Camping sites near Independence, Oregon offer visitors easy access to the Willamette Valley's diverse landscapes between the Cascade Mountains and coastal range. The area maintains moderate temperatures year-round with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F and winter lows typically above freezing. Campsites generally sit at elevations between 200-400 feet, providing level terrain for tents and RVs with minimal preparation required.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 30 minutes east at Silver Falls State Park Campground where campers can explore the Trail of Ten Falls. "THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain," notes one visitor who recommends specific campsites: "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)."
Biking trails: 25 minutes south at Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground where paved cycling paths connect to the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway. "Great biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well," explains one reviewer, while another adds: "The campground is on the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, and a great place to camp if you want to do a long biking getaway."
Swimming: Summer water activities available at multiple campgrounds for cooling off. Champoeg State Heritage Area offers river access, with one camper noting: "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" While Silver Falls State Park provides creek access for wading during warmer months.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at several parks. At Blue Ox RV Park, visitors appreciate "multiple laundry rooms, heated indoor pool, recreation area indoors" and note the grounds are "all spotlessly clean." Another reviewer highlights: "Staff is very friendly. A must stay place if in area. Very clean and well taken care of. Lots of plantings around to add color and texture!!"
Level, accessible sites: Many campgrounds offer paved or level sites for easy setup. At Knox Butte RV Park, one reviewer notes: "Everything is paved, the sites have nice clean picnic tables, and plenty of green lush grass." Silver Falls State Park provides "flat paved sites, friendly staff," and another camper mentions: "Roads and campsites are paved and level. Short drive or hike to the falls."
Budget-friendly options: Several affordable camping options exist within 20 minutes of Independence. The Polk County Fairgrounds offers economical stays at $25 per night with one camper noting: "We stayed here for seven nights and we do it again! Electricity 30 amp and water at the post. Dump station nearby."
What you should know
Limited primitive camping options: Most campgrounds near Independence cater primarily to RVs. One visitor to Premier RV Resort observes: "Yes, the spaces are a little tight. But not near as tight as most KOA's!" Another notes: "The sites are fairly short and narrow. As others have mentioned, tow vehicles usually extend into or are parked partially on the roads through the CG."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings abundant rainfall requiring appropriate gear. At Silver Falls State Park, one camper advises: "It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain." Summer visitors should be aware of irrigation systems at some RV parks, with one Premier RV Resort guest reporting: "They ignored my issue with the sprinkler system leaving my lot with 2-3" of water until 11am."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (May-September), advance booking is essential. Campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At popular locations like Silver Falls State Park, spots can book months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Silver Falls State Park features a "kids' play area inside Loop B" and one visitor notes: "The campgrounds are nice. The hike is amazing and beautiful though most of the trails are closed to dogs."
Educational opportunities: Albany-Corvallis KOA provides access to nearby learning experiences. Though a standard KOA with typical amenities, its location serves as a convenient base for family outings. One camper mentions: "The place is very clean, staff are friendly. Grounds are well kept."
Accommodation options beyond tents: For families seeking more comfortable sleeping arrangements, several campgrounds offer cabins and yurts. Premier RV Resort provides yurts that one guest describes as "amazing" with "a darling porch with bbq and picnic table, Keurig coffee maker, 2 bedrooms, dining table and living room too!"
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Independence offer complete RV services. At Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort, guests appreciate the comprehensive amenities: "Appreciate the amenities of small gym, hot tub, and showers. Excited for the outdoor pool to open. Staff is friendly and grounds are well maintained."
Easy access locations: Many campgrounds provide convenient highway proximity without excessive noise. Knox Butte RV Park offers "very easy access to and from I-5" and "near the town so you have excess to restaurants and shopping" while still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. One visitor notes: "Near I-5 yet no traffic noise."
Wi-Fi considerations: Internet quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Blue Ox RV Park receives praise for "great Wi-Fi" while others may have limited connectivity during peak hours. One camper at Knox Butte RV Park specifically mentions: "Their WiFi is also excellent."
