Best Campgrounds near Paisley, OR
Campgrounds near Paisley, Oregon range from primitive forest service sites to developed hot springs destinations. Summer Lake Hot Springs serves as the region's flagship camping area with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins, while more rustic options include Marster Spring Campground, Jones Crossing Forest Camp, and several dispersed sites along forest roads. The Fremont National Forest provides a backdrop for most camping locations, with the Chewaucan River creating opportunities for waterfront sites at several campgrounds within a 10-mile radius of town.
Camping seasons typically run from May through October for most developed campgrounds in the area, though higher elevation sites like Deadhorse Lake may only be accessible from July to October due to snowpack and road conditions. Many forest roads leading to campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles, particularly when accessing lookouts or remote cabins. The region experiences extreme temperature variations with hot, dry summers and cold winters, making shoulder seasons often ideal for camping. Water availability varies significantly, with drinking water present at only a few developed sites including Marster Spring and Happy Camp. "The Marster Spring campground is about 8 miles up a gravel road outside of Paisley, OR. There are a number of dispersed camping sites along that road, some of which have rock fire pits."
Most tent and RV sites in the area feature basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, with picnic tables available at select developed campgrounds. Summer Lake Hot Springs stands apart with more extensive facilities including hot pools, showers, and electric hookups, attracting visitors seeking a more comfortable experience. Several campgrounds sit along the Chewaucan River, providing opportunities for fishing and water access. Campers frequently mention the solitude and star viewing as highlights of the region. According to one visitor at Summer Lake Hot Springs, "This is a Dark Sky sanctuary - so many stars. Caveats: bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with beaver activity noted near Happy Camp. Fire impacts have affected some campgrounds, with Rock Creek Forest Camp showing evidence of past burns.
