Grayback Campground
4.3820 reviewsRt. 46 east, 11.3 miles from Cave Junction, OR
Grayback Campground
$5.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
$15 per night for a single site, and $5 per night for additional vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single-site fees occupied by the pass holder. Payment is accepted via cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Oregon's Illinois Valley, Grayback Campground invites you to step back in time to a simpler era of camping. This 39-site forest sanctuary stretches along the melodic waters of Sucker Creek, where afternoon swimmers find relief from summer heat and evening listeners drift to sleep with nature's soundtrack. Built by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, Grayback retains its original rustic charm beneath a cathedral of towering trees that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. While the sites offer varying degrees of seclusion, the campground's authentic character and creek-side setting create an atmosphere where memories are made.
Grayback Campground offers tent-only camping with 39 individual tent sites and no RV accommodations. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned, but the absence of hookups suggests a minimalistic camping experience. Group camping and glamping options are not provided.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Grayback Campground, where the legacy of America's Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every carefully placed stone and weathered timber. During the 1930s, young men of the CCC transformed this wilderness into an accessible retreat, leaving behind the historic Cedar Guard Station and a rustic amphitheater that once echoed with campfire programs. While time has softened some edges and nature has begun reclaiming portions of the original trails and gathering spaces, these features stand as testaments to an era when conservation and craftsmanship went hand in hand, adding layers of meaning to every camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives at Grayback with gentle rains that awaken the forest, bringing fresh scents of earth and new growth. As summer unfolds, the campground transforms into a natural refuge where temperatures can climb to a toasty 90°F during peak season in late July and August. These warm afternoons make Sucker Creek's swimming holes particularly inviting, while the dense forest canopy provides welcome relief from the heat. Early season visitors should pack rain gear and layers, while summer campers will appreciate lightweight clothing and plenty of sunscreen for creek-side adventures.
ElevationPerched at 2,000 feet above sea level, Grayback Campground occupies a sweet spot in Oregon's elevation spectrum. This modest altitude works magic during summer months, creating a natural air conditioning effect that keeps temperatures several degrees cooler than the valley below. The elevation provides just enough lift to catch cooling mountain breezes while remaining accessible year-round, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring both lowland forests and higher mountain adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the remarkable biodiversity of the Illinois Valley at Grayback, where ancient giants stretch skyward and create a living green cathedral. These magnificent old-growth sentinels cast cooling shadows across the campground, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Sucker Creek weaves through the landscape like a liquid ribbon, its clear waters tumbling over smooth stones and pooling in perfect swimming holes. The surrounding forest showcases nature's full palette - from delicate wildflowers carpeting the understory to moss-draped branches creating fairy-tale scenes that change with every shift of light.
Geological RegionGrayback Campground serves as your gateway to the geological wonders of Oregon's Illinois Valley, a region where ancient forces carved a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Just five miles from the world-famous Oregon Caves National Monument, the campground sits amid dense forests that cloak a complex terrain of ridges and valleys. Sucker Creek has patiently sculpted its course through this landscape over millennia, creating the gentle streamside environment that defines the camping experience. This corner of Oregon represents one of the most biodiverse temperate regions in North America, where coastal influences meet mountain ecosystems to create a natural wonderland waiting to be explored.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally described as being large and flat. However, one user mentions challenges fitting a 16x16 canvas wall tent.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies. Some campsites are described as 'practically on top of each other,' while others offer more seclusion, particularly the creekside sites.
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites (1-10) for views and proximity to water. Site 10 is praised for its larger fire pit and convenience near restrooms.
Best CampsitesSites 1-10 are creekside and recommended for their views of Sucker Creek. Site 33 is noted for its proximity to bathrooms and large fire pit setup.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
Group sites are not available, and there is no information about group-specific accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutIncludes 39 tent sites organized near Sucker Creek and other forested areas. Some sites near the road offer less privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may not be available and sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may not be reservable and are likely first-come, first-serve. Reviews suggest the campground is rarely crowded, offering flexibility for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations rules are not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grayback Campground provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and creek activities like soaking or swimming in designated areas. The 1-mile interpretive loop trail around Grayback Creek and the Cedar Guard Station offers an easy hiking option for families.
Hiking
The Grayback Interpretive Trail is a 1-mile loop suitable for families. It passes by Grayback Creek and the historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp.Swimming
Several campsites are located along Sucker Creek, which offers swimming holes and areas to cool off during summer.Wildlife viewing
The campground is situated in a biologically diverse area, offering opportunities to observe various wildlife unique to the Illinois Valley.Winter Activities
There are no winter activities mentioned, as the campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not offered.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in developed fire pits only.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsNo bear activity reported by user reviews, though campsites reportedly lack water and electricity. Sucker Creek is nearby and may pose a drowning hazard for unsupervised children. Some reviewers noted trash and toilet paper left behind, which could attract pests.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.7 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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services include Shady Acres RV Park (for RV grey water disposal) and likely health facilities in Cave Junction, OR, though no specific hospital or police station addresses are provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely late Spring through early Fall, coinciding with Memorial Day weekend to September 30.
Trash and recyclingGarbage disposal is available. There is no specific mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Sucker Creek, which offers opportunities for swimming and relaxation. "The creek has a few swimming holes."
Common complaints"Restrooms have the worst stench I have ever experienced." Other complaints include limited privacy and occasional disrepair of campground facilities.
HostCampground hosts are available but described as inconsistent by user reviews. "Dean the camp host was very friendly," but one user called the host a "control freak."
Campground Map
Rt. 46 east, 11.3 miles from Cave Junction, OR
Driving directionsIn Cave Junction, OR, at intersection of US Rt. 199 and State Rt. 46, take Rt. 46 east and go 11.3 miles to campground sign. Turn right into campground.
The campground is accessible via Route 46 east from Cave Junction, featuring paved parking aprons that make RV access smoother. The access road does not appear to have seasonal closures, but the campground itself operates seasonally between Memorial Day and September 30.Nearby places
Cave Junction (11.3 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Fuel, food, and camping supplies can likely be found in Cave Junction, OR.
Camper Reviews
4.4
20 reviews
Grayback Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Grayback Campground are mixed. Campers appreciate the beautiful forested setting, proximity to Sucker Creek, and the interpretive trail. However, there are significant complaints about the condition of amenities, especially the vault toilets, and varying experiences with the campground host.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the scenic setting, creek access, affordable rates, and the historical charm of the campground. One reviewer noted, 'the camp host clearly takes pride in...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance of facilities such as vault toilets (‘the restrooms have the worst stench I have ever experienced’), lack of drinking water, and limited privacy between...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many recommend creekside sites (1-10) for better views and access to water. Campers also suggest bringing ample drinking water due to water availability issues.
Based on 20 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with reviewers noting that the campground is less crowded even on weekends. However, the lack of water and the condition of restrooms become more problematic during this...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The creek has a few swimming holes, and the campground has an interpretive trail.' - 'Nice shady USFS campground with a decent-sized creek along one side.' - 'The restrooms have the worst stench I...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1-10 are recommended for their proximity to the creek. Site 10, in particular, is highlighted for its larger fire pit and closeness to the river, trail, and restrooms. Site 33 is noted for its...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility beyond mentioning wheelchair-accessible vault toilets.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash. There are no specific reviews detailing pet-related experiences.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025