Fall Creek sits about 30 miles southeast of Eugene in the Willamette National Forest, surrounded by dense Douglas fir forests at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,500 feet. The area experiences mild summers with average highs in the 70s-80s F and cool, wet winters that limit most glamping operations to the May-September season. Most glamping sites require advance reservations of 2-4 weeks during peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking to swimming holes: Several trails connect to swimming areas along Fall Creek, with varying difficulty levels and water depths. At Big Pool Campground, visitors can access swimming directly from most sites. As one camper noted, "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."
Waterfall exploration: Within 6 miles of Rujada Campground, you can access three noteworthy waterfalls. "If you want bigger hiking payoffs, just up the road approx. 6 miles, you can find 'Pinard', 'Moon', and 'Spirit falls'. Each are around 2 easy hiking miles and worth hitting, you can easily do all three in one day," explains a visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points along Dorena Lake provide good fishing conditions. A visitor to Baker Bay Campgrounds & Marina confirms, "Nice area next to the lake. Great fishing and boating." Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased in Cottage Grove.
Water sports: Kayak and paddle craft rentals are available at several locations around Dorena Lake. "Little boat dock. Stocked lake. Rental kayaks and swimming hole," notes a Baker Bay visitor, highlighting the easy access to water activities from the glamping options near Fall Creek.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between glamping areas. At Rujada Campground, "Each site was very private, I couldn't see the other campers unless they were passing by our site," explains one reviewer, noting that "Laying Creek sounds heavenly all throughout the camp."
River access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences at glamping sites near Fall Creek. A visitor to Casey's Riverside RV Resort shared, "The river runs right next to the campground with part of the sites right along it," while another noted, "We lucked out and got a riverside site with full hookups."
Natural ambiance: The forested setting creates a true outdoor experience even at developed glamping sites. One visitor to Royal Heart Hill described their experience: "We loved the tent/trailer camp spot on Carly's property. It was quiet and peaceful and we were able to disconnect and relax for a couple of days. There's a nice hiking trail down to a pond with cute signage to lead the way."
Morning views: Sunrise views across water features create memorable moments. A Casey's Riverside visitor commented, "The sun rose across the lake which was extremely beautiful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Fall Creek require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. For Clark Creek Organization Camp, visitors advise: "This group camp is amazing, but you better book it far in advance."
Seasonal toilet facilities: Some facilities undergo maintenance during certain periods. At Baker Bay, a recent visitor noted: "Restrooms and dump station are being rebuilt as of May 2024 and it will likely take a year or more. There are porta-potties."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity can affect some glamping experiences. Premier RV Resort visitors mention, "If only this place was farther off the road it would really be great." Consider requesting sites further from main roads when booking.
Limited shower access: Not all glamping locations offer shower facilities. Royal Heart Hill provides showers, while other locations like Rujada Campground do not: "There is no internet, no electricity, and no showers, bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: For families with children, sites with easy water entry points are ideal. A Baker Bay visitor shared: "We got a lakeside camp site which made it a simple walk down to the lake where we could swim and fish. The camp ground had a pretty big bathroom and separate shower room."
Playground options: Several glamping sites include play structures for children. Rujada Campground offers "a nice playground which did surprise us that my kiddos liked. Along with access to a nice swimming hole next to the campground."
Educational opportunities: The Army Corps of Engineers offers dam tours suitable for families. As one visitor to Schwarz Campground explained: "During the summer, the Army Corp of Engineer Rangers give a tour of the Dorena Dam every Saturday. I highly recommend going if you can!"
Bug preparation: Insects can be prevalent in forested glamping areas. "The only negative was the mosquitos - easily resolved with a netted day tent or pop-up with mesh," advises a Rujada camper.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: At Casey's Riverside RV Resort, experienced RVers recommend adjusting your placement: "We were able to maneuver our 5th wheel to position it around a large shade tree so we could get our slide and awning out plus have the utilities more centered on our rig."
Water pressure management: Many glamping sites with RV hookups provide strong water connections. Casey's Riverside visitors note, "We had great water pressure and needed to use our reducer."
Interior site selection: For a quieter experience, request specific site locations. Premier RV Resort visitors advise: "The road noise varies a lot though so ask for a site close to the office or in the older section. The new sites farther back are closer to the interstate."
Dump station access: When dump stations are under maintenance, alternatives exist. A Baker Bay visitor explained: "You are allowed to dump at the facility up the road for no cost."
