Tent camping near Foster, Oregon features numerous dispersed sites along wilderness corridors and forestry access roads. Elevations range from 800 to 1,500 feet throughout the region, creating varied microclimates and camping experiences. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours with nighttime lows often dropping into the 40s even in July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fall Creek offers year-round fishing with several campgrounds providing direct stream access. At Big Pool Campground, the location right on the water "truly can't be beat" according to camper Rose B., who notes it's "not overly developed but also not overly rustic - really hits the sweet spot!"
Trail exploration: Many tent sites serve as bases for hiking through old-growth forests. The Clark Creek Organization Campground features a "hike from the campground up to the butte" that visitors find "great," and sits across from "a great swimming hole right across the street," according to Joel D.
Gold panning: The Quartzville area permits recreational gold panning in designated sections. Visitors can bring basic equipment and try their luck in the streams. One camper at BLM Quartzville Wild and Scenic River notes "camping along side gravel road" with "some spots better than others," recommending you "go claim a spot early" during holidays.
Nature programs: The Sweet Home Ranger District hosts guided forest tours during summer months. Camper Cindy U. mentions they "do guided hikes check out recreation.gov Sweet Home nature and Heritage tours," providing educational opportunities for visitors.
What campers like
Swimming access: Multiple sites offer direct water access for cooling off during summer months. At Cascara Campground, camper Jessie S. appreciates that "they have life jackets for little ones," making it safer for families, while Tiv P. calls it "Beautiful. About 30 min away from groceries and stores."
Site privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. Justin S. notes that at Cascara Campground, "sites are decently taken care of," though there's "not much privacy at all between spots," but "there were a couple larger ones on the edge of the loop that were tucked in away from others."
Forest scents: The aromatic experience of the forest adds to the camping appeal. At Whispering Pine Horse Camp, Eric M. states, "The smell of the trees in the summer is my favorite part," adding that there are "lots of great trails to hike."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Campers report seeing deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species throughout the region during quieter hours.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Fire bans frequently affect the region during summer months. Check current restrictions before arrival as conditions change rapidly.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas have minimal amenities. At Marion Forks Campground, Elora notes there are "clean vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, trash, but no water" and that it costs "$12 a night or $6 with interagency pass."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites may require high-clearance vehicles. Sam C. at Sweet Home Ranger District warns, "If you have a Sedan watch for large rocks on the way up as they tend to be hazardous."
Campground boundaries: Some sites have strict area limitations. Bennett F. explains that at Marion Forks Campground, "There are logs fences around each campsite, which you are required to stay inside of. You can hear a river a ways back from the side of the campground, but is inaccessible because of the aforementioned fences."
Cell service: Most areas have limited or no connectivity. Kevin R. notes Marion Forks "has no cell service whatsoever" making it "a great place to wander around, do some trails near by then settle down by the campfire with a good book."
Tips for camping with families
Fish hatchery visits: The Marion Forks fish hatchery provides educational opportunities. Patty R. shares: "My boys and now my granddaughter love going to the the fish hatchery and seeing the baby fish and the HUGE fish."
Group accommodations: For larger family gatherings, organization campgrounds offer space for everyone. Emily C. describes Clark Creek Organization Camp as "amazing" and "the perfect place for families. The older teens loved sleeping in the shelters, while the parents preferred tents."
Site selection: Choose sites away from busy roads and water hazards when camping with small children. Corinna B. found Marion Forks "really fun for our boys to have a 'self-contained' site" due to the split rail fences.
Insect preparation: Pack ample bug repellent, especially during early summer. As Bennett F. warns about Marion Forks: "In June or July, the mosquitoes will eat you alive if they get the chance, so don't give it to them. Bring lots of bug repellent."
Tips from RVers
Pull-out selection: For dispersed camping along Quartzville, evaluate pull-outs carefully. Mark W. observes that "some spots have 2 or 3 fire rings per pull out and would be good for a small group."
Site preparation: Many tent camping spots near Foster can accommodate smaller RVs but require advance planning. Brian C. notes that Marion Forks has sites that are "fenced with a wooden corral" with "loads of shade as it's right in the forest," making it "very affordable for tent and RV."
Access timing: Arrive early to secure preferred spots, especially during peak season. According to Marie C. at Rock Creek Campsites, "the walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night" with sites that are "super pretty and peaceful."
