Fremont-Winema National Forest spans over 1.2 million acres across southern Oregon, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Many visitors choose glamping close to Fremont-Winema National Forest during July and August when temperatures are most moderate.
What to do
Wildlife viewing on Annie Creek: At Collier Memorial State Park Campground, numerous walking trails lead along spring-fed creeks where visitors can observe native wildlife. "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," shares one camper.
Stargazing from campsites: The remote locations around the national forest offer exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "We were able to see soooo many stars in the sky!!" notes one visitor at Collier Memorial State Park.
Fishing in clear waters: Rocky Point Resort provides access to prime fishing spots. One visitor reports, "I rented a boat and caught a 6 lb trout, fishing where the owner said was a likely spot."
Paddle sports on multiple waterways: Calm waters make kayaking and canoeing popular activities. A visitor at Rocky Point mentions, "My partner made a 5-mile loop on the lake in just over 2 hours around and through a National Wildlife Refuge on a paddle board."
What campers like
Natural hot springs pools: Summer Lake Hot Springs offers multiple soaking options. "Clean campground with amazing views from the bathhouse. Full hookups on level pads and cabins if you left your rv at home," notes one camper, who also suggests, "Take a warm, fluffy robe and good sandals for your walk to and from the soaking pools."
Dark sky viewing: The limited light pollution creates prime conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. A visitor reports, "This is a Dark Sky sanctuary - so many stars. A totally calm day is rare. Hot springs are clothing optional after 9pm, which is a huge plus for us as nudists who hate cold, soggy bathing suits."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more rustic accommodation, Keno Camp provides basic amenities at affordable prices. "If you love camping in the woods you will love this place, plus you can't beat the price $10 a night," explains one camper.
Riverside locations: Many campsites feature water access. "The tent sites are right by the lake and are so so pretty. The hosts are super friendly and the store has everything you need," reports a visitor to Rocky Point Resort.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most camping areas have spotty or no cell reception. At Lost Creek Campground, "Absolutely no cell phone service" according to a recent visitor.
Variable road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may require careful navigation. Lost Creek Campground is "a little bit out of the way and the road leading up to it is a small gravel road that has some serious potholes, but we had no trouble getting there in our car."
Seasonal availability: Many camping areas close during winter months. "This campground is closed to the public and has been for a couple years. Only fire crews working in the park are allowed to stay here," notes a ranger about Lost Creek Campground.
Wildlife presence: Campers should take precautions with food storage. "The chipmunks are everywhere and will steal food. Our dog was quite annoyed," warns a visitor to Collier Memorial State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Bring extra water for drinking: The water at some locations may be unsuitable for consumption. At Summer Lake Hot Springs, one camper advises, "The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own (you don't want coffee made with the water, but I wouldn't turn it down if I were farther from civilization)."
Check for special ranger programs: Several campgrounds offer educational activities. At Collier Memorial, they "offer many programs to keep the youngens and young at heart busy, very family friendly."
Reserve ahead for cabins: Luxury glamping close to Fremont-Winema National Forest fills quickly during peak season. At Crater Lake Resort, one family shares, "Stayed in the primative cabin for an evening with the spouse and our dog. The little store was great for last minute supplies and gifts, the resort offered free canoe rentals."
Consider campgrounds with recreation options: Sites with built-in activities help keep children entertained. "Basketball area, exercise, ping pong, canoe, pontoon, trampoline and more!" notes a visitor to Rocky Point Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning varies: Pay attention to campsite orientation when booking. "We stayed at Manama campground where our site D1 was facing the opposite way so that the fire ring, picnic table and amenities was on the non door and side of our trailer. So if you pick a numbered site be sure you pick a even numbered site so your rig is in the correct position," advises one Crater Lake Resort visitor.
Site spacing concerns: Some RV sites are placed very close together. "I had a serious issue with how tight the spots were in relation to how much room is onsite. Our sewer drain was less than a foot away from our neighbors table, as was our other neighbors to ours," notes a camper at Crater Lake Resort.
Dump station fees: Budget for additional costs when planning your stay. "Cost to dump grey water is $25, I've never seen a fee this high. I'd gladly pay $10," reports a visitor to Rocky Point Resort.
Level sites available: Many campgrounds offer properly graded parking spots. "We stayed at a nice full hook up site with a great view of the lake. The owners checked in daily to make sure we were having fun and if we needed anything," shares a Rocky Point Resort visitor.
