Waterloo County Park offers waterfront camping on the South Santiam River, with over a mile of river frontage across its 120 sites. Located just outside Lebanon, Oregon at an elevation of 347 feet, the park features camping options ranging from basic tent sites to RV hookups. The park remains open year-round with Loop A reservable and Loop B operating on a first-come, first-served basis during summer months.
What to do
Disc golf course: Waterloo County Park features a complete disc golf course that winds through the forested sections. "The park has it, a dog park, play disc golf, hiking trails, fish, with ADA fishing deck, boat launch, playground, and two camping loops," notes Cindy U. about Waterloo County Park.
Waterfall exploring: Take a short drive to McDowell Creek Falls for accessible waterfall viewing. "Nearby hiking includes McDowell creek falls where there are a couple of medium grade hiking trails that can be muddy. The falls are quite beautiful and worth a visit even if you're not into hiking since most of them even the bigger ones are accessible with just a short walk down wooden stairs or viewable from the parking lot," explains Kassidy D.
Water activities: Green Peter Reservoir offers boating opportunities near Whitcomb Creek County Park. "Your in the woods at this location, bring your boats/canoe/kayak the reservoir is huge to explore," advises Cindy U. The park provides water access from May through September, making it ideal for summer recreation.
River floating: For a unique adventure, drive upriver and float back to your campsite. "If you drive up the road, you can float down the river to your campground!" shares Chrissy T. about Waterloo County Park. Be aware of water conditions as currents can be swift in certain sections.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the generous site sizing at many Lebanon area campgrounds. "The sites are spaced out nicely and the park is very quiet. Hook-ups for Electric and Water only, but they have a 'waste water' (gray water) disposal every few sites where you can pour any gray water," writes Kevin H. about Waterloo County Park.
Yurt camping options: Silver Falls State Park Campground provides comfortable yurt accommodations near Lebanon, Oregon. "The cabins are small but comfortable with heat, lights, and beds. Covered porch is nice to sit and listen to the rain," shares Jeff K. These heated structures make yurt camping in Lebanon, Oregon accessible year-round regardless of weather conditions.
Swimming access: For families seeking water recreation, several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities. "Waterloo is pretty open and has some bike trails and some parks and a pretty great disc golf course! The water is really cold but perfect for a day outside or a picnic with the kids!" notes Ally T.
Quiet forest settings: Many campsites around Lebanon feature mature trees and natural surroundings. "The sites are spaced out nicely and the park is very quiet," comments Kevin H. about Waterloo County Park. The combination of forest and water access creates diverse camping environments.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds operate seasonally. Whitcomb Creek County Park only operates during summer months. "The campground is only open in the summer and as of 2018 has some wonderful updates on Loop 'A' and Loop 'C' (new tables, and site pads, and fire rings)," explains Cindy U.
Water hazards: Exercise caution when swimming. "Be aware... current is swift.. swimmers seem to get in trouble every year here," warns Len S. about Waterloo County Park.
Boat launch congestion: Popular water access points can become crowded, particularly on weekends. "The boat ramp could use some renovations to allow multiple launch lines and better parking. Can be a zoo around the ramp in the afternoon so be prepared," advises Ryan W. about Whitcomb Creek County Park.
Campsite variations: Quality and privacy vary widely between sites. "Kinda small camping spots depending on which site you get. Has a boat launch so bring boats. No swimming access easily. Trails were over grown, park host said they haven't gotten around to maintaining them," notes Jessica M. about Whitcomb Creek County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Whitcomb Creek County Park provides kid-friendly amenities. "My family and I have stayed here multiple times and have always enjoyed it. Camp hosts and rangers are always nice and helpful," reports Faith F. The proximity to water activities makes this a popular choice for families seeking yurt camping near Lebanon, Oregon.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access for young anglers. "The park is located along the Santiam River and apparently a good fishing spot as we saw several people fishing," observes Kevin H. about Waterloo County Park.
Bike-friendly environments: For families with children who enjoy cycling, certain parks offer dedicated paths. "This place has it, a dog park, play disc golf, hiking trails, fish, with ADA fishing deck, boat launch, playground, and two camping loops," notes Cindy U. about Waterloo County Park.
Campsite selection for convenience: When camping with children, choose sites near facilities. "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!" recommends Melissa L. about Silver Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Mallard Creek Golf and RV Resort offers specialized RV amenities. "It is off the beat and design for those serious golfers. The RV resort is design for trailers of any size with 30 to 50 amps electric, also includes, water, sewage hook ups, cable, and a cement table," explains Cindy U. The resort combines recreation with comfortable RV accommodations.
Gray water disposal: Some parks offer convenient disposal options between formal dump stations. "Hook-ups for Electric and Water only, but they have a 'waste water' (gray water) disposal every few sites where you can pour any gray water. There is a sewer dump station located in the park," notes Kevin H. about Waterloo County Park.
WiFi access: Connectivity varies between campgrounds. "Free WIFI, your cel phone and data plans work wonderful in this area," reports Cindy U. about Mallard Creek Golf and RV Resort, making it suitable for digital nomads needing to stay connected during their stay.
Parking limitations: Be aware of site configurations before arriving. "There was only 1 parking lot for the tent/cabin spaces, so had to carry all my stuff about 100 feet," reports Ashley B. about yurt camping at Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground near Lebanon, Oregon.
