Breitenbush Campground
4.4152 reviews44125 N Santiam Hwy SE, Detroit, OR, 97342, USA
Breitenbush Campground
$21.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric campsites cost $21 during peak season, with premium riverside sites costing $40. Scan and Pay system is available for on-site reservations, and no refunds are permitted for those transactions.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of western Oregon's Willamette National Forest, Breitenbush Campground offers an intimate escape where the rhythmic sounds of the Breitenbush River create nature's perfect soundtrack. Here, towering evergreens and lush undergrowth create natural privacy screens between campsites, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquil forest atmosphere. Each site feels like its own secret grove, where morning mist dances above the river and evening light filters through the dense canopy overhead.
Breitenbush Campground offers various types of camping accommodations, including tent camping and RV camping. Primitive camping options are also available, with no electrical or water hookups provided.
Historical SignificanceThis pristine corner of the Cascade wilderness has witnessed its share of close calls, having narrowly escaped the devastating path of recent wildfires that swept through neighboring areas. This near-miss has only heightened appreciation for the untouched beauty that remains. The Breitenbush River, named by early settlers and long treasured by indigenous peoples, serves as the lifeblood of this ecosystem, supporting a rich tapestry of plant and animal life that has thrived here for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, golden days perfect for river play and forest exploration, though visitors should stay alert for occasional fire restrictions during particularly dry spells. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a quieter retreat, with crisp air and changing colors. Winter wraps the landscape in snow and solitude, bringing dramatic storms that showcase nature's power while creating a wonderland for the adventurous souls who brave the cold. Spring's arrival melts the snow into rushing waters, breathing new life into the forest.
ElevationPerched at 2,100 feet above sea level, Breitenbush Campground enjoys a sweet spot in the Cascades where summer heat gives way to refreshing mountain air. This elevation creates an ideal climate for camping, offering relief from valley heat while remaining accessible year-round. Cool mornings give way to comfortable afternoons, and evenings bring that perfect campfire weather that makes mountain camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape here reads like a love letter to the Pacific Northwest, with dramatic peaks rising into narrow canyons where countless streams cascade down moss-covered rocks. The star of the show is the Breitenbush River itself, born from snowmelt high in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness, arriving crystal-clear and refreshingly cold. Dense forests of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and cedar create a green cathedral overhead, while sword ferns and rhododendrons carpet the forest floor. This abundant vegetation naturally separates each campsite, creating private outdoor rooms within the greater forest home.
Geological RegionBreitenbush Campground sits along the dramatic western slopes of the Cascade Range, where volcanic forces and glacial carving have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. This section of the Willamette National Forest showcases the Cascades' signature features: steep-walled canyons carved by centuries of flowing water, ancient volcanic peaks shrouded in forest, and a network of streams that tumble down the mountainsides in spectacular cascades. The interplay of fire and ice, lava and water has created this rugged paradise that continues to evolve with each passing season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include spacious campsites that provide privacy and ease of access. Specific features for campers with disabilities have not been reported.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with some able to accommodate multiple tents and vehicles. "Site 11 actually allows a maximum of three tents and two cars," noted a review.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a key feature, with sites separated by foliage and plants. "Most campsites are well spaced apart for privacy," one camper mentioned.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and river access, Sites #6, #7, and #8 are recommended. Site #15 offers similar views.
Best CampsitesSites #6, #7, #8, and others along the river are noted for privacy and proximity to fishing spots.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit of 1 vehicle per site
- additional vehicles require a $9 fee.
Groups
Group camping is available, with sites being spacious and private. "The campsite was big enough for our group," noted one camper.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops with well-spaced sites separated by foliage, offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16th to October 12th annually.
Reservation PlatformsOnline at Recreation.gov or via phone at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but limited. Scan and Pay required for these reservations.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for individual campsites result in loss of first night's fee. Scan and Pay reservations are non-refundable.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Breitenbush Campground provides access to a range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Wading and fishing in the Breitenbush River are popular, with rainbow trout being the most common catch. The campground is part of the Willamette National Forest, which features approximately 1,700 miles of trails suitable for year-round hiking. "Fishing is hit and miss," observed one camper. Wildlife viewing is also common, with the natural surroundings offering opportunities to see local fauna. Nearby Detroit Lake expands recreational options with boating, kayaking, and water skiing.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by trails in the Willamette National Forest, offering low-elevation hikes accessible year-round. "The Willamette National Forest has about 1,700 miles of trail," noted the official description.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the Breitenbush River, with rainbow trout being the most common catch. "Great fishing hole at Sites #6 & #7," one camper said.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. "Private and quiet campsites with great sounds from the river," shared one camper.Winter Activities
The campground does not cater to winter recreational activities like skiing or snowshoeing.Water Sports
Water sports are not directly available at the campground but are accessible at nearby Detroit Lake, which offers kayaking, water skiing, and more.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted unless otherwise posted; frequent fire bans in summer.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; likely standard quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildfire risks, limited cellular service, and bears requiring proper food storage. River access may be rocky.
Active alertsWater spigots are not operational due to wildfire damage; visitors must bring their own water.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Detroit Ranger District: 9.3 miles. Closest hospital likely in Salem, approximately 50 miles west.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th - October 12th (annually).
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available for campers, and recycling is not mentioned in the source.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Breitenbush River, with easy access for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of running water, poor camp host behavior, and issues with off-leash dogs.
HostMixed reviews about camp host behavior; some praise for cleanliness, while others report unprofessional conduct.
Campground Map
44125 N Santiam Hwy SE, Detroit, OR, 97342, USA
Driving directionsFrom Detroit, Oregon, at the intersection of State Route 22 and Forest Service Road (FSR) 46, take FSR 46 north and continue 9.3 miles to the campground on the right.
Roads to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. Some parts of the route may have limited cellular service, especially on FSR 46.Nearby places
Detroit: 9.3 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Detroit has basic supplies, including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel, approximately 9.3 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
52 reviews
Breitenbush Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the campground's cleanliness, privacy, and natural beauty, with a few concerns about the camp host's behavior. Vault toilets are consistently praised, but the lack of running water and cell service is noted as a drawback.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the spacious and private campsites, cleanliness of the facilities, and proximity to the river. "Spacious, private campsites. The host was extremely kind and keeps the toilets remarkably...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of running water, issues with the camp host's behavior, and dogs being allowed off-leash despite rules. "The camp host is a bigot and threatens women," claimed one...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and firewood due to limited availability on-site. Reserve riverside sites for better views and access. "The best sites are along the river with path access to the water," one...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground tends to be less visited during winter months and more popular in summer. Fire bans are common during summer, and water spigots are often non-functional due to past forest fire damage.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The vault toilets were the cleanest I have experienced anywhere." "Great fishing hole at Sites #6 & #7!" "The campground was saved from burning from the wildfires, but the water pump was damaged."
Based on 52 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites #6, 7, and 8 are frequently praised for their river views and fishing spots. "Site 11 actually allows a maximum of three tents and two cars," noted one review.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed on leashes, but several reviews mention that pets were off-leash despite the posted rules. "Had a tent ruined by a running wild dog," one camper reported.
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025