Tent camping near Lyons, Oregon includes 10 established and dispersed campsites within 15-20 miles of town. The Cascade foothills location provides elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet, creating varied camping microclimates throughout the season. Most tent sites remain open from May through October, with several campgrounds implementing a $15-20 fee structure for walk-up sites versus drive-in locations.
What to do
Swimming in mountain lakes: At Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy a secluded lake experience. As one camper notes, "Very beautiful lake with Salomanders. If your lucky to have the lake to yourself it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds. It is possible to kayak with easy access."
Waterfall exploring: The area features multiple waterfall destinations within short driving distance. At Santiam State Forest Butte Creek Falls Campground, campers appreciate the natural water features: "Near the campsite is the first fall that curtains over a little cave. You're able to walk in and under the fall which feels like you're in a movie."
Fishing opportunities: Several campsites offer direct river access for fishing. One camper at Cedar Grove Recreation Site described their experience: "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to." The Quartzville Recreation Corridor also provides year-round fishing options, with one visitor noting, "Fishing is OK year round in the river at these spots."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campers prefer the riverside locations available at BLM Molalla River Recreation Area, where one reviewer shared: "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!"
Primitive camping privacy: Dispersed camping options offer privacy not found at more developed sites. At BLM Quartzville Wild and Scenic River, campers appreciate the flexibility: "Camping along side gravel road some spots better than others. Gets really busy on major holidays so go claim a spot early."
Short backpacking options: For those seeking more seclusion, Tumble Lake offers a brief hike-in experience: "The hike itself is very short, and you can make a stop to Dome Rock on your way before heading down to the lake either before camping or after. I highly recommend seeing the viewpoint there."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds have limited operational seasons. At Rock Creek Campsites, a reviewer noted, "The walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night," showing the tiered pricing structure used in this area.
Facility limitations: Many sites offer minimal facilities. At Elk Lake Campground, a visitor warned: "The campground is pretty primitive, you'll want to bring in everything that you need - including water and some kind of floating device to spend your days on the lake."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for standard vehicles. As one Elk Lake Campground visitor described: "If your car can make it up the 6 miles of 'road' you'll be glad that you found Elk Lake. I made it up the hill in a 2001 Rav4. You'll definitely want some clearance for the trek up."
Trash management concerns: Several dispersed camping areas struggle with proper waste disposal. One camper at Quartzville Recreation Corridor observed: "So much trash thrown off the sides at each camp spot. Why would anyone do that to such a beautiful place??"
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming holes: The best tent camping near Lyons for families includes water access. A visitor to BLM Molalla River Recreation Area shared: "Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone."
Choose established campgrounds: For families needing reliable facilities, established sites provide more amenities. As one Cedar Grove Recreation Site visitor noted: "Stunning river views and small with only 11 sites that are first come first served. Refurbished a few years ago."
Bring mosquito protection: Lake and stream locations can have significant insect activity. Elk Lake campers mention the lake is "actually pretty warm in August - warm enough for swimming" but bug protection remains essential near water.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most camping near Lyons is better suited for tents than larger vehicles. At Rock Creek Campsites, even the drive-up sites have limited space for vehicles beyond small trailers or vans.
Consider road clearance: Access roads to prime camping spots often require higher clearance vehicles. At Quartzville Recreation Corridor, one RVer described it as "Rugged boondocking... Beautiful recitation area... Mostly roadside limited facilities and or services but beautiful area."
Early arrival recommended: The limited RV-suitable spots fill quickly, particularly on weekends. As noted by a Quartzville visitor, the area "Gets really busy on major holidays so go claim a spot early."
