, 2022

    Rujada Campground

    Excellent Vintage Camp

    I had a great experience here The campground was clean, the leave no trace policy is followed here. Quiet hours are 10pm - 6am, it was quiet even during the non-quit hours. Very private. There are running water spigots strategically placed throughout the camp, each water station has a waste water dump, and trash can. There are flush toilets with running, a sink and trash can. The garbage was picked up daily. Each site was a tent pad, fire pit and large table. Each site was very private, I couldn't see the other campers unless they were passing by our site. There is no internet, no electricity, and no showers, bring your own. The only negative was the mosquitos - easily resolved with a netted day tent or pop-up with mesh. Laying Creek sounds heavenly all throughout the camp, the trails are great to walk, and you will eventually wander to a swimming hole. Beautiful campground, with a great history going back to 1933. Highly recommend!

  • Rick L.
    Feb. 13, 2018

    Odell Lake Lodge & Resort Campground

    Cold Spring and a Great Hike

    I've been to Odell twice but always seem to pick a weekend with weather that makes you want to stay in your sleeping bag!

    The campsites at Odell are a little on the smaller side and may not have the trees your looking for to hang a hammock. Not that you should if you're camping any time earlier than July!

    The southeast side of Odell can be subject to cold winds coming off the lake, so be sure to keep that rain fly up on your tent and a fleece handy. If you're feeling a little too chilly, the resort keeps a fire burning in the den.

    There are plenty of snowshoe trails around Odell as well as some hiking trails in the Diamond Peak wilderness that also connect to the PCT. The trail we took did give us a bit of elevation gain and later some nice views of the smaller peaks in the area.

    If you're planning to camp here, bring warm clothing and rain gear! It may be a bit chilly, but the nice hikes in the area make it all the more worth it to get up and get moving.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    Umpqua's Last Resort & Oregon Mountain Guides

    An adventure and accommodation for everyone!

    General: Located just across the street from the North Umpqua River, there is a mix of:•

    * petite RV sites (RVs up to 20’ with FHU 20-30 amp- 3)

    * deluxe RV sites (RVs up to 29’ with FHU 30-50 amp- 5)

    * Super RV sites (RVs up to 60’ with FHU 50 amp- 7)

    * glamping tents (7)

    * cabins with heat and A/C(4)

    * a cottage

    * a tiny home

    * camper

    * retro bunkhouse

    * retro RV 

    Site Quality: We were in a deluxe RV site that had a level gravel camper pad, electric hookup, fire ring, and picnic table. Unlike most RV parks, there was a decent amount of foliage between most sites to provide a measure of privacy. 

    Bath/Shower House: Two toilets, two sinks, and two showers. Clean but limited privacy for the toilets with just a curtain. Bench and hooks are outside of showers with no other separation so there is a lack of privacy there as well (did not use the shower so I cannot comment on how well it worked, although they looked nice). 

    Activities/Amenities:

    * Guided and Self-guided hiking tours

    * Guided and self-guided mountain bike tours

    * a full-day waterfall tour ($75 pp, with 24-hour advance notice)

    * whitewater rafting tours

    * Stream and river fishing holes

    * Fly fishing and hunting

    * Kayak rentals on Toketee Lake (We had hoped to do this, but the weather had other plans)

    * Wi-Fi is available for $2.99 per 24-hour period per device but it was flaky at best

    * There is a store with ice, firewood, food, beer, and wine, apparel, propane, diesel, and gasoline, rafts, and sleds. 

    We arrived later than planned (just before dark) and it was cold and rainy the next day so we were not able to take advantage of the many nearby recreation activities but the staff recommended a nearby waterfall hike that we could do in inclement weather. We would definitely consider returning during better weather.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Mineral Forest Camp

    Accessible, but remote.

    The three campsites are under the cover of fir, cedar and maple trees. All are decently sized and spaced, just off the road enough to feel private, as claim miners and passers by stop to use the vaulted toiled that is located across the road from the campsite parking. 

    Provided you have a decent, four-wheel-drive rig, or are willing to make the hike, the bohemia mines, as well as several mine shafts carved out along the roadway are accessible to view.

    The first site is smaller (1-2 tents) and the most private. It has a well placed fire ring with grill, and wood picnic table, but lacks a direct path to the creek. 

    The middle spot is the largest (3+ tents), fire ring with grill, picnic table and great access to the creek.

    The third spot is also well sized and has the same table/fire ring setup, and a couple trails that lead to the creek.

    The area is in recovery from the 2024 fire that consumer over 1200 acres. Though that fire was started by natural causes, it is a strong reminder to pay attention to fire bans and area regulations as well as properly, tending campfires, and making sure they are extinguished.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2023

    Hult Pond

    Secluded Pond Great for a Quick stay

    Great spot for a quick stay. There are only a few flat spots for RVs but quite a few decent spots for tent camping next to the pond. The west side of the pond has at least 2 spots that are a good distance away from the others. At the moment, no fires or barbecues allowed but propane stoves and lanterns are fine. Look for Bandits blue squeaky disk! We lost it and never found it.

  • Laura I.
    Jul. 22, 2021

    Paradise In Oregon

    Great spot

    I had read online that this camp ground had a really bad bug problem but I hardly saw any. Especially for being next to the river. My campsite (48) had a short path down to the river. Current is strong but could easily soak feet.

    My biggest complaint was that the picnic table was really close to the bench. A bigger person like myself can’t sit there. But I just pulled a camp chair up to the edge.

    Restroom was clean, even though I could see one of my camping neighbors there was plenty of space.

    Camp is very dusty.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2024

    Baker Bay Campgrounds & Marina - a Lane County Park

    On the Lake

    Dry Camping
    Upside - Right on the lake and lots of spots with shade which would be good for summer heat. 
    Downside - no alcohol permitted (loosely enforced it seems).  And the restrooms and dump station are being rebuilt as of May 2024 and it will likely take a year or more. There are porta-potties. You are allowed to dump at the facility up the road for no cost.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Lemono Forebay

    Great spot

    We found this great camping spot called Lemolo Fairbay #2 it had approximately six designated camp spots with fire ring, and picnic tables. It also had a very clean toilet. There is a nice small reservoir that you can swim or float in. Warning, water was very cold. Very easy to access with our truck and travel trailer. Primitive camping no hook ups. Must be self contained! It was very close to umpqua Hot Springs, and  Toketee falls. We stayed three days and two nights Thursday through Saturday.

  • Kelli B.
    Jul. 30, 2018

    COE Dorena Reservoir Schwarz Campground

    Quiet campground, but watch for Algae

    One option when looking for a campground last minute during the summer close to Eugene, Oregon. This one is not usually very busy during peak season in my opinion.

    This is a primitive campground so no hook ups for your rv. Bring the generator if your needing a power source during the day.

    There are restrooms/ showers on site along with drinking water, a playground, and an rv dump station. Picnic tables and fire pits at each site. Trails are nearby along with a beach/ swimming area at Dorena Lake. Watch for signs of Algae or Swimmers Itch as it has been present the past few years at Dorena Lake.

    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 a head of time.


Guide to Dorena

Tent campsites near Dorena, Oregon extend beyond the main reservoir into adjacent forest service lands and recreation areas. The region sits in a transition zone between the Willamette Valley and Cascade foothills, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. Most unimproved camping areas remain open from April through October, with seasonal closures during winter months due to access roads becoming impassable from mud or snow.

What to do

Swimming at natural pools: Steamboat Falls Campground offers excellent swimming holes with varied water depths. "The swimming is so nice, there is something to do for every age and swimming ability. The spots are good sized and most of them have good privacy," notes Stephen T. about Steamboat Falls.

Hiking nearby trails: Clark Creek Organization Campground provides access to hiking paths suitable for group activities. "The hike from the campground up to the butte is great too," mentions Joel D. about Clark Creek Organization Campground.

Fishing opportunities: Many smaller streams feed into Dorena Reservoir, providing trout fishing from April through July. Pack lightweight spinning gear or fly fishing equipment for best results when water levels are stable.

What campers like

Riverside camping spots: Island Campground offers sites adjacent to the North Umpqua River. "The location is gorgeous right next to the water. There is a bit of highway noise but it is mostly drowned out by the river," explains Jordie G. about Island Campground.

Group facilities: The organization camps provide structured areas for large gatherings. "Wonderful group camp that can sleep all your friends and relatives! Fun little bunk houses for the kids and a big covered area for cooking and hanging out," says Joel D. about Clark Creek.

Less crowded alternatives: Big Pool Campground tends to have fewer visitors than other nearby options. "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," reports Rose B. about Big Pool Campground.

What you should know

Water level variations: Reservoir levels can change dramatically throughout camping season, affecting recreation. "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," advises Rose B. about Cascara Campground.

Limited drinking water: Many campgrounds lack potable water sources. "Nice campground and great swimming, but there is no drinking water and very little parking," cautions Michelle F. about Cascara Campground.

Poison oak awareness: Several camping areas contain poison oak near water access points. "Lots of poison oak so be careful! River access! Great views of steamboat falls - no fishing river is protected," warns Sophie C. about Steamboat Falls.

Tips for camping with families

Life jacket availability: Some locations provide safety equipment for children. "The camp sites were decent size and they have life jackets for little ones," reports Jessie S. about Cascara Campground.

Group campground benefits: For family reunions or multiple households, organization camps offer structured facilities. "This group camp is 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," recommends Emily C. about Clark Creek Organization Campground.

Kid-friendly water features: Certain locations have natural swimming areas appropriate for various ages. "There is a jumping rock and a few small swimming pools for the kids, great swimming for everyone," notes Stephen T. about Steamboat Falls.

Tips from RVers

Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted parking and turnaround areas. "Because of the size and the way the road loops on itself this is NOT a campground for rigs over 22'. All of the sites are on the river side with easy water access to the N Umpqua River," advises Annie C. about Island Campground.

Extra vehicle fees: Additional parking often incurs charges beyond standard campsite fees. "About $21 for a night with a car. Extra vehicle extra $7," mentions Tiv P. about Cascara Campground.

Limited level sites: Not all camping pads accommodate larger RVs. "Sites are large with lots of trees, but not all sites are level. My favorite sites were 2 and 6 because of the size, easy water access, and levelness," suggests Annie C. about Island Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dorena, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dorena, OR is Cascara Campground — Fall Creek State Recreation Area with a 3.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Dorena, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Dorena, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.