Best Campgrounds near Merlin, OR

Camping areas near Merlin, Oregon span from established campgrounds along the Rogue River to dispersed sites on nearby public lands. Indian Mary Park offers year-round camping with RV hookups and tent sites just minutes from Merlin, while Riverpark RV Resort provides cabin accommodations and full hookups for recreational vehicles. The region includes several county and state parks within a 30-minute drive, including Griffin Park with yurt options and Valley of the Rogue State Park with multiple camping loops.

Road access varies throughout the region, with most established campgrounds accessible via paved roads while dispersed options may require high-clearance vehicles. "This park has a beautiful view and access to the Rogue River in Oregon. Not much by way of privacy, but the park is clean and welcoming," noted one camper about Riverpark RV Resort. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F during peak season, with occasional fire restrictions during drought conditions. Most developed campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Cell service can be spotty in canyon areas, particularly at sites farther from Interstate 5.

Riverside camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Merlin area, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. The Rogue River provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating near many camping areas. Campers frequently mention the convenience of sites near Grants Pass for supply runs while still enjoying natural settings. A review highlighted that "Indian Mary Park is one of the best spots with a fan hobbit hole at the back, nice and level parking, fairly secluded looking forest area and centrally located near the restrooms and other facilities." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with those closer to Interstate 5 experiencing more traffic sounds than more remote options. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, river otters, and various bird species throughout the camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Merlin, Oregon (232)

    1. Valley of the Rogue State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Rogue River, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 582-3128

    $31 - $74 / night

    "Great RV sites that are close to the River with FHU’s. Hiking paths border the river and connect the many camping loops. Stayed in loop B which has back-in’s and drive throughs."

    "Do Not let the close proximity to I-5 keep you from staying here. We are on B loop and while outside the traffic noise is audible, it gets lost in the wind through the trees."

    2. Sunny Valley Campground

    10 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-0209

    $40 - $105 / night

    "It's close to I-5 bit the road noise was not bad and a chorus of frogs throughout the evening distracts from it. We were in spot 67 which was spacious and offered a great deal of privacy."

    "Camp is close to the interstate but still quiet. Bathrooms are nice and clean, spot to wash your dishes, wifi is pretty good! Evey site has water and power access. Also has a pool."

    3. Schroeder Park

    12 Reviews
    Grants Pass, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $20 - $55 / night

    "Easy access to the rogue river for floating. Staff were really helpful."

    "Close to the town of Grants Pass for shopping or whatever yet quiet. The stars shine and you can even see the Milky Way at night."

    4. Riverpark RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Grants Pass, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-0046

    "This park has a beautiful view and access to the Rogue River in Oregon. Not much by way of privacy, but the park is clean and welcoming."

    "Campground directly situated on the banks of the Rogue River. Owner/host was very friendly and customer minded. Campground was almost full. Sites are guite close to each other."

    5. Indian Mary Park

    9 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $25 - $55 / night

    "The campground was quiet and relatively empty making it tranquil and scenic and perfect with its proximity to the boat ramp onto the Rogue."

    "I like the set up of each individual shower with a locking door opening to the outside. Garbage dumpsters available throughout, and there are no recycling bins."

    6. Grants Pass KOA

    5 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-7974

    "Close to the highway, without the highway noise. Very well maintained, clean and professional

    Several off leash dog areas.

    Wifi only available in a few locations."

    7. Griffin Park

    5 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $30 - $55 / night

    "Easy to get to off the 5 so even though you feel like you're out there, it's actually extremely close to a cute little downtown with everything you might need."

    8. Wolf Creek Park

    10 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $15 - $25 / night

    "Nice flat sites would be good for small rigs, you can put your tent behind or next to the rv spot/table because the tent stakes aren’t gonna go in on the main part of the pad where everyone has been putting"

    "It is located close to I-5, so it is easy to get to. There are some really nice sites by the creek. It is quiet, has beautiful scenery. There are some sites with full hook ups."

    9. Burma Pond BLM

    10 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    15 miles
    +1 (541) 471-6500

    "We parked right by the lake, there was another spot in the middle of the loop, and a few others. It looks like there’s a trail that goes around the lake."

    "All of the spots are right on the edge of the water. Spots are small but room for a single vehicle or van at each. We had the place to ourselves on a random Wednesday in August."

    10. Rogue Valley Overniters

    5 Reviews
    Grants Pass, OR
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-2208
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Recent Reviews near Merlin, OR

669 Reviews of 232 Merlin Campgrounds


  • Suzanne B.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Valley of the Rogue State Park Campground

    Great campground

    Easy to access off of the 5 freeway. Many sites to choose from, including day use. Campground was clean. Sites are big enough for our 25 ft travel trailer and Ford F-150 extended bed 4 door. Bathroom were clean but showers are good but warm water lasts 3-4 minutes max. Sites were close to others with no privacy, but wide open spaces and amazing views. A little noisy due to proximity to the freeway.

  • Lindsay and Isaac K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    On The River Golf & RV Resort

    Lush campground in forested surroundings

    Definitely try to get one of the back in sites along the river. Flat gravel sites with a beautiful view. We found this campground to be much exceeding of expectations! Loved the friendly hosts, lush forested surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere. Better than a KOA!

  • I
    Oct. 13, 2025

    On The River Golf & RV Resort

    Beautiful campground by the river

    A hidden gem. We were pleasantly surprised with how beautiful and peaceful this campground was when we stayed there with our three kids. Beautiful fall colors, and lush mature trees at every site. The grounds are kept beautifully and the sites along the river have gorgeous grassy fire pits. All sites are gravel and very level with plenty of room. Very friendly hosts as well! We’d highly recommend visiting this campground if you’re in the area or going to wildlife Safari.

  • William J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Point RV Park at Emigrant Lake

    Quiet camping in Ashland.

    Paved level pads and quiet. Clean bathrooms and showers. In mid-October, the lake is a little more than a big puddle but still fishable if you desire. Short hop to Ashland and many wineries in the area.

  • Imerie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Little Falls Campground

    Tiny but cute

    This campground is a paid campground, 10.00 a night without National park access pass. There is only 4 spots here Two you have to park in. Overflow and walk to your site. One is a small back in, camper van, suV, truck. The other is a double site, good for small 10ft less RV. We have a 5x8ft CcT so we fit amazingly in the double site. It’s quiet and clean. So close to Grants Pass and to Cave Junction. There is also tent only campground across the river.

  • Imerie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Forest Road 25

    Pretty

    We stayed up the road from this spot but I wanted to leave a review so there is a spot here could fit a 25ft rv. I would definitely park my CCT & Jeep here. Beautiful view The road down past it would be amazing for Jeep/truck/suv tent camping. This area is so peaceful

  • Imerie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Lookout Gap

    It’s quiet and beautiful views

    It’s by itself and a perfect place to camp for a couple nights. It does have regular cell service & data. So quiet and much needed


Guide to Merlin

Dispersed camping options near Merlin, Oregon range from basic BLM sites to full-service riverside campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. The region sits at approximately 800-1,000 feet elevation in the Klamath Mountains with summer temperatures frequently reaching 90-100°F during July and August. Fall camping season extends well into October with comfortable daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range and cooler nights requiring warmer sleeping gear.

What to do

Riverside activities: Several campgrounds offer direct access to swimming areas along the Rogue River. At Sunny Valley Campground, visitors enjoy not just water access but additional recreation options. "Nice spot with good vibes. Staff was very friendly and helpful... There was coffee in the morning in the office which was nice," notes Laura S. The campground includes a swimming pool, volleyball net and playground facilities.

Explore historic sites: The Merlin area contains several historical landmarks within easy driving distance from campsites. Near Burma Pond BLM, you can visit the historic Wolf Creek Inn, one of Oregon's oldest continuously operated hotels. "The pond at the top was beautiful with tons of bats flying around at night. Super cool!" writes Casey B. about this free camping area located about 20 minutes off Interstate 5.

Disc golf courses: Several parks in the region feature disc golf layouts for casual players. One camper at Griffin Park mentioned, "The place was quiet and fairly private. We got in late and it was easy to find our spot and get settled in. Easy to get to off the 5 so even though you feel like you're out there, it's actually extremely close to a cute little downtown with everything you might need."

What campers like

River access: Campsites with direct water access remain the most sought-after in the region. At Indian Mary Park, campers appreciate the scenic location. "Spent almost a week here in the fall. The campground was quiet and relatively empty making it tranquil and scenic and perfect with its proximity to the boat ramp onto the Rogue. Great base for a Rogue Wild and Scenic trip," reports JL.

Affordability: Many area campgrounds offer reasonable rates compared to other popular Oregon destinations. Wolf Creek Park charges $25 per night for tent sites as of 2025, though one camper noted this was "pretty high for this area considering no water." Burma Pond BLM offers completely free camping with vault toilets but minimal amenities.

Natural features: The region's forested setting and water features create peaceful camping environments. At Schroeder Park, one visitor noted, "Our campsite was about a 2 minute walk from the river. We visited during the week in August and the got the very last campsite available." The mix of trees and water access creates comfortable microclimates even during summer heat.

What you should know

Seasonal factors: High season runs May through September with significant temperature fluctuations. Griffin Park remains open year-round, with a reviewer sharing, "The place was quiet and fairly private. We got in late and it was easy to find our spot and get settled in... it was foggy and serene in late November in the AM."

Site privacy varies: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites with minimal barriers. One camper at Schroeder Park observed, "This is a nice county park on the banks of the mighty Rogue River. Tent sites, RV sites and even a Yurt or two. Close to the town of Grants Pass for shopping or whatever yet quiet."

Road quality considerations: Some dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Burma Pond BLM, a camper advised, "Quite a few generally easily dodge-able potholes. Camp sites are very tightly packed and close together. If your vehicle isn't ready for hills or your tires aren't great I would not recommend."

Payment methods: Many county parks require cash payment. At Indian Mary Park, a visitor noted, "Payment is cash only $35/night for FHU, $30 for PHU, and $25 for a no hookup tent camp site. Group camp is $75."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated children's areas. A visitor to Grants Pass KOA enthusiastically shared, "such a gem of a campground! you can camp in your tent, RV, one of their awesome cabins or a teepee! The swimming hole is amazing complete with a waterfall."

Safety considerations: Water features require supervision despite calm appearances. Wolf Creek Park campers mentioned, "Cute little place near the river. Perfect for bringing your boat to put in the river. Dog park for your furry friends and kids play area."

Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds accommodate pets with some offering dedicated areas. At Sunny Valley Campground, a visitor noted, "Safe, family campground with a nice shop, pool, restroom. You can rent a cabin, wagons, or a campground. There's also a dog park, which my dog loved!"

Spacing between sites: Family groups should consider reservation timing for optimal placement. One camper observed at Schroeder Park, "The no hookup side has more interesting characters staying there, it's just wide open parking spots with zero privacy or trees or shade cover, while the hookup side is nicer, has a more parklike setting with trees."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but often fill quickly in summer months. At Riverpark RV Resort, a reviewer recommended, "About 1/3 of the campsites are adjacent to the Rogue river and all of the others have a view of the river. The Wi-Fi is acceptable, they have cable TV, full hook ups and well maintained property."

Site leveling requirements: Some parks feature sloping sites requiring additional preparation. At Valley of the Rogue State Park, one RVer advised, "Very clean and big rig friendly. I have a 38' fifth wheel and it was no problem!"

Dump station access: Several parks offer sanitary stations but availability varies. A visitor to Indian Mary Park cautioned, "The sewer hole is the smallest we've seen, and in the hole there is visible liquid or whatever the last person dumped last... the hole is set back pretty far, and we had to back up the RV in order to reach it."

Off-season benefits: Shoulder season camping offers improved site selection with fewer crowds. A visitor to Riverpark RV Resort shared, "Site 8 was an upgrade for us newbies. Riverfront and pristine. Front desk is pleasant and accommodating even to us who barely knew what we were driving in on."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Merlin, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Merlin, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 232 campgrounds and RV parks near Merlin, OR and 23 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Merlin, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Merlin, OR is Valley of the Rogue State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 52 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Merlin, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 free dispersed camping spots near Merlin, OR.