Best Campgrounds near Idanha, OR

Campgrounds surrounding Idanha, Oregon provide access to Detroit Lake and North Santiam River, with established sites at Hoover Campground, Cove Creek, and Whispering Falls. The region includes a mix of tent and RV sites, with some campgrounds like Detroit Lake State Recreation Area also offering cabin accommodations. Most camping areas are managed by the US Forest Service or Oregon State Parks, providing varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to developed campgrounds with electric hookups and showers.

Seasonal availability significantly affects camping options, with many campgrounds operating from May through September. Campers should check road conditions before arrival as some access routes require high-clearance vehicles. "Cove Creek Campground has nice facilities that are well maintained. The campground has its own boat launch and large sites," noted one visitor on The Dyrt. Water levels at Detroit Lake fluctuate seasonally, with lower levels exposing muddy banks by late summer. Most campgrounds require reservations during peak season, especially for weekend stays. Campsite sizes vary considerably, with some accommodating large RVs while others are better suited for tent camping.

Waterfront access represents a primary draw for campers in the Idanha region, with several campgrounds offering direct lake or river frontage. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of fishing opportunities and swimming access at Hoover Campground and Detroit Lake sites. Privacy between campsites varies significantly, with some areas providing substantial tree cover and others offering minimal separation between neighbors. A visitor described their experience: "Sites vary in length and width, besides the driveway, and some are even split-level due to the terrain. Separation between sites varies too - sometimes ferns and many big trees between sites." Highway noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those with sites closer to Highway 22. Cell reception is generally better at campgrounds near Idanha proper, with more remote areas having limited connectivity.

Best Camping Sites Near Idanha, Oregon (374)

    1. Detroit Lake State Recreation Area Campground

    42 Reviews
    Detroit, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 854-3346

    $15 - $59 / night

    "We've driven by this park SO many times driving from the Willamette Valley to Central Oregon.  Being right next to the highway we've never really considered it as a "get-away" place. "

    "Some really beautiful sites next to the lake. Easy access to the lake from pretty much all of the campground. Great boat launch. The lake was warm and had a nice shallow edge for the kids."

    2. Humbug Campground

    23 Reviews
    Detroit, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 854-3366

    $21 - $40 / night

    "This campsite is about five miles off of 22 and five miles from a few local stores and Detroit lake.

    The site is tucked away and quiet."

    "We love the easy access to the beach and the beautiful hikes.  Showers are hot and free, rangers are always friendly."

    3. Cove Creek

    13 Reviews
    Detroit, OR
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 226-3564

    $28 - $260 / night

    "Cove creek campground is an hour away from Salem sitting above the south side of Detroit lake, on the right hand side of the road once you arrive in Idanha - off hwy 22 and blowout road."

    "The sites are nice and big, and you don't feel like you're right on top of the people next to you."

    4. Hoover Campground

    11 Reviews
    Idanha, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 226-3564

    $28 - $260 / night

    "Close to the lake and far away from craziness. Sites are nice but close together."

    "It did rain a couple times, but the fishing and off road trails and exploring are always great. This is always a go to spot for me in the summer!"

    5. Southshore At Detroit Lake

    9 Reviews
    Detroit, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 226-3564

    $28 - $56 / night

    "The weather did not cooperate on this trip...which is Oregon. There is a big slope from the parking pad to the table/fire pit."

    "Detroit Lake campground is spacious with 6 different camping loops and lots of RVs and trailers. Main negative is the proximity of the back of each loop to a busy state highway."

    6. Whispering Falls Campground

    8 Reviews
    Idanha, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 854-3366

    $25 - $50 / night

    "This site has access to vault toilets, potable water. The sites are large enough for rv or tent sites with vehicle pull through."

    "Whispering Falls is a small campground right off of OR22, near Mt Jefferson. We stopped here for to camp just one night on a hiking road trip between Opal Creek Wilderness and Sisters. "

    7. Marion Forks Campground

    10 Reviews
    Idanha, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 854-3366

    "Each spot has--and I'm not sure why this is--a split rail fence around it."

    "I love this campground because it's tucked away off of the highway and doesn't have a lot of people."

    8. Opal Pool Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Detroit, OR
    11 miles
    Website

    "If you want to test the waters fort backpacking this is a great trail to do it on. Only 3ish miles to the camp sites. All are first come, near water."

    "Probably one of my favorite places in Oregon.

    Maybe it is the lack of visits that keeps me longing to go back here, but the water was more blue than the Carribean, just 30 degree colder."

    9. Riverside at Detroit Campground

    8 Reviews
    Idanha, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 226-3564

    $25 / night

    "This is a decent campground right off the highway. You will incur noise from the cars on the highway, even on the sites closer to the river."

    "Some have full parking pads for two vehicles, but mostly parking is dirt next to the drive lane. Spacious sites for the size of the campground."

    10. Silver Falls State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Mehama, OR
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 873-8681

    $22 - $64 / night

    "If you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts."

    "Probably the easiest accessibility to the most awesome waterfalls per few square miles in Oregon. Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from"

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Recent Reviews near Idanha, OR

1758 Reviews of 374 Idanha Campgrounds


  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    Lots of spaces

    Came on a Sunday night so had lots of spots to choose from. Good camping for a quick stop. There are warning signs about potentially closing the campground cause people keep leaving trash. So if you come please LNT!

  • Susan M.
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Phoenix RV Park

    Nope

    We stayed here for 11 months. We had a problem with our fridge overheating and the compressor being noisy when the afternoon sun hit the front side. We built an insulated box to solve the problem. Painted it. It wasn't an eyesore. We didn't have more than 5 personal items in our lot. Manager made us take it down. Said there would be a spot in September that she could move us to. Was unwilling to switch around someone who wasn't coming in for 2 months. When September hit, nothing happened. She never did move us. But she did move her RV to the prime spot, facing the way that we needed, up front when it came open. Lots of spots with so much junk under their RVs. We had a whitewater raft under ours and were told that we couldn't have it under there. Instead of paying a ridiculous price for a storage unit, we sold it. We already had one in the RV. Head management was coming through in a couple of weeks and she had to make the place look like she actually enforced the rules? Their sprinkler system quit working. The maintenance person put the sprinkler on the grass on the side of us. My window was wide open. Soaked my couch, left a water stain all across the blinds(RV was 9 months old) and the water stained a handmade quilt on the back of my couch. When I called the office the manager told me to stop yelling at her. I guess a loud voice was yelling? The guy said he didn't see that my window was open, yet I saw it was as I drove up. The manager also charged my debit card for our last couple of days/electricity without my permission. When I called to confront her about it, she hung up on me. I had to call my bank to get my card cancelled but the charge went through. Even though she sent me an email saying I was refunded. I am now trying to deal with the head office about her. Rent also going up to$830 a month. For a parking spot and water. No internet. Lots of sirens. Heard gunfire a lot. Not a great part of town. Lots of homeless people, garbage because it's near the can redemption center.

  • Derek N.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Cold Springs Resort

    Relaxing RV park with lots to see from a walking distance

    Relaxing RV park with lots to see from a walking distance

    This is a really well laid out campground, with well kept grounds. The RV area is shaped like a horse shoe and only has 12 sites. The rest of the campground has about 20 cabins spread out around the grounds. Our site was had lots of room to easily back in our trailer. The fire pit was big and cleaned out when we arrived. There is a creek that runs behind most of the sites which was a nice addition. There are two bathrooms with showers. There are a handful of kids and adult bikes you can use. The campground is a few minutes walking distance to a stocked pond that youth can fish in. About an 8 minute walk away from the nearby general store which feels like a blast from the past. The walk to the general store includes a really beautiful bridge crossing to get across the Metolius river.

    With most people in cabins and only a handful of RVs, it’s a really quiet campground. This was a really relaxing stay and it was so nice that most the things we wanted to do was just walking distance away. We will definitely come here again.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Green Canyon

    Unexpected serenity!!

    I wanted to get away for the weekend and it was close. I arrived. Perfect camp spot. Close to the river. I heard it’s lullaby at night!! True therapy in its finest !!

    The trail along the river was awesome. It’s now one of my favorite spots. Will definitely be back.

    No cell service at all but it’s worth it!!! Great camp host!! Very friendly people there. Great memories!!!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Britenbush River Dispersed2

    Britenbush River Dispersed2

    A bit past the other listing. Beautiful, just off the road. There is a pullout on both sides of the road to camp. I suggest stopping to scout each to decide what is best for your rig.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort

    Very clean and easy to get to from I5.

    Right off I5 in Salem, OR, a snap to get to and back on to the freeway.  This was our first trip in our new motorhome, and the staff was very helpful, going so far as to suggest a different site that was easier to get into.  There were a couple dog areas that were well placed, and the park was very quiet for the most part.  We will be back, if just for a quick get away from our home in Vancouver.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Trillium Lake

    Nice place with a lake

    Easy access. Nice sites.


Guide to Idanha

Camping near Idanha, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Silver Falls State Park Campground. One visitor raved about the "Trail of Ten Falls," which showcases ten breathtaking waterfalls along a seven-mile hike.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Detroit Lake State Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A camper mentioned, "The camp spots in the H Loop are well spaced, and we enjoyed our site," highlighting the lake's beauty.
  • Relaxing by the Water: Big Lake Campground is perfect for a serene day by the water. One reviewer said, "The lake is calm, the campsites line the lake full of evergreens. Truly peaceful."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at Humbug Campground. A visitor noted, "The showers were nice, and the walk to the beach was beautiful."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at River Bend County Park. One camper shared, "The sites were maintained very well and the camp hosts were very friendly."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Hoodview Campground are great for families. A reviewer mentioned, "The camp host was friendly yet respectful of privacy. She was great with my kids and dogs."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially if you're near families. A visitor at Silver Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Campsites can be decently close to one another, so not secluded."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Little Crater Lake Campground has vault toilets and no showers, which some campers found challenging.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "We encountered raccoons, but they didn't get into any of our stuff."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Humbug Campground, where kids can enjoy the beach and trails. One parent said, "The staff is friendly and always willing to answer any questions."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned, like hiking or swimming. A visitor at Silver Falls State Park Campground enjoyed biking on the campground trails.
  • Bring Bug Spray: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially near water. A camper at Big Lake Campground advised, "Bring bug spray; the bugs are outrageous."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at River Bend County Park mentioned, "The sites are private with picnic tables and fire pits."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need more amenities, consider campgrounds like Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens, which offers electric hookups and water.
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Be aware of dump station availability. A visitor at Fishermen's Bend noted, "Dump station on site, which is convenient."

Camping near Idanha, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping near Idanha, Oregon?

Several excellent campgrounds are located near Idanha, Oregon. Cove Creek sits above the south side of Detroit Lake, just off Highway 22 and Blowout Road when you arrive in Idanha. It offers both walk-up and reservable sites. Trout Creek Campground is another great option tucked into the Willamette National Forest past Detroit State Park on Highway 22, featuring large, secluded sites with direct water and river access. Additional options include Hoover Campground, Whispering Falls Campground, and Riverside at Detroit Campground, all providing access to the natural beauty surrounding Idanha.

What outdoor activities are available near Idanha, Oregon?

The Idanha area offers abundant outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. At Paradise In Oregon in the Willamette National Forest, visitors can enjoy hiking through gorgeous old-growth forests with the incredible smell of trees enhancing the experience. Marion Forks Campground provides educational opportunities at the fish hatchery, short hiking trails, and water access. The region also offers fishing in numerous lakes and streams, swimming in Detroit Lake, mountain biking on forest trails, wildlife viewing, photography, and scenic drives through the Cascade Mountains. During winter months, nearby areas provide opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

When is the best time to camp in Idanha, Oregon?

The ideal camping season in Idanha runs from late spring through early fall (May-September), when temperatures are most comfortable and facilities are fully operational. Detroit Lake State Recreation Area Campground can be enjoyable as early as late April with beautiful weather, though it gets busier on weekends. Summer provides warm days perfect for water activities in the surrounding lakes and rivers. Silver Falls State Park Campground, while not directly in Idanha but within driving distance, offers year-round beauty with waterfalls that are particularly spectacular in spring and fall. Consider mid-week visits during summer to avoid crowds at popular sites.