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Best Tent Camping near Mehama, OR

1,000 Reviews

Tent camping near Mehama, Oregon provides access to several forested campgrounds nestled in the Santiam State Forest and surrounding public lands. Santiam State Forest Rock Creek Campsites offers tent-friendly sites with picnic tables and fire rings in a natural setting from May through September. The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area features walk-in tent sites along the river with year-round access. Rhody Lake Recreation Area in Santiam State Forest provides tent-only camping with both drive-in and walk-in options from May to November, offering a quieter alternative to more developed campgrounds.

Most tent campgrounds in the Mehama area have basic amenities including vault toilets, but limited drinking water. Campers should plan to bring their own water or filtration systems, especially at primitive sites like Tumble Lake, which requires a hike-in approach. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during summer months. The camping season for most sites runs from May through October, with some areas like BLM Quartzville Wild and Scenic River offering year-round primitive tent camping. Weather conditions vary significantly by elevation, with higher sites experiencing cooler temperatures and occasional summer thunderstorms.

Backcountry tent camping opportunities provide solitude and natural settings not found at more developed campgrounds. Tumble Lake offers hike-in tent sites with excellent privacy. According to reviews, "The hike itself is very short, and you can make a stop to Dome Rock on your way. Once reaching the lake, there are several sites scattered around the lake. None of them are too close to others giving you plenty of privacy." The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area features "roomy sites with nice tent pads" and access to fishing opportunities. Many tent campsites in the region provide creek or lake access, making them ideal for anglers and those seeking water-based recreation. Mosquitoes can be abundant in June and July, particularly at sites near water, so appropriate repellent is recommended.

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Best Tent Sites Near Mehama, Oregon (60)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Mehama, OR

18 Photos of 60 Mehama Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Mehama, OR

1000 Reviews of 60 Mehama Campgrounds

  • Sara R.
    Sep. 5, 2018

    Marys Peak

    Very basic and secluded.

    This is one of the most primitive campgrounds I've seen. There were a few old picking tables, fire rings, and one vault toilet. We were the only ones there during the peak of camping season. There were lovely flowers and raspberries growing nearby. A few dead branches feel during the night, which was a little underling.

  • CJ S.
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Meditation Point Campground

    Beautiful, Private, Remote

    Stayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.

  • Jill T.
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Piety Island Boat - In Campground Boat Landing

    Island camping

    Top reasons I love this campground: 

    - It’s an ISLAND! How cool is it to camp on an island! 
    - Beautiful views from the middle of the northern end of Detroit Lake. 
    - Great for swimming, boating, exploring, hiking, and fishing. 
    - I bet it’s amazing to stay there over the 4th of July. 
    - The firework display from the other side of the lake should be spectacular! 
    - Cheap-$10. 
    - Only 22 sites. 
    - I had cell service with AT&T. 

    **Things to note: **

    - This should be obvious but, you’ll need a boat to get to and from the island. It’s a quick canoe from either side. 

    - The vault toilets are maxed out. Hopefully, they will be serviced SOON! 

    - No drinking water, no shower, and no guarantee for the serviced toilets. 

    - Bring water and TP. 

    - Fires are allowed and there are several picnic tables.

  • Kimberly C.
    Aug. 29, 2019

    Ice Cap Campground

    Perfect basecamp

    Friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts. Vault toilet, mix of tent sites including some walk-ins that are up against the reservoir- you can hear the peaceful running water all day and night. Brand new picnic tables, brand new fencing, and excellent trails. Perfect mix of sun and shade for many of the sites. We stayed at 15 and I can’t wait to go back. Very spacious sites can hold multiple tents of all sizes. Beautiful drive to and from campgrounds- the McKenzie River area is definitely worth exploring!

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 25, 2018

    Yukwah Campground

    ADA access camping sites and great day use area

    Yukwah campground is found along hwy 22 East of Salem along the Willamette National Forest in Linn County. Most of the sites along this stretch are first come, first serve walk up sites - but you can reserve by connecting with Linn County Parks and Rec (see photo for info) for $18/night plus $5 additional vehicle fee and reservation fee. This campground has ada access camp sites and tent sites. Most of the RV sites along the Willamette National Forest can be used for tent camping. The day use area at this site is great for swimming, fishing, and possibly a small hike. I advise camping near the day use area (#3) if you have a large family or kids for larger sites and easy access. Yukwah is near wagon wheel bridge with access to trails for those wanting to hike while camping. Vault toilets are available (bring soap) - there are no showers or additional amenities. There is access to potable water at this location.

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 30, 2018

    Whispering Falls Campground

    Camp above the Santiam riverbank

    Camp above the Santiam riverbank and enjoy a night of peace and rest listening to the water flow. This site has access to vault toilets, potable water. The sites are large enough for rv or tent sites with vehicle pull through. The sites have enough old forest growth to provide privacy for the family. If you camp near the river you cannot hear the road, even though you are only a skip away. I do not recommend camping in the sites near the road if you have kids/pets with you or if you are a light sleeper. The roads are paved which can be great for family cars or for little ones wanting to ride their bike or scooter around camp. The site that we stopped at would have been great for fishing trout or salmon. Don’t forget your fishing license!

    You can reserve this site through Linn County Parks & Rec: 1-877-444-6777 - And like most sites in the Willamette National Forest dogs are allowed as long as they are on leashes and check out time is 1pm.

  • E
    Nov. 8, 2022

    Marion Forks Campground

    Quiet campground

    Located off Hwy 22, past the fish hatchery, far enough that you can’t hear road noise. Less than 20 sites total, all first come first serve, $12 a night or $6 with interagency pass. Mostly full on a Friday night. Clean vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, trash, but no water. Nearby trail leads to Marion creek.

  • Laura I.
    Jul. 22, 2021

    Paradise In Oregon

    Great spot

    I had read online that this camp ground had a really bad bug problem but I hardly saw any. Especially for being next to the river. My campsite (48) had a short path down to the river. Current is strong but could easily soak feet.

    My biggest complaint was that the picnic table was really close to the bench. A bigger person like myself can’t sit there. But I just pulled a camp chair up to the edge.

    Restroom was clean, even though I could see one of my camping neighbors there was plenty of space.

    Camp is very dusty.

  • Eric H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2023

    Olallie Meadow Campground

    No cell service nor much else

    What a beautiful view! Luscious meadow filled with wildlife and mosquitos. No joke, they were able to bite through 3 layers in swarms.

    It was cloudy, 80° in the day, with very little wind and campsite #4 was bone dry. The soft ground was kind to the tent spikes and surrounding trees buffered the breeze, hence the mosquitos.

    NOTE: come in from the North, not the first road from the south (Detroit). Impassible without off road vehicle (Subaru Crosstrek didn't cut it)

Guide to Mehama

Tent camping near Mehama, Oregon offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the region. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent and unwind.

Tips for tent camping near Mehama

  • The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area is a great choice for families, featuring a peaceful environment and access to swimming and fishing in the Molalla River.
  • If you're looking for a more rugged experience, consider the Quartzville Recreation Corridor, where you can enjoy dispersed camping and explore the beautiful river while fishing or hiking.
  • For a quieter retreat, the Cedar Grove Recreation Site offers a serene atmosphere with stunning river views and nearby hiking trails.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers should check out these activities

  • The Tumble Lake area is perfect for those who enjoy backpacking, offering a short hike with beautiful views and the chance to swim in the lake.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunities at the Quartzville Recreation Corridor, where you can catch trout and even try your luck at finding gold in the nearby streams.
  • For a unique experience, visit the Detroit Ranger District (US Highway 22) to explore the stunning Detroit Lake, which is great for kayaking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Mehama, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mehama, OR is Santiam State Forest Rock Creek Campsites with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Mehama, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 60 tent camping locations near Mehama, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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