280 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options near Kerby, Oregon include several developed campgrounds along rivers and lakes, with a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The Laughing Alpaca Campground offers riverfront camping with full hookups and amenities for RVs, while Cedar Bloom provides a more naturalistic setting with tent camping and unique accommodations like mini A-frames. Canyon Gulch near Eight Dollar Mountain offers dispersed camping options for those seeking a more primitive experience, though sites are limited to pullouts along the road.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. The camping season generally runs from spring through fall, with some developed campgrounds like Laughing Alpaca and Lake Selmac Resort remaining open year-round. Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds, especially during summer months. The Illinois River provides water access at several locations, though visitors should note that some primitive sites lack facilities. One camper observed, "Rough dirt road. Very bumpy. Got in fine with Tacoma. No amenities at all. Pack in pack out. Wouldn't take a RV on road."
The Illinois River serves as a focal point for many camping areas, with swimming holes and river access among the most appreciated amenities. Cedar Bloom receives particularly positive reviews for its natural setting and river features, with one visitor noting that "there are 2 areas with river access, a shallow area and a deep swimming hole, with the option to float down some mild rapids." Some dispersed areas like those along Eight Dollar Mountain Road have reported increased traffic and occasional nighttime disturbances. Developed campgrounds in the region typically provide drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, with several offering shower facilities. Many campgrounds in this area maintain a rustic feel despite offering amenities, with sites often set among trees providing shade and some privacy.
"Level with gravel drive and grass."
"We will def be back when we are around the area."
"We were down in Southern Oregon for the Caves. We stayed in the Heron loop which was the smallest and most primitive, It was wonderful and we had the whole south of the lake to ourselves."
"we love coming to lake selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. theyre heated and cozy. weve probably camped here a half dozen times or so over the past couple years, including standard tent sites."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability"The children running around were so happy here - it feels like a safe place to be, tucked away in a private area of Cave Junction."
"Experience the great outdoors in style with a the amenities in short distance"
from $60 - $95 / night
Check Availability"There is a place to park and a path down to the river."
"It’s got great views and near the river, but homeless camps sometimes set up around here."
"Can have camp fires within the metal fire pits (even though your between two fires happen close by). Grounds of hwy 46 that head to the Oregon Caves National Monument between mile post 11 and 12."
"We stayed in site 37 next to the River. You will not be disappointed here. Drive 12 miles up on Hwy 46 from Cave Junction to the Oregon Caves."
"Some sites here are very private feeling because you park the car up top and walk down (not far at all) to the tent that sits close to the lake. Toilets but no showers."
"There are plenty of things to do from fishing, swimming, and even renting a "peddle" boat for a leg workout while taking your trip around the lake."
"As described, 4 drive-ins & 2 walk-ins. Stays in closer walk-in #5. Later learned some girls had used a drive-in spot just for parking 😡. One vault toilet in fair condition, trash."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Just outside of Brookings,Oregon on Rt. 101, this well kept campground was a welcome two day layover during the rainy weather that’s typical of the PNW during mid-November."
"This is one of the prettiest State Park campgrounds along Oregons Southern Coast! Just off Hwy 101 and less than a mile north of Brookings, OR."
from $31 - $87 / night
Check Availability"Overflow and walk to your site. One is a small back in, camper van, suV, truck. The other is a double site, good for small 10ft less RV. We have a 5x8ft CcT so we fit amazingly in the double site."
"Situated on the Illinois River in Cave junction Oregon, this rare and friendly park is perfect. It has a big park area with river access and hammocks and a deck and fire pit."
GuideThis campground is amazing! It was quiet and peaceful, and our campsite felt very secluded even though there were other campsites nearby. Bathrooms were well-maintained.
Other items of note: It's a fairly short drive to/from Crescent City (about 15 minutes) and there's no cell service in the campground. Pets are allowed on the paved areas.
GuideSmall spots and not many but very pretty and I love the little stream nearby
GuideNot really sure where the coordinates took me, but there is a campsite not far after you cross $8 bridge. It's free and has a pit toilet, some tables, and some fire rings. There is a place to park and a path down to the river. There is a much better beach by the river however on the other side of $8 bridge behind the bathrooms, as the one by the actual campground is very rocky. I camped there 2 nights and it was pretty peaceful. There were some homeless people living there, but they were super friendly and invited me over for dinner. There are some people that like to drive up and down the road super fast, so be aware of that. Another camper also told me to be careful going farther up the road because that's where a lot of drug addicts and thieves hang out. He had been there for about 3 weeks and was stolen from when not camping near the designated bathroom and campsite. Overall, the river, night sky, and friendly company made the stay worth it. Otherwise, it can get pretty hot there with not much to do.
GuideNot a bad place to camp, but it gets boring after a few days. Lots of people there when we went and there are some who live there. Everyone keeps to themselves though. A lot of people come down during the day to kayak, etc. The river is nice and clear. There isn't much shade during the day so it can get pretty hot. Very minimal cell service for Xfinity and Verizon. Pretty close to Brookings, so you can go on day trips to town or the beach. You can explore up or down the river, but not much else to do. There is one bathroom, but filled with spiders and there were two dumpsters. The road getting down isn't too bad except for the drop off at the end, so go slow.
GuideFor only $20 a night I thought this place was great. Super quiet, beautiful river views, great for dark night skies, flush toilets, trash, recycling, coin showers. Was a great overnight.
GuideThis is by far my most favorite campground and state park. Sites are spacious and most are very private, easy to walk down to the gorgeous Smith River and numerous hiking trails through the park and to nearby Hiouchi (you can walk to breakfast or lunch and a great little cafe there!). Just magical here.
GuideGreat place for a state campground, very peaceful and clean. Showers and restrooms are 24/7 and clean. Right on the river with walking trails.. they offer full hook up, plus have a free dump station.
GuideThere are some easy to navigate for big rigs up by office. While others may be a little difficult further back. Cabins and tent areas ok. Ck in with friendly staff. Showers restrooms clean and hot water. WiFi was pretty much not there at site 503 (small 30 amp w/water hookup). Nice division in our site. But it's the smallest site for 24 or under feet. Cell phone service for our Att and Verizon was a one to two bar(not great).
GuideThe owner is up and above friendly. Very scenic area that offers one of the most beautiful views of the red woods and the scenic drive down the Newton B Drury Scenic PKWY that is just a few miles south of the park. There is a casino a few miles away. The park has WIFI that has been reported as spotty. We were on site 13 and had a WiFi repeater about three feet from camper. So we had good enough signal.
Camping options near Kerby, Oregon range from riverside retreats to lake-oriented campgrounds within the Illinois River Valley. Located in Josephine County at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, Kerby sits in an area known for hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild, wet winters. Access to many dispersed sites requires high-clearance vehicles due to rough forest roads that become rutted after winter rainfall.
River swimming access: At Cedar Bloom, visitors can enjoy multiple water features along the Illinois River. "There are 2 areas with river access, a shallow area and a deep swimming hole, with the option to float down some mild (and fun!) rapids," notes Nenah B., who appreciated the refreshing river experience.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Selmac provides good fishing conditions year-round. "Lake is large and fishing, canoeing are some fun things to do here," explains Kassidy D. The lake is stocked regularly and popular with local anglers for bass, trout, and crappie.
Visit Oregon Caves: Grayback Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring Oregon Caves National Monument. Located about 12 miles from Cave Junction, it allows easy access to this natural attraction. Roger W. confirms, "Drive 12 miles up on Hwy 46 from Cave Junction to the Oregon Caves."
Private riverfront sites: At Store Gulch Campground, campers appreciate the natural setting directly on the Illinois River. "Beautiful stretch of river with swimming hole & great rocks to jump from. Beautiful sand beach," notes Greg B., highlighting the unique natural features.
Family-oriented atmosphere: Lake Selmac County Park receives positive feedback for its family-friendly environment. "We love coming to lake selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. They're heated and cozy," shares Paul H., who returns regularly with his family.
Unique accommodations: Several campgrounds offer alternatives to standard tent sites. At Cedar Bloom, reviewers mention distinct lodging options. "The mini A-frames and dome look very cool, even from a distance," notes Corey O., referring to the non-traditional structures available.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Mountain and other dispersed sites can be challenging. "I only saw two sites with fire rings on the side of the road and the road was busy with cars going by all hours for the night," reports Paige P.
Seasonal availability: Some locations close during winter months. Grayback Campground operates from May to September, while others remain open year-round. One reviewer noted, "We didn't stay at the campground as it was closed for their season."
Site differences: Campsite quality and size vary considerably between and within campgrounds. "Each site feels more private than the usual can of sardines campground which I appreciate," writes Joe M. about Harris Beach State Park, while locations like Canyon Gulch offer minimal amenities.
Look for river activities: Lake Selmac Resort provides water recreation options ideal for families. "We spent a weekend at Lake Selmac camping in our RV with our four kiddos... Boat rentals are cheap and very easy to access," mentions susanna R., highlighting affordable activities.
Consider heated accommodations in cooler months: Yurts and cabins provide comfort for families during spring and fall. "The campsites were all so beautiful with all the amenities one may want. You really felt removed from the world while there BUT not too far from a grocery store," notes susanna R.
Select campgrounds with amenities: Sites with playgrounds and organized activities work best for children. Harris Beach State Park offers "a fantastic playground and the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day," according to one visitor.
Check size limitations: Many campgrounds near Kerby have restrictions on RV length. At Laughing Alpaca Campground + RV Park, sites accommodate larger rigs. "All RV sites are FHU and level, and the road and camper pads are a dirt/gravel mix," reports Lee D., providing specific site details.
Consider proximity to attractions: Location relative to local points of interest matters for RVers. "This RV Park is conveniently located between Grants Pass and the Oregon Caves National Monument, which is why we chose it," explains Lee D.
Look for river views: Several RV parks offer premium riverside locations. "Great host, they upgraded us to a river front space. Trees and shade on most spaces. Full hook ups and Wifi. Level with gravel drive and grass," shares Richard H. about his experience at Laughing Alpaca.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kerby, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kerby, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 280 campgrounds and RV parks near Kerby, OR and 29 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kerby, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kerby, OR is Laughing Alpaca Campground + RV Park with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kerby, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Kerby, OR.
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