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Best Tent Camping near Stayton, OR

872 Reviews

State parks and national forests surrounding Stayton, Oregon provide diverse tent camping options within a short drive. Santiam State Forest offers several tent-friendly campgrounds, including Butte Creek Falls Campground and Rhody Lake Recreation Area, both located within 20 miles of Stayton. The BLM Molalla River Recreation Area provides walk-in tent sites along a scenic river corridor, while Quartzville Recreation Corridor offers more primitive tent camping experiences for those seeking seclusion. These public lands feature a mix of established campgrounds with basic amenities and more remote backcountry tent sites.

Most tent campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter access due to weather conditions. Tent pads vary from compacted dirt to forest duff, with minimal site preparation at more primitive locations. Vault toilets are common at established campgrounds, though drinking water is scarce and should be packed in or filtered from nearby streams. Fire restrictions are strictly enforced during summer months, particularly in August and September when wildfire danger peaks. Campers should bring water filtration systems, as one visitor at BLM Molalla River Recreation Area noted that "the water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water."

Walk-in tent sites provide the most rewarding camping experiences near Stayton. At Rhody Lake Recreation Area, one camper described it as "very beautiful with salamanders" and mentioned that "if you're lucky to have the lake to yourself, it can be very quiet except for wildlife sounds." The tent-only sites at Santiam State Forest campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy, with some situated along creek banks. According to reviews, the BLM Molalla River Recreation Area features "roomy sites with nice tent pads and picnic tables" with "lots of trees around" providing ample shade. Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for day hikes, fishing, and swimming, with several locations offering direct water access for cooling off during summer months.

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Best Tent Sites Near Stayton, Oregon (51)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Stayton, OR

16 Photos of 51 Stayton Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Stayton, OR

872 Reviews of 51 Stayton Campgrounds

  • Sara R.
    Sep. 5, 2018

    Marys Peak

    Very basic and secluded.

    This is one of the most primitive campgrounds I've seen. There were a few old picking tables, fire rings, and one vault toilet. We were the only ones there during the peak of camping season. There were lovely flowers and raspberries growing nearby. A few dead branches feel during the night, which was a little underling.

  • Jill T.
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Piety Island Boat - In Campground Boat Landing

    Island camping

    Top 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.

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 25, 2018

    Yukwah Campground

    ADA access camping sites and great day use area

    Yukwah 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.

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 30, 2018

    Whispering Falls Campground

    Camp above the Santiam riverbank

    Camp 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.

  • E
    Nov. 8, 2022

    Marion Forks Campground

    Quiet campground

    Located off Hwy 22, past the fish hatchery, far enough that you can’t hear road noise. Less than 20 sites total, all first come first serve, $12 a night or $6 with interagency pass. Mostly full on a Friday night. Clean vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, trash, but no water. Nearby trail leads to Marion creek.

  • Jama A.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Milo McIver State Park Campground

    Milo McIver State Park, Oregon

    Campers arriving at Milo McIver State Park are greeted by expansive riverfront sites along the Clackamas River, each offering level ground suitable for both tents and larger RVs. The mist rising off the water in the early morning creates a serene atmosphere, while a convenient boat ramp allows paddlers to launch kayaks and canoes directly from their campsite. Mature fir and alder trees provide ample shade, and every site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring for evening cook-outs. The park’s well-maintained facilities include potable water stations and a modern bathhouse with hot showers, ensuring comfort even on extended stays. Outdoor enthusiasts will find an on-site disc golf course and miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. After a day of adventure, guests often unwind by the riverbank, watching local wildlife—herons and kingfishers are frequent visitors—and spotting rafters drifting downstream. To streamline travel plans, many visitors pre-book an airport transfers service, allowing them to arrive at Portland International Airport and head straight to the campground without the hassle of car rentals. Those planning multi-destination itineraries across the Pacific Northwest appreciate the provider’s reliable city-to-city rides, which offer door-to-door transport in comfort and style. All in all, Milo McIver State Park combines picturesque riverfront camping with a wealth of recreational options and modern conveniences, making it an ideal destination for families, solo adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Campers seeking both relaxation and activity will find it hard to beat this versatile Oregon treasure.

  • Aria R.
    Jul. 30, 2017

    Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

    Crowded Disc Golf Fun

    I am going to try staying here again in the winter, the sites are small and close enough together that in peak summer season it’s pretty darn noisy, the joyful din of summer break.

    Lots of trees around the tent sites so there is a lot of shade which is nice. Shorter driveways though so not a lot of room for extra cars. The ADA accessible spots are great, paverstones under the picnic areas and such; very nice.

    If you like disc golf this is definitely the place to go, huge sprawling shaded course is very inviting and everyone who was playing looked like they were having a good time. Great destination for lazy bike rides, miles of paved low incline trails. Plus as well, they have a bike tools available as well, a work station for light repairs.

    Full service campgrounds, yurt sites have more space around ‘em so it may be a better option for in the future.

    Good river and fishing access, lots of low-key trails to explore. Dogs are welcome on leash and there is a designated area for them to romp too.

  • Heather B.
    Aug. 12, 2018

    Trout Creek Campground

    Small but quiet

    This campground sits right off HWY 20 along Trout Creek. On the primitive side, the sites are small, vault toilets and potable water are provided. You’ll hear the cars whizzing by, so if you want a peaceful and serene spot, this might not be for you. However, it would be a good basecamp for exploring the area.

    Just a skip up the road is the trailhead to Walton Ranch and Trout Creek trails. Both trails are adventurous in their own right. The Walton Ranch trail provides some local history. it has easy elevation gain, is mostly shaded along it’s maintained gravel and dirt path, and there are plenty of benches to stop and rest along the way. At the end of the trail, you’ll stand on the platforms overlooking Walton Ranch - a valley for local wildlife to graze. Trout Creek trail is a 6.4 mile out and back trail with over 2,200 feet elevation gain. A great trail to challenge you and get you away from the highway if that’s what you’re looking for.

  • Andrea R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2019

    Riverside at Detroit Campground

    Great campground. Very smokey from the 2017 fires.

    There are several Riverside sites at this campground. I had booked last minute and this was the only one available in the area. Nice vault toilets, lots of room for RVS the river is nice and back from the lake. Late checkout time at 1pm which is nice. Lots or restaurants and mini stores in the area. Black berry picking available All around the lake. Several hiking trails. I didn't explore much due to how bad the smoke was.

Guide to Stayton

Tent camping near Stayton, Oregon offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed spots nearby, campers can find the perfect setting for their outdoor adventures.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Stayton, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Stayton, OR is Santiam State Forest Butte Creek Falls Campground with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Stayton, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 51 tent camping locations near Stayton, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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