The best camping near North Santiam State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next North Santiam State Recreation Area adventure.

50% (2 reviews)

This verdant riverside campground is a fine day stop no matter where you're coming from or going to.

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North Santiam Campground

9 sites In North Santiam State Recreation Area

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Top-rated campgrounds near North Santiam State Recreation Area

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Action Sports Roamer Sites

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Sandy, OR

Attention... Skiers/Snowboarders, MTB'ers, Hikers, Skaters, Adventurers, all outdoor enthusiast. Our outdoor sauna is open and ready for you to heal all your mountain soreness. The year 1989 birthed the renowned Windells Camp and High Cascade Snowboard Camps at Mt. Hood, Oregon. What resulted today is a 28-acre action sports mecca that serves as the pathway for nearly every action sports professional and these special Roamer Sites give you a sampling of that experience. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Hood and its year round lift-accessible snow, these adventure rigs sites for #vanlife, roamer trucks, and nimble RVs place you on the campus of one of the world's premiere destinations for actions sports. We also offer glamping tents. With Sandy Ridge mountain bike trails within a mile, and over 40,000 sf of skateboard park, there is something for everyone. Your Roamer Site one of 18 featuring a communal campfire and picnic tables. From 5-7pm M-F and 7-10AM Sat/Sun you'll have access to our private indoor and outdoor skateboard parks, mountain bike trails, and fitness center. Want coaching and more? We have that! (additional fee and reservation apply). Guests love it here "Great camp setup with RV sites and tent Glamping site in nice big canvas tents. I had a quick in and out one night stay and enjoy the big trees and peace and quiet. Located next to an actions sports camp, and the hills which allow for lots of hiking and relaxing"

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(1053)

Molalla Ripple

12 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Mulino, OR

Welcome to Molalla Ripple! Enjoy the sound of the Molalla River rolling over the rocks. Wake up to birds chirping and tall trees swaying in the breeze. The campsites are sixty feet apart for privacy and one path leads to the river with two private beach areas to relax. NOTE, Please use the clean bathrooms provided. DO NOT USE THE WOODS or camp site as your bathroom room. Thank you, let's keep things clean and safe for others to enjoy! Jsm Ranch started in 2004 when we moved from Oregon City. This once was a working farm with two chicken barns and a meat locker barn. All had been fallen into disrepair before taking owner ship. In 2007 we planted 200 trees and 100 shrubs to build a new fish and wildlife habitat along Woodcock Creek. We then focused on building fence along the Molalla River to protect water quality. From there, we started raising Black Angus in 2008 after spending four years cleaning up the fields to make it safe for animals. We strive to be good stewards with our land as we continue to work with Clackamas Soil and Water to make better working lands. You're only minutes away from the town of Molalla to grab a bite, groceries or other camp items. Also have Molalla Rodeo just 3 minutes away on July 1-4th. You won't be disappointed for a great breakfast at Tammy D's (Mulino, OR), sandwiches at Humble Pig or pizza at Bear Creek Pizza & Pub.

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Mt. Hood Enchanted Forest

4 sites · Lodging, Tents17 acres · Sandy, OR

The property is 17 acres of enchanted forestland with 300ft of Sandy River frontage. Both sides of the river are part of the Enchanted Forest There are a few walking paths and plenty of room to roam. Bring your paddle board or kayak to enjoy the river (Dependent on river level/current strength) The property is located within 2 miles from the Sandy Ridge Mountain bike trails and Barlow Wayside hiking trails. It's approximately 20 minutes to Government camp, ~ 35 minutes to Timberline for skiing and biking and an additional ~ 15 minutes to Mt. Hood Meadows. Approximately 50 min to PDX airport, and 1 hour to downtown Portland.

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Tranquil Orchards and Wine Tours

19 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Aurora, OR

Reconnect with nature and escape the heat on our 28 acre filbert orchard, better known as hazelnuts. On hot summer days you’ll find the temperature under the orchard canopy almost 10 degrees cooler at the heat of the day. Feel free to roam the orchard, play a little hide and seek, hang up a hammock, or bring a blanket and picnic. Within walking or bicycle distance are fantastic amenities including Aurora Colony Vineyards, Pheasant Run Tasting room (Friday summer concerts), Aurora Colony Pub (acoustic Thursday), Filbert Farmhouse Restaurant, White Rabbit Bakery, Aurora Healing Gardens-psilocybin experience (advanced reservation required), a local park and lots of antique stores. Within driving distance are tons of wineries, breweries, distilleries and the Woodburn Outlet Mall. Here to visit wine country? We have a local wine tour company that offers pickup at our site: www.TheGoodVibesTour.com New this year are several cool features including: Outdoor Shower: Available April 1st - November 30th Flushing Toilets Picnic Tables Hammocks to enjoy while you visit Pick-up available on property for wine tours Welcome to our little bit of paradise; we hope you enjoy your time here in the Willamette Valley. Cheers, ~Shane

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GeerCrest Farm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Salem, OR

GeerCrest Farm was settled by the Geer family in 1848, and is still owned and stewarded by the family. The house Ralph and Mary Geer built in 1851 stands and is one of the oldest in Oregon to remain in the same family. The farm features creeks, forests, pastures, orchards and gardens as well as the historic buildings. Currently we have four friendly sheep and a small flock of Mallard ducks to keep us company. The Pioneer Memorial Orchard features over 50 vairieties of pre 1850 apple trees. The Heritage Grove has ten fruit and nut trees that were recognizeds as a memorial the the early pioneers of the nursery trade by Oregon Heritage Tree program. The 20 acre property, offers three tent camp sites Including the Tree House site, as well as two forest cabins and a small forest bunkhouse (sleeps 6). Our peaceful, small farm offers a reflective immersion in nature and history among the occasional quacking of ducks and baaas of sheep. The scenery from all corners of the farm is incredible - a favorite is the westward view of the valley pasture at sunset -- called "Homer's View" after famous political cartoonist and Geer descendant, Homer Davenport. No matter which camping site you choose, the sounds of the creek, pond frogs, or conversing owls are sure to lull you to sleep. Feel free to roam the farm, but always leave gates as you find them, open or closed. Please say hello to our sheep and barn cats (they may say hello first). Explore the Heritage Grove of historic trees, the Memorial apple orchard and pear glade with varieties circa 1840s, indulge your senses in our medicinal herb garden, and chat with our farm family while they water the veggie gardens, if you so wish! Your experience will certainly be unique to the season. Your host Jim Toler represents the fifth generation of the farm and will happily share stories of the farm and it's history. GeerCrest Farm is truly an off-the-beaten-path gem.

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The Falls at Elk Prairie

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Molalla, OR

Learn more about this land: Centrally located in the Foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range between Portland and Salem, The Falls at Elk Prairie is a small, private, "ADULT ONLY" (minimum of 21 years) Campground that has newly opened in the fall of 2021. Please review the Rules to make sure they can be adhered to. Dogs, outsourced Firewood and more then 4 people per Site are not allowed. This isolated and remote Campground will provide the quiet, peaceful and semi private camping experience you're looking for. Currently there are three camp Sites located at the base of a forty foot Waterfall flowing into a damned Pool/ swimming Hole. Each Site has it's own primitive picnic Table, seating and fire Ring. The rest Room is conveniently located nearby for Privacy. The camp Sites are accessible by a short Walk, taking only a few Minutes. Enjoy a variety of Activities all close by, such as hiking, mountain Biking, swimming, fishing and nature watching. The Molalla River Corridor, Table Rock Wilderness Area and Silver Falls State Park are all close by.

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Lake Labish Farm

14 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · Keizer, OR

Convenient rest area less than one mile off of I-5 near Keizer Station. Pull off the freeway, park your truck, trailer or RV and get some rest. This land is an active farming operation that has been going on, since 1850s. Make sure to catch the sunset or sunrise with an almost unobstructed view. We are located less than a two-minute drive from Keizer station for all your shopping needs including: Target, Lowes, Starbucks, In-N-Out, Chick-fil-A, McDonalds, a gas station and many more.

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Ruah Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Sublimity, OR

Ruah Ranch is situated on an old donation land claim and was also the site of nomadic Native American tribes. Abundant wildlife graces our acres as well as the beautiful Thoroughbred horses we raise. You'll likely be serenaded by coyotes in the evenings and may catch sight of them during the day. Three different species of raptors frequent the skies above the ranch and beavers have established outposts along the stream. Beautiful thoroughbred horses will greet you every morning from their nearby pasture while you enjoy your coffee in the shade of the trellised Wisteria. Silver Falls State Park is a short drive away where you can enjoy hiking and biking and even guided horseback rides. The Oregon Gardens are just a bit further north on the outskirts of Silverton and many wineries dot the landscape all around. If you like horses we’ll be happy to give you a tour of the ranch and introduce you to the resident equines, many of which have horse racing royalty up close in their lineage.

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Zen Acres

9 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Estacada, OR

We purchased this slice of paradise in 2003 as a place to relax, recharge, and someday build our dream home. It started as nothing more than a gravel road leading to a small clearing with an old bus and a couple decks. Our children have grown up out here learning a deep respect for nature and the real (non digital) world. Now empty nesters, we live on site. Part of our retirement planning is to spend next several years developing the lower portion of the property (approx. 15 acres) into a campground and retreat for our guests, as well as our own family, friends, and grandchildren. The campground area (currently) consists of a handful of primitive campsites, and a group area. We are working steadily on improvements, including adding more sites, improving the roadways, and upgrading the common areas. In all we will likely have 12-15 total designated camping areas (including a group area or two, as well as a couple hike to secluded locations). For much more details regarding our philosophy, history, and future plans please visit our website at www.zen-acres.com. There is also a lot of additional information listed on the individual campsite descriptions.

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Celestine Fields

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Carlton, OR

Learn more about our land: In the heart of Willamette Valley AVA and on a breezy 20-acre lot of land we provide a space for you to set yourself up and enjoy life's natural bounty. We offer a small shared space with a wood fire stove and some essential items, many games (such as horseshoes), and lots of picnic areas and tables sprinkled throughout the property. The location is central and half an hour to just minutes away from water bodies Hagg Lake, Nestucca River, Yamhill River, little Niagara Falls, Mill Creek, Baker Creek, Rainbow Lake and more… Such as the Carlton public pool. If your looking to jaunt from camp a little further, we are located a little over an hour and a beautiful drive to the Pacific Coast and about an hour from Portland. Although in the middle of the country woods, we are surprisingly only two and a half miles from the adorable and quaint town of Carlton. So beside the views, you’ll be alongside some fantastic eateries and outstanding winemakers. Being raised in the community, and over ten years of experience in the local food and wine industry, I can give recommendations aplenty. ꕥ The property has been in our family since the late 60’s and has recently been transferred in ownership to the next generation! It’s been a large adjustment with many precious memories in tow. In hopes to carry on the legacy we opened up camp mid-summer 2021, and it’s a work in progress (as work normally is!), but has been a beautiful experience being in a position to share. There are two family homes on the property with people who truly admire this land we have been given so we do ask you to respect our process in this adjustment, as we miss our grandparents and parents who have worked their entire lives for us to be here. With the work of these past couple seasons, and thanks to our fellow campers, we have been able to lay more gravel, get a more fluid bathroom situation established, and have purchased a 20ft stargazing tent that is in the works of being listed this season! So thank you for your support in this venture and in any form, I’m excited to be apart of your adventure and hope to see you in our neck of the woods soon! ❊ ❁ ❊ - Whitney

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Carsners Tree Farm (CTF)

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Lebanon, OR

Come and enjoy an 8 acre tree farm located near Lebanon, Oregon. We purchased this property in 2019. This is a tree farm with 800+ planted Christmas trees. We put in campsites, a cabin, a barn loft, and a fire pit. We offer these to guests when not being used by our family and friends. Wildlife includes deer, turkey, and quail & 3 active beehives. Guests are welcome to fresh eggs from the chicken coop. We are fully fenced and gated for your family and pets protection. South Santiam River is less than 1 mile for fishing, kayaking, or rafting. Foster reservoir is 30 minutes away and Green Peter Reservoir is 45 minutes away for boating, swimming, and fishing. There is a loop exercise trail that circles the property and offers 30-degree climbs. You can also play games inside or basketball outside.We thought it would be great to have family gatherings and get togethers here and think of this as our slice of heaven, and hope others enjoy it as well.

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Camp Colton

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents85 acres · Colton, OR

One of rural Oregon's hidden gems, Camp Colton is a retreat and event center tucked away on 85 acres of forest about an hour Southeast of Portland. Enjoy hiking our trails, walking our creeks and swimming or canoeing in our creek-fed pond. This is a truly special setting to unplug and relax. Our listings offer something for everyone, including tent camping, RV sites, a tiny house, forest yurt and a cottage that sleeps up to six! All of our listings are pet friendly and allow campfires (burn ban permitting). Amenities for each listing vary from bare-bones to full kitchen and bath, so be sure to read each description carefully and choose according to your needs. ****PLEASE NOTE: IN ADDITION TO OUR ACCOMMODATIONS, WE ARE A WEDDING AND EVENT VENUE, SO YOU MAY HEAR MUSIC AND JOYFUL VOICES ACROSS THE CREEK LATE INTO THE EVENING DURING OUR PEAK SEASON (ROUGHLY MAY 1 - OCTOBER 31). If you prefer only to stay when there is no event on our large site, please inquire before requesting to book. Our guests love staying with us! Check out these comments from past guests: "This place was absolutely amazing! We cannot wait to come back!" "The host thought of everything - every little touch and comfort to make it feel so cozy and glamping-perfect." "The fire pit and chairs outside were excellent, and the stove inside kept it so cozy and warm in there. Plenty of firewood, lighter, blankets, water & lights - we wanted for nothing!" "It felt very remote and we could hear the water all night, but it’s actually not remote and so we appreciated that the camp was gated at night." "Such a great place!! We are going to recommend it to all our friends and can’t wait to get back. Thanks to Neal for being an excellent host when we arrived!!"

The best camping near North Santiam State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

If you find yourself traveling Highway 22 about 26 miles east of Salem on the North Santiam River — stop.

While this state park plays happy host to campers, it's a perfect place to eat a picnic lunch and decompress. Free-range picnic tables dot the beautiful riverfront grass area, and the restroom facilities have flush toilets. What more do you need? Well, maybe a road-weary leg stretch on the 2.4 miles of old-growth forest trails.

North Santiam State Park is one of the finest steelhead fishing spots on the river. Drop your line from the shore, or hit the deep waters via the gravel boat launch. The primitive campground offers nine first-come, first-served walk-in/bike-in/boat-in campsites with picnic tables and grills.

There's an awesome reservable group picnic shelter with electricity, tables, and fire pit that accommodates 60. Stop by anytime to dip your toes in the cool river and soak up the silence. The day-use area is open year-round, and parking is free.

When to go

The ideal time to visit North Santiam State Recreation Area is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the park is fully accessible. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking solitude. Winter can be challenging with potential park closures due to weather conditions, so always check ahead.

Know before you go

Check the Marion County Parks website or call 503-588-5036 for the latest park operations and reservation information.
Day-use parking permits are required; ensure you have one to avoid fines.
Adhere to park rules and FAQ for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Accessibility varies across the park; contact the park directly for specific needs.
Stay informed about current conditions by calling the park at 800-551-6949 before your trip.