Glamping accommodations near Kerby, Oregon range from rustic cabins to tent sites, with diverse options for overnight stays in the Illinois Valley. Located in Josephine County at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, this area receives relatively mild winter temperatures compared to higher-elevation areas of southern Oregon. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s with low humidity, making water recreation particularly appealing from June through September.
What to do
River swimming: Lake Selmac offers various water activities during summer months. According to a visitor, "Beautiful lake with good fishing, though not great for swimming due to weeds." For better swimming options, consider Lake Selmac County Park where "there is a bunch of little camping loops with about 10 or so campsites... its a Beautiful lake."
Redwoods exploration: Jedidiah Smith Campground provides access to ancient redwood forests about an hour southwest of Kerby. "This is a surreal place... To stand amongst this beautiful trees it is very breathtaking. Hiking trails were great and maintained," notes one camper who found the Scout Trail particularly popular.
Riverside fishing: The Chetco River at Alfred A. Loeb State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities. "If you fish and don't have a trailer or camper these cabins are perfect. Fire ring and table are provided as well," mentions a reviewer who stayed in the riverside cabins, which offer direct water access.
What campers like
Hot showers with views: While Cedar Bloom offers open-air showers, other campgrounds provide more conventional facilities. At Schroeder Park along the Rogue River, "Showers were still available and free" according to a recent visitor who appreciated the clean facilities despite noting that prices have increased over time.
Winter camping options: Heated accommodations make year-round stays possible. One Lake Selmac camper shared, "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."
River access: Many campsites offer direct water access for cooling off. At Griffin Park, "Our campsite was about 50 yards or so from the Rogue River, and we could hear it flowing all night." This accessibility to water is particularly valuable during hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
What you should know
Seasonal pricing changes: Campground rates have increased at many locations. A repeat visitor to Schroeder Park observed, "Prices have gone up by $5 since we were here last year. $25 for no hookups, $30 for PHU and $35 for FHU... prices went up again since this post! Now they are $40 for FHU and $35 for PHU."
Varying shower facilities: Shower amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. At Valley of the Rogue State Park, "The showers and other amenities are really nice" while other locations might have coin-operated or more primitive facilities.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have reported water quality issues. One RV camper at Smoke on the Water (Lake Selmac Resort) noted, "The waterline provided had rust coming through it and stained my R.V. shower to the point I couldn't get it all off. They said it was a new issue and they were replacing the tank."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. Valley of the Rogue State Park "has a lot of nice features, including the river and hiking trails, it also has a kids program, campfire nights and the camp hosts are very helpful."
Swimming safety: Not all water access points are suitable for young swimmers. At Lake Selmac, "It's a beautiful lake with good fishing, though not great for swimming due to weeds." Parents should scout swimming areas before allowing children in the water.
Private camping spots: For families seeking more seclusion, some campgrounds offer better privacy than others. At Harris Beach State Park, "Campsites have good privacy. Lots of lush greenery and bushes to separate them. Also, good shade to shield from the sun."
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Some RV sites offer better amenities or spacing than others. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park, a visitor recommends: "Avoid sites: 22- Floods, 33-If you have small children due to the water runoff being directly through the camp, 34- Floods, 36, 6 and 4-if tent camping it turns into one big wet spot."
Hookup availability: Campgrounds vary widely in their RV accommodations. Griffin Park offers "some full hook ups" with a camper noting their "22ft trailer fit just fine" in the available spaces.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation but can offer unique experiences. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park, "We've been here both in summer and winter, and the winter months is by far better in our opinion. Summers are too hot, when you have the coast and the town of Brookings so close."
