Silver Falls State Park Campground and Detroit Lake State Recreation Area welcome pets throughout their camping areas. Both parks offer tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and cabins where pets can stay with their owners. Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls provides pet-friendly cabins for campers seeking more comfort while traveling with their animals. Most pet-friendly campgrounds in the Gates area require pets to remain on leash at all times, with designated pet exercise areas available at several locations. Campers consistently rate the pet amenities highly, with multiple reviews mentioning the cleanliness of designated dog areas and accessibility of waste stations. The campgrounds maintain strict policies about picking up after pets and keeping them leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
Hiking trails throughout the region provide excellent opportunities for exercising dogs, though some trails at Silver Falls State Park prohibit pets for safety reasons. The Trail of Ten Falls specifically does not allow dogs, so campers should plan accordingly when bringing pets. The Santiam River offers water access points where pets can cool off during summer months, though owners should be cautious of fast-moving currents. Campgrounds near Detroit Lake provide boat-in access with pets allowed, creating unique opportunities for water recreation with dogs. Several campgrounds feature spacious sites with enough room for pet enclosures or tie-outs. Most facilities maintain quiet hours that help manage barking, and campers report that even during busy holiday weekends and fishing tournaments, the campgrounds remain relatively peaceful for pets who may be sensitive to noise.
$22 - $64 / night
"If you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts."
"This is one of my favorite places to go in Oregon (there are many). The park has about 120 sites, it is ready for RV, Tents, Horses, Boats about anything you could want."
$15 - $59 / night
"We've driven by this park SO many times driving from the Willamette Valley to Central Oregon. Being right next to the highway we've never really considered it as a "get-away" place. "
"Some really beautiful sites next to the lake. Easy access to the lake from pretty much all of the campground. Great boat launch. The lake was warm and had a nice shallow edge for the kids."
$110 / night
"This campground was an unexpected surprise not too far out of Salem, Oregon and just over an hour from Portland."
"Sites are pretty close together but very clean, with nice access to the river. Be sure to head up to Opal Creek for a great hike."
$28 - $38 / night
"This campground is on the north Santiam river just outside the town of Lyons Oregon. 38 sites, some with water.
There are some sites right on the river but they lack any privacy."
"We were in spot 16 right next to the river. The rushing water was very soothing and loud by the way but no problem for us. The camp host came to our site and greeted us."
$21 - $40 / night
"This campsite is about five miles off of 22 and five miles from a few local stores and Detroit lake. The site is tucked away and quiet."
"We love the easy access to the beach and the beautiful hikes. Showers are hot and free, rangers are always friendly."
$89 - $250 / night
"This campground is one I wanted to visit for the chance to check out the hiking trail nearby that has tons of waterfalls along it (Ten Falls Trail)."
"The drive to Silver Falls is amazing - the best of Oregon farm country mixed with some signature forests."
$28 - $260 / night
"Cove creek campground is an hour away from Salem sitting above the south side of Detroit lake, on the right hand side of the road once you arrive in Idanha - off hwy 22 and blowout road."
"The sites are nice and big, and you don't feel like you're right on top of the people next to you."
$28 - $56 / night
"The weather did not cooperate on this trip...which is Oregon. There is a big slope from the parking pad to the table/fire pit."
"Tis a narrow campsite between blowout road and Detroit lake. There are several large pads for vehicles, but mainly tent sites, some of which you park near the road and make a short walk in."
$28 - $260 / night
"It was a few minute walk down to the lake, but it wasn't a very nice spot for swimming or hanging out."
"Close to the lake and far away from craziness. Sites are nice but close together."
"This is a great campground that is close to one of my favorite hot springs in Oregon."
"The campground is located in the woods so several spots are secluded and tucked between the trees. However, my only warning is if you do camp here watch out for horse flies! They are vicious!"
ScoutWell we did not know that when tent camping you can only stay two weeks we were originally told we could stay as long as we wanted as long as we moved and did not stay in a spot more than 7 days. Not a bad campground just don't like the two week stay rule. Plus my cat loves it. There is a natural that can be walked, a dog park, swimming pool, also a place to throw disc golf disc's.
GuideSpent a month in an RV space at this KOA. My first experience at a KOA couldn’t have gone better. Staff was friendly, facilities were clean, and fellow RVers were quiet and respectful. We stayed here with a dog and were really happy with amenities such as the dog park and small trail behind campground. Really phenomenal and kind workers as well. Would stay again. We stayed during the wet season, and it was not very busy here. We did have some issues with moisture in RV, would definitely recommend having a dehumidifier. Showers and bathrooms cleaned daily and were very clean always. There is also a nice laundry facility (coin operated) and sink for washing dishes. Two bathrooms and a dog park. Electric hookups, black water dump, and water hookup at site.
TravelerIf you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts.
ScoutIt’s dog friendly with a dog park. During the week is better just because of younger groups who like loud music and some late nights.
ScoutStayed here for 3 months. Great safe RV park with pool, clean showers, paved sites. Dog park less than 1 mile. Awesome staff!
RangerNeeded hookups for this trip and Holiday Farm had them. Though it’s a HOA, the lot owners rent out vacant lots and it’s a really nice location. Nice, small dog park. Nice people. Great hosts. Very pleasant stay.
GuideThe scenery and the placid, warm lake, make this my favorite place to camp in Oregon. The campsites can be very uneven for tents, but we’ve always made it work. The lake is never crowded and by using the trail that goes around the lake you can basically have your own private beach anywhere. The water is surprisingly warm. Can be very cold at night. Cell service is non-existent.
RangerThey have a dog park, plenty of trails, several different areas to go down to the river, frisbee golf, area for horses. Good showers. There’s a great view point to see Mt. Hood. It really is a nice place.
GuideAlmost all of my reviews are based on hiking. If the place offers hiking the review is better for us.
This camp offers do much more! They have one of the cleanest swimming areas around!
While there are trails in the resort, the really good longer ones are on forest service land. You can walk from the resort, do a nice hike (keep some clothing at hand) of up to six miles and return with out any issues.
They also have tennis, pickleball, dog park, restaurant, library and a wonderful staff.
You are close to Springfield/Eugene for groceries and etc.
We are a pack of four.
Silver Falls State Park Campground offers several camping options beyond traditional tent sites and RV spots. Cabin camping at Smith Creek Village within the park provides well-maintained structures with electric heat and lighting, making them suitable for visitors seeking more comfort in cooler weather. Sites at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area vary widely in size and privacy, with some areas experiencing significant noise from both highway traffic and boats during peak summer weekends. Many campgrounds within the Gates region contain waterfront sites providing direct access to lakes or rivers, though their availability requires booking months in advance during summer. Firewood is sold at most established campgrounds, with prices ranging from $5-7 per bundle depending on location.
Swimming in Detroit Lake: The water temperature at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area Campground often reaches 75 degrees during summer months, making it surprisingly comfortable for swimming. "The lake is great for boating and swimming," notes Katherine B., though water levels can fluctuate significantly by season.
River fishing opportunities: Santiam River access points near Fishermens Bend provide excellent fishing opportunities. "My husband likes the fishing," reports Kimmee P., with several spots allowing anglers to cast directly from campsite areas. The campground also features "trails to go along the river and places for kids to ride bikes," according to Karen K.
Explore secluded mountain lakes: Hiking opportunities extend beyond the popular waterfalls trails. "There is a hike up to Red Lake, which is well worth the time we spent lost trying to find the trailhead. We got to the lake at dusk, and had it all to ourselves," shares Lauren B. about her September camping experience near Detroit Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the Gates area offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. The pond at John Neal Memorial Park "has ducks and a river otter occupying it," according to Tom N., creating natural entertainment for campers of all ages.
Spacious group sites: Several campgrounds provide dedicated group camping areas that accommodate larger gatherings. "Our group site was wonderful! There was enough room to set up 6 tents and two trailers with plenty of extra space," reports Bonnie-Amelia B. about the Salmon group site at Fishermens Bend.
Natural shade coverage: Most campgrounds near Gates feature significant tree coverage, providing relief during hot summer days. At Cove Creek, "we were there during a heat wave, and we were able to stay cool under the trees," reports Mark R., noting the campground's "nice big sites" and proximity to lake beaches.
Seasonal water levels: Detroit Lake experiences significant water level fluctuations throughout the year. "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, or as good to swim in," advises Christian in his review of Detroit Lake State Recreation Area.
Highway noise at some sites: Several campgrounds sit near major roadways, affecting sound levels. "Don't camp near the highway or it's pretty noisy at night," warns Laura K. about Detroit Lake State Recreation Area, while Humbug Campground offers a quieter alternative for those seeking more peaceful surroundings.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. Richard H. notes that at Smith Creek Village, "Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean," while other campgrounds like Hoover feature "flush toilets, no soap in restrooms and lacking showers," according to Tom N.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" shares April F. about her family's experience at Silver Falls State Park Campground.
Biking opportunities: Families with children can take advantage of extensive biking trails at certain campgrounds. Ryan A. notes that Fishermens Bend offers "so many activities, Walk along the river, bike trails, basketball, playground, horseshoes, baseball diamond," making it particularly suitable for active families.
Site selection considerations: When camping with children, choosing the right site location becomes crucial. At Silver Falls State Park, Melissa L. recommends: "I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time!"
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Gates area feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Southshore Campground, "Some sites have the parking spot up above the actual site and you have to walk down a short set of stairs to access," reports Julie W., noting the trade-off between convenience and views.
Generator policies: Noise regulations vary between campgrounds, affecting RV campers relying on generators. Kevin R. observes at Fishermens Bend that "the last time the noise of huge RV generators going for hours and hours was the final straw," indicating inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours at some locations.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations, requiring planning for longer stays. Richard D. notes that Humbug Campground is "as basic as they come with running water and vault toilets," requiring RVers to utilize facilities at nearby Detroit Lake for waste disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gates, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gates, OR is Silver Falls State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 78 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gates, OR?
TheDyrt.com has all 227 dog-friendly camping locations near Gates, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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