Sharps Creek Recreation Site
4.3311 reviews3106 Pierce Parkway, Springfield, OR 97477
Sharps Creek Recreation Site
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campsite fee includes one vehicle per site. An extra camping vehicle fee of $5 each is collected on-site via cash or check made out to Bureau of Land Management. Payment is supported through a fee envelope system, with the receipt stub displayed on the vehicle dash.
About this campground
Tucked away in the Cascade foothills, Sharps Creek Recreation Site offers an intimate escape with just 12 secluded campsites beneath a towering forest canopy. This BLM-managed gem beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear swimming holes, gold-panning heritage, and peaceful picnic spots along the creek. Modern conveniences like vault toilets and seasonal running water ensure comfort while you disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
Sharps Creek offers basic camping accommodations suitable for tents and small groups. It is a primitive campground with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Sharps Creek, where echoes of the legendary Bohemia Mining District still whisper through the trees. This historic gold rush territory once buzzed with prospectors seeking their fortunes in these very waters. Today, visitors can try their hand at recreational gold panning, following in the footsteps of determined miners who shaped the region's colorful past and left an indelible mark on Oregon's frontier heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Sharps Creek basks in ideal camping weather—think warm, sun-dappled days perfect for creek swimming and cool, star-filled nights around the campfire. With minimal rainfall and comfortable humidity levels, you'll enjoy endless outdoor adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a moody, rain-kissed retreat, occasionally dusted with snow, creating a completely different but equally enchanting atmosphere for the hardy off-season explorer.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's foothill location provides the perfect balance—high enough to escape summer's heat yet accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and majestic red cedar creates a natural sanctuary where sunlight filters through ancient branches. The forest floor bursts with native ferns, wildflowers, and moss-covered logs that shelter a thriving ecosystem. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters—curious raccoons, majestic elk, and graceful deer frequently grace the campground, while a symphony of birdsong provides nature's soundtrack to your stay.
Geological RegionSharps Creek Recreation Site rests in the dramatic transition zone where the Cascade Mountains begin their ascent from the valley floor. This geological wonderland, shaped by centuries of water flow and mineral deposits from the historic Bohemia Mining District, features stunning natural swimming holes carved into smooth rock formations. Dense evergreen forests blanket the surrounding slopes, creating a lush amphitheater where diverse plant communities thrive and wildlife roams freely through this pristine Pacific Northwest paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible campsites are available. Site 7 is noted as an ADA site and is described as having conveniences for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites are moderately sized with good spacing between most sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are noted for close proximity to others, while others, like Site 7, offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with limited shade during hot weather (e.g., campsite 5). ADA site 7 provides a better experience for avoiding noise and large crowds.
Best CampsitesCampsite 7 (ADA spot) was praised for its quieter environment and convenient layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Camping stay limit is 14 days in a rolling 28-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to one vehicle and an unspecified number of guests per site.
Groups
No specific group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 12 sites, some closer to the road and others with better shade and accessibility. ADA-compliant sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 16 to September 28. Reservations can be made starting June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or its mobile app. Scan and Pay is available for non-reserved campsites.
Walk-in AvailabilityNon-reserved campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, payable on-site using Scan and Pay.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the day of arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, such as forfeiting the first night's fee. Scan and Pay reservations are non-refundable and cannot be modified.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Sharps Creek include swimming, camping, gold panning, and picnicking. The swimming hole, a key attraction, has natural features like rounded boulders but is noted for murky water and limited beach area. Gold panning is available for enthusiasts, and the nearby Row River National Recreation Trail offers additional outdoor activities.
Swimming
The natural swimming hole is a focal point of the site, featuring a deep pool and areas for jumping off rocks. However, reviews note that the water is murky, and the area is more suited for active swimming rather than relaxation.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may observe a variety of wildlife, including bird species such as the Oregon junco and larger animals like elk and deer. Mosses, orchids, and other native plants enhance the natural scenery.Water Sports
Limited to swimming and gold panning, no additional water sports are noted.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated steel rings or BBQ grills.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is present near the picnic area but not within campsites. Swimmers are advised to use caution due to uneven water depths.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned in the available information.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 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 located in Cottage Grove, approximately 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 28
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, and pet waste disposal is emphasized since pets are allowed on-leash.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to Sharps Creek, featuring a swimming hole across the street from campsites.
Common complaintsComplaints include murky water at the swimming hole and noise from large groups partying at the campground. Occasional concerns about local residents were also noted.
HostCamp hosts were consistently praised for their attentiveness and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
3106 Pierce Parkway, Springfield, OR 97477
Driving directionsTake Cottage Grove exit 174 from Interstate Highway 5. Turn left onto Row River Road and follow signs to Dorena Lake (Approximately 4 miles). Continue straight on Shoreview Drive for 6.6 miles to rejoin Row River Road (covered bridge to the right). Continue traveling east 4.2 miles to Sharps Creek Road. Turn right and continue 3.1 miles. The campground is located on the right side of the road; the day use area is on the left.
The roads leading to Sharps Creek Recreation Site are paved, but there is limited cellular service in the drainage area. Seasonal closures or accessibility issues are not mentioned.Nearby places
Cottage Grove is located 18 miles northwest of the campground.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are found in Cottage Grove, about 18 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
11 reviews
Sharps Creek Recreation Site is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the site's natural beauty, cleanliness, and family-friendly atmosphere but note issues like noise from nearby parties and murky swimming hole water.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly camp hosts, and a unique swimming hole are praised. Vault toilets are exceptionally clean.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from other campers, limited parking, lack of firewood sales on-site, and murky swimming hole water are common complaints.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring firewood as it is not sold on-site. ADA-accessible Site 7 is quieter and recommended for better privacy. Download the Recreation.gov app before arrival due to lack of cell service.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to swimming and gold panning. Mosquitoes are manageable, and poison oak is minimal around campsites.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest Vault toilet I have ever been in. Didn't even stink." "Vault toilets were spotless, no trash anywhere." "Nice little place to camp, swim, and do some gold mining. Does cost to do those...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is ADA-accessible and quieter. Site 5 has limited shade, a far picnic table, and is close to a more social area.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviewers appreciate the ADA-accessible Site 7 for its convenience and privacy. However, a light from a nearby shed was noted as disruptive for star gazing.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Dog owners should be cautious around the nearby cow pasture.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025