Camping sites near Westfir, Oregon range from riverside locations to forested retreats within the Willamette National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet in the western Cascade foothills, where summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter snow closes many campgrounds from October through April, with spring runoff creating higher water levels in the Willamette River's tributaries.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Black Canyon Campground provides direct access to hiking trails along the Willamette River. "There are nice trails running through this campground. It was nice and quiet and plenty of space and privacy from your neighbors," notes Shannon C. The campground connects to several miles of riverside paths.
Water activities: Casey's Riverside RV Resort offers excellent river access for swimming and fishing. "Great paved large riverfront views spaces, good fishing in the river, clean and well maintained facility," reports Robert H. The resort features premium river views from many sites.
Waterfall hikes: Multiple waterfall trails are accessible from Lund Park Forest Camp. "Easy access to the Brice creek trail, and the Tressel creek falls. Also there is gold panning allowed in the creek," explains Brandon A. The Trestle Creek Falls trail forms a 5-mile loop that passes two waterfalls.
What campers like
Swimming holes: Hobo Camp Campground provides direct river access from most sites. "Nice quite place though on the road, it's not highly traveled though. It's right on the river except the group camp," mentions Larry B. The campground offers several riverside sites with natural swimming areas.
Natural sounds: The rushing water creates peaceful background noise at many campgrounds. "Though we could hear a little traffic from the highway, we could also hear the river and enjoyed the river access trail at the back of the site," one visitor noted about Black Canyon Campground.
Privacy between sites: Cedar Creek Campground offers well-spaced sites with good separation. "The camp spots are large and far enough apart that you don't feel like you are intruding on your neighbors," explains Donna Y. Many sites include direct access trails to the creek.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds are located near active rail lines. "The train tracks are literally across the river. Maybe 200 ft away. The train runs all day and sadly all night," notes Ryan C. about Black Canyon Campground. Bringing earplugs is recommended if you're a light sleeper.
Limited services: Most forest service campgrounds have minimal amenities. "No water despite being listed here. Nice little campground with swimming holes nearby and good waterfall hikes," Lawrence F. reports about Cedar Creek Campground.
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "We stayed at site 19 and loved it! I think it's the best spot in the campground," shares Carl L. about Blue Pool Campground. Booking 3-6 months in advance is recommended for weekend stays between June and September.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Cascara Campground offers safe swimming areas with oversight. "The camp sites were decent size and they have life jackets for little ones," Jessie S. reports. The campground includes a designated swimming dock.
Playgrounds and fields: Some campgrounds include recreational facilities beyond camping. "There was a nice playground which did surprise us that my kiddos liked. Along with access to a nice swimming hole next to the campground," mentions Kelli B. about Rujada Campground.
Weekday visits: For families seeking quieter experiences, midweek camping offers more solitude. "We went on a weekday in June and had no issue getting a nice campsite," Michael shares about Cascara Campground. Tuesday through Thursday typically sees lower occupancy rates.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Casey's Riverside RV Resort offers premium paved sites for larger vehicles. "The spots facing the river are amazing, but even the second row was nice," notes Julie B. The resort includes full hookups with 50-amp electrical service.
Leveling challenges: Forest service campgrounds may require significant leveling for RVs. "The site was small and parking was tight for two vehicles," Shannon C. mentions about Black Canyon Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is essential for most national forest campgrounds.
Limited big rig access: Most forest campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. "The sites only have enough room for one vehicle, and many did not appear long enough for a larger motor home over say 20 feet," Todd M. notes about Black Canyon Campground. Vehicles over 30 feet should stick to dedicated RV parks like Casey's Riverside Resort.
