🌝 2024 Solar eclipse: Book now for 4/8

The best camping near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Detroit Lake adventure.

The best camping near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Detroit Lake adventure.

Camping near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

94% (23 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Detroit Lake adventure.

Escape to the mountains, forest, and lake all in one park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

99%
(834)

Molalla Ripple

11 sites ¡ Lodging, 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 tree's 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.
from 
$20
 / night
98%
(206)

The Falls at Elk Prairie

3 sites ¡ 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 campground that has newly opened in the fall of 2021. 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 pond/ 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.
from 
$50
 / night
97%
(411)

Camp Cedar Creek

24 sites ¡ RVs, Tents37 acres ¡ Sandy, OR
***PLEASE CLICK "SHOW MORE" AND READ EVERYTHING BEFORE BOOKING OR ASKING QUESTIONS. TLDR -- we are an AWD/4WD required, pack out what you pack in (no trash service), dog friendly (unleashed dogs are allowed) property*** Hi! We're Lauren and Jeremy (and Juno). We met through a van life community, and fell in love on the road, camping at different national parks and Hipcamp sites from Jeremy's RAV4 (our first month dating was spent traveling up and down the west coast). We are now the proud new owners of Camp Cedar Creek, an incredible 37-acre property that was built from the hands of the owner before us over the last 40 years. We're so honored to carry on his vision of this magical place, and share it with as many people exploring the Pacific Northwest as we can. We hope your stay here will bring you a deep sense of peace, inspire creativity, give you whatever it is you're in need of at this moment in time. Take a stroll down Cedar Creek, sit and read by one of the seven ponds, get your heart pumping on the hilly trails on the north side of the property, pick as many blackberries as you can find if in season. We can't wait to host you! Learn more about this land: Located right off Hwy 26, directly in between the city of Portland and the peak of Mt. Hood, you'll find the most peaceful corner of the Pacific Northwest for you to pitch your tent or park your van. We are conveniently located just 7 minutes from downtown Sandy, known for its food trucks, outdoor gear shops, and the famous Joe's Donuts. Though we are right off a busy highway, all you'll hear are the tranquil sounds of Cedar Creek's flowing waters and the chirping birds who live in the cedars overhead. The small clearings throughout the property provide natural privacy for our campers, and the 37 acres sprinkled with trails and ponds offer exploration and a sense of wonder we hope you'll enjoy. Please note: we have a vanlife community that utilizes the barn up on the hill (check out kift.com if you're a nomad or vanlifer looking for an awesome community on the road) and we also live up on the hill in the house next to the barn. NON-NEGOTIABLE RULES: PACK OUT WHAT YOU PACK IN, aka leave no trace - our most important campsite policy. We have no garbage cans or trash services. The trash you create will be your responsibility to take with you when you leave. And please don't place it at our neighbors house (yes, this has happened). If you leave your trash for us to clean up, we will charge a $100 cleaning fee. 4WD REQUIRED. Due to the traffic we've experienced recently, the steep gravel roads can be tough for some cars and rigs (particularly on the way out) so for everyone's safety, we are restricting access to only vehicles equipped to handle the terrain. We're sorry for the inconvenience. If you've been here before and know you can get by with your car, feel free to book again, but please do not message us asking us to advise on the vehicle you have. If we have to dig you out, we will charge a $200 fee. DOG FRIENDLY. We are as dog friendly as it gets here. Unleashed dogs are allowed on this property. If you have a fear of dogs, or have dogs that are not friendly with other people or fellow dogs, this probably isn't the right campsite for you. Of course, we expect all dog owners to keep an eye on their pets so they don't disturb other campers. NO FIREARMS, FIREWORKS OR ILLEGAL SUBSTANCE USE. This is not a late night party campsite. This property is best in the daylight and we encourage campers who want to take full advantage and will abide by the quiet hours. QUIET HOURS: 11pm-8am. While our individual sites are quite private we ask that you still keep the noise to a minimum between 11pm and 8am. We live onsite and will enforce these if we have to (please don't make us). OTHER INFO: CELL SERVICE. There is an AT&T tower on our property so that gets the best service by far. Verizon is pretty good. T-mobile does not get reception here. BATHROOMS. We have one porta-potty onsite during the summer season (late May through September). It's serviced every week.
from 
$45
 / night
98%
(497)

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"
from 
$40
 / night
99%
(340)

Calliope Retreat

4 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents11 acres ¡ Beavercreek, OR
Welcome to Calliope Vineyard and Retreat Center! We are open for camping and cabin bookings, as well as full property use: weddings, friend gatherings, family gatherings and retreats. (Full property use, cabin, all campsites, and front of property) please inquire for details/cost/available dates) *If you don't see a weekend open for dates for a full property booking, please inquire as we have some weekends blocked off for potential weddings/retreats. THE PROPERTY: Our campsites are on two beautiful ponds with a seasonal creek in an old growth cedar forest with a few trails to enjoy the stillness and magic of the woods.  There are 11 acres with a vineyard, fruit orchard, large garden, cob garden wall for lounging, fire pit at the vineyard with several picnic tables and hammocks, a big open field above the camping area, and the beautiful cedar forest. *Coming Spring 2024: a large deck off the barn for music, dinners, yoga and gathering. We consider this land sacred. We are only caretakers passing through, and honor this place and the original people of this land: The Molalla, Clackamas, and Kalapuya tribes, who were "relocated" to the Grand Ronde Reservation in the mid 1800's. Please be mindful of the energy of the forest, and all the people and animals who still reside and have come before. The forest is home to beavers, coyote, deer, raccoons, salamanders, frogs, and many bird and bug species. Our dream is to share this land with all people to create community in harmony with nature and provide a safe space. We welcome, open heartedly, people of all gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and artistic expression. WHEN YOU ARRIVE: Proceed down our long driveway to the bottom. Take a left at the sport court, and a right at the pool. On your left is the woodshed with the "Calliope Farm" mural. You will see two parking spots to the left of the woodshed (Harmony Hollow parking) and two on the right (Hobbit Circle) You can unload here and grab a cart. Across from the parking, on the red barn, is the water station, and the hot tub sign up sheet. You will be walking/carting your things down to the forest where you will pass the outhouse on the left. For Harmony Hollow, after you cross the first bridge, take the path to the left and cross a second bridge and the campsite is on your right. For Hobbit Circle, cross the first bridge and walk around the pond, which will lead you to the campsite. The campsites are a short walk, (200 yards) but there is a decline, and you need to be a little hearty to walk back up the hill with your things. You will have a good amount of space and privacy for your group, but may encounter others visiting the forest as well. enjoy a social time while respecting that some come for quiet and reflection. We provide a picnic table, fire-pit and fire extinguisher. (with an option to purchase firewood)  There is wood that can be found on the ground, but keep in mind we have very wet winters and springs. FIRE SAFETY: If you bring your own firewood, make sure it is DRY to avoid excess smoke. We respect fire bans, and take fire safety very seriously. (as well as our elderly neighbors). Be extra careful with cigarette sparks, and please keep your fire on the smaller side. We reserve the right to suddenly ban fires if it is feeling extra dry. Please do not burn smokey wood (oak or wet wood) and do not leave fires unattended. Please make sure fires are fully extinguished before retiring for the evening or departing. We wish to all work together for safety, with intelligence, common sense, and fire consciousness. WE HAVE TWO OUTHOUSES: One is the original outhouse from the 70's located behind the chicken coop and closer to the parking area. It is rustic but functional. The second one is a newer outhouse about a 3 minute walk from the campsites at the top of the small hill. These are pit toilets, and we provide sawdust or ash, toilet pape,r and a hand wash station and/or sanitizer. Please let us know if they need attention. OFFERINGS: We have a cedar hot tub, pool (seasonal), massage therapy, an outdoor shower, and wine. The charge for the pool and/or hot tub is $15 per person for 75 minutes of hot tub time. The pool is unheated, and is available any time after July 1st, and may be shared with us or other campers, but you must schedule the hot tub for privacy at the sign up sheet on the barn. If you would like to shower and not hot tub, the cost is $5 per shower, otherwise its included in the hot tub fee, and required for hot tub entrance. If you, or anyone in your group did not pay for a hot tub ahead of time, you will find a Venmo link on the barn, or can bring cash. HOT TUB: The hot tub sign up sheet is on the barn next to the water station. It is first come first serve. If you are a larger group using the tub, consider choosing a later spot for water displacement. If the hot tub is too hot, please add cold water from the hose to desired temp. PLEASE do not turn down the temperature on the hot tub, but use the cold water to create desired temp, but not below 102. If you are staying multiple nights and would like to hot tub again, the cost is $10 pp, instead of $15. Kids under 10 are $5 The hot tub is to the right of the house down by the garden. Your time is private, but we may need to visit/work in the garden. PLEASE read and be mindful of the hot tub etiquette posted in the hot tub area. WINE/VINEYARD: ~Silas Wines~ This is the original vineyard for Silas Wines founded in 2010. Our Pinot Noir vines are 40 year old Wadensville clone planted by the Ritter family in the early 80's. We have delicious Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and RosÊ for purchase. (Inquire upon arrival) You are welcome to walk the vineyard, and explore the front of the property. Our neighbor Beth, to the west, is a master gardener, and loves to give tours of her gardens or you can wander on your own. (please inquire) Dogs: Please let us know if you will be bringing a dog. We and our neighbors have chickens that are penned and free ranged. Please DO NOT allow your dog (or yourself) to roam on our neighbors property over the fence in the next field to the East. He is very friendly, and we have a good relationship, but that is his request. Please pick up after your dog. Please do not lose site of dog, and keep them on leash in common areas. Please do not leave your dog unattended at the campsite or anywhere on the property where they will bark and disturb other guests. THE CARAVAN SPOT: Please let us know if you are needing a van camping spot opposed to tent camping in the woods. We do have a few different options for car camping, and when booking select the "caravan spot". We also can split up your group if some are tent camping and others need van camping, but you would need to book the two different sites. We look forward to hosting you and invite you to enjoy camping at Calliope Farm and the Cedar Forest. +++Our goal is to donate a portion of earnings to NAYA (The Native American Youth and Family center) and to MMIW (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women).
from 
$60
 / night
100%
(3)

Mountain View Escape

2 sites ¡ Tents2 acres ¡ OR
Mountain View Escape Camp is the setting to get outside and connect with nature and enjoy our spectacular view of the cascade mountains. Grab your favorite book and relax in our heavy-duty comfortable swing built for two and listen to the sound of the beautiful birds. We also have several benches for you to enjoy by the trees on our small two-acre lot. It's not uncommon to see deer and bald eagles. During your stay enjoy a day filled with yard games including a volleyball grass court, designated Bocce Ball Court, Corn Hole, Darts, Horseshoe Pit, or a nature walk not far from your campsite. Off our property but fairly close you can go for a swim, fishing, tubing, rafting, boating, waterski, or take a tour of the fish hatchery. The Santiam River is only 1/2 mile away and home to some of the best Salmon, Steelhead and Trout fishing. It's not uncommon for groups to go down the Santiam River in rafts or tubes. We're happy to suggest guides for scheduled rafting trips. 38 miles to Big Lake. 36 miles to Hoodoo ski resort. 33 miles to Silver Creek Falls the largest state park in Oregon with over 9000 acres, over 24 miles of hiking trails, 10 waterfalls, horse trails and a 4-mile bike path. 33 miles to Marion Forks Fish Hatchery, 11 miles to 400-foot-deep Detroit Lake, 1 mile to a secluded fishing pond. 1.5 miles to epic hiking at Monument Peak with 12 miles of trails. Numerous trails are also close to your campsite. 3.6 miles to one of the best pizza places in Oregon. 3.2 miles to Rosie's Coffee House, which are famous for their scones, smoothies and coffee. Kid and animal friendly. We recommend animals be on a leash.
from 
$45
 / night
97%
(348)

Historic, Quiet Organic Farm

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres ¡ Salem, OR
GeerCrest Farm occupies Kalapuya land, settled by the Geer family in 1847, 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. GeerCrest Farm and Historical Society manages the front portion of the land and has provided farm-life experiences for all ages since 2007, along with day and overnight experiences for individuals and families. Along with its history, the valley view, small creek and pond, farm animal, and diverse wildlife at GeerCrest is a truly unique experience. On the 20 acre property, we offer two tent camp sites, a tree house, as well as two woodland lodgings. Our peaceful, small farm offers a reflective immersion in nature and history among the occasional chatter of chickens 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. Please say hello to our flock of chickens, barn cats (they may say hello first) and small but mighty herd of sheep. Explore the Heritage Grove of historic trees, the Memorial apple orchard and pear glade with varieties cerca 1840s, indulge your senses in our medicinal herb garden, ponder the historic 1854 black cottonwood tree 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. GeerCrest Farm is truly an off-the-beaten-path gem.
from 
$35
 / night
99%
(554)

Ruah Ranch

4 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.
from 
$40
 / night
96%
(109)

Camp Colton

14 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!!"
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Old Elkhorn Golf Course

30 sites ¡ RVs, Tents120 acres ¡ Lyons, OR
Previously known as Elkhorn Golf Course. The property sits on 461 acres in the Little North Fork Valley with small ponds, streams and the Little North Fork River flowing through the lower level of the property. It has many open and wooded areas as well as beautiful mountain views throughout. The property is approximately 10 minutes from the Town of Gates and Lyons. It is also 25 Minutes from the Detroit Lake day use area.
from 
$45
 / night
100%
(206)

Zen Acres

8 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.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Natural Spring Riverfront Farm

4 sites ¡ Tents55 acres ¡ Lyons, OR
Three beautiful camp sites in the grass under trees for tent camping. 3/4 sites are next to the river with 1800 ft of private river access. The first site has a fire pit that can be used when the fire danger is medium or lower. All camp sites have river access.! No glass containers please. Free campfire wood available. No toilets, please bring a camping bucket. Parking available across the street.
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

It’s all about the views at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area. Perched on the glittering shores of Detroit Lake, the forested peaks of the Cascade Mountains stretch out all the way to the snow-capped peak of Mt. Jefferson on the horizon. Whether you’re coming to cruise the lake, fish for rainbow trout and catfish, cool off at the swimming areas, or enjoy water skiing and other water sports, the lakeside spot is the perfect camping getaway. There’s just one campground within the Recreation Area, but it has everything you might need, including full hookups, tent sites, and three mini-cabins.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve all RV sites, tent sites, and cabins at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area Campground online via the Reserve America website. 
  2. Online reservations can be made up to nine months in advance. 
  3. With 300 campsites available, there’s plenty of space, but lake-view campsites, boat moorings, and cabins can book up fast over summer and holiday weekends, so reserve as soon as possible.

When to go

Summer is the best time to camp by the lake, and April through September is peak season. However, be sure to check the water levels prior to arrival as they can be unpredictable, and the lake sometimes dries up during late summer. The campground stays open year-round, although some sites are closed during low season.

Know before you go

  • Detroit Lake State Recreation Area is located within the Willamette National Forest, 90 miles southeast of Portland or about a 1-hour 40-minute drive. 
  • Day passes and/or camping reservations are required for all vehicles entering the recreation area, and booking fees also apply. 
  • Blue-green algae, which is toxic to humans and dogs, can bloom at Detroit Lake, so follow park guidance on swimming and water sports.
  • You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Detroit Lake, and there are both reservable and non-reservable moorings available, as well as two boat ramps.
  • Facilities at Detroit Lake include a Visitor Centre with a gift shop and general store, volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, and a fishing dock. The closest dump station is in Salem, 51 miles away. Generators are not permitted.
  • There are accessible restrooms and campsites at Detroit Lake Recreation Area.

Top cities near Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.