The best star host 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.

99% (3.6K) 99 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Waterloo

Alsea Valley Farm

1. Alsea Valley Farm

100%
(41)
36mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Lodging
Our farm is nestled at the end of Honey Grove Valley in the lush coastal mountains. The creek meanders through our seven acre property. The north side contains a field, small orchard, greenhouses and barn. The south side is steep and wooded with healthy riparian. An extension to the Honey Grove trail leads out of the property accessing a user maintained hiking/mountain biking trail with 1.5, 3, 5 and 7 mile loop options. Other nearby activities include hiking and mountain biking in Mary's Peak and Alsea Falls recreational area. Access to the Alsea River is located 1.5 miles from the property on Honey Grove Road or at nearby Clemmons Park. The guest cabin has two rooms and can sleep (4) guests comfortably and up to (6) guests. It contains (2) queen size beds, and one pull out couch. One bed is in a loft accessed by a ship ladder. There is a small kitchen and an un-attached bathhouse. The toilet is non-flush, composting. From the designated parking area there is a 200 foot walk along a gravel path to the cabin. Other features include a fire pit, wood fired sauna, and creek access for cold dips. Internet is available in the cabin. There is a Level 1 vehicle charger available for guests. The property also contains a host residence. The area around the residence is for the hosts. The cabin and the property are very quaint and inviting but also very rustic. Do not be surprised to see a few or many spiders, slugs and other bugs. There are occasional bunnies, wild turkeys, Garter Snakes by the ponds and newts on the trails. Please maintain good situational awareness when enjoying the property as structures and grounds may have some inherent hazards. The barn is off limits. Greenhouse and gardens are fine to explore as long as doors and gates are closed and dogs are kept out. Please refrain from harvesting produce and/or eggs unless accompanied or given permission from hosts directly.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$150
 / night
The Flying F Ranch Bunkhouse

2. The Flying F Ranch Bunkhouse

99%
(144)
40mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Lodging
We are a working black angus cattle ranch in the Willamette Valley. Our neighbors include Andante, Van Duzer and Left Coast Vineyards, as well as Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge. We've been at the property for 24+ years and would love to share it with you! The bunkhouse in nestled in the middle of a 115 acre pasture, surrounded by timber. As a "working" ranch, you will be sharing this space with the herd. They may be curious about you, but will not bother you. You can find us on Facebook at FlyingFRanch or on Instagram at the_flying_f_ranch_or
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Ruah Ranch

3. Ruah Ranch

98%
(699)
24mi from Waterloo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Winberry Walden

4. Winberry Walden

100%
(22)
41mi from Waterloo · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Nestled between the tranquil flows of Winberry Creek and a beautiful forested hillside, our property offers a serene retreat in the heart of Oregon's natural beauty. Located just outside the charming town of Lowell, this peaceful haven provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet escape. Currently we can offer our attached, fully equipped and private studio for your stay here. 🛶 Outdoor Recreation at Your Doorstep Winberry Creek State Recreation Area: Just 4 miles away, this park offers swimming beaches, picnic spots, and boat access to the Fall Creek Lake—ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. Dexter Reservoir: Enjoy a variety of water activities on this expansive lake, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Mountain Biking Trails: Explore nearby trails such as the Winberry Divide via Winberry Tie, offering scenic routes through lush forests for riders of all levels. 🍽️ Local Dining Experiences Rattlesnake BBQ: Located at the historic Dexter Lake Club, this spot gained fame as a filming location for the movie Animal House. Enjoy Texas-style BBQ in a nostalgic setting with live local music on special event evenings. Dueling Spoons: A fine dining gem in Fall Creek, just a short drive away. Chef Billy Reid offers a unique culinary experience with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The warm, community-focused atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination. 🌿 A Peaceful Retreat Our property provides a harmonious blend of comfort and nature. Whether you're here to hike, bike, paddle, or simply unwind, you'll find a welcoming space to relax and reconnect with the outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Old Elkhorn Golf Course

5. Old Elkhorn Golf Course

100%
(206)
30mi from Waterloo · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / 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.

99% (3.6K) 99 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Waterloo

Alsea Valley Farm

1. Alsea Valley Farm

100%
(41)
36mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Lodging
Our farm is nestled at the end of Honey Grove Valley in the lush coastal mountains. The creek meanders through our seven acre property. The north side contains a field, small orchard, greenhouses and barn. The south side is steep and wooded with healthy riparian. An extension to the Honey Grove trail leads out of the property accessing a user maintained hiking/mountain biking trail with 1.5, 3, 5 and 7 mile loop options. Other nearby activities include hiking and mountain biking in Mary's Peak and Alsea Falls recreational area. Access to the Alsea River is located 1.5 miles from the property on Honey Grove Road or at nearby Clemmons Park. The guest cabin has two rooms and can sleep (4) guests comfortably and up to (6) guests. It contains (2) queen size beds, and one pull out couch. One bed is in a loft accessed by a ship ladder. There is a small kitchen and an un-attached bathhouse. The toilet is non-flush, composting. From the designated parking area there is a 200 foot walk along a gravel path to the cabin. Other features include a fire pit, wood fired sauna, and creek access for cold dips. Internet is available in the cabin. There is a Level 1 vehicle charger available for guests. The property also contains a host residence. The area around the residence is for the hosts. The cabin and the property are very quaint and inviting but also very rustic. Do not be surprised to see a few or many spiders, slugs and other bugs. There are occasional bunnies, wild turkeys, Garter Snakes by the ponds and newts on the trails. Please maintain good situational awareness when enjoying the property as structures and grounds may have some inherent hazards. The barn is off limits. Greenhouse and gardens are fine to explore as long as doors and gates are closed and dogs are kept out. Please refrain from harvesting produce and/or eggs unless accompanied or given permission from hosts directly.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$150
 / night
The Flying F Ranch Bunkhouse

2. The Flying F Ranch Bunkhouse

99%
(144)
40mi from Waterloo · 1 site · Lodging
We are a working black angus cattle ranch in the Willamette Valley. Our neighbors include Andante, Van Duzer and Left Coast Vineyards, as well as Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge. We've been at the property for 24+ years and would love to share it with you! The bunkhouse in nestled in the middle of a 115 acre pasture, surrounded by timber. As a "working" ranch, you will be sharing this space with the herd. They may be curious about you, but will not bother you. You can find us on Facebook at FlyingFRanch or on Instagram at the_flying_f_ranch_or
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Ruah Ranch

3. Ruah Ranch

98%
(699)
24mi from Waterloo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Winberry Walden

4. Winberry Walden

100%
(22)
41mi from Waterloo · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Nestled between the tranquil flows of Winberry Creek and a beautiful forested hillside, our property offers a serene retreat in the heart of Oregon's natural beauty. Located just outside the charming town of Lowell, this peaceful haven provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet escape. Currently we can offer our attached, fully equipped and private studio for your stay here. 🛶 Outdoor Recreation at Your Doorstep Winberry Creek State Recreation Area: Just 4 miles away, this park offers swimming beaches, picnic spots, and boat access to the Fall Creek Lake—ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. Dexter Reservoir: Enjoy a variety of water activities on this expansive lake, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Mountain Biking Trails: Explore nearby trails such as the Winberry Divide via Winberry Tie, offering scenic routes through lush forests for riders of all levels. 🍽️ Local Dining Experiences Rattlesnake BBQ: Located at the historic Dexter Lake Club, this spot gained fame as a filming location for the movie Animal House. Enjoy Texas-style BBQ in a nostalgic setting with live local music on special event evenings. Dueling Spoons: A fine dining gem in Fall Creek, just a short drive away. Chef Billy Reid offers a unique culinary experience with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The warm, community-focused atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination. 🌿 A Peaceful Retreat Our property provides a harmonious blend of comfort and nature. Whether you're here to hike, bike, paddle, or simply unwind, you'll find a welcoming space to relax and reconnect with the outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Old Elkhorn Golf Course

5. Old Elkhorn Golf Course

100%
(206)
30mi from Waterloo · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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The best star host 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.