Within Siuslaw National Forest, Carter Lake Campground operates as a US Forest Service facility that accommodates both drive-in and boat-in access. The campground runs from May through September at $22 per night, with reservations available but no pets permitted. RVs up to 30 feet can access the sites, though the terrain presents specific challenges for some campers.
The campground's layout creates distinct camping experiences based on site selection. Lakefront sites require navigating stairs or trails down from upper-level parking areas, which Ann E. notes are "not recommended for people with mobility issues." Site 8 sits closest to the small lake, providing direct water access for kayaking and floating. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, with firewood available for collection on-site rather than purchase.
Clean restrooms serve the campground, though campers should bring hand sanitizer as soap isn't consistently stocked. The location provides "very convenient" access to Oregon Dunes hiking according to multiple reviews. A trail extends from the campground's back section all the way to the coast, where visitors can search for shells. Highway noise remains minimal despite the forest setting.
For campers wanting different amenities, Waxmyrtle Campground operates nearby with additional facilities.
Description
Overview
Carter Lake Campground is a family favorite in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This campground is located on Carter Lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. The Carter Dunes Trailhead is located within the campground, and the Pacific coast is just a short drive away.
Recreation
Hike the Carter Dune Trail, which attracts campers and locals alike. Fishing for rainbow trout is a good way to pass the time, and canoeing and kayaking are excellent on Carter Lake. The dunes region is also famous for off-road vehicle riding trails.
Facilities
Drinking water and flush toilets are available and each site has a campfire pit, picnic table, and trash. Parking aprons are paved.
Natural Features
Campsites are nestled among shore pine, sitka spruce, and Douglas fir, with hedges of rhododendron. Carter Lake spans 28 acres at an elevation of 100 feet. The campground is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 271-6000.
Nearby Attractions
Carter Lake Campground is located near several non-motorized hiking trails, including Siltcoos Lake Trail and Threemile Creek Trail. Visitors can also use the campground as a base to explore the area's waterways, including the Pacific Ocean, Tahkenitch Lake, and Siltcoos Lake.
Charges & Cancellations
Campsites that are not occupied after 24 hours of arrival time will be considered as a "no show" and sites will be released for others to reserve. If campers will be arriving after 24 hours of their arrival time, they are encouraged to call the ranger station at 541-271-6000 to let staff know.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSiuslaw National Forest Carter Lake Campground is located in Oregon near Gardiner
Directions
From Florence, travel south on Highway 101 for about 10 miles. The entrance to Carter Lake Campground is on the west (right) side of Highway 101.
Coordinates
43.8566667 N
124.1461111 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/21/26- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/21/26
AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/21/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/21/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/21/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/21/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 1 hr 15 min from Eugene, OR
- 1 hr 41 min from Corvallis, OR
- 1 hr 51 min from Albany, OR
- 2 hrs 13 min from Salem, OR
