Glamping accommodations near Elkton, Oregon range from rustic cabins to full-service yurts positioned within a 45-minute radius. The North Umpqua River corridor creates a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging 70°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F. Access requirements vary seasonally, with certain facilities closing entirely during winter months while others maintain year-round operations with reduced amenities.
What to do
Disc golf competition: The course at Whistlers Bend County Park ranks second nationally according to campers. "Sprawling and varried disc golf course with some spectacular long shots, and tight trees," notes Brant T., who found the park offers "great fishing and swimming" options too when not on the course.
Scenic trail hiking: A 1.5-mile loop with 1,000-foot elevation gain awaits at Whittaker Creek Recreation Site. Lauren A. reports: "It had so many weeds and other brush that frequently went over the trail so you kinda had to wade through it in some spots." The trail offers challenging terrain with narrow sections requiring careful footing.
Lighthouse tour: Combine coastal scenery with cultural history at Umpqua Lighthouse. Nancy H. describes: "The large skylight had lovely star viewing when the clouds cleared. The trail around tiny Lake Marie was well drained and not soggy, with several connections to the campground."
What campers like
Private camping spots: William M. Tugman State Park Campground offers secluded sites with natural screening. "The sites are kind of small for tent camping, and a few are a little too open for my taste, but our site had some lovely privacy hedges around it," reports Kendra L., who camped there in July 2020.
Group camping areas: The spacious grounds at Whistlers Bend accommodate large family gatherings. "We have gone two years in a row. Great bathrooms. Book early because it fills up fast," advises Elsie H. The campground features designated group sites with shared amenities.
Crawdad catching: Several campgrounds feature accessible creek and river spots for children to hunt crawdads. "Crawdads are plentiful in the river," notes Dave B. about Whittaker Creek. The shallow water areas provide safe environments for younger children to explore.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites can involve challenging drives. The path to Clay Creek Recreation Site requires caution. Lauren A. warns: "The road to get to the campground was super super narrow and winding. Scary to drive-don't drive at night! Potholes in some areas and branches have fallen onto the road."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have minimal or no cellular coverage. "Note there is absolutely no cell service for about 15 miles!" reports Lauren A. about Clay Creek. At other locations, service varies by provider with limited connectivity in specific spots.
Reservation timing: The most popular glamping accommodations book quickly during peak season. "We made our reservations way in advance. I would highly recommend that if you know you're going to book as soon as possible, 6 months out if possible," suggests Robena M. about William M. Tugman State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming areas: Sunset Bay State Park Campground offers protected beach access. "There is a botanical garden, tide pools, swimming beaches, and very importantly, clean showers and bathrooms!" exclaims Elly A., who notes the campground "has everything and more!"
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "They have a playground for kids, a small free library and ranger station with a couple of souvenirs of the area," describes Nicole L. about her winter yurt stay at Honeyman Memorial State Park.
Noise considerations: Some parks experience varying noise levels throughout the season. John B. notes at Sunset Bay: "There is plenty of opportunity for a quiet evening enjoyment of campfire but also a loudmouthed drunk who wondered in from town and is arrested after getting into it with the park ranger."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: South Jetty RV and Camping Resort requires careful assessment. "The lesson, .....look at the entire campground before you pick your spot!!" advises David & Sue C., who initially set up in a muddy site before discovering "a beautiful wooded dry area" elsewhere in the campground.
Campground layout navigation: Thousand Trails facilities can present challenges. "This is a typical Thousand Trails and was a bit of a challenge to navigate. Narrow roads and hard to find a space," reports Marnie G. about South Jetty, though she appreciated "the location and its proximity to the dunes."
Hookup limitations: Several parks offer only partial services. Jeff M. notes about Sunset Bay State Park: "This is an older park and wasn't designed for today's RVs. The driveways are narrow and so are the sites leaving little room for maneuvering and for the slide outs."
