Accessible by car with reservations available through the national reservation system, this Forest Service campground accommodates RVs up to 115 feet along Trout Creek in the Willamette National Forest. The $25-50 nightly rate includes standard vault toilets, picnic tables, and trash service, though campers should plan to bring their own water or purification supplies.
Multiple reviewers highlight the campground's appeal to anglers, with direct creek and river access from several sites. Kelly N. notes "You will want to bring a pot and your fishing pole" when describing the water access. Site #4 draws particular attention for its size and prime river positioning. The location serves as a popular staging area for Deschutes River activities, with rafting guides and fishing enthusiasts often claiming spots for extended stays.
Highway proximity means road noise carries through the forest, though trees and water sounds provide some buffering. The campground sits close enough to trailheads for both the Walton Ranch historical trail and the more challenging 6.4-mile Trout Creek trail, which gains over 2,200 feet in elevation. Rock climbing opportunities exist nearby, though seasonal closures protect nesting birds.
Access involves navigating a narrow tunnel that limits oversized RV entry despite the generous length allowance. For additional options in the area, campers can explore camping spots around Willamette National Forest. Book early during fishing season when demand peaks.
Description
Overview
There are 24 sites on a single loop with four RV pull-throughs ranging from 24 to 40 feet. There are both reservable and FCFS campsites. There are two double vault accessible toilets and one accessible single vault toilet. Drinking water is available from one hand pump well. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the campground in the 1930's, which includes a day use picnic shelter with fireplace that is centrally located along with tables and BBQ grill; there is nearby river access in this day use area. There are about 3-5 spots for parking depending on the size of the vehicles. Scan and Pay is offered at this campground; you may also pay by cash or check for FCFS campsites. There are no refunds, modifications, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed with Scan and Pay payments. This system is the same as putting cash into a fee tube and cannot be refunded. Please download the Rec.Gov app prior to arriving at the campground as there may be no cellular service or very limited service at the campground. Reservations may be made up to 6 months in advance of arrival date by reserving online at RECREATION.GOV or by calling 877-444-6777.
Recreation
Wading and fishing are popular in the river and hikers enjoy easy access to the 2.8-mile Trout Creek Trail and the short Walton Ranch Interpretive Trail. The Menagerie Wilderness can be accessed from the Trout Creek Trail, so hikers and backpackers can explore the area's extensive system of trails.
Facilities
Drinking water is from a hand pump well. There are three vault restrooms available in the park. Parking spurs are gravel and roads are paved. Campfire wood is not readily available at the park. Please plan to bring firewood or purchase from a nearby vendor. Linn County Parks staff, may occasionally, come through the park with firewood available for purchase.
Natural Features
Trout Creek is tucked in a heavily wooded landscape with lichen and moss-draped Alder, Douglas fir, Hemlock, and Maple trees. Campsites are well-shaded and full of ferns and similar sub-tropical greenery. Many sites stretch along the South Santiam River, a 66-mile tributary of the Santiam River.
Nearby Attractions
The Menagerie Wilderness and Trout Creek Trail is located directly across from Trout Creek Campground. To the west, is the historic Long Ranch and now an Elk Refuge. A short wheelchair-accessible trail is located directly across Highway 20 from the campground and accesses a wildlife viewing platform that overlooks the ranch. Nearby is the Old Santiam Wagon Road that stretches along the Highway 20 corridor.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundTrout Creek Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From Sweet Home, OR, follow Highway 20 east for 19 miles and look for signs for the Trout Creek Campground.
Coordinates
44.39694 N
122.07556 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Bend, OR
- 1 hr 17 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 28 min from Eugene, OR
- 1 hr 35 min from Salem, OR
