Glamping near Rickreall, Oregon offers diverse camping options within the Willamette Valley watershed, where the average annual rainfall reaches 40-50 inches, creating lush forested areas and well-maintained campgrounds. Elevation ranges from 200-400 feet in this region, providing both valley floor camping and low hillside options with varying terrain. The area's campgrounds typically remain open year-round despite seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers.
What to do
Hiking forest trails: At Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground, visitors can access numerous trails suitable for casual exploration. "There are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite. The hosts are super friendly and helpful," notes Thamar D. The park features historical exhibits along walking paths that highlight the area's pioneer history.
Beach exploration: Head west to coastal camping options where outdoor activities expand beyond forest settings. "The hiking trails are amazing. We walked the path around the entire park, which took me about 3 hours. Along the way got to see the Champoeg Heritage site with period piece actors, wide open spaces, and the Willamette River," shares Ashley B.
Water activities: The region offers both river and lake access for paddling and fishing. At Devils Lake, campers find convenient water access points. "No lake views here, but there is access down a long point/dock for non motorized (kayaks) boats. The staff was very friendly and helpful and the campground was super clean," explains Annie C.
What campers like
Year-round yurts: The luxury accommodations at Premier RV Resort provide comfort regardless of weather. "Registration was quick and easy. Plenty of parking. An amazing gift shop and small store. The bathrooms were SPOTLESS and keyless/ code entry, and it was almost like they were our private bathrooms," reports K L.
Clean facilities: Travelers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms across regional campgrounds. At Albany-Corvallis KOA, guests appreciate the attention to detail. "The place is very clean, staff are friendly. Grounds are well kept. WiFi was extremely slow but that's about par for the course," writes Dan F.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local birds and animals. "We seen stellar jays and a woodpecker. Bathrooms and showers were clean," mentions Debbie I. when describing her stay at a coastal campground.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: While some glamping locations offer privacy, others have more compact layouts. At Cape Lookout State Park Campground, "Some campsites are big and more private than others," notes Nicole O. Site selection matters particularly during peak summer months.
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Rickreall are close to highways. "The campground is pretty full service for a state park. You can buy ice and firewood onsite, and there is a small store that is a short walk away," explains Stephanie Z., adding that despite location advantages, some sites lack privacy.
Seasonal challenges: Weather impacts the camping experience throughout the year. Some coastal campgrounds experience periodic flooding, while inland sites face seasonal mosquito populations. Reservations become essential during summer months as tourism increases throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many state parks offer designated play areas. "There was a huge playground for the kids. There was also a large field area for dogs to roam around, just no fence," shares Ashley B. about Silver Falls State Park Campground, which combines recreational facilities with natural attractions.
Educational opportunities: Families can take advantage of historical sites near campgrounds. "The farmhouse fascinated my boys... they got to water the garden with a water pump and buckets!" reports Leslie C. These activities provide learning experiences while camping.
Kid-friendly trails: Biking and walking paths suitable for children exist throughout the region. "Champoeg has a little everything. GREAT biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well," explains Scott W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend specific loops or areas within larger campgrounds. "We prefer loop C. There is a man made burm that keeps some wind from coming into the campground," advises Dean about South Beach State Park Campground, noting practical considerations for vehicle positioning.
Utility connections: RV campers should note variations in hookup availability. "The sewer connections are not threaded, so you'll have to weigh down your sewer hose," warns Ray & Terri F. This practical information helps RVers prepare properly for their stay.
Space considerations: Many report that sites can feel close together at popular destinations. "Very nice park. The staff was excellent. The spaces are a bit to close for me. No shade," reports Kimberly E., highlighting the importance of researching specific site dimensions before booking.
