Ludlum House
4.0316 reviews29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR 97415, USA
Ludlum House
$125.00 - $125.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for Ludlum House is $125 per night, excluding taxes and incremental charges. For groups over 10 people, there is an additional charge of $5 per person per day collected at the district office or deposited at the campground.
About this campground
Nestled where Wheeler Creek meets the Winchuck River in southwestern Oregon's enchanting wilderness, Ludlum House offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. This faithfully reconstructed 1999 replica of the original family retreat captures the spirit of simpler times while providing modern accessibility features. Visitors can gather around the campfire ring, enjoy meals at the picnic tables, and experience a rustic yet comfortable escape that bridges past and present in one of Oregon's most scenic corners.
Ludlum House provides group camping options with additional spaces for tent camping and trailer parking nearby. The cabin is a rustic, minimal accommodation ideal for family gatherings, reunions, or other events.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Oregon history at this remarkable site, where an oil-company executive first built his family's wilderness retreat in 1939. The original Ludlum vacation house stood as a testament to the era's pioneering spirit and love for the untamed Pacific Northwest. After World War II brought change to the nation, the Forest Service became the guardian of this special place, preserving its legacy for future generations to discover and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsThe climate here creates a refreshing mountain atmosphere with pleasantly cool days that invite exploration and crisp nights perfect for stargazing by the fire. While occasional Pacific Northwest rain adds to the forest's mystique, come prepared for nature's smaller residents – as one memorable review noted, 'BRING TONS OF DEET. There are more mosquitos near this cabin than in the entire state of Wisconsin.' The abundance of insects speaks to the pristine, undisturbed nature of this riverside sanctuary.
ElevationCradled in a scenic basin beneath the watchful presence of Mount Emily, which rises majestically to 2,926 feet, the campground offers a perfect balance of sheltered comfort and mountain grandeur. This unique topography creates a natural amphitheater where forest sounds echo and morning mist often lingers, adding an ethereal quality to your wilderness experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an ancient forest cathedral where towering coastal redwoods stand sentinel alongside diverse old-growth companions. The crystalline waters of the Winchuck River provide a soothing soundtrack to your stay, while the surrounding mixed-conifer ecosystems create a living tapestry of greens. This remarkable habitat supports an abundance of wildlife, from black-tailed deer browsing in meadow clearings to spawning salmon navigating upstream. Lucky visitors might glimpse playful squirrels or hear the distinctive calls of rare species like the Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet, reminders of the precious biodiversity this forest protects.
Geological RegionLocated in the extraordinary landscape of southwestern Oregon where Wheeler Creek joins the Winchuck River, this campground sits in one of North America's most ecologically diverse regions. Here, the ancient coastal redwood groves mingle with mixed-conifer forests, creating a unique ecosystem influenced by both mountain terrain and Pacific Ocean proximity. This remarkable confluence of geographical features has shaped a landscape where temperate rainforest characteristics blend seamlessly with riverine environments, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the natural wonders that make Oregon's coast range truly special.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Ludlum House and surrounding grounds are accessible. Amenities include accessible walkways, picnic areas, and vault toilets. However, nearby trails like the Chimney Camp Trail are not fully accessible.
Sites SizeThe house itself is large and accommodates up to 60 guests, with additional tent space and parking for trailers available.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews highlight privacy concerns. One user described trespassing issues: "Privacy and security was a huge concern! We had lots of trespassers during the day, and even at night."
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests recommend bringing battery-powered lights, mosquito repellent, and sufficient camping supplies. "The cabin is cozy...the nearby creek is cold but refreshing to jump in," according to a reviewer.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites are not detailed in official sources.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Entry is by combination lock, confirmed prior to arrival.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly detailed.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 30 in the house and 60 for the house and grounds.
Groups
The house and grounds accommodate up to 60 guests. For groups over 10, there is an additional fee of $5 per person per day, collected at the district office or via the fee tube on-site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes tent spaces, trailer parking, picnic areas, and open lawn spaces. The house is two stories with an accessible ground floor.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityEntry is by combination lock, which must be confirmed with the Gold Beach Ranger District office prior to arrival. Walk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with the forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Late fees apply starting from midnight 14 calendar days prior to arrival for group sites and cabins.
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Ludlum House offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and camping. "Steps away from the banks of the Winchuck River," guests can enjoy fishing for Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, and steelhead trout. The area also features accessible hiking trails, such as the Oregon Redwoods Trail.
Hiking
The Oregon Redwoods Trail offers accessible hiking opportunities through old-growth redwood trees, featuring a wooden deck inside a hollowed tree. Another trail, Chimney Camp Trail #1279, is 2.3 miles long and considered easy to moderate but not fully accessible.Fishing
Fishing at the Winchuck River includes opportunities to catch species like Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, and steelhead trout. "Standard winter steelhead tactics such as drift fishing, floating jigs, or swinging flies work well," according to the official description.Swimming
User reviews describe swimming opportunities along the river, with shallow areas suitable for children and deeper swimming holes. "A beautiful pathway in the back takes you down to a beautiful river with the perfect swimming hole," one user shared.Wildlife viewing
Guests can observe black-tailed deer, squirrels, salmon, and occasionally black bears. Sensitive species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet are also present in the area.Winter Activities
Seasonal steelhead fishing and activities in cold weather conditions are popular, although amenities like heating may limit winter usability.Water Sports
Fishing is a highlight, and the creek provides additional water-based recreation such as wading and swimming.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in the designated campfire ring. Visitors must bring their own firewood.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include swarms of mosquitos, privacy concerns due to trespassers, and occasional gunfire in the vicinity.
Active alertsNo current alerts are explicitly mentioned. Visitors are advised to check with the ranger office before arrival.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include the Gold Beach Ranger District (541-247-3600). Full-service hospitals and police stations are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all garbage and food. No specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned in the official description.
Proximity to water featuresSteps away from the Winchuck River, offering fishing opportunities for Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, and steelhead trout. "A beautiful pathway in the back that takes you down to a beautiful river with the perfect swimming hole," according to a reviewer.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of privacy, cleanliness issues ("dog hair so thick in the corners," "FILTHY outhouse with dead bats"), and maintenance concerns such as broken locks and missing equipment.
HostHosts are mentioned in multiple reviews. Experiences vary from "Harold was amazing" to complaints of rude or absent hosts.
Campground Map
29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR 97415, USA
Driving directionsFrom Portland OR, follow I-5S to US 199S to Brookings. From Brookings, travel south on U.S. Highway 101 for 5 miles to the junction of Winchuck River Road (County Road 896). Proceed up Winchuck River Road for about 7 miles to Forest Service Road 1107. Follow Forest Service Road 1107 approximately 2 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road 1108. Follow Forest Service Road 1108 for about 2 miles to the Ludlum Recreation Area. Turn right into the Ludlum Campground and travel the road within the campground to the house.
The road to the campground is described as "one of the roads less traveled." Guests are advised to "go slow and avoid the potholes." Seasonal closures or restrictions due to weather are possible; visitors are recommended to check conditions with the ranger district before arriving.Nearby places
Brookings (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Gold Beach (25 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Brookings, which is roughly 5 miles away and includes options for groceries, fuel, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.0
16 reviews
Ludlum House is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback on the Ludlum House varies widely, with positive highlights emphasizing its scenic location, suitability for family gatherings, and rustic charm. Negative reviews focus on maintenance issues, cleanliness, and privacy concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciated the serene atmosphere, accessibility, and scenic beauty. "A beautiful pathway in the back takes you down to a beautiful river," one user shared. Several reviews praised the house's...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Maintenance challenges were frequently mentioned. A reviewer noted, "The outhouse was missing the toilet lid to help keep the smell and bugs down," while another shared concerns about trespassing....
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommended bringing insect repellent due to mosquitoes and preparing for limited privacy. One reviewer advised, "BRING TONS OF DEET," while another emphasized packing extra lighting, as...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits were marked by cold nights, with guests relying on the wood stove for heat. Summer reviews frequently mentioned mosquitoes but also highlighted outdoor activities like horseshoes and...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is cozy. BRING TONS OF DEET. There are more mosquitos near this cabin than in the entire state of Wisconsin," shared a user. Another noted, "The solar lights and wood stove make it very...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site CO1 received mixed feedback. Guests praised its rustic charm while noting issues with maintenance, such as boarded-up windows and missing picnic tables.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features received positive feedback, with accessible vault toilets and walkways noted. However, some trails, like Chimney Camp Trail, are not fully accessible.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. One negative review mentioned, "Dogs running around the property peed on our stuff and ruined it."
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025