Elk Bend Recreation Site
02 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR 97306
Elk Bend Recreation Site
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campground fee of $75 per night for up to 25 people, with each additional person charged $2.50 per night. Additional fees apply and are non-refundable.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Nestucca River Recreation Area, Elk Bend Recreation Site offers an intimate camping experience with just five carefully placed campsites. This hidden gem invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Here, the gentle murmur of the Nestucca River replaces notification pings, and towering evergreens frame your outdoor adventures. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters or simply savoring the solitude, Elk Bend delivers the authentic Pacific Northwest experience that outdoor enthusiasts crave.
Elk Bend Recreation Site is primarily designed for group camping, with five individual campsites that can accommodate up to 25 people each. The facilities cater to tent and RV campers but do not offer cabin or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceThe Nestucca River has flowed through these ancient forests long before Oregon became a state, carving its path through the Coast Range and earning federal recognition as a Wild and Scenic River. This prestigious designation preserves not just the waterway but the stories it carries—from the indigenous peoples who first fished these waters to the generations of Oregonians who have found solace along its banks. Camping at Elk Bend connects you to this living heritage, where every riffle and pool holds echoes of the past.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Elk Bend awakens to welcome campers with full amenities and Oregon's most inviting weather. As autumn approaches and daylight hours dwindle, the campground transitions to a more rustic experience with water systems winterized for the season. While the brave may venture here during winter months, Mother Nature often blankets the access roads with snow and ice, creating challenging conditions that demand respect and proper preparation. Summer visitors can expect the region's characteristic mix of sunshine and refreshing rain showers that keep the landscape emerald green.
ElevationNestled in the gentle folds of the Oregon Coast Range, the campground sits at a comfortable elevation that offers the best of mountain and river environments.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from the Nestucca Wild and Scenic River, its crystal-clear waters catching the morning light as it winds through a cathedral of Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The campground's riverside setting showcases the Coast Range at its finest—where moss-draped maples lean over the water, creating natural fishing holes and peaceful reflection spots. Eagles soar overhead while salmon navigate the riffles below, and the surrounding old-growth forest provides a stunning backdrop of emerald greens that shift with each passing cloud.
Geological RegionElk Bend sits along the spectacular Nestucca River National Back Country Byway, a winding route that reveals the geological wonders of the Oregon Coast Range. This rugged landscape, sculpted by millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion, creates the dramatic river valley that defines your camping experience. The Nestucca Wild and Scenic River serves as the centerpiece, its path carved through ancient seafloor sediments that tell the story of when this mountain range lay beneath Pacific waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityPhotos suggest accessible paths and parking areas, though specific details about ADA compliance are not provided.
Sites SizeSites are group-sized, accommodating up to 25 people, with clear specifications for additional guests.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced away from the road, providing some separation but no specific mention of overall privacy levels was found.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are a distance from the parking area; bringing a hand truck may be advisable for transporting supplies.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 13 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 25 guests per group site, with additional charges beyond this limit.
Groups
Group campsites can accommodate up to 25 people with an additional charge for groups exceeding that number.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 5 individual campsites with a centralized paved parking area and a vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open May through November. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through the Recreation.gov Mobile App.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available but must be paid for using the Recreation.gov Mobile App, as there is no cell reception in the area.
Cancellation PolicyStandard reservation fees apply and are non-refundable. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for group sites will forfeit the first night's fees and may also incur additional penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Elk Bend Recreation Site offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for groups and individuals alike. Popular activities include camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The scenic qualities of the Nestucca River add to the site's appeal, as do nearby attractions like the Nestucca Off-Highway Vehicle Area.
Fishing
The Nestucca River is renowned for its fishing opportunities, making it a key attraction for visitors to Elk Bend Recreation Site.Swimming
User reviews highlight the presence of a 'nice swimming hole,' adding to the recreational options.Wildlife viewing
The scenic Nestucca River and its surroundings offer opportunities for wildlife observation, though specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
The campground is open seasonally from May to November. Winter activities are not supported as the site is closed during colder months.Water Sports
Limited to activities like fishing and swimming in the Nestucca River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within steel fire rings or BBQ grills provided at the site. Building new fire rings is prohibited.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include remote access with no cell service, log trucks on the byway, and seasonal snow and ice. Giant Hogweed, a plant that causes burns, has been reported near Elk Creek.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 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
Closest emergency services are in Salem, Oregon.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2, 2025 - November 29, 2025; May 1, 2026 - November 28, 2026.
Trash and recyclingCampers must adhere to a strict 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' policy as there are no trash or recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is situated along the Nestucca River, offering water access and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention limited cell service, high fees compared to perceived value, and logistical challenges like carrying supplies to campsites.
HostNo information about campground hosts provided.
Campground Map
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 campground is accessible via the Nestucca River National Back Country Byway, which can be reached from several points including Coastal Hwy 101, Willamina Creek Road, and Meadow Lake Road. The area is remote with no cell service, and roads may become hazardous due to snow and ice during winter months.Nearby supplies
Campers are advised to bring their own supplies, as the site is remote with no nearby grocery or fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Elk Bend Recreation Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Elk Bend Recreation Site is described as a lightly visited, remote group campground. Sentiments range from appreciation of the site's natural beauty and amenities to criticism of its simplicity and upgrades.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the quiet, remote nature of the site and its proximity to a scenic river, including a 'nice swimming hole.' The fire rings and designated picnic tables enhance the camping experience.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users were critical of the site's upgrades, stating that it is 'less nice than before,' and others noted that the group sites are located away from the road, making gear transportation...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
One user suggested bringing a handcart for easier gear transport due to the distance between parking and campsites.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During the peak season (May to November), the availability of potable water and the natural setting are appreciated. Off-peak seasons present challenges as potable water is turned off.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great spot with a nice swimming hole. The sites are a ways from the road so bring a hand truck." - Nathaniel O. "Costs $75, group camp. Little use. Less nice than before 'upgrade'." - Tom B.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not reviewed in detail, with one user mentioning campsite 1 as being part of their stay.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Photos suggest accessible paths and parking areas, but no specific user feedback was provided on accessibility.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed (maximum 6 feet). Campers are reminded to dispose of pet waste properly.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025