Yurt camping near Merlin, Oregon provides access to the Rogue River while remaining just 15 miles northwest of Grants Pass. The area sits at approximately 915 feet elevation and experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F, while winters bring moderate rainfall rather than snow. Most campsites along this stretch of the Rogue River remain open year-round, with spring offering the best combination of moderate temperatures and scenic river conditions.
What to do
River swimming spots: Valley of the Rogue State Park features riverside trails and dedicated swimming areas. "The water was flowing fairly quickly due to the high snowfall this year, but there was a great rocked-off area just down from our campsite where you could get into the water and wade around without the fear of your dog or child getting swept away," notes one Valley of the Rogue State Park visitor.
Fishing access: Lake Selmac offers alternatives to river fishing with calmer waters. "Lots of lake like activities to do, it's a popular place for locals in the summer and popular for birthday parties and events. Lake is large and fishing, canoeing are some fun things to do here," shares a visitor to the area.
Hiking and biking: Schroeder Park provides easy access to nearby trails. "This county park just outside of Grants Pass along the Rogue River is a good overnighter because it is convenient and inexpensive," writes one camper. Another mentions that "you can camp along the river in Grants Pass, then this is the spot. It's clean, family friendly, has bathrooms, and boat/river access."
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Winter yurt camping near Merlin provides a quieter experience with fewer crowds. "We love coming to Lake Selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. They're heated and cozy. The kids enjoy the fishing and I love the view across the lake," notes one Lake Selmac County Park visitor.
Natural swimming holes: Some sites offer distinctive water features beyond just river access. One camper at Sunny Valley Campground mentioned, "The campground is safe, clean, and well put together. It's actually beautiful and has a lot of things for families to do (pool, volleyball net, playground)."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight bathroom and shower quality as standout features. "Showers are super nice and clean, good pressure and hot. Campground is clean and well maintained," writes one visitor about Griffin Park.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some riverside campgrounds experience traffic noise. "The park is near a highway, so if you're the camper who wants to sit outside your camper and read a good book to the sounds of nature, this might not be great," explains a Valley of the Rogue State Park visitor.
Cash payment requirements: Several county parks require cash payment on arrival. A reviewer notes about Griffin Park: "We didn't see a host or a park employee but we arrived late in the evening and just used the self pay. $40 feels a bit much for a simple county park but we needed hookups and a hot shower."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location. One camper at Almeda County Park mentioned, "No cell service from ATT, Verizon or TMobile along this whole river road area," which can affect planning and navigation.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Multiple sites accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "Fenced off leash dog park, bike trails, fishing, clean bathrooms and showers, tent and yurt camping and more!" notes a visitor at Valley of the Rogue State Park.
River safety precautions: Parents should supervise children near the Rogue River. "The river was flowing fairly quickly due to the high snowfall this year," warns a camper, suggesting parents should "closely monitor kids near the water."
Yurt reservations: Griffin Park offers yurt accommodations that book quickly in summer months. "Quiet spot that feels remote but just outside of town," explains one camper. "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Not all parks offer full hookups year-round. "It's $35 for a 'FHU' site, but there is only 20amp power available," notes a Whitehorse County Park visitor, adding that "sites are so unlevel that I don't think our leveling blocks would have made a dent."
Big rig accessibility: Several campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles with limitations. "Very clean and big rig friendly. I have a 38' fifth wheel and it was no problem!" reports a visitor at Valley of the Rogue State Park.
Site spacing considerations: Some RV areas provide minimal separation between sites. "There isn't any privacy between sites, but it felt ok because of the layout and because there were so few campers there. Sites are kind of close together so if it were full I think we'd feel cramped," observes one camper about their experience at Griffin Park.
