The Fremont-Winema National Forest spans over 2.3 million acres in south-central Oregon, featuring volcanic landscapes, wetlands, and high desert terrain. The forest elevation ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions from May through November. Winter snow typically closes most campgrounds and access roads until late spring thaw.
What to do
Explore unique geological features: The Christmas Valley area near Christmas Valley Base Camp offers access to numerous volcanic formations. "Cozy place great for large groups. Has everything a campground needs," notes Ralph G., making it an ideal base for exploration.
Visit historical sites: Located 25 miles from Crater Lake National Park, Collier Memorial State Park Campground features a unique logging museum. "Down the easy 1mi. trail along the spring creek, they have a super cool old pioneer village and lumber museum. It's full of olde tyme cabins and era timber industry tools and equipment," writes Tj B., who adds they "even offer a wagon ride pulled by an old Cat-30, for free."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings near Thompson Reservoir provide optimal wildlife watching conditions. "Lovely walks and hikes to be had. Beautiful stargazing," reports Kelly H. from Silver Creek Marsh, noting the campground's proximity to multiple outdoor attractions.
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Many forest campgrounds remain uncrowded even during peak summer season. At Jackson Creek campground, one visitor described it as a "Beautiful, remote and quiet. Large camp sites," highlighting the spaciousness that allows for privacy.
Water access: Multiple campgrounds provide river or lake access for fishing and paddling. Keno Camp sits directly on the water, where Chris G. reports: "Mature trees and right next to the water. So quiet all we heard were birds." Another visitor, Rob W., notes it has a "Gorgeous river small damn fishing kayaking boat dock!"
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. As Fiona W. observed at Collier Memorial State Park: "We were able to see soooo many stars in the sky!!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Many access roads are unpaved and require careful driving. Michael M. warns about Silver Creek Marsh: "The paved road in is not maintained well and has huge cracks every 20 feet, some that could take out a wheel. But the slow bumpy trip was worth it."
Limited amenities: Most horse campgrounds near Fremont-Winema National Forest have basic facilities only. One camper at Silver Creek Marsh noted: "No frill Forest Service campground in the Fremont-Winemaker National Forest."
Seasonal availability: Most forest campgrounds operate from May through October. Glen G. learned this the hard way at Keno Camp: "Pushed through to stop here for the night only to find the entrance gated and the sign says 'Closed for the Season'."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encounters with local wildlife. Jessica P. cautions about Collier Memorial: "The chipmunks are everywhere and will steal food. Our dog was quite annoyed."
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. Rob W. notes that Keno Camp has a "Park/playground for kids safe secure peaceful!" while Kassidy D. mentions that Collier Memorial is "a very fun campground" where "people seemed to be very friendly and social."
Educational opportunities: Keno Camp offers short nature trails suitable for children. Nicole W. reports: "Short trails are here as well! If you're looking for longer trails there are plenty all around that you could do a short drive to or walk along the highway."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose outer loop sites when possible for easier access. Michael M. observed at Silver Creek Marsh: "Sites are level, well shaded and several are long and can handle big trailers. Some sites have less shade if you need StarLink access."
Bathroom facilities: Campground toilets are typically vault style with varying cleanliness. Chris G. appreciated Keno Camp's "Big clean heated bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot shower," adding that "Dumpsters for our trash made it easy to do cleanup at the end of the day."
Challenging access routes: RVers should research road conditions before attempting remote equestrian campgrounds. Kelly H. recommends taking it slow: "It was a bit of a trek down gravel roads to get here. Took it easy, though, and no problems."
