54 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent campsites near Scotts Mills, Oregon range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites across several natural areas. The Santiam State Forest offers tent camping at Butte Creek Falls Campground and Rhody Lake Recreation Area, both within a short drive of Scotts Mills. BLM Molalla River Recreation Area provides walk-in tent sites with access to the Molalla River, while Cedar Grove Recreation Site offers both walk-in and boat-in tent camping options.
Most tent campgrounds in this region feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Butte Creek Falls Campground provides pit toilets and picnic tables but no drinking water, making it essential for tent campers to bring their own supply. The walk-in sites at Three Bears Recreation Site in the BLM Molalla River area include tent pads and fire rings, though the water pump occasionally has bacteria warnings. Access roads to some sites like Rhody Lake can be challenging, with steep final approaches on dirt roads that may require vehicles with higher clearance. Most primitive tent areas enforce seasonal closures, typically operating from May through October or November.
Areas farther from main roads offer deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking a more authentic backcountry experience. The tent sites at Rhody Lake provide a peaceful setting with only natural sounds from wildlife. According to one visitor, "It is a beautiful lake with salamanders. If you're lucky to have the lake to yourself, it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds." Tent campers at Three Bears Recreation Site enjoy streamside camping with good spacing between sites. Many primitive tent setups in the region offer direct water access, with several campers noting the Molalla River corridor as one of their favorite places for tent camping near Scotts Mills. The walk-in nature of several sites helps maintain a quieter atmosphere compared to drive-in campgrounds that accommodate larger groups and RVs.
"Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!"
"I usually stay at Cedar Grove nearby, but stayed here this year (2020). The campground is clean with water sometimes available."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Water wz to low to fish nearby but had fun looking for rocks. Will go again next yr."
"We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Near the campsite is the first fall that curtains over a little cave. You’re able to walk in and under the fall which feels like you’re in a movie."
from $22 - $76 / night
Check Availability"Tent camping. Very steep final approach on dirt road. Very beautiful lake with Salomanders. If your lucky to have the lake to yourself it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds."
"Stayed in site 6 a few years ago, sites 5 and 6 have an incline, but flat space for tents. Mostly, if not entirely shaded. Steep, short climb to river. Can access the river from other locations."
from $22 - $24 / night
Check Availability"Nice place to camp right by the creek the walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night I personally have only camped at the drive-up sites and it's super pretty and peaceful there"
from $15 - $20 / night
Check Availability"The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River."
"Rainbow campground is a great little campground that is nestled up right next to ripplebrook."
from $19 / night
Check Availability"If your car can make it up the 6 miles of "road" you'll be glad that you found Elk Lake. I made it up the hill in a 2001 Rav4. You'll definitely want some clearance for the trek up."
"Our first time at Elk Lake Campground. "
LegendCamped here for the second year in a row, and it did not disappoint. We got lucky with a nice spot on the creek this year, which I would recommend for the best experience. The sites are spacious and most are pretty private which is great. It is primitive, no showers and just one vault toilet. I will say that the site did have a fair amount of trash on it which was disappointing, but we cleaned it up before heading out. Remember to leave no trace!!
ScoutStayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.
ScoutI camped there in my RV several times and always tried to get slot A13. It’s all the way at the end and has a nice amount of space and only a potential neighbor on one side. I also tent camped and, after scouting the sites, chose C6. That site is a bit small but is away from the rest and above them on the slope so you don’t need your rain fly for privacy.
LegendRead up on this location with some good info. Flat paved sites for dry camping.
Lost Creek Campground has 10 single-family campsites and is located on one of the largest pyroclastic volcanic mudflows from Mt. Hood’s “Old Maid” eruption in the 1700s. Fortunately all of the mudflows have cooled. Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Two yurts are also available. Campground amenities include a picnic area, drinking water and vault toilets. Firewood is also available for sale from the camp host.
Lost Creek / Mt. Hood Area Recreation
Outdoor recreation includes fishing. Visitors also enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing. The Wild and Scenic Sandy River is also not far from the popular Ramona Falls Trailhead. Mt. Hood is just southeast of the campground offers visitors the opportunity for a nice a day trip.
AMENITIES
BBQ Grills
Campsite Tables
Comfort Station
Drinking Water
Fire Pit
Fire Rings
Firewood Available
Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
Grills
Pets OK
Picnic Tables
Restrooms (Vault Toilets)
ACTIVITIES
Biking
Bird Watching
Creek
Fishing
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Nature Trails
Photography
Picnicking
River
Walking Trails
Wildlife Viewing
RangerPeaceful riverside spot with a solid balance of privacy and access. Sites sit right along the Molalla River, giving you constant water sound, easy access for wading/swimming, and good wildlife activity. The layout is spread out enough that you’re not stacked on top of other campers, especially in the more tucked-away spots. 
Amenities are basic—no hookups—but you get essentials like toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. This keeps it feeling more off-grid without being roughing-it level.
LegendTop reasons I love this campground:
- It’s an ISLAND! How cool is it to camp on an island!
- Beautiful views from the middle of the northern end of Detroit Lake.
- Great for swimming, boating, exploring, hiking, and fishing.
- I bet it’s amazing to stay there over the 4th of July.
- The firework display from the other side of the lake should be spectacular!
- Cheap-$10.
- Only 22 sites.
- I had cell service with AT&T.
**Things to note: **
- This should be obvious but, you’ll need a boat to get to and from the island. It’s a quick canoe from either side.
- The vault toilets are maxed out. Hopefully, they will be serviced SOON!
- No drinking water, no shower, and no guarantee for the serviced toilets.
- Bring water and TP.
- Fires are allowed and there are several picnic tables.
LegendNice spot to stop for a night or two. Easy bike ride down to Trillium Lake where there's an iconic view of Mt. Hood reflecting in the lake.
Very well used and loved. I picked up a bag of trash to take with me. Please, leave no trace so we don't lose access to these awesome spots!
RangerYukwah campground is found along hwy 22 East of Salem along the Willamette National Forest in Linn County. Most of the sites along this stretch are first come, first serve walk up sites - but you can reserve by connecting with Linn County Parks and Rec (see photo for info) for $18/night plus $5 additional vehicle fee and reservation fee. This campground has ada access camp sites and tent sites. Most of the RV sites along the Willamette National Forest can be used for tent camping. The day use area at this site is great for swimming, fishing, and possibly a small hike. I advise camping near the day use area (#3) if you have a large family or kids for larger sites and easy access. Yukwah is near wagon wheel bridge with access to trails for those wanting to hike while camping. Vault toilets are available (bring soap) - there are no showers or additional amenities. There is access to potable water at this location.
RangerCamp above the Santiam riverbank and enjoy a night of peace and rest listening to the water flow. This site has access to vault toilets, potable water. The sites are large enough for rv or tent sites with vehicle pull through. The sites have enough old forest growth to provide privacy for the family. If you camp near the river you cannot hear the road, even though you are only a skip away. I do not recommend camping in the sites near the road if you have kids/pets with you or if you are a light sleeper. The roads are paved which can be great for family cars or for little ones wanting to ride their bike or scooter around camp. The site that we stopped at would have been great for fishing trout or salmon. Don’t forget your fishing license!
You can reserve this site through Linn County Parks & Rec: 1-877-444-6777 - And like most sites in the Willamette National Forest dogs are allowed as long as they are on leashes and check out time is 1pm.
Tent camping near Scotts Mills, Oregon centers around the Molalla River corridor, with sites ranging from primitive to moderately developed. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October when temperatures average 65-80°F during summer days and 45-55°F at night. The region sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet within the foothills of the Cascade Range, creating varied terrain with riverside camping opportunities.
River activities: The Molalla River offers swimming holes popular with campers at Three Bears Recreation Site. According to visitor Kierra K., it's a "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" During summer months, campers can enjoy catch-and-release trout fishing.
Hiking opportunities: From Mount Hood National Forest Rainbow Campground, access trails connecting directly to the Clackamas River. One camper notes, "The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River. You can either hike the whole thing (about 4 miles), or detour off the trail about half a mile in and find the most private swimming hole."
Waterfall exploration: Camp near Butte Creek Falls for easy waterfall access. A camper at Butte Creek Falls Campground explains, "Near the campsite is the first fall that curtains over a little cave. You're able to walk in and under the fall which feels like you're in a movie. Take a longer hike thru the forest, over a couple old lil bridges and up onto this cliff and you'll see a giant cascading fall across the way."
Streamside camping: Many tent campers value proximity to water. At Cedar Grove Recreation Site, visitor Kevin M. shares, "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to." Sites along creeks provide natural white noise that helps mask any nearby road sounds.
Site privacy: The spacing between campsites matters to visitors. Three Bears Recreation Site earns praise for site layout, with Connor J. noting it's a "clean and happy place. Lots of parking and two or three bathrooms I believe!" Many walk-in sites throughout the region offer better separation than drive-up areas.
Natural wildlife encounters: Santiam State Forest Rhody Lake Recreation Area provides opportunities to observe amphibians. One camper describes, "Very beautiful lake with Salamanders. If your lucky to have the lake to yourself it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds. It is possible to kayak with easy access."
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds near Scotts Mills lack reliable drinking water. At Three Bears Recreation Site, camper Heidi warns, "The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water." Plan to bring your own water supply for most primitive tent camping locations.
Seasonal closures: Most tent camping areas follow May-October schedules. Rock Creek Campsites in Santiam State Forest operates May to September, with visitor Marie C. explaining, "The walk-up sites are $15 a night and the drive-up sites are $20 a night." Always check current operating dates before planning trips.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating rough roads. For Rhody Lake Recreation Area, camper Chuck W. cautions, "Very steep final approach on dirt road." Vehicles with higher clearance handle these roads better, especially after rain when dirt roads may become muddy.
Kid-friendly water access: Look for gradual entry points for water play. At Three Bears Recreation Site, Michelle A. reports it's "Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone." Sites with accessible water features keep children engaged without requiring structured activities.
Safety considerations: Choose campsites with appropriate terrain for your children's ages. At Willamette Mission State Park, Kelly N. advises, "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer natural learning experiences. Willamette Mission State Park provides science-based activities, with one reviewer noting, "A lot of work has been done to keep this site up for public education and trails - we take elementary students to this site every spring to have a field science day. The largest Black Cottonwood tree resides at this park and is worth seeing!"
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping sites near Scotts Mills aren't suitable for larger RVs. Sunstrip Campground offers more primitive conditions, with Brian C. explaining, "Well situated on the banks of the Clackamas River, many camp sites open right onto the shore. However, while the price is the same as at other Mt. Hood National Forest camp sites, the spots themselves do not have paved driveways."
Space limitations: Even campgrounds that accept small RVs have size constraints. At Rainbow Campground, Tony P. shares insight about specific sites: "Out of all of the available spaces, we found space #10 to be extremely accommodating to our pop-up trailer, SUV, and one additional vehicle."
Toilet facilities: Most campgrounds offer vault toilets rather than flush facilities. Rainbow Campground has "only one double sided vault toilet for the campground," according to Katherine H., making it important to choose sites closer to facilities if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Scotts Mills, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Scotts Mills, OR is BLM Molalla River Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Scotts Mills, OR?
TheDyrt.com has all 54 tent camping locations near Scotts Mills, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
