Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

Star4.57
34 reviews
30725 N Fork Ln SE, Lyons, OR 97358
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

994 ft

Price

$3 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Currently closed ind...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by location and activity. There are additional $3 to $9 reservation fees depending on booking method.
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

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Provider
503-897-2171BLM_OR_NO_Mail@blm.gov
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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 34 reviews

19 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanrestrooms

Some mention

noisecrowded

"Overall, the campground received mixed reviews. While many visitors praised its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and tranquility, others highlighted concerns such as noisy neighbors, inappropriate behavior by some hosts, and issues with toilet facilities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

30725 N Fork Ln SE, Lyons, OR 97358

Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

30725 N Fork Ln SE, Lyons, OR 97358

Driving directionsFrom Salem: Take State Hwy 22 East for approximately 24 miles. Turn left on North Fork County Road. Elkhorn Valley is 8.5 miles up North Fork County Road. Traffic is high during the summer season. Please drive carefully. Be aware of slippery roads during wet and icy weather.
The site can be accessed via paved roads with seasonal conditions impacting accessibility. High traffic is expected in summer, and roads may be slippery during wet and icy weather.
Nearby places
Salem (24 miles), Mill City (approx. 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Mill City, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

The mountain climate here brings dramatic seasonal shifts, with winter records showing temperatures that plunge well below freezing, accompanied by brisk winds that whistle through the valley. While comprehensive weather data remains limited, visitors to this elevation should prepare for mountain conditions that can change rapidly, bringing everything from crisp, star-filled nights to sudden afternoon storms that roll across the peaks.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season with warm weather, swimming, and many positive summer reviews, but crowds noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall likely pleasant for hiking and foliage; fewer explicit reviews than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring offers hiking and river access as snow melts; review coverage lighter than summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Winters bring freezing temps and winds; winter activities not highlighted and accessibility limited.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Currently closed indefinitely due to wildfire damage.
  • Current Alerts: The campground is currently closed due to wildfire damage.

About Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site stands as a testament to nature's resilience, currently closed as the forest recovers from wildfire damage. Once a cherished hideaway for those seeking solitude amid pristine wilderness, this scenic campground earned its reputation as a peaceful sanctuary where privacy and natural beauty converged in perfect harmony. The site awaits its eventual rebirth, when visitors will once again discover the tranquil escape that made Elkhorn Valley a beloved destination.
The campground featured tent and standard nonelectric campsites. Group camping and RV-specific information were not detailed.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights per visit.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The site offered a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and playing in the river. Wildlife viewing and exploring nearby attractions were popular among visitors.
HikingSeveral visitors enjoyed hiking in the area. One review mentioned 'easy to moderate hikes' and finding caves during their exploration.
SwimmingSwimming in the river was a highlight for many campers. One visitor noted, 'The river was crystal clear and cool—just right to go swimming.'
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMentioned wildfire damage and potential wet/icy road conditions during some seasons. User reviews also note bees and pit toilets with poor sanitation.
Active Alertsclosed until further notice. | is closed due to heavy wildfire damage. | The campground is currently closed due to wildfire damage.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

Reviews

4.6
34 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground received mixed reviews. While many visitors praised its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and tranquility, others highlighted concerns such as noisy neighbors, inappropriate behavior by some hosts, and issues with toilet facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews emphasized the beauty and quietness of the site. Many appreciated the clean restrooms, friendly hosts, and proximity to natural attractions. One user described it as 'one of the crown jewels...
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Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues included the poor state of some vault toilets, lack of cell service, and encounters with noisy or inconsiderate campers. An isolated incident described inappropriate behavior by a camp...
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Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommended bringing hand sanitizer, arriving early to secure good spots, and being cautious about proximity to noisy groups. One user warned about crowded riverfront areas.
Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer seemed to be the peak season, with visitors enjoying warm weather and river activities. However, this was also the time when traffic and overcrowding were noted.
Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is one of the crown jewels of camping in Oregon.' - Luke Wolkenhauer 2. 'The river was crystal clear and cool—just right to go swimming.' - Sally M. 3. 'The pit toilets were the most...
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Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlighted campsite B6 as 'very roomy' and B17 as offering direct river access. However, noise and crowding were concerns for some sites.
Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited accessibility reviews were available. One user noted restrooms with lights, and another highlighted challenges for disabled individuals accessing the river due to inclines.
Based on 34 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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