Cove Creek (Or)
4.01119 reviewsDETROIT RANGER DISTRICT HC 73 Box 320, Mill City, OR 97360, USA
Cove Creek (Or)
$28.00 - $260.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$260.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary based on campsite type. Standard Nonelectric sites cost $28-$56, RV Nonelectric sites cost $28, and Group Standard Nonelectric sites cost $260 per night. Fees are seasonal and additional charges may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Detroit Lake, Cove Creek Campground offers a tranquil escape beneath towering evergreens. This well-appointed retreat features 60 thoughtfully designed campsites spread across two scenic loops. The first loop (sites 1-36) winds through mature forest, while the second loop (sites 37-63) opens to lake glimpses and mountain air. With 55 single-family sites perfect for intimate getaways and 6 spacious double-family sites ideal for group adventures, Cove Creek provides the perfect basecamp for your Pacific Northwest expedition.
Cove Creek Campground offers options for RV, tent, and group camping. Sites are reservable up to six months in advance for individual sites and 12 months for the group site.
Historical SignificanceCove Creek Campground sits within the storied Willamette National Forest, a landscape that has captivated adventurers for generations. This protected wilderness has long served as both a natural sanctuary and recreational haven, where ancient forests meet modern outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding forest tells the story of conservation success, preserving Oregon's natural heritage while providing sustainable recreation opportunities for millions of visitors each year.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings that warm into perfect hiking weather, while summer brings long, sun-drenched days ideal for lake adventures—though campfire stories may need to wait during fire ban periods. As autumn paints the forest in golden hues, temperatures cool to sweater weather perfection. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, with snow occasionally dusting the Douglas firs and creating a serene atmosphere for those seeking solitude.
ElevationPerched at 1,600 feet above sea level, Cove Creek occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills where mountain freshness meets comfortable camping conditions. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to escape valley heat in summer, yet low enough to extend the camping season well into autumn. The elevation provides just enough mountain atmosphere to invigorate your senses without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Douglas firs stand sentinel over a diverse landscape where shaded forest groves give way to sun-dappled clearings. Each campsite offers its own unique character—some tucked beneath protective canopies, others opening to glimpses of sparkling Detroit Lake. Keep your eyes skyward to spot magnificent ospreys diving for their daily catch, while the 3,500-acre reservoir beckons with promises of trophy trout and endless water recreation. The interplay of forest and water creates a dynamic ecosystem where every sunrise brings new discoveries.
Geological RegionCove Creek Campground rests in the heart of the Cascade Range, where volcanic forces and glacial carving have sculpted a landscape of dramatic beauty. Within the expansive Willamette National Forest, ancient Douglas firs—some centuries old—tower above a understory rich with ferns and moss. Detroit Lake itself tells a geological story, its reservoir waters filling a valley carved by millennia of natural forces, now serving as a sapphire jewel set among emerald forests. This is quintessential Oregon Cascades country, where the raw power of nature has created a playground of unparalleled beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as flush toilets and showers. The group site is accessible and accommodates up to 70 people.
Sites SizeSites range in size, including single and double sites. Some reviews indicate small sites ('Sites were very small and close together' - Lesley Moore, 2021), while others describe spacious group sites ('We easily were able to put up 3 tents' - Antonina K, 2023).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the campground, with foliage providing some separation ('lots of foliage between campsites' - Weezy, 2022). However, some sites are noted as cramped, with little privacy ('Sites are very close together' - Stephanie F, 2021).
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests seeking more privacy are advised to choose sites adjacent to the lake, such as Site #39. Sites near trails may experience increased foot traffic.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites near water or forest edges, such as Site #61, are recommended for their privacy and ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Reservations for individual campsites can be made up to 6 months in advance, and group campsites up to 12 months in advance. No specific numerical stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard campsites allow up to 6 people. Group sites accommodate up to 70 guests.
Groups
The accessible group site accommodates up to 70 people and features a sheltered eating area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in two loops with most sites surrounded by trees for privacy. Sites #1-36 are in Loop 1, and #37-63 in Loop 2.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 25 through September 28 annually. Reservations are available starting June 24 during the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served sites are available, but guests must pay through the Scan and Pay system on-site.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay reservations are non-refundable, non-modifiable, and cannot be canceled. For standard reservations, cancellations made after 12:00 AM local time on the day before check-in will incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cove Creek Campground offers a mix of recreational activities centered around Detroit Lake, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include hiking trails to Dome Rock and Needle Rock.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the nearby Stahlman Point Trail, just a quarter-mile from the campground entrance. The trail traverses younger Douglas fir forests and provides memorable views of Detroit Lake.Fishing
Detroit Lake features fishing opportunities for species such as rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, and catfish. 'Great place to launch a boat or kayak and fish. Lake has many species including good size kokanee' (Tre Douberly, 2022).Swimming
Swimming is available along Detroit Lake's shoreline, accessible via trails from the campground. 'Trails thru the woods to the lake to go swimming' (Weezy, 2022).Boating
A boat ramp and dock are located next to the campground for launching and loading boats. Mooring is prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may encounter osprey hovering above or nesting in the trees surrounding the campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as the campground is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Water activities such as boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are popular, as Detroit Lake covers 3,500 acres.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed within designated fire rings unless otherwise posted. Fire bans are common during summer months.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include wildlife encounters (e.g., bears) and potential theft, as indicated by signage at the entrance. Fire bans are frequent during summer months.
Active alerts/
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 (Forest Service Office) located at HC 73 Box 320, Mill City, OR or Linn County Sheriff’s Department emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25 - September 28
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Some reviews note overflowing garbage ('Garbage cans were all overflowing with bedding, blow-ups, awnings' - Margie M, 2022).
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the shores of Detroit Lake, the campground features trails leading to the beach and lake access.
Common complaintsNoise disturbances due to partying and lack of enforcement of quiet hours are common complaints. Bathroom cleanliness issues and campsite overcrowding have also been mentioned.
HostThe campground features hosts that receive mixed reviews. While some campers praise the hosts for their friendliness, others criticize them for lack of enforcement and poor maintenance.
Campground Map
DETROIT RANGER DISTRICT HC 73 Box 320, Mill City, OR 97360, USA
Driving directionsFrom Detroit, Oregon, travel east on State Highway 22 for 2.7 miles to Blowout Road/Forest Service Road 10. From Idanha, Oregon, travel west on State Highway 22 for 0.7 miles to Blowout Road/Forest Service Road 10. Proceed on Blowout Road 3.6 miles to Cove Creek Campground on the right.
Roads leading to the campground are accessible via Blowout Road/Forest Service Road 10. No specific information about seasonal closures or challenging terrain provided.Nearby places
Detroit, OR (2.7 miles, ~5 min drive), Idanha, OR (0.7 miles, ~2 min drive)
Nearby supplies
Detroit, OR offers groceries, fuel, and camping supplies. There is a marina for boat rental nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.0
119 reviews
Cove Creek (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal mixed experiences at Cove Creek Campground. Positive feedback often highlights the beautiful lake views, helpful hosts, and well-maintained facilities. Negative feedback frequently mentions issues with bathroom cleanliness, noise levels, and small campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 119 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful area and beautiful lake" (Danielle, 2023); "Amazing place to camp" (Donna Willoughby, 2023); "The lake is stunning and I recommend renting a pontoon from the nearby marina or bring your...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues with bathroom cleanliness ('bathrooms lacked any soap dispensers' - Emily Hanson, 2022), noise complaints ('Rowdy, drunk campers kept us awake until about 2am' - Emily Hanson, 2022), and...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving mid-week for a quieter experience, booking lakefront sites for privacy, and bringing quarters for showers. 'Sign at the entrance warns theft is an issue so not to leave...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer weekends can be noisy and crowded, while weekdays tend to be quieter. 'We only camp midweek cuz weekends can get rowdy' (Danielle, 2023).
Based on 119 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolutely love this Campground! Beautiful, quiet and one of my favorites" - Jubal Rubals; "Bathrooms were VERY clean, there are showers available, but I didn't look at them" - Hannah Herschberger,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #61 offers quiet forest-line proximity ('Our site was right against the forest line and it was very quiet' - Hannah Herschberger, 2023). Site #39 received mixed reviews due to its proximity to a...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible group site for 70 people is available, and flush toilets and showers are accessible.
Based on 119 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned sporadically, with some reviewers expressing frustration with off-leash dogs causing disturbances ('Just make sure your dogs are always on a leash as there are always a few who...
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Last updated August 10, 2025