On the west side of the Cascade Mountain range, the Susan Creek Campground is centrally located within the 984, 602-acre Umpqua National forest. With dense mixed conifer forests consisting of fir, cedar and hemlock trees and the majestic mountains providing a delightful backdrop, thundering waterfalls, and tranquil clear alpine lakes; Oregon’s national forest is undoubtedly an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River provides plentiful opportunities for fun on and in the emerald green waters of the river. Umpqua loosely translates as 'thundering waters', and the miles upon miles of fast-flowing river suggests that it is an apt name for this area of untouched wildness. Many people visit the site for adrenaline-boosting white water rafting, excellent fishing, hunting, swimming, and so much more.
With RV and tent camping, pristine amenities, and breathtakingly beautiful surroundings, the Susan Creek Campground could be an ideal choice for a camp break away from the hustle and the bustle of the city. The park alternates between reservations and first-come, first-served and it is open from May to September. Read on for more information about this popular RV campsite and anything else you may need to know to ensure that your adventure is a success.
The Susan Creek Campground is located at 777 NW Garden Valley Blvd, Roseburg, OR 97471-650 and it is nestled deep in the center of the Umpqua National Forest. To get there, travel 29.5 miles east of Roseburg on Highway 138; turning just past milepost 28. Keep your eyes peeled for the turnoff, it is fairly well hidden and you do not want to miss it.
Driving conditions vary here in accordance with the seasons. For example, roads may be subject to closure after heavy snow and ice and if you are traveling in the winter, chains or traction tires are essential. You may also need to pay attention to the water levels, with floods being possible in some areas. As always we advise that you check the forecast and driving conditions before you embark on your journey and plan accordingly.
There are parking spots available throughout the Umpqua National Forest, including a paved parking area at the Susan Creek Campground. If you are leaving your vehicle at any of the parking areas within the forest, you will need to display your recreation pass or permit clearly. There should also be space to park your vehicle at your campsite.
Surrounded by trees up to seven feet tall and located in the center of the Umpqua Forest, the Susan Creek Campground could be the perfect base for your adventure. The camp has all of the basic facilities that you need, including flush restrooms, trash receptacles, hot showers, and drinking water. However, it should be noted that they do request a voluntary donation for the upkeep and maintenance of the showers. There is also an amphitheater on-site, and the Bureau of Land Management has educational programs here throughout July and August.
There are 29 campsites, 13 of which can be reserved, and sixteen first come first served. However, the Susan Creek Campground is one that comes highly recommended by those that have visited, and due to its popularity, it can get quite busy. Each campsite comes with a grill and fire ring, and they also have a picnic table and BBQ. Pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control and they are not allowed to enter the day-use area.
Open from May to September; the Lone Pine Group Campground is particularly well suited to large groups and big family vacations. The campground features 11 sites, with enough space for 120 people. This is pretty basic camping, with just vault toilets and no hook-ups. However, there are potable water sources, and there is a host on-site if you have any questions or queries during your stay.
There is much to keep you entertained here, with horseshoes, a children’s play area, volleyball court, and a baseball field that can be hired for the day.
With the chance to spot the resident blacktail deer and marvel at the soaring osprey, wildlife watching is a popular pastime at the Susan Creek Campground and the surrounding area.
The diverse habitat within the National Forest means that it is home to a wide array of plants and animals, including 66 mammal species, 236 bird species, and 27 reptiles and amphibians. Black bears and cougars also roam these woods, and as always it is imperative that you do not approach wildlife and always keep a safe distance.
Hidden away deep in the forest and sitting on the edge of a rock face, the Umpqua hot springs are certainly worth a visit. These geothermal pools are constantly heated at 105 degrees and provide the perfect opportunity to soak your worries away.
The trail to the hot springs is approximately 2.2 miles, and it is a rocky road with many potholes, so drive carefully. You will need to take a short but steep hike up to pools. Remember, these hot springs are a vital life source for many species, and it is important that you leave no trace behind.
The North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River is renowned for its quality rapids. Starting at a milder class I and working their way to some seriously nail-biting class IV, expect constant action and heart-stopping excitement when rafting at this fast-flowing gem. Believe it or not, this river has more rapids per mile than any other in Oregon!
If you prefer to float, it is recommended that you visit later in the year. However, there will certainly be some rock-maneuvering as you meander down the river.
There is no public transport to the Susan Creek Campground, and the best way to get there is by driving.
The dramatic mountainscapes and unforgettable views of Mt. Thielson ensure that this picturesque campsite is a hit. This lakeside campground is maintained by the US forestry department, and it includes 60 campsites, each of which has a picnic table and fire pit. There are also vault toilets, garbage disposal stations, and potable water sources.
Enjoy the thundering waterfalls creating mist and spray as they cascade to the canyons below on your Oregon RV adventure. From the campground, there is an easy 0.8-mile hike to the beautiful 50 ft. Susan Creek. Alternately, one of the most famous waterfalls in the state is Totekee Falls; a two-tier waterfall that has constant flow throughout the year.
Both Surprise Falls and Misty Grotto Falls are also popular, as well as the 293 ft. Watson Falls is close to the highway. These natural formations are popular and can get busy on the weekends, especially during summer.
Land a big one and pick up the catch of the day under the canopy of the forest! The North Umpqua River offers world-class fishing, with the chance to land a diverse range of species. Spring is particularly popular for fishing at the North Umpqua River, as this is when the salmon and steelhead head trout come upriver to spawn. However, this river is restricted to fly fishing only.
Both Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake are also popular fishing spots, with the latter being well known for its abundance of brown and rainbow trout. If you are planning on fishing in the region, ensure that you have a valid Oregon license.
With some pretty epic rock faces, canyons and sheer limestone cliffs, mountain and rock climbing are certainly popular in the Umpqua basin. The Acker Rock has a 5.5 difficulty level, with 20 established routes.
Alternatively, the Old Man and Old Woman Pinnacles stand at 280 feet is one of the most frequented climbs, and the nearby Prize (260 ft.) is also one that should not be missed. Throughout the climbing sites, there are cleary developed single and multi-routes. A 60- meter rope is advised for all routes, and you should carry a minimum of two ropes per party.
