The Willamette Valley hosts most of Springfield's camping options, with elevations ranging from 400-800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with minimal rainfall from June through September, while spring and fall campers should prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s. Winter camping requires cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly fall below freezing.
What to do
Swimming access: At Baker Bay Campgrounds & Marina, visitors enjoy multiple water recreation options. "The view was wonderful. We got a lakeside camp site which made it a simple walk down to the lake where we could swim and fish," shares Taylor S. The campground features dedicated swimming areas with shoreline access.
Disc golf course: Waterloo County Park offers an established disc golf course through wooded terrain. "Waterloo is pretty open and has some bike trails and some parks and a pretty great disc golf course! The water is really cold but perfect for a day outside or a picnic with the kids!" notes Ally T.
Hiking trails: At Royal Heart Hill, guests can explore marked trails leading to natural features. Kevin R. mentions, "There's a nice hiking trail down to a pond with cute signage to lead the way." Most trails are moderate difficulty and suitable for casual hikers.
Fishing opportunities: Dorena Reservoir provides productive fishing grounds accessible from multiple shore points. The ADA fishing deck at Waterloo County Park creates accessible options for anglers with mobility concerns. "Has sites with electric and water, and those without. Does have a dump station, and bathrooms with showers. Has a few sites set up for ADA," explains Cindy U.
What campers like
Secluded pond sites: Hult Pond offers primitive camping with water views. "I went during my spring break and I was lucky that it was too cold for most people to camp there. It was beautiful and quiet (other than the 9pm daily goose choir). The pond was great for kayaking," notes Nicki G.
Clean facilities: Premier RV Resort provides well-maintained amenities that guests consistently mention. "I've stayed here a number of times and each time it's a pleasure. Nice big sites, super clean park and facilities and nice staff," writes Jill R.
Group camping spaces: Clark Creek Organization Campground specializes in accommodating large gatherings. Joel D. describes it as a "Wonderful group camp that can sleep all your friends and relatives! Fun little bunk houses for the kids and a big covered area for cooking and hanging out. Big field for tents, frisbee, drum circles, etc."
River access: Waterloo County Park features extensive river frontage with multiple access points. "Great little spot for a family get together and overnight stay... On the river good fishing... but be aware... current is swift.. swimmers seem to get in trouble every year here," cautions Len S.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds around Springfield have minimal or no cellular coverage. At Hult Pond, Grace A. 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."
Facility renovations: Some campgrounds undergo periodic facility updates. "Dry Camping. Upside - Right on the lake and lots of spots with shade which would be good for summer heat. Downside - no alcohol permitted (loosely enforced it seems). And the restrooms and dump station are being rebuilt as of May 2024," reports Mark W. about Baker Bay.
Road noise: Eugene Kamping World RV Park experiences traffic sound from nearby highways. Laura M. notes, "It's near the road and near a TA truck stop, so there's noise from that, but it wasn't obnoxious." Similar noise issues affect other campgrounds near major roadways.
Seasonal algae concerns: Dorena Lake sometimes develops algae blooms during summer months. Kelli B. advises, "Watch for signs of Algae or Swimmers Itch as it has been present the past few years at Dorena Lake."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly glamping: The Willamettans offers family-oriented glamping with recreational facilities. "They have a hot tub, heated pool, lodge, rv hook ups, tent spaces, and rental cabins. Very nice," observes Charlotte T.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Waterloo County Park includes multiple playground zones throughout the property. Kevin H. describes it as having "hiking trails in the woods and also a Disc Golf course. Hook-ups for Electric and Water only, but they have a 'waste water' (gray water) disposal every few sites where you can pour any gray water."
Swimming safety: Families should monitor water conditions at river-adjacent campgrounds. "Has a great swimming hole right across the street and a good jumping platform just up the road at the next pullout," explains Joel D. about Clark Creek Organization Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning offers prime wildlife observation opportunities around pond and lake sites. "The sun rose across the lake which was extremely beautiful," shares Kaylee C. about her experience at Baker Bay.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: COE Dorena Reservoir Schwarz Campground provides dump facilities despite lacking hookups. Patricia N. explains, "Close to Cottage Grove, COE spot accepted the Passport for half priced camping. The campground roads can be tight if you have a big rig so be careful. Because there is no power in the sites people were running generators for hours."
Site positioning: RVers report varying satisfaction with site layouts across Springfield's glamping options. "While we prefer more private / wooded campsites, we have no complaints," writes Mike A. about Premier RV Resort.
Gray water disposal: Some campgrounds offer designated gray water disposal points between sites. Kevin H. notes that Waterloo County Park has "a 'waste water' (gray water) disposal every few sites where you can pour any gray water."
Generator restrictions: Policies on generator use vary between campgrounds, with some implementing quiet hours. "Nice time. Hated the traffic," remarks Keith G. about Premier RV Resort, highlighting how ambient noise can affect the camping experience.
