Silver Falls State Park provides a central hub for cabin camping near Mehama, Oregon. Located in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,600 feet, the area receives approximately 80 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and year-round waterfalls. The camping season generally runs April through October with temperatures averaging 45-80°F during these months.
What to do
Hiking at Silver Falls State Park: Access the Trail of Ten Falls directly from Howard Creek Horse Camp. "Stunning camping in a temperate rainforest. Sites are big and private. Very quiet and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails," notes Jennifer H.
Mountain biking: The area offers dedicated biking paths separate from hiking trails. "Not a fan of sharing the trail with hikers when on your bike? There are miles of mountain bike trails," explains Sherrie B. at Howard Creek Horse Camp.
River activities: The North Santiam River provides opportunities for fishing and river access at Fishermens Bend. "Great campground. Clean and all of the campers were friendly. Bathrooms spotless. Nice walks along the river," says Sally H. The park sits alongside a mile of riverfront suitable for fishing and shallow wading.
What campers like
Cabin amenities: Smith Creek Village cabins provide basic but comfortable accommodations. "The cabin was very clean and well kept. The cabin was nearby a few other similar cabins, but everything felt very private. There was nice walking paths and a large grass area supplied with lawn games," reports Derek N.
Campground facilities: John Neal Memorial Park features modern amenities in a natural setting. "The park is wonderful with picnic tables campfire rings horseshoe pits showers which are free with your reservation," mentions Mike E., who appreciated the campsite's balance of comfort and nature.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Mehama: Most parks in the area welcome pets, but have specific rules. "Stoped here for a night on a roadtrip and it was perfect overnight stay not too far from the highway. It's tucked away in a neighborhood but does the job! Bathrooms, playground, gazebo, etc, it's supplied with a lot of things to make your life easier," notes Kennedy F. about the pet-friendly John Neal Memorial Park.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Campsites near highways may experience traffic noise. "The rushing water was very soothing and loud by the way but no problem for us," explains Mike E. about John Neal Memorial Park's riverside sites that provide natural white noise.
Water level fluctuations: Detroit Lake State Recreation Area experiences significant seasonal changes. "The Detroit Lake campsite is really nice because it is right on the water, with an incredible view of Mt. Jefferson on a clear day. It is worth noting 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 that it is not really as scenic," advises Christian.
Weather preparation: Rain is common even during summer months. "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," recommends Melissa L. about Silver Falls State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Camp Dakota offers extensive recreational facilities. "We had 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. The kids would come back to camp and we'd wash them off, feed them, then they would go back out again," shares Jason S.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for popular times. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" says April F. about Silver Falls State Park, which frequently fills up during summer weekends and holidays.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "This campground is pretty full service for a state park. You can buy ice and firewood onsite, and there is a small store that is a short walk away. There is also a children's playground and lots of bike paths," notes Stephanie Z. about Champoeg State Park, located about 40 minutes from Mehama.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campsites based on your specific needs. "It sadly burned down in 2020. Stated to reopen 2022," mentions Brady B. about Fishermens Bend, highlighting the importance of checking current conditions before booking.
Hookup availability: Most parks offer partial hookups. "Our spot was very small, but nestled in soft moss among towering trees. It was cool & well-shaded, with a short path to the lake. There was a picnic table & a fire ring, water & electrical hookups," explains Rhiannon S. about Detroit Lake State Recreation Area.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use. "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," notes Kevin R. about Fishermens Bend, indicating the need to check park rules regarding generator operation.
