Near Lafayette, Oregon, visitors can find luxury glamping options within lush forests and riverside settings. The area sits at elevations ranging from 150 to 250 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperatures even during summer months. Camping options typically experience morning fog that burns off by midday, especially in sites closer to the Willamette River basin.
What to do
Hike forest trail systems: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers miles of hiking trails with river access. "There seemed to be a lot of hiking trails. I couldn't check them out because of our schedule, but I would 100% return," notes camper Lindsey T. The park connects hikers to unique ecological features including bat habitats.
Mountain biking adventures: Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park provides extensive trail networks for cycling enthusiasts. "The park has many hiking and biking trails of varying length, access to the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, several disc golf courses, cabins, a horse camp, a day use picnic/event area and a hike-in camp area," explains reviewer Shane B. Mountain biking trails vary from beginner-friendly paths to technical routes.
Disc golf courses: Multiple parks offer disc golf for casual players and serious competitors. "What other campground has a bat trail? There are private feeling hiking trails around the large park," writes Nancy H. about Milo McIver, adding, "It is also far from the extensive pair of disc golf courses. That's right, two competition quality disc golf courses."
Swimming and water recreation: Several parks provide river access for cooling off during summer months. "Great biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well. Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river," shares Scott W. about Champoeg.
What campers like
Spacious, private camping sites: Cape Lookout State Park Campground gets high marks for site layout. "I've been visiting Cape Lookout for years with my family. This is by far the best campsite we've found on the coast. We love how much privacy is usually found between sites. For the most part, trees and bushes are substantial enough to make your site feel like you have your own sanctuary," writes Nathan R.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Silver Falls State Park Campground consistently receives praise for its upkeep. "Awesome campground. Well maintained. Site spacing is good with lots of privacy between camps. Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean. Roads and campsites are paved and level," states Richard H. Many campgrounds feature hot showers and flush toilets.
Year-round availability: Several glamping options near Lafayette remain open throughout all seasons. "The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite. The hosts are super friendly and helpful," notes Thamar D. about Champoeg State Park.
Proximity to waterways: Campers appreciate riverside locations. "The tent sites are also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers). We drove to the boat launch area and it was easily accessible," mentions Lindsey T. about her Milo McIver State Park experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular glamping sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We were in site 38. I really appreciated other Dyrt reviews that said the shadier, more private sites are numbered below 40," shares Annie B. about L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Weather considerations: Prepare for morning fog and occasional rain even in summer. "My husband and I have stayed here twice and both times it has rained. Which is fine but we find it very humorous (and actually really enjoy camping in the rain)," mentions Jenny R. about the Stub Stewart hike-in camp.
Site selection tips: Oxbow Regional Park visitors recommend choosing locations carefully. "Road noise can be loud here. Try to get a site as close to the river as you can so you can avoid the highway noise at night," advises J.W. Site numbers with specific advantages appear in many reviews.
Limited connectivity: Most glamping sites have minimal cell service. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," reports Zach S. about Oxbow Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. "Great at the beach campground! I could spend a month on the beach all day every day and not be done with it! Playground, close to stores and heritage/tourist sites," writes Leslie C. about Cape Lookout State Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites add learning dimensions to glamping trips. "The park's historical significance adds cultural depth to the glamping experience, with an on-site museum highlighting Oregon's pioneer history," notes one reviewer about Champoeg State Heritage Area.
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow swimming areas provide safe recreation. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" shares April F. about Silver Falls State Park, which offers various water access points suitable for different ages.
Safety considerations: Some parks have specific hazards to watch for. "There is a main road in between the campgrounds since sites go from A-C. People fly up and down that road at 50+ MPH so watch your kids and pets," warns Savannah S. about Trask River County Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check specific campground amenities before arrival. "We were in site 52, with FHUs. The pad starts with asphalt and then goes to gravel, where you actually park the rig," explains MickandKarla W. about Dairy Creek West at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly between parks. "We are full-timers in a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow. The CG is clean, quiet and well maintained, but the sites are fairly short and narrow," reports Ray & Terri F. about the Salem area.
Water and power connections: Connection locations affect setup. "The water and sewer hookups were in the middle of the site, with electric being at the back of the pad. The water pressure was not very good at around 35 psi," notes one RV camper at Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Alternative accommodations: For glamping close to Lafayette, Oregon without an RV, consider yurt rentals. "We've been here 3 times, once for tent camping and twice in a yurt. The yurts are heated, and a couple of them are pet friendly, which is great for us!" shares Lana N. about Champoeg State Park.
