Tent camping in North Umpqua River Recreation Area offers access to diverse terrain across its 90 miles of river corridor. Summer temperatures typically range between 75-95°F during the day and 45-55°F at night, with rain uncommon from June through September. Most campgrounds in this area don't accept reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-service fee stations accepting cash only.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Lake In The Woods Campground provides access to scenic waterfall trails. "On the back side and at the entrance of the campground there are trails you can hike to waterfalls. They are gorgeous and worth the drive," notes camper April C.
Swimming in natural pools: Steamboat Falls Campground features natural swimming areas suited for various skill levels. "There is a jumping rock and a few small swimming pools for the kids, great swimming for everyone," explains Stephen T.
River kayaking: Island Campground offers convenient river access for paddlers. "We drove in and heard the sound of screaming rafters. The location is gorgeous right next to the water," reports Jordie G., highlighting the campground's proximity to popular paddling routes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacious layout at Lake In The Woods Campground. Nicole M. mentions, "The marked camping spaces are huge with a lot of space between you and the next closest site. Amazing views across the water."
Family-friendly beaches: White Creek Campground includes multiple swimming areas. "White Creek has two beaches, one under a beach. It has a trail that takes you to a cave," describes Stephen T.
Natural sound buffers: Despite nearby roads, many campsites remain peaceful thanks to natural noise reduction. At Island Campground, Annie C. points out: "The river definitely drowns out the road which is right above the campground."
What you should know
Poison oak awareness: Several campgrounds have poison oak, requiring careful navigation. At Island Campground, Jordie G. warns, "The paths down to the water have some poison oak growing by them so be careful."
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. According to Annie C., Island Campground "is small with only 7 sites on a lollipop loop, sandwiched between the highway and the river. Because of the size and the way the road loops on itself this is NOT a campground for rigs over 22'."
Site selection strategy: Arriving early increases your chances of securing premium spots. For Steamboat Falls Campground, Stephen T. advises, "Site 4 has the best view in the park and it is always the first to go."
Tips for camping with families
Cave exploration opportunities: Umpqua National Forest Steamboat Falls Campground offers geology adventures nearby. Stephen T. recommends specific sites: "Site 1 and 2 are on top of each other and should be rented together, which makes it $20 a night but its worth for privacy (To help, 1 has a good view of a water fall)."
Multi-age swimming spots: Steamboat Falls features graduated swimming areas. "The swimming is so nice, there is something to do for every age and swimming ability," notes Stephen T.
Book multiple adjacent sites: For larger family groups, consider booking connecting sites. At Steamboat Falls, Stephen T. suggests, "Site 5 and 6 are good size sites but they don't have much privacy between them, that's another set I usually rent together."
Tips from RVers
Alternate options when full: Ash Flat Campground provides backup camping when main sites are occupied. Samantha O. describes it as "Very nice camp ground. Very close to the river," making it a solid alternative when primary campgrounds reach capacity.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to level your smaller RV at several campgrounds. At Island Campground, Annie C. notes, "Sites are large with lots of trees, but not all sites are level," suggesting bringing leveling blocks for camper vans and small trailers.
Bring all supplies: Limited facilities mean campers need complete self-sufficiency. At Twin Lakes, Allison W. emphasizes, "This is a primitive campground and no services are available," indicating the need to pack extra supplies including toilet paper, which Samantha O. specifically recommends bringing for Ash Flat Campground.
