Josephine Campground
4.229 reviewsnull
Josephine Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required for this site.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Josephine Campground invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. Perched above the convergence of Josephine Creek and the Illinois River, this peaceful retreat offers a genuine backcountry experience beneath a canopy of regenerating forest and mature hardwoods. Here, the gentle sounds of flowing water blend with rustling leaves to create nature's perfect soundtrack for your camping adventure.
Josephine Campground is a rustic campground featuring tent camping and minimal facilities. It is not suited for RVs or luxury camping.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsFrom late March through September, Josephine Campground welcomes visitors with a diverse tapestry of Pacific Northwest weather. Spring arrives with refreshing rains and the occasional dramatic storm, awakening the forest floor with vibrant wildflowers. As summer unfolds, warm, sun-drenched days invite endless outdoor exploration, while crystal-clear nights reveal stunning starscapes above the tree canopy. Early fall brings crisp mornings wrapped in mist, golden afternoon light, and the possibility of nature's theatrical thunderstorms rolling through the river valley.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryExperience the raw beauty of Oregon's wild rivers at Josephine Campground, where your tent or RV sits elevated above the meeting waters of Josephine Creek and the legendary Illinois River. This riverside sanctuary showcases nature's resilience through its thriving second-growth forest, where Douglas firs reach skyward alongside stately hardwoods that paint the landscape in seasonal colors. Morning mist rises from the creek below, while afternoon sunlight filters through the mixed canopy, creating an ever-changing display of light and shadow that photographers and nature lovers cherish.
Geological RegionJosephine Campground claims its place in the rugged terrain of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, where ancient geological forces carved deep river valleys and created the dramatic landscape you'll explore today. Positioned strategically above the confluence of Josephine Creek and the Illinois River, the campground offers front-row seats to one of Oregon's most pristine wild and scenic river systems, where clear mountain waters have sculpted their path through centuries of bedrock and forest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not addressed in the provided materials.
Sites SizeThere are 6 campsites, but the description of their size is not provided.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest the campsites are close to the road and may lack privacy.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome user reviews recommend sites closer to the Illinois River for access to swimming and scenic views.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group sites are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutVault toilet facilities are available. No garbage disposal or potable water exists on site.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open from March 27 to September 30.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityThe site operates entirely on a walk-up basis as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to swimming and fishing areas on the Illinois River and hiking trails. Wildlife observation is also a highlight. However, reviews indicate mixed experiences with some activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, but specific details about difficulty levels or trail lengths are not mentioned. A user review noted, 'Great place to hike and camp with various trails all over.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted on the Illinois River, but no specific details about the types of fish or fishing quality are provided.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible, but one user review mentioned encountering small leeches in some parts of the river: 'There are small leeches...so maybe not the best.'Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in local wildlife. One user noted, 'Tons of local wildlife around here too so keep your food locked up tight.' However, no bear boxes are provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not addressed.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife is prevalent in the area, making proper food storage essential to avoid animal encounters. Broken glass has been reported on-site, and small leeches are present near homemade dams in the river.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage disposal service at this site, and campers must pack out all trash. One user emphasized, 'Just don't be one of those people who leave their garbage behind. If you see some garbage and it fits in your garbage bag, please help clean up, even if just a little.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Josephine Creek and the Illinois River, providing swimming and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include poor road access, lack of upkeep, and reports of theft and vandalism.
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Grants Pass, OR, travel south for 23.4 miles on US Highway 199 (Redwood Highway). Turn right (west) onto 8 Dollar Road (Forest Road 4201). Continue on Forest Road 4201 for approximately 3.2 miles (where pavement ends) to site, located on left side of road.
The road leading to the campground transitions from paved to unpaved approximately 3.2 miles along Forest Road 4201. This may pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles or in inclement weather.Nearby places
Grants Pass, OR: 23.4 miles
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.2
9 reviews
Josephine Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Josephine Campground vary widely. While some users praise its serenity and access to natural beauty, others criticize the lack of maintenance, trash issues, and potential safety concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
- Serene and rustic setting
- Access to hiking trails and the Illinois River for swimming and fishing
- Abundance of local wildlife
- Free camping
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Lack of maintenance (trash and broken glass reported)
- Vault toilet cleanliness issues
- Campsites close to the road
- Reports of theft and safety concerns
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend keeping food tightly secured due to wildlife presence. Campers are encouraged to clean up after themselves and report littering.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground may be more pleasant during spring and summer months when weather is warmer. Criticisms about trash and maintenance appear consistent regardless of season.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'My favorite free camping spot EVER!'
- 'Great place to hike and camp with various trails all over.'
- 'Vaulted restroom was nasty.'
- 'Very few spots and right on the road. Little signage or...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not mentioned in reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not addressed in reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One user with dogs noted, 'Although my dogs are very loving their size and stature can make some people uneasy, so I like quiet less populated areas.'
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025