Fern Ridge Lake offers several rv campgrounds with diverse amenities beyond the standard RV setup. Located 12 miles west of Eugene at an elevation of 374 feet, the lake has 32 miles of shoreline with water levels that fluctuate seasonally. Water levels typically peak in June and gradually recede through summer, affecting shoreline camping access and boat launch availability.
What to do
Fishing access: Richardson Park provides both bank fishing and boat launch options for anglers targeting bass and crappie. One camper noted, "We brought our RV and had no problems with setup or parking. No additional charge for a second vehicle was nice and my children had a blast in the clubhouse."
Boating and water activities: Fern Ridge Shores RV Park and Marina offers direct lake access with marina services for RV campers. A visitor commented, "Breathtakingly Beautiful on the lake RV spaces," making it convenient for those with boats or water equipment.
Nearby attractions: For campers interested in exploring beyond the lake, Premier RV Resort at Eugene provides a strategic base. One reviewer mentioned, "This is a large campground, mostly populated by big rigs, and mostly long term stays. Looked like a lot of people were working in the area. Almost all of the RV's there are very nice."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers highlight the cleanliness of rv campgrounds near Fern Ridge Lake. At Deerwood RV Park, a camper reported, "We had a 10 day stay. Nicely maintained. Nice location, lots of trees and grassy areas. Asphalt pads for most sites, some premium sites have a concrete pad for RV/trailer/camper with asphalt in front."
Pet-friendly policies: Most Fern Ridge Lake rv sites accommodate pets with designated areas. A visitor to Deerwood RV Park shared, "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. The previous review is right the road is narrow and most sites are back in but honestly that's what gives this park it's unique charm!"
Social atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster community interactions. At Dexter Shores RV Park, a reviewer noted, "We brought our RV and had no problems with setup or parking. No additional charge for a second vehicle was nice and my children had a blast in the clubhouse. The community here seems friendly and we'll just likely be back."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Several RV parks near Fern Ridge Lake experience road noise. At Premier RV Resort at Eugene, a camper mentioned, "If only this place was farther off the road it would really be great," while another stated, "Nice time. Hated the traffic."
Site layout and access: Many rv campgrounds have specific layout challenges. At Eugene Kamping World RV Park, a visitor observed, "We stayed here because we had an appointment in Eugene in the morning and wanted to be somewhere close the night before. Though this isn't the type of park we usually prefer to stay at, it does a good job at being a good, safe, basic RV park."
Age restrictions: Some campgrounds maintain specific resident policies. Fern Ridge Shores RV Park and Marina operates as a 55+ community with RV access only. A reviewer simply stated, "Park only Laundry, showers, bathrooms. Wonderful people."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with activities for children. At Dexter Shores RV Park, a camper shared, "Clean. Long pull throughs. Quiet. Pride in ownership for sure," making it suitable for family stays with easy setup.
Seasonal considerations: Summer reservations fill quickly, particularly during weekends and holidays. One reviewer at Eugene Kamping World RV Park noted, "There are activities right on site: horseshoe pits, playground, half court basketball hoop, small dog park, and rec room. The free showers and laundry room were nice and clean."
Safety aspects: Family-oriented campgrounds typically provide better security. An experienced camper at Deerwood RV Park mentioned, "Back in lots are shaded and not stacked closely together. Wifi shows but no wifi. We used Verizon puck and worked fine. Grounds are kept up nicely."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many Fern Ridge Lake rv campgrounds have restricted space between sites. At Eugene Kamping World RV Park, a reviewer noted, "There's a little store with basic items in the office, as well as a $1 DVD rental. There's bulk propane on site at $3/gal, and a dump station (free for guests, $10 for non guests). Good strong free wifi."
Utility considerations: Check available connections and limitations. A camper at Thousand Trails South Jetty shared, "Our site had electricity and water hook up. The site was level and easy to back in to. Our site was very private with trees and bushes between our site and neighbors on each side."
Off-season availability: Most rv campgrounds near Fern Ridge Lake remain open year-round with varying services. A visitor to Deerwood RV Park commented, "We stayed here for about 2 weeks in February 2022. It was an unplanned stopped with being in contact with Jason the host briefly morning of arrival. We pulled in about an hour or so before check in time and were taken care of anyway and given a spot."