The Willamette Valley area surrounding Silverton, Oregon sits at approximately 400 feet elevation and experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Seasonal temperature fluctuations affect campground availability, with some locations closing during winter months and others operating year-round regardless of weather conditions. The region features a diverse mix of state parks, regional parks, and private RV resorts with varying amenities and access to natural features.
What to do
Fishing for trout: Small Fry Lake at Promontory Park offers a dedicated fishing experience for young anglers. "Our middle son caught not only his first fish but he caught 4 in total," shares one visitor, though note that fish stocking occurs October through April as "the fish can't survive once the water temperature rises too high."
Disc golf courses: Milo McIver State Park Campground features exceptional disc golf facilities with multiple course layouts. "Milo McIver may be best known for its twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," explains a regular visitor. The park hosts the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event.
Adventure activities: Camp Dakota offers numerous outdoor activities beyond standard camping. According to a recent visitor: "We enjoyed disc golf, archery, axe throwing, a fun general store and an escape room. We came in thinking it was a little on the spendy side, to ending up thinking it was a bargain."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Metzler Park offers secluded spaces along Clear Creek. "Metzler Park offered beautiful, shaded campsites along Clear Creek. My site was just above the creek and I fell asleep to its calming sound," shares a camper. The park includes playing fields, trails, and a swimming hole, with clean bathrooms and showers.
Multi-use trails: Oxbow Regional Park provides extensive trail networks through ancient forests. "The park's 1,200 acres of ancient forest are crisscrossed with hiking trails and provide habitat for elk, deer, and osprey," notes one visitor. The park offers a true wilderness experience while remaining accessible, with one camper observing "it's truly a great oasis just outside of Portland."
Waterfall access: While Silver Falls State Park is known for its waterfalls, Santiam State Forest Shellburg Falls Recreation Area offers a quieter alternative. "Remote and quiet campground. Only .5 mile hike to the falls. Shellburgh Falls is tall with a huge basalt cave that you can walk behind the waterfall and down below to actually stand under the waterfall," reports one visitor, though note facilities were damaged in the 2020 fires.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. Milo McIver State Park Campground is open from March 15 to October 31, while others like Silver Falls State Park operate year-round. Promontory Park operates from Memorial Day to September 30.
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Silverton, Oregon is available at several locations. Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground offers heated yurts year-round. "The yurts are heated, and a couple of them are pet friendly, which is great for us! There is a small table in each yurt. There's a couch and a bunk bed for sleeping arrangements, with the lower bunk larger than the top bunk," explains a regular visitor.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires careful driving. One camper notes about Shellburg Falls: "Long but pretty drive down a gravel road about 5+ miles in until you get to the campground." Always check road conditions before departure, particularly after winter storms or during fire season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programming: Ranger-led activities enhance yurt camping in Silverton, Oregon areas. "The hosts were welcoming and made sure we were comfortable with our stay. We also got a scavenger hunt with stickers for our toddler," shares a family who visited Promontory Park with their three-year-old.
Swimming opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer water access for cooling off during summer months. At Champoeg State Heritage Area, "Great biking trails that are kid friendly. There lots of historical sites around the campground to enjoy as well. Loop B is highly our favorite because it is smaller and more private and close to the river."
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several campgrounds feature dedicated 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," notes a visitor to Champoeg State Heritage Area, making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Silver Falls State Park, certain sites offer better amenities for RVers. "I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time!" recommends one experienced camper who rates the park highly.
Hookup availability: Premier RV Resort in nearby Salem offers complete hookups for larger rigs. "The spots were level, no fire rings only a few picnic tables but caters to RVs only so most of us have tables and chairs. The bathrooms/showers were very clean and well cared for. Everything was neat and in good condition."
Dump station locations: For those needing sanitary services, Silver Falls State Park has convenient facilities. "RV dump at the horse camp turnoff," notes one visitor, providing a helpful logistical detail for those traveling in recreational vehicles.
