Poole Creek

Star4.06
79 reviews
2020 Toketee Ranger Station Road, Idleyld Park, OR, 97447, USA
Poole Creek
$22.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsite fees range from $22 to $100, depending on site type (standard nonelectric or group). Extra vehicle fee is $5 per day, payable at the...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$130.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
541-498-2531

About this campground

Discover your perfect mountain escape at Poole Creek Campground, where 60 thoughtfully positioned standard sites and one spacious group site grace the pristine western shores of Lemolo Lake. This hidden gem within the Umpqua National Forest beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear waters perfect for boating and fishing, while miles of scenic trails wind through ancient forests, promising discoveries around every bend.
Poole Creek Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, including standard nonelectric sites, a group site, and opportunities for both RV and tent camping. All sites are reservation-only and must be booked at least two days in advance.
Historical SignificanceCamp where ancient stories echo through the trees at this treasured site within the Umpqua National Forest. The forest takes its name from the mighty Umpqua River, whose Native American name translates to 'thundering waters' - a powerful reminder of the geological forces that shaped this dramatic landscape. Every sunrise over Lemolo Lake connects modern visitors to countless generations who have found solace and adventure in these sacred mountains.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of the Cascade Mountains through the seasons at Poole Creek. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for lake activities, though savvy campers come prepared for the evening mosquito ballet. By late August, nature adds splashes of algae bloom colors to the lake's canvas. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-globe wonderland, with crystalline air and peaceful silence broken only by the occasional snowfall that blankets the forest in pristine white.
ElevationPerched at 4,150 feet above sea level, Poole Creek offers a refreshing mountain climate where crisp, pine-scented air invigorates your senses. This alpine elevation creates the perfect natural air conditioning during summer months while painting breathtaking vistas of surrounding peaks and valleys that seem to stretch endlessly into the Oregon wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where towering lodgepole pines, majestic mountain hemlocks, and aromatic Shasta red firs create a natural cathedral around your campsite. The shimmering expanse of Lemolo Lake serves as your front yard, reflecting sky and forest in its mirror-like surface. Just a short journey away, the thundering cascade of Lemolo Falls provides a spectacular day trip destination. Visitors consistently marvel at this pristine wilderness, with many declaring the lake 'absolutely gorgeous' and the entire area 'breathtakingly beautiful.'
Geological RegionStep into a landscape sculpted by fire and ice in the heart of the Umpqua National Forest. This remarkable region tells the story of explosive volcanic forces and patient glacial artists who carved high mountain lakes from ancient bedrock, created thundering waterfalls that plunge through basalt cliffs, and nurtured diverse ecosystems that range from dense coniferous forests to delicate alpine meadows. Every rock formation and lake vista serves as a chapter in the Earth's dramatic geological autobiography.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are mentioned, but further information on accessibility features is not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some described as spacious and accommodating multiple tents, while others are reported as small and uneven.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies. Some sites near the lake offer seclusion, while other sites are clustered or lack privacy. One reviewer mentioned awkward proximity to other campers.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 18 due to its proximity to busy intersections. Site 21 offers privacy and lake access. Mosquito repellent is vital during summer months.
Best CampsitesReviews mention lakeside spots as the most desirable, such as site 21 near the boat ramp and site 24 with lake access.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type. Standard sites allow up to 8 guests.
Groups
One reservable group site is available, but specific information about its capacity is not provided. User reviews mention challenges with group site availability and last-minute changes.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with standard and group sites mixed throughout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025–September 21, 2025 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are reservation-only, but some reviews mention first-come, first-served availability mixed in the campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than one day before arrival for individual campsites) forfeit the first night's fee.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Poole Creek Campground provides a wide range of recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing on Lemolo Lake. Furthermore, visitors can explore the nearby Lemolo Falls Trail for hiking and enjoy wildlife viewing amidst the scenic backdrop of mountain lakes and waterfalls.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the nearby Lemolo Falls Trail, which provides a steep traverse into North Umpqua Canyon for views of the 150-foot Lemolo Falls. A spur trail also allows access to the bottom of the canyon.
Fishing
Fishing is popular in Lemolo Lake, where anglers can find German brown trout, Eastern brook trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. The lake reaches depths of 100 feet in some areas.
Swimming
Swimming in the lake is a favored activity, though the waters are described as cold and refreshing. Some reviewers noted algae presence during warmer months.
Boating
Boating activities are encouraged, with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing. A boat ramp is available for visitor use.
Wildlife viewing
The diverse ecosystems of Umpqua National Forest provide opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including eagles, owls, salamanders, and salmon.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, although the campground's facilities are described as open for year-round use.
Water Sports
Water skiing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular water sports at Lemolo Lake.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but fire bans may be enforced during dry conditions.
  • Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent in summer. Algae blooms can occur late in the season, and roads may become icy or snow-covered in winter.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts mentioned.

Weather forecast

46
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 76%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 8 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

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Daily & Hourly Insights

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Temperature Trends

Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.

Precipitation Trends

Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.

Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services are in Roseburg, OR (~72 miles away), including hospitals and police stations. Toketee Ranger Station is nearby for assistance.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23, 2025–September 21, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available, but additional information on recycling facilities is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lemolo Lake, with nearby access to Lemolo Falls and the North Umpqua River.
Common complaintsReviews highlight full vault toilets, loud music from neighboring sites, and mosquito abundance in summer. "Vault toilets had no toilet paper," and "The mosquitoes were horrible," are recurring issues.
HostMixed reviews about the hosts. Some found them friendly and helpful, while others criticized their enforcement of rules and site management.

Campground Map

2020 Toketee Ranger Station Road, Idleyld Park, OR, 97447, USA
Driving directionsFrom Roseburg, OR, travel east on OR-138 / NE Diamond Lake Boulevard for approximately 72 miles, turn left onto Forest Road 2610 (Bird's Point Road). Proceed 4 miles and turn right at the Poole Creek Campground sign. The campground is located on the west shore of Lemolo Lake. Turn right after the fee station for the group site.
The campground is accessed via paved roads, though Forest Road 2610 may require careful driving. Seasonal winter closures may affect accessibility.
Nearby places
Roseburg, OR (approximately 72 miles, ~1.5 hours)
Toketee Falls (30 minutes)
Crater Lake National Park (~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including fuel and groceries, are available at Diamond Lake (~30 minutes away) and Lemolo Lake KOA Resort Store.

Camper Reviews

4.1
79 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Poole Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarized, with some appreciating the beautiful setting, spacious sites, and abundance of activities, while others criticize the cleanliness of facilities, high mosquito populations, and noise levels. The average sentiment for the campground is rated at approximately 3.9 out of 5.
Review Summaries
Based on 79 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the scenic beauty of Lemolo Lake, the spacious and well-shaded campsites, and the variety of recreational activities. Many reviewers appreciate the proximity to attractions...
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Based on 79 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include unclean vault toilets, lack of toilet paper, abundant mosquitoes, generator noise, and overcrowding during peak times. Several users also reported issues with the camp host...
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Based on 79 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent due to mosquitoes, arrive early to secure better campsites, and be prepared for cold lake water. Some users suggest staying on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Based on 79 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest and most crowded during summer weekends, with high mosquito activity reported in July and August. Algae blooms have been noted in late summer, affecting swimming and fishing...
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Based on 79 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lake is gorgeous, and the campsites are spacious.' - Bryan C. 2. 'Vault toilets had no toilet paper the whole stay.' - Tami S. 3. 'Bring bug spray; the mosquitoes are vicious.' - Daniel R.
Based on 79 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 18 is described as poorly situated near a busy intersection. Site 55 lacks shade and is uneven. Site 29 is noted as spacious and close to the lake. Group sites have mixed reviews regarding...
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Based on 79 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features, although accessible vault toilets are mentioned in the description.
Based on 79 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Some users have noted issues with unleashed dogs in the beach area, despite leash rules being enforced selectively. One user stated, 'The beach area was full of unleashed dogs.'
Based on 79 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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