The best great views camping near Waterloo

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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.

98% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Molalla Ripple

1. Molalla Ripple

98%
(1245)
48mi from Waterloo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Molalla, 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 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping

2. Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping

98%
(432)
41mi from Waterloo · 6 sites · RVs · Mount Angel, OR
RESTROOM IS CLOSED DUE TO UNEXPECTED RENOVATION! OPEN TO SELF-CONTAINED RVS. Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping provides rentable gravel sites to campers seeking a pastoral farm setting for their enjoyable stay in the Willamette Valley. The origin of this business adventure stems from Ed’s passion for plants, animals, and all things farming, to Paula’s passion for hospitality, home decor and all things beautiful, to their entire family’s joy when sharing their lovely property with others. These qualities, as well as impeccable grounds and expansive views of the charming countryside, will no doubt attract and retain happy campers. The location is in farm country at the edge of the Cascade foothills between Mt. Angel and the Marquam area, with expansive views to the east of the Cascade Mountains all the way to the coastal mountains to the west. Magnificent sunrises and glorious sunsets, as well as the beautiful, fertile Willamette Valley countryside, will be appreciated by all Hip campers. As a result of being in farm country, you may hear irrigation guns occasionally operating during the summer. We're 30 minutes from Silver Falls and Champoeg State Park where there's scenic bikeways and trails. A few minutes from the Tulip Festival in the spring.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Sherbert Sky

4. Brownsville Hillside RV Site

100%
(76)
9.6mi from Waterloo · 1 site · RV · Brownsville, OR
Full 50amp RV hookups located on a hillside overlooking farmlands. Property is situated on 14 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). *(Note, 20-25psi city water pressure. They have to supplement your water pump)* 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 businesses to support and 30 minutes to Eugene/UofO/Albany/Corvallis/OSU
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Ruah Ranch

5. Ruah Ranch

98%
(697)
24mi from Waterloo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Grange Hall Gardens

6. Grange Hall Gardens

95%
(160)
44mi from Waterloo · 3 sites · RVs · Molalla, OR
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
Green Crest Memorial Park

9. Green Crest Memorial Park

99%
(80)
50mi from Waterloo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Sheridan, OR
Green Crest is an active Memorial Park (cemetery) adjacent to Highway 18 between Portland and the Oregon coast on the South side of Sheridan. This property makes a great stop over while en route to your final destination, but is also a great getaway if you'd just like to relax in a natural setting while having conveniences near by. **if you have an rv that you are planning to back into the site, please enter via the 'exit' as it will allow better positioning to back in. otherwise use the drive marked entrance.** If you have young ones, the park next door has a playground and a stocked fish pond. We also have a pond on sight that is perfect for viewing birds, beaver and having morning coffee. You're also welcome to bring your kayak and or paddle boards to get out on the water for fishing or just floating the pond. There is the occasional Deer, coyote and raccoons all around on the property. Two minutes from your site, you will find 24 hour gas and diesel; Subway, Riverside Cafe, Bennie Huies Chinese and the local Grocery store. Did I say there is a Dairy Queen 5 minutes way? Nearby Ballston Road offers a great rural road system from which to explore by bicycle. Points of interest both out in the wild and more metro are all within an hour drive. We can direct you to some little known sites that offer a great day trip.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Treehouse

11. Shearer Farming and Camping

96%
(46)
9.3mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crawfordsville, OR
ATTENTION: There is no gate to this property. The road department put a sign up that makes our neighbors road look like it should be Crawfordsville Dr. NO GATE If you see a gate you are at the wrong driveway. Again NO GATE 5 Acers of woods, 1 Acer of field/grassland, and one are on the hill with gravel for up RV's. Property is only 0.35 miles from Calapooia river access (local 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. At 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 picknic 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

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.

98% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Molalla Ripple

1. Molalla Ripple

98%
(1245)
48mi from Waterloo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Molalla, 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 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping

2. Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping

98%
(432)
41mi from Waterloo · 6 sites · RVs · Mount Angel, OR
RESTROOM IS CLOSED DUE TO UNEXPECTED RENOVATION! OPEN TO SELF-CONTAINED RVS. Grace Acres Scenic RV Camping provides rentable gravel sites to campers seeking a pastoral farm setting for their enjoyable stay in the Willamette Valley. The origin of this business adventure stems from Ed’s passion for plants, animals, and all things farming, to Paula’s passion for hospitality, home decor and all things beautiful, to their entire family’s joy when sharing their lovely property with others. These qualities, as well as impeccable grounds and expansive views of the charming countryside, will no doubt attract and retain happy campers. The location is in farm country at the edge of the Cascade foothills between Mt. Angel and the Marquam area, with expansive views to the east of the Cascade Mountains all the way to the coastal mountains to the west. Magnificent sunrises and glorious sunsets, as well as the beautiful, fertile Willamette Valley countryside, will be appreciated by all Hip campers. As a result of being in farm country, you may hear irrigation guns occasionally operating during the summer. We're 30 minutes from Silver Falls and Champoeg State Park where there's scenic bikeways and trails. A few minutes from the Tulip Festival in the spring.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Sherbert Sky

4. Brownsville Hillside RV Site

100%
(76)
9.6mi from Waterloo · 1 site · RV · Brownsville, OR
Full 50amp RV hookups located on a hillside overlooking farmlands. Property is situated on 14 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). *(Note, 20-25psi city water pressure. They have to supplement your water pump)* 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 businesses to support and 30 minutes to Eugene/UofO/Albany/Corvallis/OSU
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Ruah Ranch

5. Ruah Ranch

98%
(697)
24mi from Waterloo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Grange Hall Gardens

6. Grange Hall Gardens

95%
(160)
44mi from Waterloo · 3 sites · RVs · Molalla, OR
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
Green Crest Memorial Park

9. Green Crest Memorial Park

99%
(80)
50mi from Waterloo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Sheridan, OR
Green Crest is an active Memorial Park (cemetery) adjacent to Highway 18 between Portland and the Oregon coast on the South side of Sheridan. This property makes a great stop over while en route to your final destination, but is also a great getaway if you'd just like to relax in a natural setting while having conveniences near by. **if you have an rv that you are planning to back into the site, please enter via the 'exit' as it will allow better positioning to back in. otherwise use the drive marked entrance.** If you have young ones, the park next door has a playground and a stocked fish pond. We also have a pond on sight that is perfect for viewing birds, beaver and having morning coffee. You're also welcome to bring your kayak and or paddle boards to get out on the water for fishing or just floating the pond. There is the occasional Deer, coyote and raccoons all around on the property. Two minutes from your site, you will find 24 hour gas and diesel; Subway, Riverside Cafe, Bennie Huies Chinese and the local Grocery store. Did I say there is a Dairy Queen 5 minutes way? Nearby Ballston Road offers a great rural road system from which to explore by bicycle. Points of interest both out in the wild and more metro are all within an hour drive. We can direct you to some little known sites that offer a great day trip.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Treehouse

11. Shearer Farming and Camping

96%
(46)
9.3mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crawfordsville, OR
ATTENTION: There is no gate to this property. The road department put a sign up that makes our neighbors road look like it should be Crawfordsville Dr. NO GATE If you see a gate you are at the wrong driveway. Again NO GATE 5 Acers of woods, 1 Acer of field/grassland, and one are on the hill with gravel for up RV's. Property is only 0.35 miles from Calapooia river access (local 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. At 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 picknic 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

Camper favorites near Waterloo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Waterloo guide

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.