Silver Falls State Park area offers multiple camping options within a temperate rainforest environment at elevations between 1,000-1,700 feet. The region receives approximately 80 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush landscapes around Sublimity, Oregon. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-45°F while summer averages 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking beyond waterfalls: Silver Falls State Park features additional hiking options beyond the popular waterfall trails. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" says April F. about Silver Falls State Park Campground. Some trails permit dogs while others don't, so check trail regulations.
Mountain biking trails: The park maintains dedicated mountain biking routes separate from hiking paths. Jennifer H. notes about Howard Creek Horse Camp: "Stunning camping in a temperate rainforest. Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails."
Adventure activities: Camp Dakota offers numerous adventure options including ziplines and axe throwing. Bjorn S. explains: "We had a great time at Camp Dakota. Our yurt was comfortable and 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
Cabin comfort: The cabins at Smith Creek Village provide heated accommodation with basic furnishings. Candice B. mentions: "We stayed in a rustic cabin at this park and it was perfect. Two full beds and two small bunks make for an affordable spot for friends to gather. Book in advance because it fills up fast. The cabins are basic, but do have electricity."
Riverside camping: John Neal Memorial Park offers sites directly on the North Santiam River. Mike E. reports: "We were in spot 16 right next to the river. The rushing water was very soothing and loud by the way but no problem for us. The camp host came to our site and greeted us. This is a beautiful Park under the trees and next to the river."
Clean facilities: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. Thamar D. states: "What a find!!! We love it here. The campground is very well laid out and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite. The hosts are super friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The area receives significant rainfall, especially during spring and fall. Melissa L. advises about Silver Falls: "BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain."
Booking requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, particularly during summer months. Derek N. notes about Smith Creek Village: "Smith Creek Village is such a great place for easy lodging in nature. My family stayed in one of the tiny cabins. The cabin was very clean and well kept. The cabin was nearby a few other similar cabins, but everything felt very private."
Winter operations: Several campgrounds remain open year-round but with limited services. Laura M. shares about Silver Falls State Park: "This is a gorgeous state park, absolutely worth the visit even if you're just coming to the day use area. Amazing hikes, the main one being the one with 10 waterfalls - dogs aren't allowed on this one though and it takes about 3 hours to hike it, so heads up on that."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated playgrounds and recreational areas. Jason S. describes Camp Dakota: "We did a group site and once we got the wristbands on the kids, they went off and explored and had a lot of fun. The staff is #1 safe, then #2 they are super fun. The kids would come back to camp and we'd wash them off, feed them, then they would go back out again."
Biking routes: Champoeg State Heritage Area features paved biking trails suitable for children. Shari G. explains: "This campground is dripping in green in the spring! It has a very park-like quality with manicured landscaping and very nicely laid-out sites with plenty of space in between. The park offers hiking, cycling paths, huge picnic areas and a disc golf course."
Short hiking options: For families with younger children, consider the accessible portions of trails. Thomas B. advises: "Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from," allowing families to select appropriate trail lengths.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites at Silver Spur RV Park & Resort offer full hookups but spaces may be limited in size. Andy B. notes: "The RV spaces are very easy to get into being angled. We stayed in a pull through space, easy in and easy out. Only giving a 4star rating for the very small RV spaces. Was very crammed for anything more than a last minute stay."
Pet-friendly campgrounds: Most campgrounds near Sublimity welcome pets with specific regulations. For travelers seeking pet-friendly camping near Sublimity, Oregon, Kris J. recommends: "We have stayed at Silver Spur RV Park several times before and have always thoroughly enjoyed our time here. Not only is the staff professional, knowledgeable and responsive but also very friendly and they take care to make sure everyone enjoys their stay!"
Site selection: Choose RV sites based on noise considerations and proximity to amenities. Tim G. shares about Emerald Valley RV Park: "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."
