Fan Creek Recreation Site

4.34

65 reviews

Bureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR, 97306

Quick Facts

1,322 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Camping season gener...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,322 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Camping season gener...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Fan Creek Recreation Site

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fee of $15 per night includes one vehicle per site. Extra camping vehicle fee of $5 each is collected at the site. Additional service fees...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

503-375-5646blm_or_no_mail@blm.gov

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What Campers Say

4.34

Recommended

Based on 65 reviews

63 Google reviews

Most mentioned

friendly

"User reviews for Fan Creek Recreation Site are generally positive, emphasizing its scenic beauty, river access, and the welcoming demeanor of the camp host Jerry. However, some reviews mention issues with campsite arrangement, cleanliness, and noise policies."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR, 97306

Fan Creek Recreation Site

Bureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR, 97306

Driving directionsFrom Coastal Hwy 101 at Beaver: Turn right onto Blaine Road. Drive 7 miles to reach the Nestucca Byway. From Willamina: Take Willamina Creek Road, to Coast Creek Road, to Gilbert Creek Road, to Bald Mountain Access Road, to Bible Creek Road to the Nestucca Byway. From Carlton: Take Meadow Lake Road west 12 miles, continue onto the Nestucca Byway.

The Nestucca River Back Country Byway is open year-round, but conditions may become hazardous due to snow and ice. This is a remote area with no cell service, so navigation apps may not function effectively.

Nearby places

Salem (approximately 45 miles), Beaver (7 miles from Hwy 101 intersection), Willamina (distance not specified), Carlton (approximately 12 miles).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies may be available in nearby towns such as Beaver, Willamina, or Carlton, though the exact locations are not specified.

Best Time to Camp at Fan Creek Recreation Site

From late spring through early fall, Fan Creek transforms into a camper's paradise, with May through September offering the most inviting conditions for outdoor adventures. Golden sunshine filters through the forest canopy during these peak months, creating perfect weather for hiking, fishing, and riverside lounging. As autumn gives way to winter, the campground takes on a different character—snow may dust the surrounding peaks while ice crystals form along the river's edge, creating potentially challenging access conditions that add to the site's remote allure.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season May–Sept; reviewers cite May–Sept as most inviting conditions.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

September is open and pleasant; later fall likely outside peak season and services.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late spring (May) is pleasant; potable water may be unavailable in lower-sun months.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Camping season is May–Sept; winter camping/service levels are not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 2, 2025 - September 28, 2025; May 1, 2026 - September 30, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Camping season generally lasts from May to September, with potable water potentially unavailable during months with reduced sunlight.
Current Alerts: Campfire restrictions may apply. Check fire closures and restrictions on the Bureau of Land Management website.

About Fan Creek Recreation Site

Tucked away along the meandering Nestucca River, Fan Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude in Oregon's verdant Coast Range. This intimate retreat features 11 thoughtfully spaced campsites and a welcoming group shelter, each offering the perfect basecamp for riverside relaxation. Journey here via the winding Nestucca River Back Country Byway—a scenic route that leaves the crowds behind and delivers you to this tranquil haven. Every campsite comes complete with its own picnic table for alfresco dining, a fire ring for evening storytelling sessions, and convenient paved parking that makes settling in a breeze.

Fan Creek Recreation Site caters primarily to tent and small RV campers. It offers 11 standard campsites and one group shelter.

Historical SignificanceFan Creek Campground stands as a testament to Oregon's commitment to preserving its natural treasures. Situated along the federally designated Nestucca Wild and Scenic River and accessed via the historic Back Country Byway, this area represents decades of conservation efforts that have protected one of the Coast Range's most pristine river corridors. The campground serves as a gateway to experiencing the same untouched wilderness that has captivated nature lovers for generations.

Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early fall, Fan Creek transforms into a camper's paradise, with May through September offering the most inviting conditions for outdoor adventures. Golden sunshine filters through the forest canopy during these peak months, creating perfect weather for hiking, fishing, and riverside lounging. As autumn gives way to winter, the campground takes on a different character—snow may dust the surrounding peaks while ice crystals form along the river's edge, creating potentially challenging access conditions that add to the site's remote allure.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain a mystery, Fan Creek Campground's position within the rolling hills of the Coast Range provides a comfortable climate and that quintessential Oregon forest atmosphere that draws campers from near and far.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of the Nestucca River as it winds past towering Douglas firs and moss-draped maples. Fan Creek Campground immerses you in the emerald embrace of the Oregon Coast Range, where ancient forests create a living cathedral overhead. The crystalline waters of the Wild and Scenic Nestucca River serve as your constant companion, offering refreshing swimming holes, prime fishing spots, and endless opportunities for peaceful contemplation along its banks.

Geological RegionNestled within the Nestucca River Recreation Area, Fan Creek Campground showcases the dramatic beauty of Oregon's Coast Range—a landscape sculpted by millions of years of geological forces. Here, forested ridges rise and fall like green waves frozen in time, while countless streams carve their paths toward the sea. The star of this natural amphitheater remains the Nestucca Wild and Scenic River itself, whose protected waters have carved a stunning corridor through these ancient hills, creating a sanctuary for both wildlife and weary travelers seeking respite in nature's embrace.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is not explicitly listed.

Check-out

Check-out time is not explicitly listed.

Stay Limit

The campground has no explicit stay limit mentioned in provided materials.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The number of guests allowed per site is not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is small, with 11 sites placed along or near the river. Some sites are grouped closely together, sharing driveways and river access.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or its mobile app. Some sites also offer Scan and Pay for first-come-first-served availability.

Walk-in AvailabilityScan and Pay is available at some sites within the campground for first-come-first-served reservations.

Cancellation PolicyStandard fees are non-refundable. Scan and Pay payments are treated similarly to cash deposits in fee tubes and cannot be refunded.

AccessibilityThe campground is equipped with an accessible trail that leads to a fishing/viewing platform. However, no additional accessibility features are explicitly noted.

Site SizeSites are described as varying in size, with some large campsites available. For example, site #8 is noted for its large size, which can accommodate multiple tents, while others, like site #5, are described as narrow with limited space for parking and setting up tents.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Sites 4, 5, and 6, which offer direct river access, share a driveway and are noted for their lack of privacy. In contrast, other sites in the campground are described as more secluded and spacious.

Total Campsites11 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 6 is highly recommended for groups of up to six people due to its size and location. Site 8 offers a large area suitable for multiple tents.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Fan Creek Recreation Site offers a variety of recreational opportunities centered around its scenic natural setting. Popular activities include fishing in the Nestucca Wild and Scenic River, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground also provides access to water activities such as wading and viewing the river.

FishingFishing is a key attraction, as the Nestucca River is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with species like trout and steelhead likely to be found.

Wildlife viewing"The vibes out here are quaint and cozy," one reviewer notes, highlighting the area's potential for observing local wildlife in a tranquil environment.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include carpenter ants, fire ants, and millipedes at certain campsites. Log trucks may frequently use nearby roads year-round.

Active AlertsCampfire restrictions may apply. Check fire closures and restrictions on the Bureau of Land Management website.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are restricted to steel fire rings or BBQ grills provided. No rock fire rings may be built.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are likely in Salem, OR.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling follow a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. Some users have reported leftover garbage at campsites, emphasizing the need for visitors to clean up after themselves.

Water FeaturesThe campground is directly adjacent to the Nestucca Wild and Scenic River, providing access for fishing and scenic views.

Camp HostThe camp host, Jerry, is frequently praised for his friendliness and helpfulness. However, some reviews indicate dissatisfaction due to perceived discriminatory behavior.

Weather at Fan Creek Recreation Site

Reviews

4.3

65 reviews

Recommended

Fan Creek Recreation Site is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Fan Creek Recreation Site are generally positive, emphasizing its scenic beauty, river access, and the welcoming demeanor of the camp host Jerry. However, some reviews mention issues with campsite arrangement, cleanliness, and noise policies.

Review Summaries

Based on 65 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praised the campground's natural beauty, proximity to the river, and tranquility. "Really beautiful campground and the river is so nice," one reviewer remarked. The camp host Jerry is...

Based on 65 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include awkward campsite layouts, cleanliness concerns like leftover trash, and reports of poor treatment from the camp host, which some users attribute to discrimination. One user wrote,...

Based on 65 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to bring their own insect repellent, as the area has a noticeable presence of ants, millipedes, and mosquitoes. Bringing extra toilet paper is recommended due to occasional...

Based on 65 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fan Creek is most popular during the peak season from May to September, aligning with Oregon’s mild summer weather. During months of reduced sunlight, potable water may be turned off, and visitors...

Based on 65 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Really beautiful campground and the river is so nice." "Jerry...is one of the nicest most caring people I have met." "The vibes out here are quaint and cozy." "Campsite #6 was awesome. Right next to...

Based on 65 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Several specific campsites were mentioned: - Site #6: "Right next to the river and spacious enough for 6 people." - Site #8: "Large enough to accommodate multiple tents with a nice pathway to the...

Based on 65 reviews