Big Pine Campground
02 reviewsBig Pine Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
$5 per night for a single site. Additional vehicles incur a $2 per night fee. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites only.
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About this campground
Nestled deep within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Big Pine Campground offers an intimate encounter with some of nature's most impressive giants. This rustic retreat invites you to camp beneath towering fir and Ponderosa pine trees, including the awe-inspiring second tallest Ponderosa pine in the world—a living monument that has watched over these woods for centuries.
Big Pine Campground offers a rustic camping experience primarily catering to tent and small trailer campers. There are no RV pull-through sites or modern glamping accommodations, but the tranquil forest setting appeals to campers seeking solitude and nature immersion.
Historical SignificanceBig Pine holds a special place in forestry history as the home of a legendary Ponderosa pine that once held the title of world's tallest. Though it has since been surpassed by another giant, this magnificent tree still stands as the second tallest of its species on Earth, drawing tree enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe to witness its remarkable height and enduring presence.
ElevationPerched at 2,100 feet above sea level, the campground sits in a sweet spot where mountain air meets forest grandeur. This elevation creates an ideal climate for the majestic old-growth forest that envelops the camping area, offering cooler temperatures in summer and a crisp, pine-scented atmosphere that refreshes the soul.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of trees where ancient firs and Ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their massive trunks creating natural pillars in this outdoor sanctuary. The interplay of evergreen giants and deciduous understory creates a multi-layered forest experience—offering dappled sunlight, natural privacy between campsites, and a spectacular show when autumn paints the deciduous leaves in brilliant golds and crimsons against the eternal green backdrop.
Geological RegionThe Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest provides a dramatic backdrop for Big Pine Campground, where the complex geology of southern Oregon has created the perfect conditions for these forest titans to thrive. This diverse ecosystem represents one of the most botanically rich temperate forests in North America, where the campground's majestic fir and Ponderosa pine groves stand as testament to the region's extraordinary natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe toilets are wheelchair-accessible, but no additional accessibility features are detailed in the provided materials.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as standard-sized, suitable for tents and trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are rated as fair to good, with deciduous trees enhancing seclusion. One review highlights the privacy positively, stating: 'There is plenty of privacy.'
Total Campsites13 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
14 days
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout through the forested area. Some parking aprons are not level, making RV leveling a challenge.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through October, weather-dependent. Temporary closure due to hazardous trees.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served. No sites are reservable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The activities at Big Pine Campground focus on hiking and enjoying the natural, untouched environment. The Big Pine Loop Trail is a highlight, offering scenic exploration opportunities through the majestic pine forest. Wildlife viewing is likely, given the natural setting, but specifics are not detailed. Fishing, swimming, and other recreational water activities are not available.
Hiking
There are several trails accessible from the campground: Big Pine Loop (2 miles), Sunshine Loop (0.5 miles), Challenge Loop (0.75 miles), Creek Loop (0.2 miles), and Big Pine Spur, which connects to a broader network of trails. These trails cater to various experience levels and provide opportunities to explore the forest's tranquility.Biking
The Big Pine Spur accommodates mountain biking and provides access to an extensive trail network.Wildlife viewing
The natural, forested setting suggests opportunities for observing local wildlife, although specific species or viewing areas are not mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed, as the campground is open seasonally and closes during the colder months.Water Sports
There are no water sports available, including kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted only in developed fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country; practice safe food storage techniques.
Active alertsTemporary closure due to hazardous trees.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through October.
Trash and recyclingGarbage disposal is available during the open season. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSeveral campsites back up to Myers Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention the bathrooms being subpar.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Grants Pass, OR, travel northwest 17.8 miles on Interstate 5 west and take the Merlin / Galice Road about 12 miles left onto Forest Road 25 and go 12 miles to the campground.
Forest Rt. 25 is a paved, single-lane road with turnouts.Nearby places
Merlin, OR (approximately 17.8 miles from Grants Pass)
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Big Pine Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews underscore the peaceful and private atmosphere of Big Pine Campground, with highlights including the natural beauty and historical significance of the site. However, some users expressed dissatisfaction with the outdated facilities, particularly the vault toilets. The emotional connection to the site was noted by a reviewer who reminisced about family camping trips in earlier years.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
- Peaceful and private environment
- Majestic, scenic location among towering pine trees
- Good opportunities for photography and enjoying nature
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Vault toilet facilities are substandard
- The campground is currently closed, and the closure has upset long-time visitors
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Consider visiting during the opening season for optimal access to facilities.
- Bring your own drinking water as facilities are limited to a hand pump.
- Explore the Big Pine Loop Trail for a...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through October, weather permitting. Summer months are most favorable for visits. There are no reviews describing winter usage.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It’s so peaceful and there is plenty of privacy.'
2. 'Great place for taking outdoor photos too.'
3. 'Bathroom sucks though unless they’ve done some work since I was there.'
4. 'This is a place...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are highlighted in user reviews; however, some sites back up to Myers Creek, adding to the tranquil experience.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, but no other accessibility features are mentioned in reviews or official sources.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences or amenities.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025