7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (2024)

This article about camping spots near Medford, Oregon is brought to you by GCI Outdoor. Their camping chairs are perfect for any of these sites in the region.

Medford is Southern Oregon’s largest city and the heart of the Rogue Valley. The city sits between the Cascade Range and the Siskiyou Mountains and is the perfect basecamp for endless outdoor adventures. The Rogue River is only a few miles out of town and Crater Lake National Park is only 57 miles northeast. The region is also incredibly fertile and produces some of the best wine, cheese, and produce in the state.

The Medford area is just brimming with fantastic camp spots. You can get as remote as you want from RV parks with all the amenities just outside the city limits and hot springs resorts to riverside yurts and walk-in only tent sites. Here are some of the best spots to camp near Medford, Oregon.

Howard Prairie Lake

7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (1)

Image from The Dyrt camper Kayleigh W.

Howard Prairie Lake is a popular boating, fishing, and camping spot tucked into the Cascade Mountains 37 miles east of Medford. The Howard Prairie Lake offers everything you need for a vacation on the water from boat ramps, boat rentals, a fishing pier, and a gear shop to campsites, cabin rentals, and hiking trails.

“Great family campground, plenty of bike and lakeside hiking trails. Nice shade during the hot months. Definitely will go back!” — The Dyrt camper Chris F.

Campground Details

  • Over 200 campsites – RV and tent sites
  • Water/electric/sewer sites available
  • Prices $22-$35 (+ $4 entry fee)
  • Showers, firewood, and ice available

Valley of The Rogue State Park

Located along the Rogue River just outside of Grant’s Pass, Valley of The Rogue State Park offers fantastic access for fishing and rafting trips on the Rogue. The campground features tent and RV sites as well as yurt rentals and a short interpretative trail follows the river’s edge and is connected to the more extensive Rogue River Greenway Trail. Campsite amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, hot showers, and a boat launch.

“This is a great campground just outside of Grant’s Pass, OR. We used it as a stopover on the way to Crater Lake so we could get up early and get a good spot at one of the National Park campgrounds.” — The Dyrt camper Chelsea R.

Campground Details

  • 167 campsites for tents and RVs
  • Electric and water hookups available
  • Dogs allowed in the campground and pet-friendly yurt

Lake of the Woods Resort

7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (3)

Image from The Dyrt Camper Kelly G.

Forty-five miles east of Medford, Lake of the Woods is one of the most pristine high mountain lakes in the southern Oregon Cascades and a very popular recreation spot. The Lake of the Woods Resort is located on the eastern shore of the lake and offers camping, cabin rentals, boat rentals, and a restaurant and bar overlooking the lake.

“My entire family has stayed here twice for family reunions and it has been a great spot for the entire family! They have cabins (tiny houses) for rent as well as spots for RVs! The lake is absolutely stunning and a great size for boating and fishing.” — The Dyrt camper Mica Z.

Campground Details

  • Over 80 campsites – RV, tent, and group sites
  • 22 sites available with full and partial hookups
  • Prices – $23-$40 (prices vary by site type)
  • Dogs allowed

Jackson Wellsprings

7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (4)

Image from The Dyrt camper Mark Youngblood

Jackson Wellsprings is an artesian mineral hot spring resort 11 miles south of Medford. Overnight camping options include tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and teepee rentals. Guests enjoy free use of the soaking tubs and swimming pool. Reservations recommended for RV sites and teepees and there’s always room for tents.

“Relaxed atmosphere and reasonably priced for car and tent camping, plus camping fees include access to the rejuvenating sulfur-rich hot spring pool, swimming pool and sauna. This is right in the Ashland/Medford metro area so it is very convenient for travel days when you have things to do in town.” — The Dyrt camper Courtney T.

Campground Details

  • Tent, RV sites, and teepee rentals
  • Electric, water, and sewer hookups
  • Tent prices – $25/night tent sites, $15 each additional person
  • Dogs allowed – extra charge and some restrictions apply

Southern Oregon RV Park

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Southern Oregon RV Park is a county-run RV park six miles north of Medford. All sites are paved and can accommodate RVs up to 75′ in length. Each site has a picnic table and campfire pit and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.

“This is a newer Jackson County park (maybe 2-3 years old). It is easily accessible and located in the northern part of Medford in Central Point (Medford suburb if you will). The landscaping and grounds are impeccable. The sites are level and each site has a picnic table and campfire space, as well as small lawn areas. The sites are a good distance from each other.” — The Dyrt camper Kevin H.

Campground Details

  • 92 RV sites – no tent sites or car camping
  • Water, electric & sewer hookups available
  • Prices – $38 standard sites, $40 premium sites
  • Dogs allowed

Joseph Stewart State Park

7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (6)

Image from The Dyrt camper Lesa H.

Located 34 miles northeast of Medford on the Rogue River’s scenic Lost Creek Reservoir, the Joseph Stewart State Park offers camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. Reservations for tent and RV sites are available up to 30 days in advance and amenities include flush toilets, hot showers, and an off-leash pet area.

What an awesome place to camp! So much space, the lake is gorgeous! The best part is that we haven’t had to deal with any obnoxious, loud campers. Small families, lots of dogs, nice and peaceful. — The Dyrt camper Robyn G.

Campground Details

  • 200 total campsites – RV, tent, and group sites
  • Electric and water hookups available — no sewer hookups
  • Prices – $17-$27 (prices vary by season)
  • Dogs allowed

Squaw Lakes Campground

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Camping at Squaw Lakes Campground offers a unique and remote experience 36 miles south of Medford. All campsites require guests to walk-in via a hiking trail from the parking area and all camping gear must be carried in unless you use the ATV portage service available at the discretion of the camp host. Picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water are available.

“This is truly an Oregon gem. Swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, trail cycling, you name it, this place has it.” — The Dyrt camper Jennifer A.

Campground Details

  • 15 campsites – individual tent and group tent sites only
  • No electricity
  • Prices – $15-$40 (no fees November – mid-May)
  • Dogs allowed

This article about campgrounds near Medford, Oregon is brought to you by GCI Outdoor.

7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (8)

Their canoe seats are perfect for those looking to explore southern Oregon’s lakes.

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  • 7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon (2024)

    FAQs

    7 Superb Southern Oregon Camping Spots Around Medford, Oregon? ›

    Some popular county parks to pitch a tent include Barview Jetty Park, Kilchis River Park, Trask River Park, Webb Park, Whalen Island Park and Woods Park. Additional camping sites on the Oregon Coast are located at Cape Lookout State Park, Nehalem Bay State Park and Oswald West State Park.

    Where can I camp in Oregon without a reservation? ›

    Some popular county parks to pitch a tent include Barview Jetty Park, Kilchis River Park, Trask River Park, Webb Park, Whalen Island Park and Woods Park. Additional camping sites on the Oregon Coast are located at Cape Lookout State Park, Nehalem Bay State Park and Oswald West State Park.

    How does first come first serve camping work in Oregon? ›

    Campgrounds that do not accept campsite reservations have a self-registration process. Campers register for their site at the campground booth or by providing payment in a self-registration envelope at a kiosk.

    How do I get a campsite in Oregon? ›

    Reservations are accepted at most campgrounds and at parks with reservable group day-use facilities. While reservations are not required to camp, they are recommended because sites and facilities fill quickly. Other things to know: Same-day online reservations now available statewide as of Jan. 1, 2024.

    What is the rule #1 of camping? ›

    When it comes to camping, the rule #1 is to respect nature and leave no trace behind. This essential principle guarantees the preservation of the environment and promotes a sustainable outdoor experience for all. Upholding this rule is vital for maintaining the beauty of campsites and protecting wildlife habitats.

    What are the 5 W's of camping? ›

    There are five important factors of wilderness survival to take into account to stay safe and stay comfortable. The five factors include: wind, water, widowmakers, wood, and wildlife. These factors are referred to as the “5 W's.”

    Is boondocking illegal in Oregon? ›

    Oregon's boondocking laws change depending on who manages the campsite: the state government, Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, or the Army Corps of Engineers. Some areas let you stay for a few days while others permit a couple of weeks.

    Can you camp on the beach in Oregon for free? ›

    Free camping along the Oregon Coast is limited, as most coastal areas are managed by state parks, which require fees for overnight stays. However, there are some dispersed camping options within the Siuslaw National Forest and other nearby public lands.

    Can you overnight camp on the beach in Oregon? ›

    Camping on Oregon's ocean beaches is allowed in many areas, but please be aware of the tides and camp above the high tide line. Note: Overnight parking is not allowed in state park day-use areas or waysides. Camping is prohibited in the following areas: on the beach adjacent to an Oregon State Park.

    What is the first rule of camping? ›

    One of the most important guidelines for anyone keen to enjoy the great outdoors is this…

    How long can you stay at a campground in Oregon? ›

    Please note:The maximum stay in Oregon State Parks is 14 nights.

    How to get first come first serve camping? ›

    For the best chance at obtaining a site in a campground with first-come first-served camping, you need to arrive to the campground early. And in busy parks like Glacier National Park, that means arriving really early.

    Can you camp wherever you want in Oregon? ›

    Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, national forests, and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Some private landowners also offer camping opportunities through platforms like Hipcamp.

    How much does it cost to camp in Oregon? ›

    Overnight rates
    Resident
    MinMax
    Full / “Standard Full” Sewer, electricity, water at site Bring your RV, trailer, or tent Accessible sites$26$38
    Electric / “Standard” Electricity, water at site Bring your RV, trailer, or tent Accessible sites$24$35
    Tent Water at site or nearby Accessible sites$17$24
    29 more rows

    Can you live in a camper on your property in Oregon? ›

    Is authorization required to occupy a RV as a residential dwelling on privately owned residential property? Yes. Your local county planning, building or community development department can assist in providing information about occupying RVs on private property.

    How do I find a good wild camping spot? ›

    Go for walks in the area you want to wild camp in and be extra observant for potential spots where you can pitch up. Places with amazing views or spots that are sheltered are a good starting point. Make sure to note them down on a map or on your phone! You can also look at maps from the comfort of your home.

    What is the number one rule of camping? ›

    One of the most well-known rules of camping is the Leave No Trace mantra, which all campers should be following. This means that whatever you've done to your campsite or the wilderness, you need to make sure you haven't left a trace once you are gone.

    How do you set up a perfect campsite? ›

    Select a good tent site.

    Prioritize setting up your tent first, and in an area that is flat, vegetation-free, shaded and wind-buffered, with good drainage. Make sure there's a good spot to keep food in an airtight container away from your sleeping area and safe from wildlife.

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