Ivan Oakes Campground
4.1126 reviewsWest Boundary Road, Lowell, OR 97452
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
24 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
24 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsIvan Oakes Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric campsites is $20 during peak season from May 23 to August 31 each year. No additional fees for utilities as...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-942-5631
What Campers Say
4.11
Satisfactory
Based on 26 reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanwell-maintained
"User reviews for Ivan Oakes Campground are mixed, varying from high praise for its quiet and scenic setting to complaints about bees, wasps, and inconsistent bathroom maintenance."
Fees & Passes at Ivan Oakes Campground
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit, with a rolling 30-day limit.
Cancellation: Reservation changes or cancellations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Ivan Oakes Campground website.
Best Time to Camp at Ivan Oakes Campground
Experience the best of Oregon's temperate climate at Ivan Oakes, where summer days unfold in perfect camping weather. From crisp mornings in the low 50s ideal for coffee by the fire, to warm afternoons reaching the upper 90s perfect for lake activities, every day brings its own outdoor possibilities. Spring visitors should pack rain gear, as May through mid-June often brings refreshing Pacific Northwest showers that keep the surrounding forest lush and vibrant.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 6, 2026. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season begins May 23 annually, with reservations available starting June 20. The season closes August 31.
- Current Alerts: The Signal Point Boat Ramp may be closed in late August due to reservoir drawdowns for juvenile fish passage.
About Ivan Oakes Campground
Nestled along the serene shores of Lookout Point Lake, Ivan Oakes Campground offers an authentic Oregon camping experience that blends rustic charm with essential amenities. This semi-primitive gem features 24 thoughtfully spaced single-family campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring for those quintessential campfire evenings. While embracing a back-to-nature atmosphere with vault toilets and potable water stations, the campground maintains just enough comfort for a memorable outdoor adventure. The nearby Signal Point boat ramp, accessible even during low water conditions, opens up a world of aquatic exploration right from your campsite door.
Ivan Oakes Campground offers semi-primitive camping options with 24 single-family campsites. The facilities support both tent and RV camping but lack full hook-ups.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Oregon's temperate climate at Ivan Oakes, where summer days unfold in perfect camping weather. From crisp mornings in the low 50s ideal for coffee by the fire, to warm afternoons reaching the upper 90s perfect for lake activities, every day brings its own outdoor possibilities. Spring visitors should pack rain gear, as May through mid-June often brings refreshing Pacific Northwest showers that keep the surrounding forest lush and vibrant.
ElevationPerched in the rolling foothills of the Calapooya Mountains, Ivan Oakes Campground offers a perfect vantage point between valley and peak. While specific elevation details await discovery, campers will find themselves immersed in the gentle mountain terrain that characterizes this beautiful corner of Oregon.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Calapooya Mountains cradle Ivan Oakes Campground in a tapestry of Pacific Northwest woodland beauty. Towering conifers provide natural shade and frame spectacular views of Lookout Point Lake, while the nearby Willamette National Forest serves as a vast playground for wildlife watching and exploration. From dawn's first light filtering through the forest canopy to evening's golden hour reflecting off the lake, the campground offers an ever-changing canvas of natural splendor. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this region home, from soaring eagles to curious deer that might wander through camp.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Calapooya Mountains, Ivan Oakes Campground sits at the intersection of Oregon's iconic Willamette Valley and the sprawling Willamette National Forest. This unique position offers campers the best of both worlds: easy access from the valley below and proximity to millions of acres of protected wilderness. The surrounding woodland ecosystem thrives in this temperate zone, where maritime influences meet mountain terrain, creating a biodiversity hotspot that showcases the very best of Oregon's natural heritage.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were noted in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are varied in size but tend to be large, according to a review: "The park was beautiful, and sites were very large." However, another reviewer mentioned that some tent pads are on packed gravel and challenging for staking.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are inconsistent, with some sites described as "very private" and others criticized for being "right on top" of neighboring sites. Site 22, for example, lacked privacy, with "no trees or anything to make it feel private."
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 24 and 3 are noted for relative privacy, although site 24 lacks proximity to bathrooms and overlooks the site below. Site 22 has hornet issues but benefits from less crowding if neighboring sites are vacant.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit, with a rolling 30-day limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsite capacity is limited to 8 individuals. No additional visitors allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 24 single-family campsites arranged in a semi-primitive layout. Some sites are close together, reducing privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 23 annually, with reservations available starting June 20. The season closes August 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations must be made in advance through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes or cancellations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ivan Oakes Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and water sports. The Eugene-to-Pacific Crest Trail (EPCT), a 108-mile recreation trail, runs through the campground, providing easy access for hikers. The reservoir is popular for fishing, with species like chinook salmon, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass available. Water sports such as kayaking are also enjoyed, although low water levels have sometimes impacted access.
Hiking
The Eugene-to-Pacific Crest Trail runs through the campground, connecting hikers to a 108-mile recreation trail that links Eugene to the Cascade mountain range. Hikers appreciate the proximity to this significant trail.Fishing
Fishing at Lookout Point Lake is popular, with species like chinook salmon, rainbow trout, and crappie. However, the usability of the lake for fishing may be impacted by seasonal low water levels.Biking
Biking is an option, though no specific biking trails or terrain details are provided.Boating
The nearby Signal Point boat ramp, less than a mile from the campground, supports boating activities. However, its usability can be affected by seasonal reservoir drawdowns.Wildlife viewing
Located close to the Willamette National Forest, the campground offers opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife in the area.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are mentioned by reviewers, though access is sometimes hindered by low water levels in the reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within provided fire rings. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced, and generators are prohibited during these times.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards mentioned include bees and wasps during summer months, poison oak, and rocky tent pads. User reviews also caution about theft in certain areas.
Active alertsThe Signal Point Boat Ramp may be closed in late August due to reservoir drawdowns for juvenile fish passage.
Weather at Ivan Oakes Campground
52
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Police services and ranger office are in Lowell. Additional emergency services, including hospitals, are available in Eugene, approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 6, 2026
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are dispersed throughout the campground, and garbage service is appreciated by some reviewers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lookout Point Lake, although low water levels in late summer limit direct access.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention issues with bees or wasps, low reservoir water levels affecting access, and rocky tent pads. Other complaints include proximity of campsites leading to reduced privacy and occasional cleanliness issues with vault toilets.
HostUser reviews highlight friendly and helpful campground hosts, with some cleanliness issues resolved under newer hosts.
Campground Map
West Boundary Road, Lowell, OR 97452
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5, take Exit 188-A toward Oakridge (Highway 58). Follow Highway 58 East for about 13 miles. At Dexter Lake, turn left at the Lowell Covered Bridge onto South Pioneer Street and cross over the lake. Turn right at the first stop sign onto West Boundary Road/North Shore Drive. Follow this road to the top of Lookout Point Dam and continue for about 6 miles. You will pass some other access points including Signal Point Day Use Area. Ivan Oakes campground will be on the right side of the road about a mile past Signal Point.
The campground is accessible via paved roads leading to Lookout Point Dam and then continuing for about 6 miles. The last segment includes winding roads and gravel sections.Nearby places
Lowell (6 miles), Eugene (approximately 30 miles), Oakridge (approximately 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Lowell, approximately 6 miles away. Larger supply centers are in Eugene.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
26 reviews
Ivan Oakes Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ivan Oakes Campground are mixed, varying from high praise for its quiet and scenic setting to complaints about bees, wasps, and inconsistent bathroom maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the campground as quiet, clean, and well-maintained. The camp host was frequently complimented for their friendliness and helpfulness. 'The campsite was beautiful! Hosts were...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include bee and wasp infestations during summer months, low water levels in the reservoir, and occasional bathroom maintenance issues. 'We were swarmed by bees the WHOLE time,' one...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and prepare for potential wasp activity, especially in the summer. Note that tent pads are gravel, making it hard to stake tents. Plan ahead to access the lake, as water levels may be...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring reviews tend to be more positive due to fewer insects, while summer reviews often mention wasps and water level issues. Late summer and early fall also see complaints about low reservoir...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The restrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen at a campground.' 'We were swarmed by bees the WHOLE time.' 'Amazing campground. Super quiet, on the water, and hosts are amazing.'
Based on 26 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 24: 'Nice but overlooks the spot right below, so there is no privacy.' Site 22: 'Extremely close to neighboring sites without privacy.' Site 3: 'Decently private but tent setup was difficult due...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 24, 2025
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