Tent campsites near Williams, Oregon sit within Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 7,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while fall brings cooler nights and vibrant foliage. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through September due to winter snowfall making access difficult in higher elevations.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Squaw Lakes offers a lake with distinctive silver shale sparkles in the water. "This is truly an Oregon gem. Swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, trail cycling, you name it, this place has it," notes Jennifer A. The water typically feels warm even in early summer.
Hiking to Oregon Caves: Access Oregon Caves National Monument via a 2.5-mile trail from Cave Creek Campground. "Located within 3.5 miles from the Oregon Caves National Monument, this campground is the closest you will get to the Caves," reports Kelli B. The trail connects directly to the monument, allowing campers to avoid driving.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies provide exceptional night viewing conditions. "The night sky up here is simply breathtaking..wonderful," writes Kevin R. about Cave Creek. Sites at higher elevations like Mount Ashland Campground offer unobstructed views with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many campers value the uncrowded nature of Williams area campgrounds. "Not alot of people come here and I like it. very mellow. lots of wildlife," says Kayleigh W. about Squaw Lakes. For most tent sites, weekdays remain especially quiet.
Lake swimming: Applegate Lake provides accessible water recreation. "It's got a great beach area for kids to swim and play. Full of huge trout," reports Diana D. The lake maintains swimmable temperatures from June through early September.
Free camping options: Mount Ashland Campground offers no-cost tent sites. "It is a marked campground that is FREE. Simply follow the road past the ski area and you will find it," explains Hannah H. Sites include fire rings, though they fill quickly during summer weekends.
What you should know
Difficult access roads: Many campgrounds require driving on rough roads. "It's a pretty long dirt road to get to the campground, make sure you have good tires that can handled rocks/dirt terrain," advises Johnny G. about Bolan Lake Campground.
Pack-in/pack-out requirements: Most primitive sites require carrying out all trash. "You'll have to walk in," explains Jennifer A. about Squaw Lakes, though she notes "the option to hire the camp host and his four-wheeler to drop your gear off at your site."
Weather considerations: At higher elevations, temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Abby M. warns about Mount Ashland: "The sunsets are GORGEOUS and stargazing is amazing but it is WINDY and I mean, drops 20 degrees windy, rocks the van windy."
Limited water sources: Many campgrounds lack potable water. "Bring your own water!!" emphasizes lhasa G. about Mount Ashland Campground. Some sites like Bolan Lake offer lake access but no treated drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Some locations offer easier access for families with young children. "It's got a great beach area for kids to swim and play," notes Diana D. about Applegate Lake, making it suitable for families seeking water activities without difficult hikes.
Nature exploration opportunities: Wildlife viewing enhances the camping experience for children. "Lovely place, lovely drive in... Had dear running around while I was setting up the tent," reports Noie V. about Mount Ashland.
Accessible water features: Cedar Bloom provides family-friendly water access. "Super pretty scenery, hosts were super kind. Great for kids with a river on site nearby," shares Katie G., though she notes one section is "designated as a nudist-friendly beach but is well-marked."
Weather preparations: Temperature fluctuations require extra planning with children. Jennifer A. advises: "Pack warm clothes for night and be sure to have good bug spray, even for when you're unloading..."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Cave Creek Campground warns against larger vehicles. "Despite its close location to the Caves, it is extremely hard to take any type of RV there. The road is paved, but Extremely Narrow with limited visibility," cautions Kelli B.
Leveling challenges: Mount Ashland presents parking difficulties for RVs. "The place to park for vehicles is far from level. Even with camper jacks I was sleeping at an angle," explains Onyx E., who recommends smaller vehicles only.
Turn-around limitations: Maneuvering larger vehicles proves difficult at several sites. Abby M. notes Mount Ashland is "Not meant for big campers or large RV's. Bumpy 1/4 to the campground and very tight turnaround spots in the pull in areas."
Alternative parking strategies: When campground access is limited, adaptations may be necessary. "If you have a van or camper I would recommend parking at one of the more level pull offs before the campground then just walking up for the view," suggests Onyx E.
