Camping sites near White City, Oregon are situated in the southern Rogue Valley at approximately 1,400 feet elevation where seasonal temperatures range from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows around 30°F. The area straddles two distinct ecosystems with the Cascade foothills to the east and the drier valley floor to the west. Campgrounds operate with varying water restrictions depending on drought conditions, and many sites require advanced planning during summer weekends when occupancy rates exceed 85%.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lost Creek Lake at Joseph H. Stewart County Park offers bass fishing in calmer waters near the dam. "We found an area over before the dam that was calm and good bass fishing," notes one camper who visited the park and enjoyed multiple days on the water.
Biking on paved trails: Multiple campgrounds connect to regional trail systems that extend for miles. "The bike trail goes on for many miles and is quite enjoyable. You can bike into the nearby towns while staying on a safe trail," writes a visitor to Valley of the Rogue State Park who appreciated the well-maintained pathways.
Water recreation: Between swimming, boating, and kayaking, water activities dominate summer camping in the region. At On Sacred Grounds Relaxation Retreat, campers find a quieter alternative with just three sites total. "Everything was great, RV electrical was perfect (30 and 50 amp available), and loved the scenery," notes one guest who appreciated the uncrowded setting.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer larger-than-average camping spots. "Our site was one of the most spacious in the park with huge trees, which we had to move our rig over a bit so we could get our slides out. However these shade trees were a blessing as they protected us from the unusually high temperatures," reports a camper at Valley of the Rogue State Park Campground.
Dog-friendly amenities: Designated pet areas make extended stays more comfortable. "The camp sites all have water (even in dry camping area though spigots were not threaded), picnic tables, BBQs and fire pits. There are amazing free hot showers and bathrooms in each of the loops... There were also multiple playgrounds and a large gorgeous dog park," reports a visitor to Joseph H. Stewart County Park.
Central location for regional exploration: Campgrounds serve as hubs for exploring southern Oregon attractions. "This campground is well-managed and located on the northern part of Medford in Central Point. The landscaping and grounds are impeccable. The sites are level and each site has a picnic table and campfire space, as well as small lawn areas," notes a camper at Southern Oregon RV Park who appreciated the convenient base for regional exploration.
What you should know
Seasonal water restrictions: Fire and water usage rules vary by season and drought conditions. At Rogue Elk County Park, "The dump station is out of commission, for good. The host said the nearest dump station is in White City," reports a recent visitor, highlighting infrastructure challenges in the area.
Highway noise considerations: Interstate 5 runs through the region, affecting some campgrounds more than others. "This campground is rogjt of the highways. Super convenient. Very clean park facility. Fairly close sites but pretty quiet," explains a camper at Valley of the Rogue State Park, noting the tradeoff between convenience and noise.
Cultural experiences: The regional camping sites offer proximity to events and performances. At Jackson Wellsprings, a visitor noted, "A place I always love to stop when traveling to our property in Southern Oregon! When you camp here for $25 a night, you are granted access to the Hot Spring and mineral pool. The town of Asheville is not that far from here—a must visit town!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Fenced off leash dog park, bike trails, fishing, clean bathrooms and showers, tent and yurt camping and more! This campground offers great amenities the public and travelers whether they want to stay a few hours or a whole week," writes a visitor to Valley of the Rogue State Park who found plenty for children to do.
Waterfront activities: Choose sites with safe water access for children. "The river at this time was extremely swift so be aware if you have dogs or kids. The river bank is overgrown but there is a boat ramp," cautions a visitor to Rogue Elk County Park, highlighting the importance of supervision near water.
Diverse accommodation options: Families can choose between tent sites, RV hookups, or cabin rentals at several locations. At Jackson Wellsprings, a camper noted, "We camped in our van for $25 per night. Tent and car camping available. There are RV hookups too. Some small cabins and yurt structures for rent too. On site showers and bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV sites range from spacious to challenging throughout the region. At Medford-Gold Hill KOA, a visitor observed, "Pull thru sites are short my 35 footer and car just fit. Multiple sites car were sticking in to the road making it a little close pulling out in the morning."
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies by campground. "Our site was a big site with a beautiful BIG Red Cedar tree. The playground was behind us it was a little loud sometimes but not bad," notes a visitor to Joseph H. Stewart County Park who appreciated the spacious setting despite some noise from nearby facilities.
Dump station locations: With several park facilities experiencing maintenance issues, knowing dump station locations is critical. "Water is good. T mobil and att work really well. There is also a separate dump station that is clean and well kept. The trash guy actually empties the dog waste bins as well as the normal waste bins," reports a camper at Valley of the Rogue State Park, highlighting the maintained facilities.
