Home » Recreation Areas » Willamette National Forest, Oregon Camping & Hiking

Willamette National Forest, Oregon Camping & Hiking

Willamette National Forest Image Gallery

Listen

Willamette National Forest

The Willamette National Forest offers a stunning choice of year round recreation for day-trippers and vacationers alike from hiking, camping, fishing or skiing in the Cascade Mountains to picnicking or rafting along one of our scenic rivers. Seven major volcanic peaks rise within the Forest’s Wilderness areas: Mt. Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack, Mt. Washington, the Three Sisters, and Diamond Peak.

Activities

BIKING, BOATING, CAMPING, FISHING, HIKING, OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLE, PICNICKING, WINTER SPORTS, RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, WILDLIFE VIEWING, FIRE LOOKOUTS/CABINS OVERNIGHT, SWIMMING, HORSE CAMPING

Willamette National Forest Camping Reservations

Reserve your campsite at these Willamette National Forest camping areas:

BIG LAKE >> Camping Area

Big Lake Campground sits at its namesake lake along Santiam Pass, a 4,800-foot mountain pass through the Cascade Range in western Oregon.

Campers enjoy views of the lake with the beautiful Mt. Washington as a backdrop.

BIG LAKE WEST CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Big Lake West Campground offers sites located on the shores of Big Lake, situated at the top of the Santiam Pass. Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors are numerous and range from off-highway vehicle exploring to swimming and hiking.

BLACK CANYON CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Black Canyon Campground in Oregon rests next to the Middle Fork of the Willamette River. This scenic campground is heavily shaded by towering hemlock, cedar and Douglas fir. Fishing and kayaking are a popular pastimes.

BOX CANYON GUARD STATION CABIN >> Camping Area

Box Canyon Guard Station sits beneath a canopy of Douglas fir at an altitude of 3,620 feet on the West Cascades National Scenic Byway. It is located approximately 75 miles southeast of Eugene, Oregon in the Willamette National Forest. The guard station was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 and used as a dwelling for fire guards. They were the smoke chasers, often riding on horseback through the tall timbers to the location spotted by the lookout tower guards. The first on the scene, they often tried to put out any fires they may have found on their own, or reported back for additional help. The guard station is open from early May through the end of October and is easily accessible by car. Some creature comforts are provided, but guests should be prepared to pack in most of their own supplies and gear.

COVE CREEK >> Camping Area

Cove Creek Campground rests on the shores of Detroit Lake at an elevation of 1,600 feet. Campsites are surrounded by towering trees, which create a secluded atmosphere. Visitors enjoy exploring the area and discovering osprey hovering above or nesting in many trees.

The campground lies in the Willamette National Forest, which stretches 110 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Range.

DELTA >> Camping Area

Known for its access to rafting and drift boat fishing on the McKenzie River, Delta campground, located along a portion of the West Cascades National Scenic Byway, is one of the largest and most scenic campgrounds on the McKenzie District. Access to the river, hiking and mountain biking trails are nearby. Reservations are available May through Mid-September, they can be made at least six months in advance, but must be made at least 4 days prior to your intended arrival date.

FISH LAKE REMOUNT DEPOT CABINS >> Camping Area

The Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins sit at an altitude of 3,200 feet near the Santiam Pass Winter Recreation Area of the Willamette National Forest. These cabins were built in 1924 and are rustic, historic wood structures that include a dispatcher’s cabin, a springhouse shed, a garage/woodshed and a fire hose shelter. The commissary cabin and a supervisor’s cabin, known as the Hall House, are available as rentals either separately or together. The compound was once used to house firefighters and corral horses. It is still used as a rest and resupply station by the Forest Service horse packer heading in and out of Wilderness areas. Guests must walk, cross-country ski or snowshoe approximately one mile to access the cabins from Lava Lake Sno-Park.

FOX CREEK GROUP CAMP >> Camping Area

Fox Creek Group Camp is situated in a large, open area surrounded by dense forest near the point where Fox Creek flows into the Breitenbush River. Campers are sure to enjoy the variety of recreation like hiking, fishing and swimming. The group site accommodates tent campers plus RVs and trailers of any size. The campground is a short walk from the Breitenbush River, a tributary of Oregon’s North Santiam River, at an elevation of 1,700 feet. The river’s clean waters flow from short forks of snow melt in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness.

The Willamette National Forest stretches for 110 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Range in western Oregon. The varied landscape of high mountains, narrow canyons, cascading streams, and wooded slopes offer excellent sightseeing and recreation opportunities.

FRENCH PETE CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

French Pete Campground sits at an elevation of 1,800 feet in the Willamette National Forest. This popular escape from summer heat is heavily shaded by a thick canopy of conifers. There are numerous opportunities for hiking and fishing in the area.

GOLD BUTTE LOOKOUT >> Camping Area

The Gold Butte Lookout sits on the summit of Gold Butte at an elevation of 4,618 feet in the Willamette National Forest. It was built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. During World War II, the lookout served as part of Aircraft Warning System station in defense of the nation against air attack. It was staffed around the clock, usually by a husband and wife team, who reported all passing aircraft within sight or sound to a central filter center. The lookout stands on 3-foot stilts and is surrounded by glass windows and an exterior catwalk, offering a panoramic view of the Cascades. It is furnished with refurbished or replica furniture. The lookout is typically open from early July through mid-October. It is accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to walk the last half mile on difficult and steep terrain to reach the lookout. A high clearance vehicle is recommended for the drive. Guests will need to pack in most of their own supplies and gear.

HARD ROCK CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Hard Rock Campground is a small, primitive group site along the South Fork of the McKenzie River in Oregon. Many hiking trails are available in the surrounding area and the river offers fishing opportunities. Just east of Cougar Reservoir, the Castle Rock Trail leads through a dense Douglas-fir forest to the top of Castle Rock. Once on top, hikers enjoy impressive views of the McKenzie River Valley below.

HOOVER CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Hoover Campground rests on the shores of the sparkling Detroit Lake. The area is covered with towering trees, making for secluded, peaceful camping spots. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating on the lake, and hiking on the Stahlman Point Trail.

HORSE CREEK GROUP CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Horse Creek Group Campground is located on the banks of Horse Creek. The rushing water and tall Douglas fir trees offer a cool, shady spot to enjoy the outdoors. A picnic area offers a great spot for grilling and group gatherings.

HUMBUG CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Humbug Campground is surrounded by old-growth forest, and during the months of May through July, the rhododendrons bloom in a spectacular show of pink blossoms. Recreation in the area is abundant — plan on a quiet stroll through this lush forest or fishing on nearby Breitenbush River.

15. INDIAN RIDGE LOOKOUT >> Camping Area

The Indian Ridge Lookout sits at an elevation of 5,405 feet in the Willamette National Forest. Built in 1958, the lookout was used for firefighting by Forest Service personnel until 1973. The lookout is still staffed occasionally during emergencies. The lookout is accessible by car, although the access road is rocky. Guests must be prepared to climb steep, narrow steps up the 30-foot tower to access the lookout’s cabin. The accommodations are primitive, so guests should be prepared to pack in most of their own supplies and gear.

ISLET CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon. It offers a uniquely peaceful setting on the water and along remote shorelines, surrounded by forests of Douglas fir and mountain hemlock. Recreation in the area is abundant with the lake an ideal location for water activities like sailing, canoeing and swimming.

LIMBERLOST CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

This secluded and quiet campground is nestled along beautiful Lost Creek on the Willamette National Forest. The campgroundâ??s name was derived from "Girl of the Limberlost," a classic novel by American writer and naturalist, Gene Stratton-Porter.

LOOKOUT CAMPGROUND AND BOAT LAUNCH – WILLAMETTE >> Camping Area

Lookout Boat Launch and Campground is found on Blue River Reservoir. The campground includes a day use picnic area, a boat launch, floating dock, and a day use/overflow parking area. It is located on a beautiful open meadow with plenty of sunshine. The campground sits on the northeastern shore of Blue River Reservoir and can be accessed by driving the West Cascades National Scenic Byway. It is located in the Willamette National Forest on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains.

MCKENZIE BRIDGE >> Camping Area

McKenzie Bridge Campground is located an hour east of Eugene, Oregon. It rests in the shade of a towering grove of Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees along the banks of the McKenzie River.

The campground is small and pleasant, providing an ideal atmosphere for relaxation, fishing and bird watching. Feathered residents of the river include osprey, great blue herons and bald eagles.

MONA >> Camping Area

Known for fishing, boating, canoeing and other water sports, Mona campground is located on the northwest shore of Blue River Reservoir. The campground is situated on a long, narrow strip of mixed conifers along the shore, the thick vegetation secludes each campsite, allowing for privacy. Slopes of mixed conifers and other trees surround the area.

Reservations are available May through mid-September. They can be made up to six months in advance, but must be made at least four days prior to your intended arrival date.

NORTH WALDO >> Camping Area

OLALLIE ON MCKENZIE HIGHWAY >> Camping Area

Nestled on the banks of the McKenzie River and Olallie Creek, Olallie Campground provides a superb setting for a getaway into nature. The lower loop offers mesmerizing views of both the river and the creek while the upper loop is set further in the trees with many sites facing the creek. The McKenzie River is a tributary of the Willamette River that runs for 90 miles, flowing into the southernmost end of the Willamette Valley.

PACKARD CREEK >> Camping Area

Packard Creek is a popular campground on the western side of Hills Creek Reservoir. The family-friendly destination offers a picturesque setting among tall trees, with views of the lake beyond. Most of the campground is accessible.

PARADISE IN OREGON >> Camping Area

Paradise Campground is indeed a paradise for campers. Tucked within a lush, old-growth forest of Douglas fir and western red cedar, the area portrays a sub-tropical vibe along the banks of the McKenzie River, where catch-and-release trout and steelhead fishing is a popular activity, along with whitewater rafting and kayaking.

RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Camping groups looking for a more rustic riverside experience will enjoy Red Diamond in Willamette National Forest. The campground can accommodate up to 25 guests and provides plenty of shade for warm, summer days. The South Fork McKenzie River and many fishing holes can be accessed from the site. Hiking trails can be found in the surrounding area and the Cougar Reservoir is just a short drive north.

RIVERSIDE AT DETROIT >> Camping Area

Riverside at Detroit Campground is an excellent outdoor retreat designed for campers more interested in a remote experience. Guests are greeted with grand, mature cedars and Douglas fir trees as they drive into the campground.

The Coffin Mountain Trail Area is located nearby, with splendid trails to explore like the Coffin Lookout and Bugaboo Ridge Trails.

More Oregon Campgrounds

27. ROARING RIVER (GROUP) >> Camping Area

Campers at Roaring River Group Campground enjoy the soothing sounds of the aptly named Roaring River flowing past their campsites. The campground is tucked in a wooded setting in Willamette National Forest and can accommodate up to 50 overnight visitors.

Fishing and hiking are a few of the best ways to spend the day here. The nearby Three Sisters Wilderness offers plenty of trails to explore.

28. SANTIAM FLATS CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Santiam Flats Campground rests on the shores of the sparkling Detroit Lake. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating on the lake, and hiking on the nearby Stahlman Point Trail. The campground lies in the Willamette National Forest, which stretches for 110 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Range. The varied landscape of high mountains, narrow canyons, cascading streams and wooded slopes offer varied recreational opportunities for visitors.

29. SLIDE CREEK >> Camping Area

Slide Creek Campground is a unique camping destination just 50 miles from Eugene, Oregon. Located on the east bank of the Cougar Reservoir, it is known for handy access to boating and many water activities. It is also near Terwilliger Hot Springs, a pristine area with 5 soaking pools fed by the Rider Creek waterfall.

30. SOUTHSHORE AT DETROIT LAKE >> Camping Area

At an elevation of 1,604 ft., Southshore Campground is located on the south shore of Detroit Lake, a little west and south of Piety Knob Island. Campsites are surrounded by towering trees, creating a secluded atmosphere. Visitors enjoy exploring the area and discovering osprey hovering above or nesting in the trees. The campground lies in the Willamette National Forest, which stretches along the Cascade Range.

31. SUNNYSIDE CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Sunnyside Campground is located along the southeast side of Cougar Reservoir at 1,700 feet in elevation. A large grove of conifers provides shade to these campsites. Motorhomes and trailers not recommended due to the steep entrance into the campground.

32. TIMBER BUTTE CABIN >> Camping Area

Timber Butte Lookout is located in the Fall Creek area of the Willamette National Forest at an elevation of 3,650 feet 19 miles from Lowell, Oregon. The cabin is open from mid-April through late October, offering the chance to enjoy beautiful scenery and a variety of recreational activities. The lookout was constructed in 2005 as a replica of the L-4 gabled-style lookout with wooden catwalk commonly built in this region in the 1930s. It was built through volunteer efforts with a $10,000 grant from Lane County and other contributions by individuals and organizations. The cabin can be accessed by car, but guests should expect to walk about 300 feet uphill from their parking spot. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

33. TIMPANOGAS >> Camping Area

Timpanogas Shelter sits on shore of its namesake lake at an altitude of 5,300 feet in the Willamette National Forest within the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area. The cabin was patterned after the old Civilian Conservation Corps 3-sided shelter and was built in 1991 with the help of a University of Oregon outdoor school class and the Walker Rim Snowmobile Club.

The cabin is typically open from late June through late October. It is accessible by car, but the last 7 miles of the road are rough and narrow.

34. WARNER MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT >> Camping Area

Warner Mountain Lookout is the winter wonderland destination for avid winter sports enthusiasts looking for a challenge. This replica of an old cupola-style lookout sits on a high vantage point of Warner Ridge at an altitude of 5,300 feet in the Willamette National Forest approximately 75 miles southeast of Eugene, Oregon.

This is a very remote location; the road to the lookout is not plowed or maintained for winter travel. The lookout can only be accessed by skis, snowmobiles or snowshoes, a distance of 2-10 miles. Conditions on the mountain change rapidly. You need to be evaluating conditions and weather throughout your stay. Sudden storms and high winds may make skiing and driving conditions difficult. Experience in cross-country skiing or snowshoe travel is highly recommended. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

The reward is worth the effort of getting there. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the pristine snow-covered landscape and starry skies on clear nights.

35. WHISPERING FALLS CAMPGROUND >> Camping Area

Whispering Falls Campground is an excellent outdoor retreat designed for campers more interested in a remote experience. Guests are greeted with grand, mature cedars and Douglas fir trees as they drive into the campground.