Black Canyon Campground (Willamette National Forest, Or)
4.2467 reviewsP.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97048, USA
Black Canyon Campground (Willamette National Forest, Or)
$26.00 - $115.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$115.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $26 for standard non-electric sites to $115 for group sites during the peak season of May 22 - September 26. Additional fees may apply for reservation services, changes, and cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Middle Fork Willamette River, Black Canyon Campground offers an enchanting escape into Oregon's wilderness. Here, ancient hemlocks, cedars, and Douglas firs create a natural cathedral of shade, their towering canopies filtering sunlight into soft, dappled patterns on the forest floor. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, paddling through gentle rapids, or exploring winding forest trails, this riverside sanctuary promises adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
Black Canyon Campground primarily caters to tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. While it offers primitive style camping with no electric hookups, it provides water hookups and clean vault toilets.
Historical SignificanceBlack Canyon stands as a treasured gateway to the Willamette National Forest, Oregon's crown jewel of protected wilderness. For generations, this campground has connected visitors to the state's rich ecological heritage, serving as both a recreational haven and a vital piece of Oregon's conservation story, where the rhythms of the forest continue unchanged through the decades.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings delightfully mild temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, though nature occasionally adds drama with refreshing rain showers that release the intoxicating scent of wet cedar and fir. As winter transforms the landscape, snow blankets the campground in pristine white, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and the crisp beauty of the Pacific Northwest's colder months.
ElevationPerched at 1,500 feet above sea level, the campground enjoys a goldilocks elevation that's just right—high enough to escape summer's most oppressive heat, yet low enough to remain accessible and comfortable throughout most of the year. This sweet spot creates an ideal microclimate where mountain air meets river mist.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient giants—hemlock, cedar, and Douglas fir—stretch skyward, some having stood sentinel for centuries. This old-growth paradise serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife characters: graceful black-tailed deer browsing in meadow clearings, majestic Roosevelt elk moving like shadows through the underbrush, elusive bobcats padding silently along game trails, and bald eagles soaring overhead, their distinctive calls echoing across the river valley.
Geological RegionThe campground claims its place on the dramatic western slopes of Oregon's Cascade Range, where volcanic peaks give way to deep river valleys and endless forests. This dynamic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making—where rushing waters have carved through ancient rock, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures amid some of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular mountain and river ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided, and some campsites are accessible. However, some reviews mention difficulty navigating the narrow roads, particularly for RVs and trailers.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes are mixed, with some complaints about misleading descriptions. "Sites are listed as being for RVs up to like 40 feet. Most were more in the 15 to 25 foot range."
Sites PrivacyThe campground generally offers good privacy with vegetative barriers between sites. "There's a good amount of vegetation between campsites which provides decent privacy."
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river offer the best views and quieter surroundings, but may still experience train noise.
Best CampsitesCampsites numbered 40+ are highly rated for their space and privacy. Riverside sites are considered the most desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12:00 noon.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Groups
Group sites are reservable, accommodating multiple campers. "Great site, lots of privacy, room to move around in."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, with sites spaced out to offer privacy and varying proximity to water and the highway.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 22 and closes September 26 for reservations. No booking is available during the off-season from September 26 to May 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online platform, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served. High fill patterns observed during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system applies, where no refunds, modifications, or cancellations are allowed once payment is made. Cancellation fees apply for standard reservations, including forfeiture of first night's fee and a $10 charge for late 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
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Black Canyon Campground include fishing, kayaking, hiking, and biking. "A 1-mile interpretive nature trail winds through the campground." Lookout Point Lake is nearby, offering opportunities for boating and fishing, and features a boat ramp. The campground is also within the Winberry Trail Area, which is popular for mountain biking and horseback riding.
Hiking
The campground has a 1-mile interpretive nature trail and provides access to trails in the Winberry Trail Area. Some trails are noted for mountain biking and horseback riding. "The interpretive nature trail has fallen by the wayside, a shame as it was great when we first saw it decades ago."Fishing
Fishing is available on the Middle Fork of the Willamette River and at Lookout Point Lake. "Fishing on the Willamette River just steps away."Swimming
Some areas of the river are suitable for wading and swimming. "The river was nearby and many people were enjoying getting in it."Biking
Excellent terrain for mountain biking is available in the Winberry Trail Area, such as the Tire Mountain Trail.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Lookout Point Lake, which is less than a mile away and features a boat ramp.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species such as black tail deer, Roosevelt elk, bobcats, and bald eagles are common in the region. "We saw several saw-whet owls around our tent site and then dozens of western tiger swallowtail butterflies congregating on the riverbank."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified. However, water spigots are winterized in mid-September, indicating limited winter usability of facilities.Water Sports
Kayaking and similar non-motorized water sports are popular at the campground and nearby Lookout Point Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits and campfire rings provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are generally from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include frequent train and highway noise, wildlife encounters (bears suggested), and narrow roads that may challenge vehicle navigation.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.9 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
Nearest hospital and emergency services are located in Oakridge, about 8 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - September 26
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but there are no separate recycling facilities mentioned. "Trash cans are no longer provided by the facility so plan for that."
Proximity to water featuresNext to the Middle Fork of the Willamette River, with Lookout Point Lake less than a mile away.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include train noise, proximity to the highway, and narrow roads for trailers.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts. Some praise their helpfulness, while others report issues such as aggressive pets and lack of professionalism.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97048, USA
Driving directionsFrom Oakridge, Oregon, follow Highway 58 west about 8 miles to Black Canyon Campground, located 1 mile east of Lookout Point Reservoir.
The campground is accessible via Highway 58, which is paved and well-maintained. However, large RVs are not recommended due to narrow roads within the campground.Nearby places
Oakridge (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Westfir (around 15 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Eugene (approximately 45 miles, about 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Oakridge, which is approximately 8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
67 reviews
Black Canyon Campground (Willamette National Forest, Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Black Canyon Campground generally highlight its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to recreational activities. Complaints often focus on noise from the highway and nearby train tracks, as well as campsite accessibility issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 67 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent positive mentions include clean bathrooms, private campsites, and proximity to the river. "This was one of the most beautiful campgrounds I’ve ever stayed at. My site was incredibly private."
Based on 67 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints are about noise from trains and the highway, narrow roads making RV navigation difficult, and misleading site size descriptions. "The roads are very narrow though and it makes it...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make sure to choose campsites away from the highway and train tracks for a quieter experience. Bring your own firewood as it is not sold on-site. Prepare for narrow roads if visiting with an RV.
Based on 67 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with many reviews noting the river for swimming and fishing. Complaints about train and road noise are more frequent in high season, while cleanliness and beauty...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Vault toilets were among the cleanest I had seen." "The river was nearby and many people were enjoying getting in it." "Riverside, clean, pretty spacious, table & fire pit included."
Based on 67 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #003 is heavily graveled, making tent setup difficult. Site #073 offers easy river access but is near train tracks. Group site #40 is spacious but difficulties exist in navigating large rigs.
Based on 67 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but narrow roads and misleading site sizes make navigation challenging for campers with disabilities.
Based on 67 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews mention aggressive dogs owned by hosts causing safety concerns. "Host had super aggressive dogs, one that bit my husband and several other campers."
Based on 67 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025