Marion Forks Campground And Day Use Area
01 review44125 North Santiam Highway SE Detroit, OR 97342
Marion Forks Campground And Day Use Area
$12.00 - $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$22.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight campsite fees range from $12/night for single sites to $40/night for multiple sites. Additional vehicle fee is $6-$7 per night. Discounts apply for Interagency Senior and Access Pass holders, but only for single sites.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Marion Forks Campground offers 15 thoughtfully designed sites split into two distinct experiences. Cross the bridge over the Marion Forks Fish Hatchery to discover your perfect basecamp: choose the convenience of roadside sites in the first section, or venture deeper to find spacious, secluded spots embraced by towering maples, alders, and ancient conifers. One pull-through site accommodates larger rigs, while the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates an enchanting atmosphere throughout.
Marion Forks Campground provides diverse camping options that cater to both individual and group campers, although the amenities are basic and rustic.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living classroom where conservation meets recreation at Marion Forks. The adjacent fish hatchery serves as a vital sanctuary for spring Chinook salmon, telling the compelling story of Pacific Northwest conservation efforts that have spanned generations. Watch as dedicated biologists work to restore native fish populations, and learn how this small but mighty facility has become a cornerstone in preserving the region's ecological heritage for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Marion Forks awakens with wildflowers, warm sunshine, and the gentle sounds of rushing water. Summer brings perfect camping weather with cool mountain breezes, while autumn transforms the maple canopy into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson. As winter approaches, the campground enters its quiet season, blanketed in snow and offering a serene escape for the hardy few who venture into this winter wonderland. Each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette.
ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet in the Cascade Range, Marion Forks offers a true mountain escape where crisp air invigorates your senses and stars shine brilliantly through the thin atmosphere. This elevation brings refreshing relief from valley heat in summer, spectacular fall colors as seasons change, and pristine snow-covered landscapes in winter. The mountain climate creates perfect conditions for alpine adventures while remaining accessible to those seeking their first taste of high-country camping.
Natural Features and SceneryMarion Creek sings its ancient song alongside the campground, weaving through a cathedral of maple, alder, and towering conifers that create nature's own amphitheater. Adventure beckons from every direction: follow trails that lead to the dramatic Independence Rock or continue deeper into the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness to discover the pristine waters of Marion Lake. This diverse ecosystem showcases the best of Cascade Mountain beauty, from moss-draped forest floors to panoramic wilderness vistas.
Geological RegionDeep within the Willamette National Forest, Marion Forks sits at the geological crossroads where ancient volcanic forces shaped today's outdoor playground. At 2,500 feet elevation, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascades where lush temperate forests meet alpine ecosystems. Marion Creek has carved its path through volcanic rock over millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness adventure. The surrounding peaks of the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness stand as sentinels, their snow-capped summits visible through breaks in the verdant canopy.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible. There is no additional information about other accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground offers gravel and dirt parking aprons. In the first section, parking aprons are sized 12' x 35', while the second section has slightly larger aprons of 12' x 45'.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is divided into two sections. The first section has smaller, closely packed sites with little privacy. The second section features more spacious sites with better privacy.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and larger parking aprons, consider sites in the second section of the campground, beyond the fish hatchery.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is not allowed more than 14 days in a 60-day period.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two sections separated by the fish hatchery. The first section has smaller sites with limited privacy, while the second section offers larger, more private sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, services are provided from May 1 through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available. Fees can be paid digitally onsite via the Recreation.gov mobile app with Scan and Pay, or cash/check.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up, first-come-first-served. Visitors must be prepared to pay onsite via cash, check, or the Recreation.gov app.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Marion Forks Campground offers limited recreational activities suitable for those seeking a quiet, nature-focused camping experience. Activities include hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Independence Rock Trail (#3431), which is accessible nearby and supports both foot and mountain bike travel. It's described as a short, less commonly used trail.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby river/stream, with rainbow trout being the primary catch.Biking
Biking is permitted on the Independence Rock Trail, which supports mountain biking.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campers can take educational tours of the Marion Forks Fish Hatchery to learn about spring Chinook salmon and local history.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round and accessible for winter camping, as mentioned in a user review.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire grills are available at each site. Visitors must bring their own firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters and winter conditions that may make access challenging. The absence of potable water and firewood requires visitors to plan ahead.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.7 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 Station: 44125 North Santiam Highway SE Detroit, OR 97342; Phone: (503) 854-3366; Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 31
Trash and recyclingGarbage collection is available, but there are no recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Marion Creek, with a paved loop path providing scenic views.
Common complaintsComplaints include the lack of potable water, firewood, and limited privacy in the first section of the campground.
Campground Map
44125 North Santiam Highway SE Detroit, OR 97342
Driving directionsFrom Detroit, Oregon, travel southeast on State Highway 22 for 16 miles to Marion Forks. Turn left at the Marion Forks Fish Hatchery sign. Day Use Area is adjacent to the Fish Hatchery and Marion Creek. Campground is behind the Fish Hatchery.
The campground is accessible from State Highway 22 and requires visitors to turn left at the Marion Forks Fish Hatchery sign. The roads are paved, and the campground is tucked away from the highway, providing a quiet experience.Nearby places
Detroit, OR (16.1 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Detroit, OR (16.1 miles): Supplies, groceries, and fuel can be found in Detroit, Oregon.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Marion Forks Campground And Day Use Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its quiet and secluded nature, as well as its accessibility to nearby recreational opportunities. However, the lack of potable water and firewood are noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
"Quiet place to relax," as noted by the campground description, and the tours at the fish hatchery are a unique highlight. The spacious sites in the second section of the campground are appreciated...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water and on-site firewood are consistent issues mentioned. The first section is criticized for having small sites with little privacy.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own water and firewood, as these are not provided on-site. The second section is recommended for those seeking more spacious and private sites.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round, with services available from May 1 through October 31. A user mentions enjoying winter camping at the campground due to its solitude during this season.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Winter camping. Not a soul around," from a user review by Derek Arneson.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The second section of the campground is described as having longer parking aprons and better privacy, making it more desirable. The first section is noted for smaller, less private sites.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, but no additional reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, as per federal regulations.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025