Dolly Varden

Star4.29
21 reviews
Dolly Varden
$0.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by season. Peak rates are $18 for tent-only sites, while non-electric sites can be as low as $0 during specific periods. The...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$18.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider

About this campground

Tucked away in the embrace of towering evergreens, Dolly Varden offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Fall Creek provides nature's soundtrack. This charming tent-only retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, with direct access to the spectacular 13.7-mile Fall Creek National Recreation Trail winding through ancient forests. Five thoughtfully placed campsites await – three easily accessible sites on the north side of Forest Service Road 18, and two secluded walk-in sites across the road for those seeking extra solitude. Whether you're planning ahead or making a spontaneous getaway, the campground's partial reservation system ensures flexibility for every type of adventurer.
The Dolly Varden Campground offers basic tent-only camping with no RV or glamping options. Sites are partially reservable.
Weather and SeasonsLate summer transforms Dolly Varden into a camper's paradise, where warm golden days melt into crisp, star-filled nights. August emerges as the crown jewel of camping months, offering that perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear mountain skies. Seasoned visitors rave about the ideal conditions during this time – sunny days that invite creek exploration, humidity levels that won't dampen your spirits, and weather so reliable you'll want to extend your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crystal-clear waters of Fall Creek dance past your campsite, creating natural swimming holes that beckon on warm afternoons and promising fishing spots for the early morning angler. A tapestry of sun-dappled meadows and cool forest shade provides the perfect backdrop for any mood – whether you're seeking sunny spots for afternoon reading or shaded havens for midday naps. The lush Pacific Northwest forest surrounds you with its emerald embrace, where moss-draped trees and fern-carpeted undergrowth create an enchanting wilderness sanctuary.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility is mixed. A user review specifically notes difficulty for seniors in reaching lower campsites due to terrain, but left-side campsites are mentioned as easier to access.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention big campsites, with adequate space between sites providing privacy.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews consistently highlight privacy and room between the campsites, describing it as sufficient to 'breathe' and not being overrun by others.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 is highly sought after and often occupied; reserving this site is preferred over relying on first-come-first-serve. Walk-in sites (#4 and #5) provide additional privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 3 are recommended for their proximity to the creek and restroom. "Grab 1, 2 & 3 if possible for better river access," one user advised.

Reserving a campsite

Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree campsites are located on one side of Forest Road 18, while two walk-in sites are on the opposite side. Reviews highlight privacy and space between sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 22, 2025 to September 19, 2025 (reservable). Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov via online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. User reviews indicate competition for key sites like #2, which is often occupied.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system prohibits modifications, refunds, or cancellations. Late cancellations (after 12:00am local time the day before arrival) incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's cost.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Dolly Varden include swimming, fishing, and camping amid a natural setting. The Fall Creek National Recreation Trail is nearby, offering additional hiking activities. The small size and creek-side location make it popular for relaxation.
Hiking
The campground is located at the start of the Fall Creek National Recreation Trail, which spans 13.7 miles. No difficulty level or specific trail details are provided.
Fishing
Fishing is reported as good by several reviews, with one user calling it 'amazing fishing.' Specific fish types are not mentioned.
Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity. Users note 'great swimming,' with areas deep enough to float on tubes or boards. One user mentioned water levels being low but still swimmable.
Winter Activities
This campground closes during the off-season. No winter recreation activities are described.
Water Sports
Swimming and floating on the creek are described, but no mention of specific water sports like kayaking or canoeing.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed but subject to seasonal fire bans.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include shallow water levels during droughts, limited parking (up to 10 cars), and occasional wildlife like cats. "Do not leave your campsite unattended," warned one reviewer.
Active alertsFire closures have periodically impacted the area. Users have reported closures and limited accessibility due to nearby wildfires.

Weather forecast

51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 62%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 1 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 22 to September 19
Trash and recyclingUser reviews mention issues with trash collection, noting that dumpsters were 'stinking' and needed emptying.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Fall Creek allows for swimming, fishing, and floating activities. "Great water location," one user remarked.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor management, funky outhouses, and rude visitors walking through campsites. "The dumpster needed to be emptied because they were stinking," noted one user.
HostReviews from 2023 praise the campground host for keeping bathrooms clean and ensuring a pleasant stay. "She made multiple visits to make our stay great," wrote one reviewer.

Campground Map


Camper Reviews

4.3
21 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Dolly Varden is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Dolly Varden Campground are generally positive, with many users praising its peaceful atmosphere, swimming and fishing opportunities, and spacious sites. Some complaints relate to maintenance issues, such as unclean trash facilities, and a lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlight the campground's privacy, large site size, and proximity to the creek. Quotes include: 'The small amount of campsites makes it a jewel for campers who don’t want to be...
Show more
Based on 21 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include maintenance issues such as 'stinking dumpsters' and less-than-ideal cleanliness of the outhouse. One user mentioned concerns about 'questionable company' if campsites are...
Show more
Based on 21 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users suggest reserving creek-side sites (1, 2, or 3) for better access to water and proximity to the restroom. Walk-in sites (4 and 5) are described as quieter but harder to access for seniors, per...
Show more
Based on 21 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally from late May to mid-September. Summer reviews note enjoyable swimming and fishing. User reviews for early or late season indicate challenges like lower water levels...
Show more
Based on 21 reviews

Camper Quotes

'One of my very favorite campgrounds!!!' - Sixty Sweet & Savory. 'Nice little spot with water access to the creek. Deep enough to swim & float on tubes.' - Hunter Sunrise. 'Loved it; nice campsites...
Show more
Based on 21 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 1, 2, and 3 on the north side of the road are frequently recommended for better river access. Sites 4 and 5, across the road, are quieter but less convenient.
Based on 21 reviews

Accessibility Features

Mixed reviews on accessibility, with one user noting difficulty reaching certain campsites for seniors.
Based on 21 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not specifically mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 21 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Campgrounds
Dolly Varden