Cave Creek Campground
4.006 reviews19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR, 97523, USA
Cave Creek 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
Camping is $10 per night payable via cash or check at the self-service pay station. No additional reservation fees apply as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of an ancient forest, Cave Creek Campground invites you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature's timeless beauty. This intimate campground features 17 first-come, first-serve sites perfectly sized for those seeking a more rustic adventure. While the cozy sites accommodate vehicles up to 20 feet, making them ideal for tent camping and small RVs, the reward is an authentic wilderness experience complete with crackling campfires, pristine pit toilets, and fresh mountain water from convenient spigots. Here, the forest seems to wrap around you like a comfortable blanket, offering the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in our connected world.
Cave Creek Campground features primitive-style camping facilities suitable for tents and small vehicles, with no reservations required.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Cave Creek places you at the doorstep of one of Oregon's most remarkable geological treasures—the Oregon Caves National Monument. These ancient limestone caves have captivated visitors for over a century, earning the nickname 'Marble Halls of Oregon.' The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where water and time have carved both the mysterious underground chambers nearby and the very canyon that cradles your campsite. This is a place where human history intersects with geological time, creating a profound sense of connection to the earth's deep past.
Weather and SeasonsThe narrow canyon creates its own microclimate, where cool mists often drift through the towering trees and the air carries that distinctive Pacific Northwest freshness. Summer brings warm days perfect for exploration, though the creek's proximity means you'll share the space with nature's smaller residents—pack that bug spray for the evening mosquito social hour. As autumn arrives, the dampness intensifies the forest's earthy aromatics, while winter occasionally dusts the ancient trees with snow, transforming the campground into a hushed wonderland where every sound seems muffled by nature's white blanket.
ElevationWhile specific elevation markers remain nature's secret, the campground's mountain setting provides that perfect sweet spot where the air feels crisp and clean, your breathing deepens naturally, and the pressures of lower elevations seem to simply fade away.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself falling asleep to Cave Creek's endless lullaby as it tumbles over smooth stones just beyond your tent. This narrow canyon sanctuary showcases some of the Pacific Northwest's most magnificent old-growth giants—Douglas firs and cedars that were seedlings when Columbus sailed. The dense canopy filters sunlight into a soft, green glow that photographers dream about, while the understory bursts with ferns and moss-covered logs that look like nature's own fairy tale setting. It's the kind of place where you might spot a deer materializing from the morning mist or hear the haunting call of a spotted owl as darkness falls.
Geological RegionCave Creek Campground occupies a dramatic narrow canyon within the greater Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, where the Siskiyou Mountains reveal their ancient secrets. This geological wonderland showcases the powerful forces that shaped the region—where water has carved through rock over millennia, creating both the famous caves nearby and the intimate canyon that shelters the campground. The creek that gives the campground its name continues this eternal sculpting process, its persistent flow a reminder that you're camping in a landscape that's very much alive and ever-changing. Towering conifers rise from the canyon floor, their roots gripping the rocky soil that tells the story of volcanic activity, tectonic shifts, and the patient work of erosion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no explicit mention of specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are suitable for small vehicles and tents; maximum vehicle length is 20 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as private and secluded within the forest.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCouples seeking privacy may prefer this campground, while families might opt for nearby Grayback Campground for sunnier locations and swimming areas.
Best CampsitesSite #8 was reviewed positively for hammock camping due to its proximity to Cave Creek and a grouping of trees.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 17 tent sites spread along Cave Creek, with no pull-through options and spaces too small for large RVs.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates exclusively on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reviewers noted low occupancy even during peak summer periods.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cave Creek Campground provides a serene environment with natural surroundings for relaxation. Activities include hiking opportunities nearby, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the sounds of the creek. However, the steep ravine in accessing the creek limits family-friendly activities.
Hiking
Located near the Oregon Caves National Monument, the campground is a suitable base for hiking activities around the old-growth forest and nearby cave tours.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported sightings of local wildlife, including bold chipmunks, adding to the secluded and natural camping experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
Being located near the Oregon Caves National Monument, visitors can participate in guided cave tours and learn about the area's geology and history.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, though restrictions may apply during fire season.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer months. The area is in bear country, requiring proper food storage in bear lockers.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Cave Junction, OR, approximately 15 miles away, offers emergency services including police and medical facilities.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information on trash or recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresCave Creek runs adjacent to the campground, though access to the creek may involve navigating steep ravines from certain sites.
Common complaintsReviews mention cold and damp conditions, limited sunlight due to canyon geography, mosquitoes, and subpar interactions with the camp host.
HostMixed reviews about the camp host. One reviewer stated the host was considerate, while another mentioned poor communication and an unwelcoming demeanor.
Campground Map
19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR, 97523, USA
Driving directionsFrom Grants Pass, OR, travel south 29.5 miles on US Highway 199 (Redwood Highway) to Cave Junction, OR. Turn left (east) onto Caves Highway (Highway 46), and continue for approximately 16 miles to the right-hand (south) turn to the Cave Creek Campground.
The campground is accessible by paved roads from Cave Junction. However, it is located 15 miles up Highway 46, which may involve winding and narrow sections. Maximum vehicle length allowed is 20 feet, and the spaces are too small for large RVs or trailers.Nearby places
Grants Pass, OR - 29.5 miles (~40 minutes)
Cave Junction, OR - 15 miles (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping items, and fuel, can be acquired in Cave Junction, OR, about 15 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
6 reviews
Cave Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed feedback. While campers praise the natural beauty, privacy, and tranquility of the site, other reviewers highlight issues such as mosquitoes, an inaccessible creek for families, and poor camp host service.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently highlight the campground's serene environment, proximity to the Oregon Caves, and beautiful old-growth forest setting. Secluded and quiet nature adds to its appeal.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Key issues raised by campers include a poorly managed camp host presence, mosquito prevalence, and the steep access to the creek, which may not be ideal for families with young children.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should be prepared for mosquitoes and bring bug repellant. Tent campers will appreciate the sheltered sites with flat ground for pitching tents. Couples seeking privacy will find this...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During summer, the campground is relatively empty even on weekends, offering peace and quiet. However, the presence of mosquitoes and the damp environment could be challenging for some.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great camping spot near the Oregon Caves National Monument," praised one user, adding, "Campsite #8 is perfect for hammock camping." Another stated, "What a gem of a campground! Gorgeous trees,...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #8 received specific praise for being ideal for hammock camping due to its proximity to a grouping of trees.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback on accessibility features was available.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews focused on pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025