Foster Lake and the South Santiam River are the primary attractions for pet-friendly camping near Sweet Home, Oregon, which sits at an elevation of around 540 feet above sea level. This Willamette Valley location experiences mild summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F, making it ideal for outdoor recreation with pets from June through September. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months when rainfall increases.
What to Do
Water activities on Green Peter Reservoir: Access boat launches at Whitcomb Creek County Park where you can enjoy fishing, swimming and boating. "This such a nice cheap campground, and it's super close to a boat ramp onto Green Peter! You can check in online or in person, which is extremely convenient," notes Kaitlyn D.
Hiking to waterfalls: The area offers several accessible waterfall hikes within short driving distance. "McDowell creek falls where there are a couple of medium grade hiking trails that can be muddy. The falls are quite beautiful and worth a visit even if you're not into hiking since most of them even the bigger ones are accessible with just a short walk," explains Kassidy D. from Waterloo County Park.
Disc golf: Play a round at the course in Waterloo Park, which offers a different recreational option from swimming and hiking. "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," shares Ally T.
What Campers Like
River access for summer cooling: The South Santiam River provides multiple access points perfect for dogs. At Cascadia State Park Campground, "We spent most of our time walking the trail and finding spots to swim and tube down the river. The farther we walked, the fewer people we saw and the views and pools were indescribably stunning," reports Amber D.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the forested setting of many campgrounds. "Huge sites, ample tree coverage, near river and trails! All sites are walk up this season only - while transitioning to Linn County management," notes Lisa V. about Cascadia State Park.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "This is the nicest and cleanest park we've stayed at in a long time. Sites are cleaned between guests. Sites are level and well thought out to maximize privacy," writes Heather H. about River Bend County Park.
What You Should Know
Reservations highly recommended: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Best to RSVP through www.linnparks.com on popular weekends or take your change for any open sites," advises Cindy U. about Whitcomb Creek.
Seasonal water levels: Swimming spots vary based on water levels throughout the year. At Waterloo County Park, be aware that "current is swift.. swimmers seem to get in trouble every year here," warns Len S.
Varied campsite privacy levels: Site layouts differ significantly between campgrounds. "Sites were really easy to get into. River was pretty and plenty of kids playing," reports Jacob R. about Waterloo, while at Cascadia, "Some sites have a lot of privacy, and some are wide open."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At River Bend County Park, enjoy "a great playground for the kids in the central meadow," mentions Cassie M.
Swimming safety precautions: Supervise children closely around water. "The campground is just off HWY 20 and is first come, first serve. There's plenty of shade, potable water, showers and toilets," explains Heather B. about Cascadia State Park.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter hiking paths suitable for children. "Great place for kids and adults and pets. Play area, fishing ramp, camp sites and plenty of car or RV parking," shares Cococounty L. about Waterloo Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several parks offer complete services for RVs. At Edgewater RV Resort and Marina, "just steps away from Foster Lake. Edgewater is super clean, tidy, and has nice RV spots. Located just outside the cute little town of Sweet Home," according to Blaine B.
Site pad conditions: Many campgrounds feature concrete or paved pads. "We came here to meet up with a Facebook camping group. Nice level sites with water and electric. Dump station on site. The sites are private with picnic tables and fire pits," reports Kathy B. about River Bend County Park.
Seasonal options for golfers: For RVers who enjoy golf, Mallard Creek Golf and RV Resort offers specialized packages. "Mallard Creek is gear up for the serious golfers so the summer has special packages for the RV site with golfing from Memorial day weekend to the end of September," explains Cindy U.
