Kiahanie Campground

This is a nice little campground on the north fork of the middle fork of the willamette river. It only has about 10-20 walk up only sites. It is about 20 miles past Westfir on forest rd 19. It is a ways out, which is nice, just remember to hit services in Oakridge before you head out as those are the closest. This park is one of the only sites out here, so you kinda have to luck out and have a good plan B. The few sites that are on the river are quiet, private and cozy. Some even have river access, though the river is quick and shallow it does make for good wading, but not much swimming or floating opportunities. Great place to feel the cool air off the river and just relax, will be returning for sure. There are no showers and only pit toilets, there is also a old fashioned water pump on site.

PROS:

• river front sites
• Private sites
• Distance from civilization

CONS:

• No showers
• Walk-up only (no reservations)
• Distance from services

Tried to hit Blair Lake for some early season (June 17) camping, only to find impassible roads with 4' snow banks. 4,800ft elevation, I wasn't expecting snow, but a nice gentleman and his son recommended a way back down the mountain that would lead toward Box Canyon and some other campsites.

I ended up at Kiahanie because it was closest (having already been in the car for four hours), and there were riverside sites available. The sites are large, and have a few hundred feet between them. There's water, but no electricity (or maybe limited electric), bathrooms, and an awesome host named Leigh.

They weren't selling firewood, and the pickins' were slim after a big rain, but managed to scrounge enough for a few hours of heat.