Fern Ridge Lake campsites lie within Oregon's Willamette Valley at approximately 375 feet elevation. The lake spans 9,000 acres at full summer pool with water levels fluctuating significantly between seasons. Camping options range from developed Lane County parks with full hookups to more rustic sites where visitors can access miles of shoreline for water recreation.
What to do
Bird watching opportunities: Richardson Park provides excellent access to wetland habitats. "The proximity to Eugene (approximately 20 minutes away) makes these campgrounds convenient for quick getaways while still offering a retreat-like atmosphere," notes a visitor at Richardson Park & Campground.
Hiking nearby trails: Several trails connect to camping areas around the lake. At Alsea Falls Recreation Site, visitors mention "lovely hiking trails and a waterfall close by. There are also a couple of other trails that are less frequented, and for me that means more attractive."
Fishing access: The reservoir offers multiple fishing spots for different skill levels. "This campground is within 20 minutes of Eugene, Oregon, close enough if you forgot something, you can drive to town and get it," explains a camper about Richardson Park, making it convenient to grab fishing supplies if needed.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campsites provide adequate room between neighbors. At Armitage Park & Campground, visitors appreciate the layout: "We were impressed with the spacing between sites for a county park. We also appreciated having a couple of shade trees."
Evening activities: Some campgrounds offer special events during summer months. A visitor at Richardson Park notes, "Our family loves this campground, especially on the weekends when there are outdoor movies playing for free."
Natural setting: Despite being close to urban areas, many Fern Ridge Lake campsites maintain a natural atmosphere. At Hult Pond, a reviewer found "If you don't mind not having service this place is great to just get away from it all. Only a few good spots and they go fast so definitely get there early to get a good spot. Beautiful area and very peaceful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. "Pulled in late, not quite a full campground but getting there. Spot had access to water, firepit, picnic table, and electricity," reports a camper at Richardson Park.
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. South Twin Lake Campground offers "a small resort/lodge area across the road from the campground where they have a shop/restaurant and sell small extra camping gear, fishing supplies and non perishable food. From 8-3 there was also a coffee hut that also sold icecream!"
Cell service gaps: Some areas have limited connectivity. A Hult Pond visitor warns, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there. There are some really cool spots that were taken. Would come again, but there's no cell service at all so I'd plan accordingly."
Wildlife encounters: The wetland environment supports diverse wildlife. "I saw a coyote on exploring the bank while we paddleboarded. People have built multiple wooden shelters around the lake that are fun to explore," shares a South Twin Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Richardson Park "has a small playground area with a swing set. Lake area is nice to spend the day and picnic. If you go during the 4th of July they have an excellent fireworks show!"
Swimming options: Families can find several designated swimming areas. At Premier RV Resort at Eugene, "This RV park is awesome they take them back in the care of the grounds… It has a dog wash and a car wash a pool and a hot tub and it's on the lake."
Kid-friendly programming: During peak season, some campgrounds offer activities. "Nice campground that is kid friendly. They have movie nights and also have a little shop that has ice cream, candy, ice, etc," notes a visitor about Richardson Park's summer offerings.
Shallow water areas: For younger children, look for gradual entry points. At Alsea Falls Recreation Site, "Kids had so much to do and had such a great time. Lazy shallow rivers and beautiful waterfalls were just a few of the highlights."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited to certain campgrounds. A camper at Deerwood RV Park found "All paved including sites. Full hookups with mostly back in sites. Staff very helpful and friendly."
Site length considerations: Some campgrounds have shorter spaces. "Spaces are fairly short, especially on Standard sites. We barely fit our 39' Class A and a 2 door Jeep Wrangler. If our vehicle had been any longer, we would have had to park in overflow parking," warns a Deerwood RV Park visitor.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide dump facilities. At Armitage Park, "We selected a pull through because we were only doing an overnight. Electricity was solid 30 amps. ATT reception was decent. We also appreciated having a couple of shade trees."
Road challenges: Some access roads may be difficult for larger rigs. "Road is narrow and winding, larger rigs have issues with staying on path," notes a Deerwood RV Park visitor.
