Murphy, Oregon offers several campground options within a 25-mile radius, with most set along waterways including the Rogue River and Lake Selmac. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, making water-adjacent sites particularly valuable. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months when overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at riverfront parks: Several campgrounds provide direct Rogue River access for fishing, swimming and rafting. At Griffin Park, campers can hear the river flowing all night from sites approximately 50 yards from the water. "Quiet, secluded, easy access, host was amazing, large lawn for the kids to play, river access, could not have been better," notes one visitor who extended their stay by three additional days.
Disc golf and recreation: Indian Mary Park offers a disc golf course on site with equipment available for checkout. "Sweet place on the Rogue River to camp and play disc golf. Large grassy area with volleyball court, too. Nice playground for the kids," mentions a reviewer who recommends floating from Hog Creek to Indian Mary in about an hour, then driving back for multiple floats.
Cave exploration: For day trips beyond the water, several campgrounds provide access to regional attractions. Grayback Campground serves as an ideal base camp for visiting Oregon Caves National Monument. "Located right along the creek with several campsites creekside. Plenty of hiking trails available as well to keep you busy when not exploring the caves," explains a camper who found the primitive campground perfect for a short stay.
What campers like
Riverside solitude: Many campers specifically seek sites with direct water views or access. At Riverpark RV Resort, about one-third of sites directly border the Rogue River. "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. Cottonwood trees abound and, unless you're allergic, make a moody ambiance," notes one visitor.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank highly with reviewers. "Showers are super nice and clean, good pressure and hot. Campground is clean and well maintained," reports a camper about Griffin Park, adding that the $40 nightly fee feels high but worth it for amenities.
Cost-effective options: Budget-conscious campers can find more affordable alternatives. Grayback Campground offers sites for $10 per night, with one visitor noting: "This has to be our all time favorite camp spot in sw Oregon. Can't beat the price...quiet...nice trails...clean bathrooms. We love getting a spot on the creek and listen to it all night long."
What you should know
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds sit near Interstate 5 or major roads, creating noise considerations. "Indian Mary is a really nice campground, clean, well maintained, friendly staff, and activities to keep the family busy... We stayed here in mid May, and there were only a few other campers, and the campground was nice and quiet (other than road noise)," explains one camper.
Cash payment requirements: Multiple campgrounds in Josephine County operate with cash-only payment systems. Griffin Park, Indian Mary Park, and Schroeder Park all use self-pay kiosks that don't accept credit cards. Many sell firewood on site for approximately $5 per bundle.
Cell service variability: While campgrounds near towns typically offer adequate coverage, more remote locations have limited connectivity. At Indian Mary Park, one reviewer reported "no Verizon coverage in the park," while Griffin Park visitors needed signal boosters: "No cell service here, but the cell booster gave us some connection on both the Verizon and ATT phone."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Schroeder Park features multiple recreation options for children. "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," notes a recent visitor. The park also includes boat ramp access for family water activities.
Swimming spots: When temperatures rise, designated swimming areas provide safer water access for children. At Lake Selmac County Park, campers mention watching water birds while kids enjoy the lake. The campground also offers heated yurts for winter visits, with one family noting: "We love coming to lake selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. They're heated and cozy."
Site selection strategy: For families seeking more privacy, choosing sites on the outer perimeter of campground loops often provides more space. A visitor to Indian Mary Park advised: "I'd recommend making sure you were on the outside of the ring, if you get in the middle it's just campsites right next to each other with no trees for privacy."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Many campgrounds in the Murphy area can accommodate larger RVs, but with some restrictions. At Valley of the Rogue State Park, loops vary in accommodations: "Loop F has only water & electric but sites are better spread out and worked fine for our short stay." The park offers 158 sites with most featuring full or partial hookups.
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require careful site selection or additional equipment for leveling. At Whitehorse County Park, a reviewer noted: "Sites are so unlevel that I don't think our leveling blocks would have made a dent."
Sewer connection positioning: At multiple campgrounds, sewer hookups are positioned in ways that require strategic RV parking. Griffin Park requires special attention: "Sewer hole was towards the middle of the site so we had to pull forward in the morning to dump," explains one RV camper.
