Williamson River Campground
4.6123 reviewsWilliamson River Campground, Fremont-Winema National Forest, Chiloquin, Oregon
Williamson River Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Campsites cost $10 per night for single units. An additional $4 per night is charged for extra vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single campsite fees.
About this campground
Tucked alongside the pristine waters of the Williamson River, this intimate forest retreat offers 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites where the sound of flowing water mingles with the whisper of pine needles overhead. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire grates perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While embracing a back-to-basics camping experience with three well-maintained vault toilets and two hand-operated water pumps, the campground ensures comfort for all visitors with one fully ADA-accessible site. Adventure extends beyond your tent flap with a scenic 1.3-mile trail connecting directly to the fascinating Collier State Park next door.
The Williamson River Campground caters to primitive and tent camping with no RV hookups or group sites available.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive just steps away at the neighboring Collier State Park Logging Museum, where massive vintage logging equipment and an authentic pioneer village tell the compelling story of Oregon's timber heritage. This proximity transforms your camping experience into a journey through time, where morning hikes can lead to afternoon explorations of restored logging locomotives, authentic bunkhouses, and the tools that shaped the Pacific Northwest's rugged past.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring warm sunshine filtering through the pine canopy, but don't let the daytime warmth fool you – mountain nights here demand cozy sleeping bags and extra layers. Even in July and August, temperatures can plummet after sunset, creating those crisp, refreshing mornings that make camp coffee taste extraordinary. Seasoned campers know to pack warm clothes regardless of the season, as this high-country destination keeps its cool mountain character year-round.
ElevationPerched at 4,200 feet within the expansive Fremont-Winema National Forest, this high-altitude haven offers the perfect blend of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. The elevation brings cooler temperatures, cleaner air, and that distinctive pine-scented breeze that defines the Oregon high country experience.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering ponderosa and lodgepole pines creates a natural sanctuary where sunlight dances through the canopy, painting shifting patterns on the forest floor carpeted with aromatic sagebrush. The star attraction flows right through camp – the crystal-clear Williamson River, its pristine waters reflecting the sky and surrounding forest like nature's own mirror. This riparian oasis attracts diverse wildlife and offers endless opportunities for quiet contemplation or exciting exploration along its banks.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable Fremont-Winema National Forest ecosystem, the campground showcases the stunning transition where dry pine forest meets vibrant river corridor. Majestic ponderosa pines tower overhead while their smaller lodgepole cousins fill the understory, all thriving alongside hardy sagebrush that releases its distinctive desert perfume after summer rain. The Williamson River carves through this landscape like a liquid jewel, creating a lush riparian ribbon that supports an intricate web of life in this unique geological crossroads where forest, high desert, and river converge.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne campsite is ADA accessible, and the vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly with handrails.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and well-spaced, offering plenty of room for tents and vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are surrounded by leafy shrubs, offering excellent privacy. Reviewers frequently mention the generous spacing between sites.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome reviews recommend avoiding slanted campsites. Sites next to the river lack clear views due to tree coverage.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations are not provided in the source materials.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single campsites can accommodate typical family camping groups. Exact limits not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout with 19 sites spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day (May 26th - October 15th, broadly).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted. First-come, first-served only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites operate on a walk-up, first-come, first-served basis. Availability is generally good outside of holiday weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system is in place; sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Williamson River Campground provides a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, mountain biking, and day hiking. A 1.3-mile walking trail connects the campground to Collier State Park and its Logging Museum.
Hiking
Day hiking opportunities are plentiful, including a 1.3-mile walking trail to Collier State Park. The area also offers access to unmarked trails and Forest Service roads.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Williamson River, with Rainbow and Brook trout being the primary species. Access to the river is a short walk from the campsites.Biking
Mountain biking is possible on miles of Forest Service roads surrounding the campground.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Collier State Park Logging Museum showcases historic logging equipment and a relocated pioneer village, providing educational opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire grates. No specific restrictions noted.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes can be a nuisance during some seasons, as noted in reviews. Visitors are advised to bring insect repellent.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are based in Chiloquin, OR, located 4 miles away, including police and basic medical facilities. The nearest hospital is likely in Klamath Falls, OR (approximately 30 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available. No recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe Williamson River runs adjacent to the campground, offering opportunities for fishing and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention slightly slanted campsites and occasional highway noise.
HostA camp host is typically present during the high season and is described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
Williamson River Campground, Fremont-Winema National Forest, Chiloquin, Oregon
Driving directionsFrom Chiloquin, OR take U.S. Highway 97 north towards Chemult, OR, for approximately four miles and then turn right onto Forest Service (FS) Road 9730 and right again on FS Road 97130140. The campground will be at the end of the road.
The campground is accessible via paved U.S. Highway 97, followed by gravel Forest Service roads. Roads are generally passable for cars, but caution is advised due to potential rough patches on FS Road 9730.Nearby places
Chiloquin, OR (4 miles, 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and limited camping supplies can be found in Chiloquin, OR, about 4 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
23 reviews
Williamson River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, spacious campsites, and quiet atmosphere, though some noise from the nearby highway has been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, 'cleanest pit toilets ever,' friendly and helpful camp hosts, quiet and peaceful setting, close to the Williamson River.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Highway noise, lack of potable water, occasional bugs (especially mosquitoes), and no direct river views from campsites.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellant and extra water as there is no potable water. If camping in late fall, bring extra blankets as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer, with mosquitoes being the most common nuisance. Fall offers quieter stays but colder nights.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The cleanest campground I’ve ever been to.' - Erik Wightman. 'Large level sites with plenty of room between neighbors.' - CTug. 'Nice little tucked-away campground. Don’t expect all the glitz and...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites closer to the river are mentioned as not having a clear view due to trees and distance. Some sites are slightly slanted according to Oregon Kayak Tours LLC.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
One campsite is ADA accessible, and the vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025