Tent camping around Merlin, Oregon features multiple Forest Service campgrounds along creeks and rivers at varying elevations throughout the Siskiyou Mountains. Most sites become accessible from late spring through fall when forest roads clear of snow. Camping options include both established sites with minimal facilities and primitive locations that require self-sufficiency for water, waste management, and provisions.
What to do
River recreation access: Little Falls Campground puts campers within walking distance of the Illinois River. A camper reported that "the park ranger checked on us in the morning," indicating regular patrol presence at this small four-site campground.
Family swimming opportunities: Cedar Bloom offers multiple swimming areas for different comfort levels. One visitor noted, "There are 2 areas with river access, a shallow area and a deep swimming hole, with the option to float down some mild (and fun!) rapids."
Night sky observation: The high elevation at many campsites creates exceptional stargazing conditions during clear nights. When visiting Onion Mountain, one camper observed that "you are at 4000 feet and you can see the milky way clearly," making it worth considering for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Community facilities: Cedar Bloom provides unique shared amenities not found at other area campgrounds. A visitor appreciated that "the communal kitchen was perfect for prepping breakfast, lunch, and dinner - and the staff was sanitizing all the commonly touched areas."
Natural water features: Josephine Campground is located in what one visitor called "an absolutely beautiful area, with large open areas due to a long ago fire." The campground sits near the Illinois River with multiple dispersed camping options available along the 8$ road.
Complete isolation: Tin Can Campground offers true seclusion for those seeking solitude. A visitor observed, "This is a remote campground. It sits on a year round creek. You will most likely have the whole place to yourself."
What you should know
Limited site availability: Small campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Little Falls Campground, a visitor reported, "There were 3 tents and 2 cars at the campground so we had to sleep at the parking lot," highlighting the need to arrive early.
Variable safety conditions: Josephine Campground experiences fluctuating safety conditions. One camper reported a concerning visit: "There was an empty car with smashed windows and filled with trash. There was also an old and dirty RV with all blinds shut."
Seasonal restrictions: Fire bans frequently affect camping experiences during dry summer months. At several campgrounds, fires may be prohibited despite being listed as generally allowed, requiring visitors to check current restrictions before trips.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water access: Siskiyou National Forest Sixmile Campground offers creek-side camping but requires caution with children. A parent advised, "Not really a great place for such young children since the river is quite big and swift, but in a few years, I would love to return here."
Fishing opportunities: Spalding Pond Campground provides fishing access suitable for children. A visitor explained, "They stock the pond each year with legal trout and there is some native catfish and crawfish as well!"
Wildlife awareness: Throughout the region, proper food storage is essential due to bear activity. Campers should store food in vehicles or hang it from trees when vehicle storage isn't available.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent campsites near Merlin are accessible only to smaller vehicles. At Little Falls, a camper noted specific size constraints: "One is a small back in, camper van, SUV, truck. The other is a double site, good for small 10ft less RV."
High clearance requirements: Many forest roads leading to campgrounds require appropriate vehicles. One visitor to dispersed sites near Josephine Campground warned that some areas are "steep, requires 4X4 with high clearance and is not level," making advance research essential.
Water supply planning: No drinking water is available at most camping areas. As one visitor to Spalding Pond noted, "the only downfall is that there is no drinking water available, so you will need to bring your own or plan on filtering/boiling."
