Shady Cove
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Shady Cove
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation Use fees vary by location and activity. Additional reservation fees ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person) may apply.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Providernullnull
About this campground
Shady Cove beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape where the journey begins the moment you arrive. This first-come, first-served haven rewards early birds and spontaneous travelers alike. While you'll find limited cellular service—a blessing for those craving digital detox—the campground embraces modern convenience with QR code payments through the Recreation.gov mobile app, making check-in seamless even in this remote paradise.
Shady Cove Campground operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis, and provides a rustic camping experience. However, specific site types and accommodations were not detailed in the source.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the haunting remnants of Oregon's pioneering past. Just beyond your campsite, ghost towns whisper stories of bygone eras, where rusted machines and weathered automobiles stand as monuments to the region's industrial heritage. These atmospheric ruins, discovered by countless visitors before you, offer photographers and history buffs an unforgettable journey through the Pacific Northwest's forgotten chapters.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Shady Cove with dramatic seasonal brushstrokes. Week 2 visitors should pack rain gear and warm layers as heavy rain transitions to light snow, creating a mystical atmosphere where mist rises from the forest floor. The campground transforms throughout the year, with certain weeks bringing bone-chilling temperatures and significant precipitation that turn the surrounding wilderness into a winter wonderland—perfect for those who find beauty in nature's more temperamental moods.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting embrace of Opal Creek Wilderness, where cascading waterfalls provide nature's soundtrack to your camping adventure. This pristine sanctuary showcases the Pacific Northwest at its most spectacular, with crystal-clear streams threading through ancient forests and dramatic rock formations. The interplay between untouched wilderness and historical remnants creates a unique tapestry where natural beauty meets human history, offering endless exploration opportunities for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Geological Regionnull
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Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest avoiding 'the very bottom site,' which has been made smaller and is perceived as less desirable.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be managed through Recreation.gov's mobile app or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis. QR code payment may be available via Recreation.gov app.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the check-in date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Activities you can enjoy
Located within the Opal Creek Wilderness, Shady Cove offers access to natural and historic attractions. Activities like hiking, exploring waterfalls, and visiting ghost towns with old machinery are highlighted.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the surrounding Opal Creek Wilderness. According to a review, the area features adventurous trails suitable for exploring waterfalls and enjoying the natural environment.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews cite issues such as mosquitos and noise disturbances. Safety concerns were raised regarding poorly maintained sites and restrooms.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingOne reviewer recommended adding more trash and recycling bins to improve the facility.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include excessive crowding ('sooo many people'), lack of maintenance ('sites and restrooms were barely maintained'), and mosquitos ('unbearable').
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsnull
nullNearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Shady Cove has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Shady Cove Campground are mixed. Positive reviews highlight its scenic location in the Opal Creek Wilderness and proximity to hiking trails and waterfalls. Criticism includes complaints about overcrowding, poor maintenance, and excessive noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews mention the campground's scenic setting and its closeness to adventurous activities such as hiking and exploring ghost towns. One reviewer stated, 'Love this campground! Nestled perfectly...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Critiques focus on overcrowding, loud and disruptive visitors, and poor maintenance of facilities. A user commented, 'Ugh, the worst! Sooo many people, yelling all night, felt kind of unsafe the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include downloading the Recreation.gov app prior to visiting due to limited cell service in the area.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews. However, the mention of loud crowds and mosquitos suggests that summer may be a busy and potentially challenging time to camp.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love this campground! Nestled perfectly within the Opal Creek Wilderness.' 2. 'Great place to go camping I go camping every summer here lately they have changed the campsites Stop changing the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user specifically mentioned dissatisfaction with changes made to the campsites, stating 'Stop changing the campsites you're making them suck like the very bottom one You made it smaller and it...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Last updated November 24, 2025
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