North Santiam State Recreation Area

4.24

37 reviews

PO BOX 549, DETROIT, Oregon, 97342, United States

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

764 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Marion County Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

764 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Marion County Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

North Santiam State Recreation Area

$20.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range between $20-$35, depending on the site type and amenities.

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

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Provider

503-854-3406null

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What Campers Say

4.24

Satisfactory

Based on 37 reviews

289 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestrooms

Some mention

crowded

"User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the North Santiam State Recreation Area, with particular praise for the river access and natural surroundings. However, the park's recovery from wildfire damage is a recurring theme in reviews. Many appreciate the clean facilities and attentive camp hosts."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO BOX 549, DETROIT, Oregon, 97342, United States

North Santiam State Recreation Area

PO BOX 549, DETROIT, Oregon, 97342, United States

Driving directionsNorth Santiam Park is located off of Highway 22, 26 miles east of Salem or 4 miles west of Mill City.

The park is accessible via Highway 22. It is located 26 miles east of Salem and 4 miles west of Mill City. Roads are paved and regularly maintained; however, accessibility is limited during the campground's closure periods (mid September to mid May).

Nearby places

Salem: 26 miles, Mill City: 4 miles

Nearby supplies

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Best Time to Camp at North Santiam State Recreation Area

Experience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Winter arrives with a gentle hush, bringing cleansing rains and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a peaceful wonderland. As spring unfolds, the forest awakens with fresh growth amid refreshing showers. Summer reveals the campground at its finest, with sun-drenched days reaching a comfortable 88°F – perfect for river swimming and evening campfires. Autumn paints the surrounding forest in warm hues while crisp air and intermittent rainfall create ideal conditions for cozy camping adventures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open May–Sept; peak season with full river access and activities available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open through September; early fall offers scenery but season is limited.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Campground opens May 1; most of spring is outside the camping season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed mid-September to mid-May; winter camping not available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is May to September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 to September 30, closed mid September to mid May.
Current Alerts: Active recovery efforts from recent wildfires may affect certain trails. The campground is closed mid September to mid May.

About North Santiam State Recreation Area

Where the whispering pines meet the crystal-clear waters of the North Santiam River, this enchanting forest retreat beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic Pacific Northwest experiences. Wander along accessible trails that wind through towering evergreens, cast a line into the river's promising pools, or simply lose yourself in the rhythmic sounds of rushing water from your campsite. With thoughtfully maintained facilities and countless opportunities for adventure, this riverside sanctuary serves as your gateway to unforgettable memories in nature's embrace.

The campground offers primarily tent camping with a focus on walk-in and boat-in sites. These are first-come, first-served and operate seasonally.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the echoes of Oregon's logging heritage that permeate this region. Nearby historic mill towns stand as monuments to the area's industrious past, their weathered buildings and nostalgic architecture telling stories of generations who worked these forests. These charming communities offer glimpses into the cultural tapestry that shaped the North Santiam Valley, where timber was king and the river served as nature's highway.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Winter arrives with a gentle hush, bringing cleansing rains and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a peaceful wonderland. As spring unfolds, the forest awakens with fresh growth amid refreshing showers. Summer reveals the campground at its finest, with sun-drenched days reaching a comfortable 88°F – perfect for river swimming and evening campfires. Autumn paints the surrounding forest in warm hues while crisp air and intermittent rainfall create ideal conditions for cozy camping adventures.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where resilience meets beauty along the banks of the North Santiam River. Though touched by wildfire, the surrounding forest demonstrates nature's remarkable ability to regenerate, with new growth emerging among the standing sentinels of older trees. Discover hidden meadows carpeted with wildflowers, find your perfect fishing spot along the river's edge, or simply marvel at the interplay of sunlight filtering through the canopy. The river itself serves as the campground's centerpiece, its clear waters offering both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities throughout your stay.

Geological RegionCentral Valleys Region

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

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Stay Limit

Mid September to mid May closures prevent long stays during these periods.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

No specific information is provided about group camping sites beyond the group picnic shelter.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes 9 walk-in tent sites arranged near the river and parking area, along with a picnic shelter for group use.

Reservation PlatformsReservations for picnic shelters can be made by calling Marion County Parks at 1-800-452-5687.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll camping sites are walk-up only and first-come, first-served.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available; all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

AccessibilityThe campsite nearest the parking area is accessible to campers with disabilities and features a hard-surfaced gravel trail.

Site SizeThe campsites are reported to be relatively small and 'pretty squished together,' according to one user review.

PrivacyThe sites are described as lacking privacy, with one review mentioning they are 'pretty squished together.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to the river for scenic views, but arrive early as all sites are first-come, first-served.

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

The North Santiam State Recreation Area emphasizes outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and water-based activities. Visitors frequently highlight access to the North Santiam River and the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

HikingThe park features a network of trail loops for short and longer hikes. However, wildfire damage has impacted some trails, as one user noted, 'It burned halfway last big fire so hiking around is a no-go.'

FishingFishing is a popular activity here, with users describing catching trout and the river being a great spot for fishing. However, one user noted, 'The trout are fussy,' while another felt that the proximity to people splashing about made fishing less ideal.

SwimmingThe North Santiam River offers opportunities for swimming and floating, as mentioned by multiple users. One mentioned, 'Water is shallow enough to let the kids play,' while another noted the presence of larger rocks on the riverbed.

BoatingBoating is supported via a boat ramp providing access to the North Santiam River. One user described it as 'a wonderful resource for all who want to enjoy the river.'

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFire damage has left the area vulnerable to erosion and plant loss, and the river poses potential water-related risks.

Active AlertsActive recovery efforts from recent wildfires may affect certain trails. The campground is closed mid September to mid May.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in designated fire pits.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are null

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are managed by Marion County Parks; for urgent issues, contact the Ranger Station at 503-854-3406.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the available data.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located directly beside the North Santiam River, offering boat-in access, fishing opportunities, and areas shallow enough for children to play.

Camp HostCamp hosts are described as attentive and courteous by most reviews, although individual experiences vary.

Weather at North Santiam State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.2

37 reviews

Satisfactory

North Santiam State Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the North Santiam State Recreation Area, with particular praise for the river access and natural surroundings. However, the park's recovery from wildfire damage is a recurring theme in reviews. Many appreciate the clean facilities and attentive camp hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently mention the beautiful river, clean restrooms, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. Phrases like 'attentive camp host,' 'very clean facilities,' and 'a wonderful resource for all who...

Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes the lack of cell service, the absence of showers, and the wildfire damage affecting trails and vegetation. One user stated, 'It burned halfway last big fire so hiking...

Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend arriving early to secure a campsite due to the first-come, first-served policy, especially on weekends. Another tip is to bring water shoes due to the rocky riverbed.

Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight that the campground is only open for camping from May 1 to September 30. Visitors note that the area remains beautiful but is recovering from wildfire damage, impacting activities...

Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The trout are fussy.' - Joseph Gale 2. 'The camp host AnneMarie was very pleasant and warming.' - Wendy Guyer 3. 'There are restrooms but no showers, so small trips are best.' - EekaPika 4. 'Nice...

Based on 37 reviews