Shadow Bay

Star3.62
77 reviews
P.O. Box 8516, Oakridge, OR 97463, USA
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,400 ft

Price

$28 - $56/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

92 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens American Land and Leisure site

Official Website
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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
Shadow Bay
$28.00 - $56.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rates for campsites are $28 for standard nonelectric sites and $56 for premium nonelectric sites. Group site rates range from $130 to...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$56.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$465.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
801-226-3564
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What Campers Say

3.62

Mixed Reviews

Based on 77 reviews

7 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsscenerycleanlake

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews for Shadow Bay Campground are mixed, with recurring complaints about mosquitoes, maintenance issues with toilets, and water shortages, but high praise for the lake's beauty and the friendliness of camp hosts."

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Campground Map

P.O. Box 8516, Oakridge, OR 97463, USA

Shadow Bay

P.O. Box 8516, Oakridge, OR 97463, USA

Driving directionsFrom Oakridge, Oregon: At the intersection of Crestview Street and Oregon State Highway 58 (the only traffic light on State Highway 58 in Oakridge), travel east on Highway 58 for 23.3 miles. Turn left on the Waldo Lake Road/Forest Road 5897 and travel 6.7 miles to Forest Road 5896. Turn left onto Forest Road 5896, travel 1.7 miles, and the destination will be on your right.
The campground is located off paved roads, and while the drive is straightforward, some reviews highlight difficulty in navigating loops and signage within the campground.
Nearby places
Oakridge (23.3 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Eugene (approximately 68 miles, about 80 minutes).
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations are located in Oakridge, approximately 23 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Shadow Bay

Shadow Bay transforms with the seasons, each offering its own rewards for the discerning camper. Summer brings warm, pleasant days perfect for lake activities, though be prepared – the mosquitoes consider this prime season too, so pack accordingly. As autumn arrives, the campground reveals its golden secret: crisp, bug-free days where the morning mist rises off the lake and the forest takes on spectacular fall colors. These cooler months offer perhaps the most comfortable camping conditions, with peaceful nights perfect for stargazing and cozy campfire gatherings.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm lake activities are available, but mid-summer mosquitoes and facility problems are common complaints.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 3% in OR

Open into Oct; reviewers report late-season is quieter and largely mosquito-free with great views.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Campground opens June 26; spring camping not available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside June 26–Oct 30 season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 26, 2025, to October 30, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open and reservable from June 26, 2025, to October 30, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Some reviews report a lack of potable water due to a dry well and poor communication about facility conditions.

About Shadow Bay

Nestled along the pristine shores of Waldo Lake, Shadow Bay Campground invites you into a world where towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead. With 92 thoughtfully placed campsites, this tranquil retreat offers direct access to one of Oregon's most remarkably pure bodies of water. Whether you're drawn to the gentle rhythm of paddling across crystal-clear waters, casting a line into the depths, or exploring forest trails that wind through ancient trees, Shadow Bay delivers an authentic wilderness experience. Unlike the busier North Waldo Campground, Shadow Bay maintains a peaceful atmosphere that lets you truly disconnect. Nineteen sites can be reserved in advance, ensuring your perfect spot among the pines.
Shadow Bay Campground features standard non-electric campsites and group sites. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 1 PM.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and up to 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Shadow Bay Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Trails like the Jim Weaver Loop and Shoreline Trail provide excellent hiking and biking opportunities. Waldo Lake is well-suited for water-based activities, though seasonal mosquito infestations can detract from the experience.
HikingThe Jim Weaver Loop (22 miles) and the Shoreline Trail are available for hiking and biking. However, mountain biking is restricted in Wilderness areas. One user praised the hiking experience: 'There is a nice trail that goes around the perimeter that serves as a great hike/walk with amazing views.'
FishingFishing is permitted at Waldo Lake, but specific details about the types of fish or quality of fishing are unavailable.
SwimmingThe lake offers swimming opportunities, with easy access from little trails in the campground. The water is described as clean and clear.
BikingBiking is allowed around Waldo Lake and its trails, but restricted in Wilderness areas. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views.
BoatingBoating is supported, with activities like canoeing and kayaking being popular. A boat ramp is located on-site. One reviewer shared: 'We had a blast paddling around the lake and stopping at the small islands.'
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is known for a high mosquito presence, especially in summer months. Wildfire smoke can occasionally impact air quality. Fallen trees and debris have been noted in some campsites, posing potential hazards.
Active AlertsSome reviews report a lack of potable water due to a dry well and poor communication about facility conditions.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Shadow Bay

Reviews

3.6
77 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Shadow Bay has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Shadow Bay Campground are mixed, with recurring complaints about mosquitoes, maintenance issues with toilets, and water shortages, but high praise for the lake's beauty and the friendliness of camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 77 reviews

What Campers Love

The lake and surrounding scenery are frequently described as breathtaking. Camp hosts are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and effort to maintain the campground. Cleanliness of sites is...
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Based on 77 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquito infestations are the most common issue, particularly in mid-summer. Bathroom facilities are described as poorly maintained, with strong odors. Water shortages and lack of warning about...
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Based on 77 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray, citronella candles, and mosquito repellent. Prepare for seasonal water shortages by bringing your own water. Consider camping later in the season to avoid mosquitoes.
Based on 77 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquitoes are most problematic during mid-summer months, while late-season camping (September) is quieter and mosquito-free. Early seasons may feature cooler weather and strong winds.
Based on 77 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bring bug spray, tiki torches, and lots of citronella candles.' 2. 'The lake was beautiful and everything it promised.' 3. 'Hosts amazing. Always out of their way to keep everything running...
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Based on 77 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #079: 'Beautiful lake, wonderful beaches, peaceful evening.' Site #081: 'Campsite had a fallen tree in the middle of it.' Site #085: 'Beautiful setting and great camp hosts.'
Based on 77 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed, though trails are noted as accessible.
Based on 77 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related reviews are limited, with one user mentioning dogs barking constantly, which they found disruptive.
Based on 77 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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