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Rogue River National Forest holds Squaw Lakes, a walk-in campground outside Williams, Oregon that requires campers to carry their gear to the site. No RVs can access it, and the approach involves rough terrain, so plan accordingly. The camp host reportedly offers gear transport via four-wheeler for a fee, which can ease the haul considerably.

The lake draws most visitors. Water access is the dominant theme across reviews, with swimming and non-motorized boating both commonly noted. Anglers also find the lake productive. The ground around the site contains visible graphite, which gives the shoreline an unusual mineral texture, and the water itself has a distinctive silver shale sparkle that multiple visitors have remarked on. Wildlife sightings are reported, and the site tends to draw fewer visitors than more accessible campgrounds in the region.

Amenities include drinking water, toilets, firewood, and trash service, which is notable given the walk-in format. Reservations are available and worth booking for summer weekends, since the site's low-key reputation does attract repeat visitors. Flumet Flat Group Campground and Hart-Tish Park are nearby alternatives if the walk-in requirement doesn't fit your trip. "Swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, trail cycling, you name it, this place has it," notes Jennifer A.

The season runs early May through mid-September. Bring warm layers for evenings and reliable bug spray, even during the initial unloading process.

Fee Info

Camping fees are $25 night, which includes 1-vehicle. Additional vehicles are $5 per day. Please print your camping reservation and place visible on dashboard of car. Group Camping is $75 per night, which includes 2-vehicles. Additional vehicles are $5 per day.Day Use Fee: $7 per vehicle. Camp-host may be onsite to collect these fees, otherwise, there is a self-pay station with envelopes. Please place the receipt in your car dashboard window. info@applegatelake.com

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsSquaw Lakes is located in Oregon near Williams

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Jacksonville, Oregon, take Highway 238 west 7 miles and turn left at Ruch on Road 859. Go 14 miles to Applegate Dam, cross over the dam (Road 1075) and continue on pavement 2 miles. When pavement ends, continue 7 miles to the campground.

Address

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VHrUsh4P1Wk5hwgb7
OR

Coordinates

42.1230556 N
123.125 W

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

Drive Time


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Squaw Lakes

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4 Reviews

Visitors frequently highlighted the beautiful lake for swimming and fishing, peaceful atmosphere with few crowds, and diverse activities like hiking and cycling. The pack-in requirement adds effort but enhances the secluded experience.

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Reviewed May. 23, 2019

Great place 👌🏼

Absolutely beautiful and quite. Love the lake and the trails around it. The ground is full of graphite which is pretty cool too 🙌🏼 Went during the off season so I had to lug everything myself so it was tough but definitely a nice low key camping place

Reviewed Jul. 2, 2018

Quite Place

I love camping here. It is so beautiful and peaceful. Awesome size lake prefect for swimming and fishing.

Reviewed Jun. 23, 2018

Always a Family Tradition

This is truly an Oregon gem. Swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, trail cycling, you name it, this place has it.

Pack-in/Pack-out, with the option to hire the camp host and his four-wheeler to drop your gear off at your site. You’ll have to walk in.

The water has the most beautiful silver shale sparkles, and almost always feels warm.

Pack warm clothes for night and be sure to have good bug spray, even for when you’re unloading...

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Squaw Lakes by Jennifer A., June 23, 2018
  • Review photo of Squaw Lakes by Jennifer A., June 23, 2018
  • Review photo of Squaw Lakes by Jennifer A., June 23, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Squaw Lakes Campground in Oregon?

Squaw Lakes Campground requires some effort to access, which helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere. The campground is a walk-in facility, meaning you'll need to park and carry your gear to your site. Alternatively, you can arrange with the camp host to transport your equipment using their four-wheeler service. This more remote access contributes to the quiet environment and low visitor numbers that many appreciate about this location. For specific directions, contact the managing agency before your trip as the campground is somewhat off the beaten path.

What camping facilities are available at Squaw Lakes Campground?

Squaw Lakes Campground operates on a pack-in/pack-out basis, so be prepared to carry out all trash. The campground features walk-in sites that offer privacy and a natural setting. Recreational opportunities abound with swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, and trail cycling all available. There's a camp host on-site who can assist with gear transportation for a fee. The campground doesn't appear to have elaborate facilities, which contributes to its unspoiled, quiet atmosphere. This is primarily a destination for those seeking a more primitive camping experience in a beautiful natural setting.

What does Squaw Lakes Campground in Oregon look like?

Squaw Lakes is a true Oregon gem nestled in natural beauty. The centerpiece is a stunning lake with remarkably clear water, perfect for swimming and fishing. The surrounding landscape features hiking trails and cycling paths that wind through the wilderness. The area is characterized by its peaceful setting and abundance of wildlife. The ground contains interesting graphite deposits that add to its unique character. Overall, Squaw Lakes offers a serene natural environment with beautiful lake views and forested surroundings that make it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.