Tent campsites in Umpqua National Forest range from riverside spots to higher elevation lake settings, with elevations varying from 1,000 feet along the North Umpqua River to over 5,000 feet at mountain lakes. Most tent-only sites open from late spring through early fall, with July through September offering the driest camping conditions. Winter snow typically blocks access to higher elevation campgrounds from November through April.
What to do
Swimming at natural swimming holes: Steamboat Falls offers excellent swimming opportunities along the North Umpqua River with options for various skill levels. "The swimming is so nice, there is something to do for every age and swimming ability," notes camper Stephen T., who describes it as his "favorite local spot."
Fishing from shoreline campsites: Shoreline access at Lake In The Woods provides convenient fishing directly from campsites. According to Brant T., there's "nice fishing right from the campsites," making it perfect for anglers who want to cast a line without traveling far from their tents.
Waterfall hiking: Several campgrounds offer nearby waterfall trails within walking distance. "The short hike to Hemlock Falls is beautiful and worth it," explains a camper at Lake In The Woods. Similarly, April C. notes that near Lake In The Woods "there are trails you can hike to waterfalls. They are gorgeous and worth the drive."
Hot springs soaking: While conditions vary significantly, the Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead provides access to natural thermal pools. As Stephanie Z. describes, "The hot springs themselves are lovely. Go with a sense of humor and appreciation for the nature and you'll enjoy it."
What campers like
Secluded riverside tent spots: Island Campground features riverside tent sites with natural sound barriers. Annie C. reports, "The river definitely drowns out the road which is right above the campground," creating a more secluded feel despite proximity to the highway.
Spacious campsites: Many tent campers appreciate the generous sizing of sites throughout the forest. At Lake In The Woods, Nicole M. notes, "The marked camping spaces are huge with a lot of space between you and the next closest site. Amazing views across the water."
Natural shade: Forest canopy provides cooling shade at most tent sites. At Ash Flat Campground, campers report "very nice camp ground. Very close to the river," with ample tree cover keeping tents cooler during summer heat.
Morning swimming: Early day water activities are popular when camping near water features. Stephen T. specifically recommends Site 4 at Steamboat Falls for its "best view in the park" and notes that it offers "a jumping rock and a few small swimming pools for the kids, great swimming for everyone."
What you should know
Poison oak presence: Several campgrounds have poison oak growing near water access points. At Island Campground, Jordie G. cautions, "The paths down to the water have some poison oak growing by them so be careful."
Limited water sources: Most tent-only sites lack potable water. At Lemolo Lake, campers must bring their own water supplies or filter from the lake. Lindy B. described finding "a big pull out with big boulders blocking a trail, which led down the the lake! Two great spots for tents," but noted visitors need to be self-sufficient with water.
Vault toilet conditions: Maintenance of facilities varies significantly by season. Annie C. observed at Island Campground that the "vault toilet is about as clean as can be expected from a campground without a host. It did need to be serviced/emptied."
Off-grid experience: Cell service is virtually non-existent at most tent sites. Jordie G. advises, "We did not have cell service so download offline maps before you get here," when visiting Island Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Baseball field group site: For larger family gatherings, the Steamboat Ball Field Group Site provides unique amenities. Allison W. notes it "could probably accommodate up to 50 people comfortably although the official site says 100" and features "horseshoe pits and plenty of room to rig a volleyball net or set up other group games."
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Look for gentler water areas for younger children. Stephen T. points out that Steamboat Falls has "a few small swimming pools for the kids," making it easier to supervise children while still enjoying water activities.
Campground accessibility: Some campgrounds require substantial travel on unpaved roads. Callie B. explains accessing Lake In The Woods required "18 miles on gravel one lane roads," which may be challenging for families with young children or those prone to carsickness.
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be intense at certain locations, particularly early in the season. Lindy B. reported at Lemolo Lake that "mosquito's were very thick" when camping near the water, suggesting families bring appropriate repellent.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV site leveling: Many tent-friendly areas have uneven parking surfaces. At Island Campground, Annie C. warns, "Because of the size and the way the road loops on itself this is NOT a campground for rigs over 22'. All of the sites are on the river side with easy water access to the N Umpqua River. Sites are large with lots of trees, but not all sites are level."
Seasonal road conditions: Forest service roads can deteriorate in wetter seasons. Campers at Lake In The Woods note that while "winter or summer its gorgeous," access can become challenging for larger vehicles during spring runoff or after heavy precipitation.
Parking limitations: Even at drive-in campgrounds, parking areas may restrict larger vehicles. Annie C. specifically cautions that Island Campground has a "small" configuration with "only 7 sites on a lollipop loop, sandwiched between the highway and the river," making navigation difficult for larger RVs.
