Fern Ridge Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Fern Ridge Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Fern Ridge Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$20 - $39 / night
"Easy to find from I-5 and very close to Costco. Quiet location away from the road noise and has nice walking path along the McKenzie River."
"The campsites were nicely situated so you weren’t right on top of each other and the park was great. There is an off leash dog park and access to the river."
"This campground is within 20 minutes of Eugene, Oregon, close enough if you forgot something, you can drive to town and get it."
"Have stayed here twice - love the ample space between campsites, all the room (forests, trails, roads, open fields, etc.) around the campsite, how it's right by the marina, how they show outdoor movies"
"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."
"The sites are sling the right side of the of the road, the road that leads along the left (west side) of the lake. There are several sites, we stayed in H2, which is painted on the road."
$29 - $64 / night
"One of the many lakes along the cascade scenic why. Can be a lot of parties during summer. Otherwise gets warm outside. Lots of trails."
"Some great trails accessible for hiking. Although, the trails are not marked that well. Still beautiful and the lakes and nearby reservoir are great. Campsites are big and are drive up"
"Breathtakingly Beautiful on the lake RV spaces."
$52 / night
"Beautiful location next to the river. The Dalhia’s were not yet blooming, but when in season this is probably a wonderful sight. It was for us a relaxing stay in a beautiful environment."
"I personally stay in all sorts of locations, but usually stop here for a couple of nights to take advantage of the great stores in Eugene to stock up before heading off for more primitive camping."
"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."
$25 - $50 / night
"It's near the road and near a TA truck stop, so there's noise from that, but it wasn't obnoxious. Lots of long termers here, some of them look really settled in. "
"We were lucky enough to rent a space at Deerwood for two months while we escaped the heat of Arizona and visiting our kids in Oregon."
"One star off for highway noise. Looks like many longer term campers here - flower pots, table cloths, decorations, mostly 5th wheelers."
$15 - $40 / night
"No sites are next to the river but there's hiking trails and a walk to Alsea Falls. Mountain bike trails close by."
"There are lovely hiking trails and a waterfall close by."
RangerWe found a great spot here for an overnight stay. Such a nice view to wake up to! There is no water available here. There are bathrooms available, but we didn’t need to utilize them. No fires allowed. There are no trash cans or dumpsters… this is a pack in, pack out area, so be prepared to take your trash with you! There was quite a bit of trash around and even some needles (be careful) down in a spot we chose not to use… and I did walk around our area and pick up a bunch of trash left by others. We did hear some vehicles driving by throughout the night, and around 4:30 AM someone was walking out around our truck and camper shining a light, causing our dog to bark, which I’m assuming scared them off, because when we got up and went out, we didn’t see anyone.. not sure what that was all about, but I’m glad I wasn’t alone!
GuideI absolutely loved this place, the staff are beyond exceptional... Well Wanda and her son wes.... There was a crusty woman working the office one day. The showers are amazing and the bathrooms are super clean! The laundry rooms are great! Very clean and all in great working order! They even have it piped in at every site u can have a garden hose hooked up to wash off your car or RV! I can't say enough good things about this place!
GuideGood stop, showers and bathrooms are clean, A LOT of people live here.... Manager is new and does not really know what's going on, I was told there is a lot of police activity there... Saw a few homeless people and cars with tow tags on em. Otherwise it's clean and safe
GuideThis place is awesome! They have everything!! The only thing we don't like is the showers, they are dirty and there is absolutely no water pressure at all!! But we will just shower in the 5th wheel! Other then that this place is great!
GuideSites were really easy to get into. River was pretty and plenty of kids playing.
ScoutIt's a one lane road with some turnouts.
Nice and quiet, but no real level spots
GuideThere are a few spots off the road here. One large open spot big enough for 2 vehicles and several pull offs. There is a little traffic on the road, mostly big trucks.
ScoutNice big lot. Beautiful views of stars on a clear night. Very remote. Climb an easy dirt road back a few miles. A few deep potholes but nothing too technical.
RangerBirdsongs and gorgeous sunrise in the morning! Didn’t feel completely content solo due to some of the characters I drove by on the way up, but all good. Spot definitely had trash and such around, very sad—remember to pack out what you pack in. However, had a great night of sleep with lovely hiking and natural views all around.
Camping near Fern Ridge Lake, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique vibe.
Camping near Fern Ridge Lake, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots at Fern Ridge Lake in Oregon?
The best camping spots at Fern Ridge Lake include Richardson Park & Campground - A Lane County Park and Fern Ridge Shores RV Park and Marina - 55+ RV Park. Richardson Park offers spacious sites with lake access, boat ramps, and amenities for both tent and RV campers. For those seeking a quieter experience, the north shore camping areas provide more seclusion with beautiful sunset views. The west side of the lake tends to be less crowded with more primitive camping options. Water levels can affect site availability, especially in late summer, so spring and early summer typically offer the best conditions for lakeside camping.
Is camping allowed year-round at Fern Ridge Reservoir?
Camping at Fern Ridge Reservoir is not available year-round. Most campgrounds around the lake, including the main facilities, typically operate seasonally from spring through early fall (approximately April/May through September/October). Armitage Park & Campground, located nearby on the McKenzie River, offers an alternative with a longer operating season. Weather conditions and annual maintenance schedules influence exact opening and closing dates. During the off-season, facilities are winterized with water systems shut down and restrooms closed. For winter camping options near Eugene, Premier RV Resort at Eugene remains open year-round with full hookups and amenities.
What amenities are available at Richardson Park Campground on Fern Ridge Lake?
Richardson Park Campground offers comprehensive amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, and spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings. The campground features both water and electric hookups for RVs with a dump station on-site. Recreation facilities include boat ramps for lake access, fishing docks, swimming areas, and walking paths along the shoreline. Many sites provide shade from mature trees while maintaining lake views. The campground has well-maintained grounds with garbage service and camp hosts available during the season. For campers seeking alternative options with extensive water amenities, Edgewater RV Resort and Marina offers similar facilities with marina access for boat owners.
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