Glamping options near Idanha, Oregon allow visitors to experience the area's natural beauty with amenities that balance comfort and outdoor living. The region sits within the Willamette National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,450 to 3,200 feet, creating diverse microclimates with cool summers and moderate precipitation even during dry months. Most glamping sites in this area close during winter months when snow can make access difficult.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Olallie Lake: Visitors to Olallie Lake Resort can enjoy peaceful paddling on the motor-free lake. "Olallie Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and brood trout. They rent row boats for trolling. Motor boats are not allowed (which is nice)," notes one visitor who appreciated the quiet water activities.
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail: Access points near several glamping locations connect to this famous long-distance trail. "There are several miles local trails to hike on. There's a four mile hike around Olallie Lake, the Redlake Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) that can take you all the way to Mexico or Canada," explains a camper who stayed at Olallie Lake Resort.
Fishing at Southshore: Southshore At Detroit Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities directly from your glamping site. "Campsites right next to the water! Awesome for kids and adults lots of things to do!" reports a visitor who enjoyed direct water access from their accommodations.
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Guests frequently mention the quiet atmosphere at Camp Ten (Olallie) Campground. One camper noted the "Awesome area, tons of hiking and linked to the PCT," highlighting how the remote location contributes to its tranquil setting despite requiring four-wheel drive access.
Electricity in cabins: For those seeking more comfort while glamping in Idanha, cabins with power are available. "The Olallie Lake Guard Station Cabin...has much less basic facilities, kitchen with hot & cold running water. Propane powered stove/oven, refrigerator, and built in lights," explains a visitor who appreciated these amenities during their stay.
Lake views from accommodations: Many sites provide scenic vistas directly from your glamping location. "Site 17 is fantastic. Right on the lake, huge, great access to the water as well as the trail to the lodge," shares a camper about South Shore Suttle Lake, noting the convenience of water and trail access.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many glamping locations require traveling on gravel roads. A visitor to Olallie Lake Resort warns, "Don't try to drive those gravel roads in a small car (I drove up with a scion TC and a 12 minute drive took an hour having to avoid pot holes and everything)." High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.
Cash only at some locations: Some facilities have limited payment options. The same Olallie Lake visitor advises, "They have a little shop nearby but it's cash only if you really need something so pack what you need. And bring a lantern."
Swimming restrictions: Not all lakes permit swimming. At Trillium Lake, swimming is allowed and popular during summer months. One camper shares, "The lake is warm enough to swim in the summer. The sites are huge and comfy."
Tips for camping with families
Bring water toys: Lakes provide excellent recreation for children. "Trillium Lake is easier and faster to get to than many of the other Mt. Hood Lakes, and with one of the best views of the mountain... Good lake for beginner kayakers as it is small, still, and doesn't allow motor traffic," explains a visitor to Trillium Lake.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Some glamping locations include play areas for children. At Silver Falls State Park Campground, a camper recommends, "I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time!"
Look for family-friendly bathrooms: Clean facilities make glamping with children easier. "Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean. Roads and campsites are paved and level. Short drive or hike to the falls," reports a Silver Falls visitor who appreciated these amenities when staying with family.
Tips from RVers
Consider site slopes: Some glamping sites have uneven terrain between parking areas and camping spaces. At Whitcomb Creek County Park, a visitor noted, "For trailer camping I would recommend loop A as it is newest and has 4 drive through spots."
Check for boat ramp proximity: For those bringing boats, some sites offer more convenient access than others. "The campground is awesome, and site#17 was pretty good... There is a big slope from the parking pad to the table/fire pit. There is a fairly flat open area for tents, and access to a small private 'beach' on the lake. Very doable to get kayaks or paddle boards down," reports a visitor to Southshore At Detroit Lake.
Ask about generator rules: Policies vary between glamping locations. A Suttle Lake camper mentioned, "A few drawbacks: There's no electricity for RVs, so several had generators coming on and off," which may affect the experience for those seeking a quieter atmosphere.
