Clay Creek Recreation Site
4.1851 reviewsClay Creek Recreation Site
$20.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Fees range from $20 for standard non-electric campsites to $75 for group shelter electric sites, with additional charges of $1.50 per person for groups exceeding 51 individuals. Extra vehicle fees of $5 per vehicle are collected at the site.
About this campground
Nestled in Oregon's lush Coast Range, Clay Creek Recreation Site welcomes families seeking tranquility and adventure at 436-492 feet elevation. This peaceful retreat beckons with crystalline swimming holes along the Siuslaw River, scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, and prime fishing spots where patient anglers can test their skills. Whether you're roasting marshmallows under towering evergreens or exploring hidden trails, Clay Creek offers an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience.
Clay Creek Recreation Site offers standard camping options, including individual campsites and group shelters.
Historical SignificanceClay Creek holds deep ecological importance as part of the Siuslaw River watershed, serving as a vital sanctuary for Pacific salmon during their epic spawning journeys each fall and winter. Witness this ancient ritual as determined salmon navigate upstream, their presence drawing eagles, bears, and other wildlife to the riverbanks in a timeless dance of survival that has shaped this landscape for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Oregon's seasonal transitions at Clay Creek. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for river adventures and starlit evenings around the campfire. As autumn arrives, misty mornings give way to crisp afternoons ideal for hiking. Winter transforms the landscape into a rain-soaked wonderland, with powerful storms bringing life-giving moisture to the forest. Spring emerges with explosive wildflower blooms and the gentle return of sunshine through the canopy.
ElevationPerched between 436 and 492 feet above sea level, Clay Creek enjoys a gentle elevation that creates the perfect balance of accessibility and natural beauty. This moderate height provides a comfortable climate year-round, protecting visitors from coastal fog while maintaining the region's characteristic mild temperatures and lush vegetation that makes the Oregon Coast Range so enchanting.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of towering Douglas firs, western hemlocks, and majestic big leaf maples that create a living canopy overhead. Below, a vibrant understory of native rhododendrons bursts with color, while emerald carpets of salal, delicate ferns, and velvety mosses cushion the forest floor. Keep your camera ready for magical wildlife encounters – graceful deer browsing at dawn, majestic elk crossing misty meadows, playful raccoons investigating campsites, and sleek mink darting along the riverbank. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting the elusive northern spotted owl among countless other feathered residents.
Geological RegionWhere Clay Creek meets the mighty Siuslaw River, nature has carved out a spectacular camping destination in Oregon's Coast Range. This geological wonderland showcases ancient old-growth Douglas firs that have stood sentinel for centuries, their massive trunks telling stories of resilience and time. The confluence creates a dynamic ecosystem where mountain streams meet river valleys, supporting an incredible diversity of native plants and creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and vault toilets are available on site.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and can accommodate RVs, trucks, and trailers up to 32 feet. Tent pads are large enough to fit a 4-person tent comfortably.
Sites PrivacyThe dense undergrowth between sites provides a sense of privacy, although some reviews mention the proximity of campsites making it less private in certain areas.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers noted sites such as #1 and #3 offer prime locations with privacy and shade. Site #20 is small and unsuitable for larger tents.
Best CampsitesSite recommendations include site #1 and site #3 for privacy, shade, and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-In is at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-Out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 days in a 28-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One vehicle included per site, additional vehicles charged at $5 each.
Groups
Group shelters are available for reservation and can accommodate large events such as weddings or family gatherings. Rates are $75 per night with an additional $1.50 per person for groups larger than 51 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 21 sites, each equipped with tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and paved parking pads. Group shelters are available for larger gatherings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or the Recreation.gov Mobile App.
Walk-in AvailabilityNon-reserved campsites are available for walk-up via Scan and Pay system, subject to availability.
Cancellation PolicyStandard fees are non-refundable. Scan and Pay system does not allow refunds, modifications, or cancellations.
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
Activities at Clay Creek Recreation Site include camping, picnicking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking. A summer swimming area is also available, and visitors can enjoy recreational sports in the ball field and horseshoe pits.
Hiking
The Clay Creek Trail provides access to old-growth Douglas fir and offers a ridge-top view. However, the trail is currently closed indefinitely due to downed trees.Fishing
The Siuslaw River offers fishing opportunities for Coho and Chinook salmon, especially during fall and winter. Visitors must adhere to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.Swimming
A summer swimming area with nearby dressing rooms is available. However, some users noted that the water depth can vary significantly, impacting usability.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on the Siuslaw River. No permit is required for the 6.5-mile stretch with Class II-III rapids.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse bird species, including pileated woodpeckers, northern spotted owls, and Oregon juncos. Larger wildlife like elk, deer, and bears are also present.Winter Activities
The river and surrounding forest are scenic in winter, with opportunities to observe spawning salmon.Water Sports
Swimming and non-motorized boating are popular water sports available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are restricted to designated fire rings and BBQ grills. Campfire bans may apply during high fire risk periods.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include narrow roads shared with log trucks, slippery riverbanks, and active wildlife such as bears.
Active alertsNOTICE: The Clay Creek Trail is closed indefinitely due to downed trees.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.3 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
Closest emergency services are likely located in Eugene or Florence, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 28, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available at each campsite. Trash collection occurs weekly, which has led to some complaints about flies during the week.
Proximity to water featuresSituated along the Siuslaw River, the campground offers riverbank access for fishing and shallow wading (depth varies seasonally).
Common complaintsSome user reviews complain about noise from partying campers, lack of a camp host, and trash in campsites.
HostNo camp host is currently on-site. Visitors have remarked on the lack of staff presence.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Eugene (valley): From Interstate 5 go west on Beltline Road to West 11th Avenue. Turn right onto West 11th Avenue (Highway OR-126). Follow Highway 126 about 29 miles to Siuslaw River Road just west of Walton. Turn left on Siuslaw River Road and follow about 10 miles to the intersection of BLM Road 19-7-20.1. Keep left on Siuslaw River Road for about 6 miles. The main entrance to the recreation site is located on the right. From Florence (coast): Take Highway OR-126 east about 14 miles to Mapleton. Turn right and follow Highway 126 for about 12 miles to Siuslaw River Road. Turn right on Siuslaw River Road and follow about 16 miles to the intersection of BLM Road 19-7-20.1. Keep left on Siuslaw River Road for about 6 miles. The main entrance to the recreation site is located on the right.
The main access roads are paved. However, the campground is remote and requires travel along Siuslaw River Road, which can be narrow. Some user reviews noted the challenging nature of the drive, citing log trucks and narrow roads as concerns.Nearby places
Eugene (approximately 35 miles)
Florence (approximately 42 miles)
Mapleton (approximately 16 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Walton (nearest town), Mapleton, or Florence, including fuel, groceries, and camping items.
Camper Reviews
4.2
51 reviews
Clay Creek Recreation Site is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Clay Creek Recreation Site range from highly positive to critical, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, spacious campsites, and family-friendly environment. However, noise complaints and lack of a camp host have been recurring concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praise the campground's scenic location, noting its dense forest, privacy, and variety of wildlife. Cleanliness and spaciousness of campsites are also appreciated.
Based on 51 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints include loud and disruptive campers, lack of proper site maintenance, and absence of a camp host. Trash and odor issues have also been noted.
Based on 51 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray, downloading maps in advance due to poor cell service, and preparing for remote conditions. A reviewer mentioned, 'Bring a light source to use the bathrooms...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are the most common, with mixed sentiments about the water levels for swimming. Noise and maintenance issues are frequently noted during peak seasons.
Based on 51 reviewsCamper Quotes
'This is my favorite campground in Oregon so far!' noted one visitor. Another shared, 'The river was amazing, the hiking was amazing... just hit this on a very bad weekend.'
Based on 51 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #20 is described as 'incredibly small,' while sites #1 and #3 are praised for their spaciousness and proximity to hiking trails. Site #11 has a fire pit in need of repair. Site-specific privacy...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features such as parking and vault toilets are appreciated. However, no reviews specifically from users with disabilities were noted.
Based on 51 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, and one visitor shared, 'My dog loves playing in the creek.'
Based on 51 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025