The Tillamook and Siuslaw National Forests surrounding Otis, Oregon sit at elevations ranging from 200 to 3,000 feet with a temperate climate that receives over 100 inches of annual rainfall. This creates lush, dense forest conditions where tent camping opportunities exist year-round, though many primitive sites become difficult to access during winter months when forest roads deteriorate.
What to do
Swimming access: Wilson River: Several campgrounds provide access to swimming holes along the Wilson River. At Keenig Creek Campground, a camper notes "There's a beyond perfect swimming hole, that we all quickly discovered was plenty deep enough to jump off the rock formation next to it."
Hiking on nearby trails: The Wilson River Trail connects multiple campsites with day hiking opportunities. "There is also a 6 mile trail (12 miles roundtrip) that leaves right from the campground and goes to Footbridge. We did most of it and it's nice and moderate," reports a visitor to Keenig Creek.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening hours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. At Trask River County Park, "if you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas," according to one camper.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many tent campers appreciate the privacy found in walk-in sites. At Keenig Creek, a camper observed "All of the sites are walk in and super private. From the site we were in (K6) we could see no other campsites and could barely hear anyone else."
River sounds: The sound of flowing water creates natural white noise that masks highway noise at many sites. A Keenig Creek camper mentioned, "at night when the traffic dies down you can hear the river."
Affordability: Most primitive camping areas near Otis maintain low fees. One camper noted Keenig Creek was "Cheap- it was only $10 a night! Definitely a cheap adventure weekend."
Off-grid experience: Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek offers disconnection from technology. A camper reported, "So far, no one has bothered me, and I've only seen 1 car go past."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. At Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping, "The Cedar Creek Rd area offers a nice variety of dispersed camping sites with good views if you drive far enough, and fairly easy gravel roads for access."
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have poor or no connectivity. A camper at Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping noted, "Be aware that Verizon cell service is nonexistent in the area."
First-come basis: Most tent camping sites cannot be reserved. A Keenig Creek visitor shared, "you can't reserve sites which is perfect for those of us who never reserve sites and just show up hoping to find something."
Water supplies: Bring your own water for dispersed camping. A reviewer at Keenig Creek emphasized, "No potable water- luckily my family and I brought enough water!! We planned to do some hiking, so we definitely brought enough water to last us the weekend. Highly recommend buying jugs of water."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Shallow areas along the Trask River provide safe places for children. "Nice river and it's safe for the kids to run around. Its out of town, yet close enough to go to the store," explains a camper at Trask River County Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment. Trask River County Park has a "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around," according to a reviewer.
Historical experiences: Twins Ranch LLC offers unique covered wagon camping. A visitor enthusiastically shared, "If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot! My kids went on walks and collected berries, leaves, buds and lots of memories."
Off-peak timing: For less crowded experiences with children, consider weekday visits. A camper at Trask River County Park reported, "We just stayed 2 nights with our 5 & 3-yo's and had a lovely time. Sites are currently available with a blocked space between them, which was great for distancing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Choose campgrounds that explicitly accommodate RVs. At Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina, a camper advised, "Spots 1-27 are the tightest I have ever seen, so try to avoid them. 52-58 are right on the Bay, and pretty sizable."
Camping alternatives: When established campgrounds are full, Forest Service roads offer backup options. At Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek, a camper warned, "Narrow and unpaved road. Very narrow, My trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!"
Limited hookups: Most forest camping near Otis lacks hookups. Netarts Bay RV Park is an exception with a camper noting, "Good Wi-Fi. Friendly staff. Spots were well maintained."
