Camping in Waterloo, OR, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Oregon
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Waterloo

96% (3016 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Waterloo

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Crater Lake National Park

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Mt. Hood National Forest

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Dog-friendly getaways

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.

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.

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.

Booked 4 times

Santiam Serenity

1 site · Lodging97 acres · Lebanon, OR

Enjoy the calm, quiet serenity of the South Santiam River. Get back to the basics here and just relax and enjoy nature. We have a small cabin with a bunk bed, and a camping toilet is provided. Bring your tent or camper for extra room. Our campsite is nestled among the trees next to the river. There's lots to enjoy. Do you like hiking? Silver Falls State Park is only 36 miles away. Boating? You can put in your kayak/canoe at Gills Landing in Lebanon and float down the river back to the campsite. Fishing? Bring your fishing pole and try catch and release in our pond. Swimming? Take a swim in the cool water. Of course, you can just relax by the water's edge and enjoy the tranquility provided by the soothing flow of the river. This 192 sq. ft. cabin is very basic. There is no shower, but there is a portable toilet with a wash station located outside. We do provide a full 5-gallon water cooler for drinking since there is no running water. For cooking there is a 24" Blackstone 2-burner griddle, and small propane cans are provided. Also, the cabin is furnished with a small supply of pots and pans. There is a battery that provides lighting, and phone charging is available in the cabin. During the cooler months, there is a small wood stove for heating, and firewood is provided. The cabin sleeps 2, but there is room for a camper and/or tents. This campsite is meant to be very simple, so you should plan on bringing whatever you may need/want for camping.

Shearer Farming and Camping

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Crawfordsville, OR

5 Acers of woods, 1 Acer of field/grassland, and one cleared area for RV's. Property is only 0.35 miles from Calapooia river access (locals secret spot). 1 mile to McKercher Park and additional river access. General store 0.75 miles away. Next to the historic Crawfordsville Covered Bridge. 8 miles from Brownsville, this town has been featured in multiple movies. 13.8 miles from Foster lake. On the bottom of the property there is a tree house, fire pit, and large grass field that could accommodate 20+ tents. Upper area is a rock parking area with RV hook ups. gas firepit, gas BBQ, and picknick table. I only rent to one group at a time. Rarely camping there when campers are there but father is on site (the grey house) to assist if needed.

12 top campgrounds near Waterloo

100%

(143)

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.

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.

Santiam Serenity

1 site · Lodging97 acres · Lebanon, OR

Enjoy the calm, quiet serenity of the South Santiam River. Get back to the basics here and just relax and enjoy nature. We have a small cabin with a bunk bed, and a camping toilet is provided. Bring your tent or camper for extra room. Our campsite is nestled among the trees next to the river. There's lots to enjoy. Do you like hiking? Silver Falls State Park is only 36 miles away. Boating? You can put in your kayak/canoe at Gills Landing in Lebanon and float down the river back to the campsite. Fishing? Bring your fishing pole and try catch and release in our pond. Swimming? Take a swim in the cool water. Of course, you can just relax by the water's edge and enjoy the tranquility provided by the soothing flow of the river. This 192 sq. ft. cabin is very basic. There is no shower, but there is a portable toilet with a wash station located outside. We do provide a full 5-gallon water cooler for drinking since there is no running water. For cooking there is a 24" Blackstone 2-burner griddle, and small propane cans are provided. Also, the cabin is furnished with a small supply of pots and pans. There is a battery that provides lighting, and phone charging is available in the cabin. During the cooler months, there is a small wood stove for heating, and firewood is provided. The cabin sleeps 2, but there is room for a camper and/or tents. This campsite is meant to be very simple, so you should plan on bringing whatever you may need/want for camping.

Shearer Farming and Camping

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Crawfordsville, OR

5 Acers of woods, 1 Acer of field/grassland, and one cleared area for RV's. Property is only 0.35 miles from Calapooia river access (locals secret spot). 1 mile to McKercher Park and additional river access. General store 0.75 miles away. Next to the historic Crawfordsville Covered Bridge. 8 miles from Brownsville, this town has been featured in multiple movies. 13.8 miles from Foster lake. On the bottom of the property there is a tree house, fire pit, and large grass field that could accommodate 20+ tents. Upper area is a rock parking area with RV hook ups. gas firepit, gas BBQ, and picknick table. I only rent to one group at a time. Rarely camping there when campers are there but father is on site (the grey house) to assist if needed.

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.

100%

(18)

Whispering Winds Mountain Retreat

21 sites · Lodging42 acres · Lebanon, OR

Learn more about this land: Located at the top of a mountain with pristine views surrounding the property. Very close to Foster Lake and Green Peter Reservoir! 10 miles from Sweet Home, Oregon the home of the Oregon Jamboree!! 8 miles from Brownsville, Oregon the home of the Country Music Festival! There are 2 RV sites available with electricity hook-ups, Multiple dry camp sites available with fire pits and picnic tables. Cabins and more coming soon! Fires may be limited or not allowed due to Fire season. Bathroom and shower available.

Brownsville Hillside RV Site

1 site · RV11 acres · Brownsville, OR

Full 50amp RV hookups located on a hillside overlooking farmlands. Property is situated on 11 acres bordering the Historic Pioneer Cemetery (don’t think creepy, think rad historic gravesites from late 1800’s to current times. Many Veterans honored to live there). Beautiful sunsets to the west and is 1.25 miles from downtown Brownsville, a quaint historic town of 1700 people located on the Calapooia River which flows through town and surrounds our 30+ acres Pioneer Park. Our community has many events such as Carriage Me Back (1923 themed festival - early May), Pioneer Picnic (Parade, festival - June), Rally on the River (Vintage Trailers - July), City-Wide Garage Sale (July), Stand By Me (1986 movie partially filmed here - Late July), Antique Fair and Classic Car Show - Early August), etc. Wonderful business to support and 30 minutes to Eugene/Albany.

94%

(24)

Riverland Park

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Lebanon, OR

Beautiful rivers edge that feels miles from town yet close to town, very quiet, peaceful and private. This property is on the south Santiam river where you can fish, swim, float or just enjoy the waters edge. There is a large irrigated groomed park to enjoy any activity. There are multiple parking areas that have abundant shade for the summers. Great place for kids and dogs. I am offering only one site at a time so you can have it all to yourself. Portable toilet is on site

98%

(209)

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.

100%

(1)

The Bunk House

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Lebanon, OR

Original homestead, the Bunk house is nestled on over 100 acres. Rustic cabin with mountain views in the middle of a working cattle ranch, peace and quiet awaits you. You'll have the chance to see cows grazing in addition to deer, turkey, etc. This is a two bedroom cabin (queen bed in one room, two cots in the other bedroom), hot shower, small kitchen and living quarters. No wifi or cable but there is a TV with a DVD player and a clock radio. Come and unplug and enjoy the heart of the Willamette Valley! We are close to Mallard Creek golf course, excellent turkey hunting in the area, 30 minute drive to OSU, about 1 hour to University of Oregon. Kitchen has small refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster, and microwave. Plus plates, cups, etc. Bedding and towels provided.

97%

(350)

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.

100%

(36)

Zen Garden Wellness Center

19 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Elmira, OR

Tucked in our own micro-climate just outside of Veneta, the Zen Garden Wellness Center is a peaceful refuge. Take a stroll through our organic gardens, relax by the lounging pool, soak in the hot tub, catch a sports game in the bar patio, pet some horses, or go for a hike straight out of our driveway. Tour LaVelle Vineyards 2 miles away, sample locally grown cannabis, or visit the legendary Oregon Country Fair. We welcome big rigs! Large camping bays with electrical hookups. Outdoor shower and flush toilet. We exist for living in the present moment!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

90%

(41)

Willamette National Forest

Prospect, Oregon

96%

(39)

Silver Falls State Park

Mehama, Oregon

94%

(23)

Detroit Lake State Recreation Area

Detroit, Oregon

92%

(185)

Mt. Hood National Forest

Government Camp, Oregon

North Santiam State Recreation Area

Siuslaw National Forest

Yachats, Oregon

Fall Creek State Recreation Area

Lowell, Oregon

Willamette Mission State Park

Brooks, Oregon

Camping near Waterloo guide

Overview

Just outside of Lebanon, Oregon, on the Santiam Highway, sits Waterloo, a tiny city spread out over a mere 0.12 square miles. You’ll find a small convenience store selling snacks, beer, and basic supplies, an auto body shop, and a sportswear shop, but not much else. That said, the town does make for a convenient jumping-off spot for exploring the South Santiam River and the Santiam State Forest. Waterloo also has a park of its own—Waterloo County Park—complete with a disc golf course and direct access to the Santiam River.

Where to go

Along the South Santiam River

The South Santiam River offers lots of opportunities for fishing and boating, and the quiet stretch near Waterloo sees less activity than some of the busier areas. The river links up with the Foster Reservoir, a popular spot to go fishing, boating, swimming, and camping in the summer months.

Santiam State Forest

Situated on the western slopes of the Cascade Range, this small forest is full of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails, plus five campgrounds. It's also the site of a couple of pretty waterfalls: Shellburg Falls and Stasel Falls.

Albany and Around

The biggest city in Lynn County, Albany offers a good mix of historic attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities, with multiple parks within city limits plus two golf courses. Albany also has a few historic houses and a hand-carved wooden carousel.

When to go

Summer is ideal for visiting the Waterloo area, with temperatures at their highest in July and August. However, this time of year is also busy, owing largely to Waterloo’s proximity to the most densely populated parts of Oregon, so expect lots of camping families up until Labor Day, when school goes back in session. September is a great time to visit if you want warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and a lower risk of rain.