The foothills around Mehama, Oregon range in elevation from 600 to 1,200 feet, creating varied microclimates that impact camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with significant rainfall, while summer brings warm days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most camping spots near Mehama provide access to the North Santiam River watershed, which supports diverse wildlife including osprey, bald eagles, and river otters.
What to do
Hike behind waterfalls: At Silver Falls State Park Campground, campers can experience trails that lead behind spectacular cascades. "THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain," notes Melissa L.
Bike on dedicated paths: Champoeg State Park offers extensive biking opportunities just 40 minutes from Mehama. "GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well," explains Scott W.
Fish in the North Santiam River: River access points at Fishermens Bend provide prime fishing locations. "Close together campsites but my husband likes the fishing," says Kimmee P. The river supports steelhead, trout, and salmon during seasonal runs.
Camp lakeside: Detroit Lake offers water recreation opportunities 30 miles east of Mehama. "The Detroit Lake campsite is right on the water, with an incredible view of Mt. Jefferson on a clear day," Christian shares, adding that "the water level here fluctuates quite a bit, and if you visit in late summer or early fall, the lake level is usually so low."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campsites near Mehama offer separation between camping spots. Richard H. says about Silver Falls State Park: "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."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At John Neal Memorial Park, Mike E. reports: "The park is wonderful with picnic tables, campfire rings, horseshoe pits, showers which are free with your reservation."
Riverside camping spots: John Neal Memorial Park offers prime waterfront sites. "We were in spot 16 right next to the river. The rushing water was very soothing and loud by the way but no problem for us," notes Mike E., who appreciates the "beautiful setting by the river."
Well-maintained grounds: Campsites around Mehama typically feature groomed sites. Ryan A. notes about Fishermens Bend: "This is the most well kept campground we have ever been to. The camp hosts really go above and beyond to keep the grounds so well groomed."
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Some campgrounds close during winter months or operate with reduced services. For Fishermens Bend, Brady B. notes: "It sadly burned down in 2020. Stated to reopen 2022."
Reservation requirements: Most campsites fill quickly during summer weekends. At Detroit Lake State Recreation Area, Tara L. advises: "On a holiday weekend it can become busy and between the wind picking up in the afternoon and all the boats, the lake can turn into a choppy ocean."
Weather preparation: The area experiences significant rainfall, especially October through April. At Silver Falls, Melissa L. warns: "BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain."
Highway noise: Some campsites experience traffic noise from nearby roads. Kevin R. mentions about Fishermens Bend: "The last time the noise of huge RV generators going for hours and hours was the final straw."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid spaces: Camp Dakota offers numerous structured activities for children. Jason S. shares: "We did a group site and once we got the wristbands on the kids, they went off and explored and had a lot of fun. The staff is #1 safe, then #2 they are super fun."
Choose sites with water access: Parks with rivers or lakes provide natural entertainment. April F. notes about Silver Falls: "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!"
Find campgrounds with playgrounds: Several camping areas include playground equipment. At John Neal Memorial Park, Tom N. describes: "There are some sites right on the river but they lack any privacy. There is also a few sites near a pond that has ducks and a river otter occupying it."
Consider cabins for easier setup: Cabin options reduce setup time with children. Laura M. describes Silver Falls cabins: "Cabins are really nice and well-maintained, and there is ice and firewood for sale at the entrance shack."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls offers limited services for larger rigs. One camper notes: "Not for huge trailers and coaches, but you can get a 30' in there just about anywhere."
Consider noise factors: RV generators can impact tent campers. Kevin R. from Fishermens Bend shares: "I am at heart a tent camper and used this park when the kids were younger because of the amenities. But the last time the noise of huge RV generators going for hours and hours was the final straw."
Look for level sites: Many campgrounds near Mehama have paved, level parking spots. Richard H. notes about Silver Falls: "Roads and campsites are paved and level. Short drive or hike to the falls."
Prepare for seasonal crowds: During peak summer months, RV sites fill quickly. Tara L. advises about Detroit Lake: "Many of the spots aren't huge, so keep that in mind if you have multiple tents, etc."
