Canal Creek
05 reviewsCanal Creek
$190.00 - $270.00 / 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$190.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Two fee options are available based on peak season rates: $190.00 and $270.00 per night for group sites. Additional fees such as reservation service fees are charged differently based on booking methods, ranging from $3 (in-person) to $9 (contact center).
About this campground
Nestled deep within the coastal forest, Canal Creek Group Campground offers an intimate escape where two riverside camping areas are naturally divided by the gentle waters of Canal Creek. Towering Douglas firs and ancient spruce trees create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the melodic sounds of flowing water provide nature's soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. This hidden gem promises solitude and serenity far from the hustle of everyday life, making it perfect for groups seeking authentic connection with Oregon's pristine backcountry.
Canal Creek is primarily designed for group camping. It features two group sites with different capacities and configurations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through summer, Canal Creek reveals its most welcoming personality, with temperatures hovering comfortably between 44°F and 50°F. While the Pacific Northwest's signature rainfall can bring up to 2.44 inches during wetter weeks, creating a mystical atmosphere as mist dances through the forest canopy, these showers nurture the lush ecosystem that makes this region so enchanting. Occasional wind gusts up to 36 mph whisper through the treetops, and frequent cloud cover creates dramatic lighting that photographers dream about. Pack layers and rain gear to fully embrace the forest's moody beauty.
ElevationTucked into the gentle folds of Oregon's coastal mountains, Canal Creek rests in a low-elevation forest setting where the maritime climate creates perfect conditions for the region's legendary old-growth forests. This accessible elevation means you'll enjoy the full splendor of the temperate rainforest without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where Canal Creek's crystal-clear waters babble over smooth stones, creating peaceful pools and gentle cascades. Massive Douglas firs stretch skyward like ancient pillars, their bark deeply furrowed with age, while graceful Sitka spruce add their silvery-green hues to the forest tapestry. In summer, wild huckleberries carpet the forest floor, offering sweet treats for observant hikers. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic Roosevelt elk grazing in nearby meadows, bald eagles soaring overhead, and the elusive marbled murrelet - a rare seabird that nests in these old-growth giants. Visitors consistently marvel at the profound tranquility and untouched beauty that defines this special corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Geological RegionCanal Creek lies within the magnificent Siuslaw National Forest, where the dramatic meeting of land and sea has created one of America's most diverse ecosystems. This extraordinary region encompasses everything from the windswept Oregon Dunes to pristine Pacific beaches, with Canal Creek occupying a sweet spot in the lush coastal forest zone. The creek itself has carved a natural boundary through the campground, creating two distinct group camping areas while serving as a vital corridor for wildlife. Here, the temperate rainforest thrives in the mild maritime climate, producing the towering Douglas firs and Sitka spruce that have become icons of the Oregon Coast.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is limited information available about accessibility features; fording Canal Creek with vehicles is required, and a broken bridge limits pedestrian access.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates up to 100 people at Canal Creek Group Site and up to 50 people at Alsea Group Site.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a tranquil and scenic setting with privacy enhanced by natural features like dense Douglas firs and spruce trees.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers seeking quiet and remote experiences are advised to choose Canal Creek for its peaceful atmosphere, while Alsea Group Site offers more accessibility, including RV accommodation.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite recommendations are not provided, but one group site accommodates up to 100 people and the other 50, offering privacy and proximity to the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated in authoritative sources but noted by users as an area for improvement in transparency.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 people allowed per group site (Canal Creek) or 50 people (Alsea).
Groups
The Canal Creek Group Site accommodates up to 100 people and 20 vehicles, while the Alsea Group Site accommodates up to 50 people and 10 vehicles. RVs are recommended only for Alsea Group Site due to limited access at Canal Creek Group Site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo distinct group sites are divided by Canal Creek. Canal Creek Group Site offers a large open field, picnic shelter, and campfire circle, accommodating up to 100 people. Alsea Group Site offers 10 separate campsites surrounding a central dining area and campfire circle, accommodating up to 50 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 9 - August 31 (both 2025 and 2026). Outside these dates, no bookings are allowed.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed exclusively through Recreation.gov, accessible via the website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come-first-served availability is indicated for Canal Creek.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations (less than 14 calendar days prior to check-in for group sites). No refunds are issued for 'no-shows.'
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Canal Creek provides ample opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, crawfishing, tubing, and swimming. The site also has an open field suitable for sports like soccer, Frisbee, and football.
Hiking
Hiking is available, although specific trails and difficulty levels are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is popular, particularly for cutthroat trout inhabiting Canal Creek.Swimming
Visitors can swim and tube in Canal Creek, but no designated swimming areas or safety measures are specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes Roosevelt elk and bald eagles. User reviews also mention sightings of marbled murrelets, adding to the unique natural experience.Beach activities
Nearby attractions include sandy beaches about 20 minutes from the campground.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not described.Water Sports
Tubing is explicitly mentioned as a popular activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated campfire circles but burning non-paper products is prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to source firewood locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity, requiring food to be stored in approved containers or locked inside vehicles. Fording Canal Creek is required for access, adding a safety consideration, especially for buses/RVs. The old footbridge is no longer usable.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified, but the lack of a usable footbridge might affect accessibility for some visitors.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 located in Waldport, 20 minutes away. Specific facilities are not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - August 31 during applicable years.
Trash and recyclingCampers must bring their own garbage bags and follow the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Recycling for glass, metals, and plastics is encouraged, and only paper products should be burned.
Proximity to water featuresCanal Creek runs directly through the campground, serving as both a natural feature and a dividing line for the two group sites. Tubing, swimming, and fishing are popular water-related activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlighted the lack of garbage disposal facilities as a major inconvenience, especially for large groups camping for extended periods. Visitors have recommended adding garbage pickup services for a fee.
HostOne reviewer praised camp hosts Jim and Debbie for their hospitality but noted the need for bridge repairs.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Waldport, Oregon, take State Route 34 east 7 miles to the campground sign at Canal Creek Rd./Forest Service Rd. 3462. Turn right onto Canal Creek Rd./FSR 3462 and go 4 miles to another campground sign and turn left into the campground.
Access to Canal Creek requires fording the gentle creek with your vehicle. Buses and RVs cannot access the campground, making this difficult for some visitors. Roads leading to the campground are not paved, and the old footbridge is no longer usable.Nearby places
Waldport, OR (7 miles, approximately 20 minutes travel time)
Nearby supplies
Closest facilities for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Waldport, OR, approximately 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Canal Creek has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the campground's scenic beauty and clean facilities. Vault toilets are well-maintained, and the remote location ensures tranquility. However, the lack of garbage disposal facilities is a common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the scenic surroundings, including large fir and spruce trees and Canal Creek. "Bathrooms were spotless," KEITH M noted, while CYNTHIA A...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several users mentioned the inconvenience of dealing with garbage accumulation due to the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Jackie H remarked, "When you camp for 5 days or more and you have a large...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring garbage bags, as there are no disposal options on-site. Canoes, sports equipment, and plenty of drinking water are advisable due to the lack of water facilities. Be prepared for...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews are consistently positive during summer months, emphasizing the site's suitability for family reunions and group gatherings. Winter and off-season impacts were not elaborated.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets were clean and well stocked," said CYNTHIA A. "This place is really special," she added. Jackie H shared, "The grounds are so lovely with the immense trees, babbling creek and overall...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
User Jackie H specifically highlighted the Alsea Group Site as ideal for family reunions due to its lovely grounds. Tiffany B praised the camp hosts at Alsea Group Site.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, as visitors must ford Canal Creek to access the site. The broken footbridge further complicates pedestrian access.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025