The best campgrounds near Salem, Oregon with horseback riding

The scenic heart of Oregon is also its capital city. Nestled in the Willamette Valley, Salem is surrounded by diverse landscapes ripe for adventure. Think wetlands, rolling hills, and dense hardwood forests.

Must-see Oregon staples lie in every direction. Portland, the Cascade Mountains, and the Pacific Coast are all just a short drive away. You also find striking wilderness gems right at Salem's doorstep. For starters, spot 200 bird species at Basket Slough, fish the Willamette River, or kayak the riverfront city parks.

Ready to answer the call of the wild? Fall asleep to the crashing of waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park—the biggest state park in Oregon. Rocky canyons and lush forests fill the 9,200 acres. Follow the Trail of Ten Falls to see the famous cascades. (The South Falls drops a whopping 177 feet!) The park's 35 miles of trails are perfect for exploring on foot, by bike, or by horse.

For more camping nearby, check out North Santiam State Park. The hike-in and boat-in sites are your ticket to ultra secluded tent camping. Locals come here to fish the Santiam River for steelheads and trout. For more adventure, get psyched about whitewater rafting or kayaking.

Further into the mountain wilderness, Detroit Lake serves up 32 miles of shoreline for you to enjoy. Hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming are a few favorite activities. For lakeside camping, choose from several national forest campgrounds perched on the shore.

Around Salem, you can also find a host of RV parks and secluded camping spots. Just imagine sleeping under the stars on an organic farm or glamping in a luxury yurt. Just keep in mind that summer is the peak season. For lower campsite competition, think about planning your Oregon trip for spring or fall.

98% (2.6K) • 70 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

The scenic heart of Oregon is also its capital city. Nestled in the Willamette Valley, Salem is surrounded by diverse landscapes ripe for adventure. Think wetlands, rolling hills, and dense hardwood forests.

Must-see Oregon staples lie in every direction. Portland, the Cascade Mountains, and the Pacific Coast are all just a short drive away. You also find striking wilderness gems right at Salem's doorstep. For starters, spot 200 bird species at Basket Slough, fish the Willamette River, or kayak the riverfront city parks.

Ready to answer the call of the wild? Fall asleep to the crashing of waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park—the biggest state park in Oregon. Rocky canyons and lush forests fill the 9,200 acres. Follow the Trail of Ten Falls to see the famous cascades. (The South Falls drops a whopping 177 feet!) The park's 35 miles of trails are perfect for exploring on foot, by bike, or by horse.

For more camping nearby, check out North Santiam State Park. The hike-in and boat-in sites are your ticket to ultra secluded tent camping. Locals come here to fish the Santiam River for steelheads and trout. For more adventure, get psyched about whitewater rafting or kayaking.

Further into the mountain wilderness, Detroit Lake serves up 32 miles of shoreline for you to enjoy. Hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming are a few favorite activities. For lakeside camping, choose from several national forest campgrounds perched on the shore.

Around Salem, you can also find a host of RV parks and secluded camping spots. Just imagine sleeping under the stars on an organic farm or glamping in a luxury yurt. Just keep in mind that summer is the peak season. For lower campsite competition, think about planning your Oregon trip for spring or fall.

98% (2.6K) • 70 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

1. Lake Labish Farm

93%

(182)

6.7mi from Salem · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

A place for short term camping spots - Minimum stay 3 days. Off grid parking. Weekly rate is $ 13.5 a day.

2. Molalla Ripple

98%

(1249)

29mi from Salem · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

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 along the River Shack that 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. Thank you, let's keep things clean and safe for others to enjoy! We are forced to require our guests to pay a cleaning fee that's refundable after your stay. Please add the extra to your booking. We have tried to work with our guests to offer trash service, yet campers leave more than we can handle or clean before our next guest arrives. This is our home and property that we want to share, so let us work together to keep it clean and safe. Thank you from the Toops Family 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 Splat Action Paintball is just five minutes away. Open all year. -March 21 – April 27, 2025 Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival Camp with us while you visit. Just twenty minutes away or thirteen miles. -July 1-4th. The Molalla train park! 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.

3. Powder Creek Campground

99%

(1608)

38mi from Salem · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

Powder Creek Ranch is 362 acres, nestled into a valley, surrounded by forest in the Oregon Coast Range. The campground is in a secluded meadow next to Powder Creek, a pristine year round stream, perfect for wading and playing in. If you're looking to unplug and escape from the chaos of city life, we are all about peace and quiet and connecting with nature. Each of our 13 extra large campsites offers access to the creek, a picnic table and campfire ring. All sites accommodate RVs as well as tent camping. No hook-ups or potable water available. There are seven (7) creek side sites, one site next to a pond and all have ample space around them so you don't feel crowded. Our newest addition is a cabin overlooking Powder Creek, tucked away by itself. Solar powered. The Ranch has 1/2 mile of Nestucca River frontage where you can swim or fish, whichever floats your boat. Niagara Creek/Pheasant Creek falls is a nearby hiking trail and there are roads as well as deer and elk trails to explore all over the ranch. If you feel like venturing further, the beach is 23 miles away in Pacific City. Tillamook is 25 miles. We also offer pasture raised pork for sale. A variety of sausages (breakfast, chorizo, Italian, Bratwurst and French Garlic links) and pork chops.

4. Willamette Mission State Park

1 site · Brooks, Oregon

Captivating camping and fabulous fishing tucked in between Portland and Salem.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

5. Silver Falls State Park

96%

(40)

24 sites · Mehama, Oregon

An impressive collection of forested waterfalls make this Oregon park a crowd favorite.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Amico Roma Farm

99%

(150)

23mi from Salem · 3 sites · Lodging

Our farm is a special place in Oregon, close enough to everything yet it feels so remote and private. There are trails throughout the property. Shared steam sauna with cold plunge coming in March 2025. Pets are allowed with a $15 pet fee found in the "Extras"

7. Elk Falls Outdoor Retreat

99%

(347)

24mi from Salem · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Please REVIEW THE RULES TO MAKE SURE THEY CAN BE ADHERED TO. Dogs, anyone under the Age of 21, more than 4 people per Permit are NOT ALLOWED. Any Firewood brought onto the Property, must be PREPACKAGED, STORE BOUGHT FIREWOOD ONLY. This is to protect the Property from invasive Insects and Disease. Please disregard any AI generated Information on the Website. It's inaccurate, misconstrued and not up to Date. Thank you for your understanding with this Situation. Centrally located in the Foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range between Portland and Salem, "Elk Falls Outdoor Recreation Retreat" is a small, private, "ADULT ONLY" (minimum of 21 years) outdoor recreation Retreat that provides the general Public with all Aspects of outdoor recreation Activities and Pursuits.. This isolated and remote Outdoor Retreat will provide the quiet, peaceful and semi private outdoor recreation Experience you're looking for. Currently there are three outdoor recreation Permits available. Recreation Permits allow access to forty Acres of private timberland Property for outdoor recreation Activities including, but not limited to, Hunting, Fishing, r/v Parking, dispersed Camping, Hiking, Bicycling, Horseback riding, Swimming and Nature watching. Enjoy Time spent at a forty foot Waterfall that flows into a damned swimming Hole and fishing Pond. The swimming Hole and Pond is accessible by a short Walk from the end of the access Road. Direct Access is also available to hundreds of Acres of Port Blakely Tree Farm Property. Ask about sportsmans Discounts with Proof of valid Oregon hunting and fishing Licenses. The Molalla River Corridor, Table Rock Wilderness Area and Silver Falls State Park are all close by.

8. Riverside Camping

97%

(168)

45mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

We are closed for the season to let our land rest and, well it gets pretty soggy around here in the winter months. We'll open up in again in April but, we're taking reservations for the 2026 season... Our one designated site, closest to the river bank we call the Riverside Site. It can be reserved for up to 4 people. It can only accommodate smaller tents, campers, pop up trailers, small pod-type trailers and larger rigs up to 15'. has a rustic firepit and your own deck for viewing the river. For groups of 5 or more or people or camping with large 10 person tents or trailers over 20', there will be an additional fee and you will need to set up camp in our Riverwood Site, about 150' from the riverbank. You will still have full access to the deck and firepit in the other site but, larger rigs cannot maneuver in the site without tearing up the grass and leaving ruts on our property. **Please note**When you make the reservation you will add an "Extra", ADDITIONAL CAMPSITE. We have indoor bathroom facilities for our guests in a separate apartment we have downstairs of our house. There is a small living and dining area, kitchenette with barista bar, microwave and small fridge. It is about 150' walk and is visible from the campsites but, still feels private. We also offer our little Bunkie, the Glass House for an extra fee. The Bunkie sleeps two comfortably. It has a nice mattress (Please bring your own sleeping bags), a comfy bench, a coat rack, remote control lights and a nice electric heater. There are curtains all around for privacy. You'll use the bathroom facilities in the apartment. All of our guests have full access to our personal dock to get down to the water. Feel free to fish off the dock, swim, Kayak, SUP or just enjoy the evening on the dock. Our property is about a 10 minute drive to the Ocean/Hwy 101, just south of Lincoln City. There is hiking close by and miles of coastline to explore. We are happy to help you have the best experience at the coast...Just ask! Debbie and Rick and our two Cattledogs, Luna and Piper

9. Old Wagon Road Vineyard

97%

(174)

29mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Chris and Beth met and started dating in Indianapolis in 2009 where both were working on their graduate education. During their first date, Chris announced his goal of developing a vineyard and making wine. As the relationship evolved, Chris worked toward the goal by researching viticulture, attending classes and investigating potential vineyard sites. In summer of 2011, Chris and Beth got married and dove into the wine industry when they purchased a majestic 62 acre property in the foothills of the coastal mountain range in Yamhill County. The property had been an old timber farm that was in bad shape. In 2012, a portion of the property was cleared and planted and the adventure had just begun!The vineyard was planted in 2012, with additional blocks planted each year since. In 2015 they produced our first lots of Pinor Noir and Sauvignon Blanc and have since expanded the wine selection to offer hand-crafted lots of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Dolcetto, Lagrein and more.These days, Chris manages the day to day operations of the farm and wine production while Beth manages the business.

10. Willamette National Forest

93%

(44)

1153 sites · Prospect, Oregon

Experience the wilderness without venturing far from the city.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Siuslaw National Forest

96%

(35)

902 sites · Yachats, Oregon

Hike through old-growth forest or take in ocean views at this coastal woodland.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Milo McIver State Park

94%

(8)

25 sites · Estacada, Oregon

Land and water activities abound at this scenic park along the Clackamas River.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Mt. Hood National Forest

92%

(191)

1295 sites · Government Camp, Oregon

Explore mountains, lakes, hot springs, and hiking trails in this expansive forest near Portland.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Grange Hall Gardens

95%

(160)

22mi from Salem · 3 sites · RVs

Weekend/weekday get away with indoor and outdoor activities ! Grange Hall Garden's RV spots include a 30' X 70' Grange type hall with restroom with tub and shower, and kitchen. Rain or shine, get away for a refreshing time. The RV Garden Spot is situated by three gardens on our ranch: A heavenly scented and restful flower garden with hanging basket seats and swing; a peaceful rose garden with stream and fish pond complete with goldfish and koi; and a fruitful vegetable garden. RV View Spot has an amazing view right outside your door. It has lots of green grass for pets and children to run and play, or just sit in your lawn chair and enjoy the spectacular view. In fair weather, enjoy moseying through our 13 acres of century old oaks, swinging in antique tree swings with amazing views, and picnicking in our private park. This is a working ranch with goats and nearby cattle. Therefore, we have livestock guard dogs whose job it is to bark at coyotes and let them know that they are not welcome on our property. Expect to hear the dogs warning potential predators to stay away, especially at night. Our ranch is located less than 30 minutes from the picturesque and historic cities of Silverton, and Mount Angel. Nearby nature attractions include Silver Falls State Park, The Oregon Gardens, Champoeg Park, Feyrer Park and many more. To the north you can enjoy the scenic town of Estacada and its many nearby city, county and state parks for boating, hiking, fishing, and site seeing. We are also a short, breath taking, hour and a half drive to either Hood River and Mount Hood recreational activities or the beautiful Oregon coast.

15. Ellen's Time Out

99%

(104)

47mi from Salem · 7 sites · RVs

SAFE and PRIVATE. This is a large, fenced in, manicured, grassy area with trees on the border. Not crowded, lots of space. Enjoy the privacy and tranquility, put up your feet and just relax. Visit neighboring attractions and come home to a place that restores and soothes your soul. Learn more about this land: Located 30 min to downtown Portland. 15 min to the Columbia River. Blue Lake Park.  60 min to Mt Hood. Hood River Windsurfing. Wine Country.  30 min to Multnomah Falls, Portland Zoo, Portland Rose Gardens. 15 min to the Columbia River Scenic Highway, Outlet Stores, and so much more. Our property is a beautiful oasis of quiet tranquility (very private) yet minutes from local attractions and services.

16. Circle C Farm

99%

(87)

29mi from Salem · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located in the Willamette Valley, where route 240 and 47 meet is the small town of Yamhill. just 3 miles out of town there is a 66 acre farm with forest covered hills, rolling hay fields and a small seasonal creek. We welcome you to come enjoy some peaceful rest on our farm. We have 2 camp sites available and more coming soon nestled in the trees across the open hay field where you can watch wildlife. each site has access to the composting toilet, has their own picnic table, fire ring, access to water, and some extras like hay that can be used for under tents, kindling to help start your fire, a fire extinguisher, access to a propane fire ring during fire danger season, and a few yard games. we do have fire wood available to purchase as well as farm fresh eggs. the camp sites are seasonal and most will be closed for the wet winter months. they will be open from June to September, depending on the weather we may need to adjust the access to the sites. at times they may be walk in only (about 200ft walk) or four wheel drive access only as they are in a low area of the farm and do not wish anyone to get stuck. if access has been changed I will notify you as soon as I can with an update. you are welcome to walk around during your stay, pick some blackberries, apples or plums but please be aware and careful as we do have some poison oak on the property. I encourage you to stay on a path. please message me if you would like a tour of the farm we have a horse boarding stable, rabbits, chickens and goats ( for your safety please do not enter any barns or pastures without permission , preferable accompanied) you can see and hear some of the animals but most are far enough away that they are not disturbing.

17. Paradise Island Farmstead

100%

(13)

19mi from Salem · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

In the heart of Oregon's wine country! Our 3 acre farmstead has one acre of open field for camping, the rest is cultivated grounds with orchard fruit trees, grassy lounging areas, a hammock to listen to the birdsongs and the sound of the wind in the trees. Downtown McMinnville is home to over 20 walkable craft beverage tasting rooms, and you can explore 250 Willamette Valley wineries and vineyards within 20 miles of town. Find your new favorite Pinot noir, craft beer, cider, locally roasted coffee or spirit and discover the bounty of Oregon wine country. Few Willamette Valley destinations can rival the restaurant options in McMinnville. Named one of the best small towns for food lovers, travelers discover that from comfort food to award-winning fine dining, the farm-to-table movement thrives in McMinnville. Fun things are happening in McMinnville all year long. Cycle among the vineyards, groove at a music festival, catch some live theater, shop in our charming downtown boutiques, or visit an art gallery.

18. Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort

4.8mi from Salem · 2 sites

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley, Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort stands out as a unique destination for travelers seeking luxury accommodations and a family-friendly atmosphere. Established in 2006, this resort is conveniently located just off Interstate 5, making it an ideal stop for both weekend getaways and extended stays. Our name translates to "A Fun Place to Be," and we truly embody that spirit with a variety of amenities designed for guests of all ages. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our swimming pool or unwind in the spa. The clubhouse features a full kitchen, an exercise room, and recreational options like pool and ping pong tables. Children will love the playground, while families can easily access nearby attractions such as the Enchanted Forest and A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village. Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort is proudly a 100% Native American-owned enterprise, operated by the Siletz Tribal Business Corporation. This commitment to community and cultural heritage enhances your stay, providing a unique experience that goes beyond traditional camping. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of the area or enjoying our on-site amenities, your visit promises to be memorable.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

t

tommy

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Molalla Ripple

We arrived a little earlier than the check-in time, but the host greeted us warmly. Compared to other unoccupied sites, I noticed he had laid down straw to help keep away the dirt on the ground. We also loved the string light. Thank you for the attention to detail!

D

Denise

November 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

Great host, beautiful site. Will definitely be back.

V

Victor

November 2025

16 ft car

Group trip

1 night at Molalla Ripple

Its an excellent place. James is and extraordinary and his place is super! We went with the whole family and had a spectacular time. The scenery is inspiring and super comfortable whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family. We had the opportunity to be with animals and give them apples. Definitely, this won’t be the last time.

P

Peter

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Molalla Ripple

What a beautiful camping experience! Ripple 4 had a very large and flat plot of land, very important for bigger tents and tarps. You can’t beat the proximity and sounds of the river right next to you!! Also, the add ons were amazing! We got WiFi, a hot shower, hay to lay on the ground. Portapotty was exceptionally clean. Thank you James

K

Kelly

November 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Old Wagon Road Vineyard

Great place to stay, really nice rolling hills. It was beautiful even in the fog! We absolutely loved Dustin, he helped guide us through our wine tasting. He was very well versed and an incredible educator.

D

Damon

November 2025

8 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

This place was awesome. The host was helpful and attentive. Would highly recommend to anyone especially the hot tub

R

Ralph

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

Awesome, awesome , awesome. James the host was incredibly helpful and accommodating. This being our first hipcamp experience, Molalla ripple has set the bar very high. I can't wait to get a group together and spend some time out there. Wonderful experience an hour from Portland. Thank you James.

H

Heather

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Molalla Ripple

My first HipCamp experience (we do camp a lot, though) and it did not disappoint! Great site right on the river, all the necessities, and super relaxing. My daughter and I had a great night.

Amazing view right outside your window and door

S

Sade

November 2025

38 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Grange Hall Gardens

What a beautiful homestead they have here. Our daughter loved chasing the cats and watching the goats.

S

Steven

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

Our stay was even easier than expected. Level site with a sturdy foundation for a tent. Beautiful views of the river, and a wonderfully helpful and approachable host.

M

Mike

November 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

I always enjoy camping here, the camp host is very awesome. Will definitely be back very soon.

Shawn

November 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Riverside Camping

Private, cozy and the perfect distance to everything!

M

Meagan

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Molalla Ripple

Beautiful spot! Sites are well labeled and clean! We appreciated the lighting in the evening, it made cooking dinner easier!

J

James

October 2025

20 ft Class B

1 night at Riverside Camping

Good directions from Debbie. I didn’t stay long but everything was as described. Would definitely stay here again!

Kathy

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

First off we felt very welcomed. We loved the livestock, the river, the amenities and all the special details they put into this place. The lights around the campsites, the clean bathrooms and showers, the firepits, the water, the shared common space. All the wildlife was incredible also. We saw a coyote, deer, bald eagles, chipmunks and a common Merganser. Such a great place! We will be back.

D

Doug

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Molalla Ripple

This is a great place to camp. It is kept clean and well maintained. Great access to the river. Hosts are great to work with.

Site 3: Red Alder. This spot is the most private of the three.

M

Monica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Elk Falls Outdoor Retreat

I loved tent camping here, could hear the falls all night so peaceful even from the furthest spot campsite #3

S

Sean

October 2025

22 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

We loved camping next to the river. Relaxing and fishing off the dock was just what was needed.

Rae

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Amico Roma Farm

Great spot! Perfect for a weekend away with friends. We loved being within walking distance of a winery.

L

Lauren

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Paradise Island Farmstead

This was a great place to stay while in the area for some wine tasting. Property was as described with a nicely mowed area for the car and camper. We had a wonderful quiet evening seeing a rainbow over the fields and peaceful morning sipping on coffee while watching the sun rise above the fog. We were even able to grab a couple apples from their trees (with permission) that we cooked up with our pancake breakfast!