Alsea Falls Recreation Site (Campground)
4.52151 reviewsNo physical address, S Fork Rd, Alsea, OR, 97324
Alsea Falls Recreation Site (Campground)
$15.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites are priced at $15 (walk-to), $20 (standard nonelectric), and $40 (standard nonelectric premium). Fees cover one vehicle; additional vehicles cost $5. Payments can be made via cash or check, with receipts displayed on vehicle dashboards.
About this campground
Nestled beneath towering old-growth giants, Alsea Falls Recreation Site invites you to escape into nature's embrace with 16 thoughtfully spaced campsites. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay—from sturdy picnic tables and fire pits perfect for evening gatherings to clean vault toilets and fresh drinking water. Just steps from your tent, ancient forest trails beckon, leading to the mesmerizing cascade of Alsea Falls where mist dances in the filtered sunlight.
The Alsea Falls Campground primarily caters to tent campers and small RVs or trailers. No hookups are available, and all sites must be reserved in advance.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of the Oregon Coast Range throughout the year. Winter transforms the campground into a moody wonderland of rain-soaked moss and rushing waters, while summer unveils a completely different character—warm sunshine filters through the canopy, creating perfect conditions for hiking, swimming, and stargazing around the campfire. Spring and fall offer their own magic, with wildflowers or brilliant vine maple displays painting the forest in seasonal colors.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation in the heart of the Oregon Coast Range, the campground offers the perfect balance—high enough to catch cooling breezes and stunning forest vistas, yet accessible enough for easy exploration of both mountain and valley adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where ancient Douglas firs and western red cedars stretch skyward, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. The South Fork Alsea River threads through this emerald sanctuary, its crystal-clear waters providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay. In autumn, native vine maples burst into flame-colored brilliance, while spring brings a carpet of trilliums and ferns. Every turn reveals another postcard-perfect scene, from sun-dappled groves to the dramatic plunge of Alsea Falls itself.
Geological RegionThis pristine pocket of the Oregon Coast Range showcases the region's signature temperate rainforest ecosystem at its finest. Ancient volcanic and sedimentary processes shaped these hills and valleys, creating the perfect conditions for magnificent Douglas firs and western red cedars to thrive alongside the life-giving waters of the South Fork Alsea River. The result is a lush, green paradise where every surface seems draped in moss and ferns, offering visitors an authentic taste of the Pacific Northwest's wild beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not directly provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and able to accommodate small trailers or tents. One review mentioned a group campsite that could fit 5 tents.
Sites PrivacySites are noted for their privacy, with dense foliage separating campsites. "Very private," wrote one reviewer. Most sites are shaded by old growth trees.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose campsites #8 or #9. Site #16 is ideal for larger groups. Creekside sites offer immediate access to water features.
Best CampsitesSite #16 is highly recommended for its spaciousness and proximity to water. Other popular campsites include #8, #9, and #14 for their privacy and creek access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Reservations are limited to the peak season (May through September).
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two tents and one RV/camper per site.
Groups
The group site is large enough for multiple tents and is described as spacious, shaded, and close to water access.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out within dense forests, offering privacy. Some are creekside or near trails.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for camping from the first weekend in May through the end of September. Day-use areas remain open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is available for non-reserved sites. Campers must vacate the site by 11 AM on the day of the next reservation holder's arrival.
Cancellation PolicyStandard fees apply and are non-refundable. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Alsea Falls can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The site offers hiking trails, fishing, and mountain biking. Nearby attractions include waterfalls and extensive mountain bike trails.
Hiking
The area is home to well-maintained trails leading to Alsea Falls and Green Peak Falls. Trails are generally easy to moderate, with some erosion noted on steeper sections. "Great hiking trail and spectacular waterfall!" according to multiple users.Fishing
The South Fork Alsea River provides opportunities for salmon and steelhead fishing, especially during the winter months. Fishing regulations must be checked with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.Biking
The Fall Creek Day-Use Trailhead offers over 12 miles of mountain biking trails. "Very nice machine-built flow trails," wrote one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
The area’s lush old growth forests and creek provide opportunities for observing wildlife, such as birds and small mammals.Winter Activities
Visitors can enjoy fishing during the winter months when salmon and steelhead are present.Water Sports
The river offers opportunities for wading and water play, although no specific non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained in steel rings or grills provided. High fire danger may lead to bans.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but generally observed by campers.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include slippery trails, poison oak, and wildlife such as bears (bear spray recommended).
Active alertsPoison oak has closed some trails, and fire bans may be in place during peak summer season.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Corvallis, including hospitals and police stations. Alsea offers limited services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through September
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available on-site. No specific information about recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the South Fork Alsea River and a short hike from Alsea Falls and Green Peak Falls.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of camp host presence, noisy neighbors, and occasional issues with reservation management.
HostCampground hosts vary seasonally; some reviews note excellent service, while others report unavailability.
Campground Map
No physical address, S Fork Rd, Alsea, OR, 97324
Driving directionsFrom Corvallis: Take Hwy 99W south about 15 miles. Turn right on Alpine Road, follow for approximately 9 miles. Alpine Road turns into South Fork Road. Follow about 4 miles to the Alsea Falls Campground on the right. From Alsea: Travel south from the town Alsea on Alsea-Deadwood Hwy for about 1 mile. Turn left on the South Fork Road and follow for approximately 8.5 miles (stay on main paved road). Pass the Alsea Falls Day-Use about 0.5 miles and turn left into the Alsea Falls Campground Entrance.
The primary access roads are paved, but some reviews noted rough and winding sections near the campground. It is recommended to carefully follow directions due to the remote location.Nearby places
Corvallis (approximately 20 miles / 30 minutes), Monroe (approximately 13 miles / 20 minutes), Alsea (approximately 9 miles / 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in Alsea or Corvallis.
Camper Reviews
4.5
151 reviews
Alsea Falls Recreation Site (Campground) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Alsea Falls Campground is highly praised for its serene, natural environment and well-maintained facilities. Many reviewers highlighted the privacy of the campsites, access to hiking trails, and scenic beauty. However, some noted issues with vault toilet cleanliness during busy periods, and the lack of a consistent camp host was occasionally mentioned as a drawback.
Review Summaries
Based on 151 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the privacy of campsites, the lush forest setting, clean facilities, proximity to waterfalls, and excellent mountain biking trails. Several called it peaceful and a great spot for...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included occasional noisy neighbors, lack of firewood availability on-site, and confusion with the reservation system leading to double bookings. Some reviewers mentioned difficulties with...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing hand sanitizer, as vault toilets lack running water, and a floor tarp or sleeping pad for gravel sites. Download directions beforehand due to no cell service. Arriving...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer months are described as very busy, particularly on holiday weekends, while weekdays tend to be quieter. Campers noted that weekdays had better availability for first-come, first-served...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "A beautiful campground! Amazing old growth forest and shallow creek runs alongside the campground." - Katrina Wright 2. "Nice clean pit toilets stocked with toilet paper and no smell." - Katrina...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Positive reviews for Site 16 highlight its spaciousness and suitability for group camping. Site 3 is noted for being unlevel and less ideal for RVs. Sites 9 and 14 are praised for their creek access.
Based on 151 reviewsAccessibility Features
Specific accessibility reviews were not found.
Based on 151 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviewers mentioned dogs enjoying the trails. However, the lack of enforcement of leash rules was noted by some.
Based on 151 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025