Humbug Campground
4.1432 reviewsHC 73 Box 320, Mill City, OR 97360, USA
Humbug Campground
$21.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees range from $21 (standard nonelectric sites) to $40 depending on site type. Scan & Pay sites cannot be booked in advance.
About this campground
Nestled beneath towering old-growth giants, Humbug Campground invites you to experience the tranquil rhythm of forest life along the pristine Breitenbush River. This intimate retreat features 21 thoughtfully placed campsites, each equipped with picnic tables and grills for memorable outdoor meals. Modern vault toilets and convenient drinking water spigots ensure comfort during your stay, while most sites reward visitors with captivating riverfront views where you can fall asleep to the gentle melody of flowing water.
Humbug Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and offers some first-come, first-serve sites. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience at Humbug connects you to the storied legacy of the Willamette National Forest, a testament to America's commitment to preserving wild spaces for public enjoyment. This protected landscape has welcomed generations of nature enthusiasts, each leaving only footprints while taking home memories of Oregon's magnificent wilderness heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Humbug into an outdoor paradise, where mild temperatures and crystal-clear skies create perfect conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. During peak fire season, occasional fire restrictions help preserve this pristine wilderness for future generations. When winter arrives, the landscape becomes a snow-laden wonderland, though heavy snowfall may challenge access—making spring through fall the ideal seasons for your camping adventure.
ElevationPerched within the dramatic mountainous terrain of the Cascades, Humbug Campground offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain air refreshes your lungs and panoramic views inspire your spirit. The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater that captures both morning mists and evening alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient forests frame the crystal-clear Breitenbush River, fed by pure snowmelt from the surrounding peaks. From May through July, wild rhododendrons burst into spectacular bloom, painting the understory in vibrant splashes of color. This diverse ecosystem showcases nature's artistry through every season—from the delicate spring wildflowers to the golden autumn leaves dancing on the river's surface.
Geological RegionExperience the raw beauty of the Cascade Range's western slopes, where Humbug Campground serves as your basecamp in the magnificent Willamette National Forest. This dramatic landscape tells an ancient story through its soaring mountains, deeply carved canyons, and cascading streams. The Breitenbush River, born from mountain snowfields, has sculpted this terrain over millennia, creating a paradise of wooded slopes, hidden waterfalls, and pristine tributaries that beckon exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRiver access is steep and may be inaccessible for individuals with mobility limitations. Sites vary in terrain, with some featuring uneven or rocky ground.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary substantially, ranging from small sites barely able to accommodate a single tent to spacious sites capable of hosting multiple tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some secluded by foliage and others more exposed. Sites 6, 8, and 9 are noted to be impacted by fire, providing less greenery.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites for cooler temperatures, such as sites 1-7. Sites closer to the river provide calming water sounds but less shade.
Best CampsitesSite 7 recommended for privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 13 offers river access and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit: 14 nights per visit and 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are limited to immediate family or groups accommodating the single picnic table and grill.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout21 sites with varying sizes and levels of privacy. Some sites affected by fire damage, particularly 6, 8, and 9.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens April 25, closes September 28 for peak season reservations. Scan and Pay sites available outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Scan and Pay sites are available through the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability at some sites. Payment can be made via Scan and Pay or cash/check on-site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made after 12:00 midnight on the day before arrival result in forfeiture of the first night's fees plus a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Humbug Campground provides many recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and swimming. Its proximity to the Breitenbush River makes it ideal for water-based activities, although access to the river can be challenging due to steep terrain.
Hiking
The Willamette National Forest offers access to over 1,700 miles of trails, including low-elevation, year-round hiking trails. Specific trails near Humbug Campground are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the Breitenbush River, with rainbow trout being the most commonly caught species.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Breitenbush River, with mentions of a picturesque swimming hole near site 13. However, the water is extremely cold.Wildlife viewing
The lush forest surrounding the campground provides opportunities for observing local flora and fauna. However, specific wildlife sightings are not detailed.Winter Activities
No winter activities are listed. The campground is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Activities like wading and swimming in the Breitenbush River are popular, but no formal water sports facilities are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless fire bans are posted, typically during summer months.
- Quiet hours enforced during nighttime (exact hours not specified).
Hazards
General hazardsRiver access involves steep trails and rope handrails, unsuitable for less mobile individuals. Wildlife, including bears, is present—proper food storage required.
Active alertsNo current alerts, but seasonal fire bans and wildlife advisories are common.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.1 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 (4.6 miles), Detroit Medical Center (approximately 10 minutes by car)
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25 to September 28.
Trash and recyclingGarbage receptacles are located within the campground, although recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Breitenbush River with fishing and wading opportunities. Detroit Lake is nearby.
Common complaintsVault toilets sometimes emit unpleasant odors, and site conditions are uneven due to fire damage.
HostHosts occasionally sell firewood for $6 per bundle. Some issues with host behavior reported in reviews.
Campground Map
HC 73 Box 320, Mill City, OR 97360, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 22 at Detroit, turn east onto Breitenbush Road/Forest Service Road 46 and continue for 4.6 miles to Humbug Campground.
Forest Service Road 46 leading to the campground is paved nearly all the way, but road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance. No seasonal closures noted.Nearby places
Detroit (4.6 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Mill City (27.7 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Detroit, Oregon, offers grocery stores, fuel stations, and markets with firewood and other camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.1
32 reviews
Humbug Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Humbug Campground as a quiet, scenic location ideal for families and solo campers. Positive feedback focuses on its lush greenery, proximity to the river, and cleanliness of facilities. Critiques often mention challenging terrain, uneven campsites, and varied site sizes.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, easy access to potable water, scenic surroundings with old-growth forests, and quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Several reviewers appreciated the privacy of certain...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Challenges with steep and washed-out trails for river access, uneven and rocky ground at some campsites, and occasional issues with odors from vault toilets during peak times.
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Plan for steep river access; wear sturdy footwear for hiking. Sites close to the river offer calming sounds of rushing water. Site 13 has river access but consider courtesy toward other campers....
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular, but the campground can get buggy, and fire bans may be imposed. Availability is better mid-week. Winter closures limit access.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The sites are very spacious but at the same time many are very private.' - Kevin Reid
2. 'The vault toilets smelled SO BAD, but maybe they aren't getting cleaned as regularly because of covid.'...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7: 'Lots of privacy, proximity to the bathroom/spigot, and a sizable pullout for extra vehicles.' - Aubrey Dutra
Site 13: 'Access path to the river... Amazing (but cold!) swimming hole.' -...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
River access is steep, with sections requiring rope handrails, making it difficult for visitors with mobility issues. Some campsite terrains are uneven, posing challenges.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but some sites require preparation due to thistle growth and uneven ground. One reviewer noted spending considerable time clearing thistles to make the area safe for their dog.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025