Camp Comfort

For those of us who call Oregon home, the call of the wild is often a comforting whisper, inviting us to explore the vast and varied landscapes that make our state so unique. If you're an Oregonian seeking a truly rustic, peaceful, and perhaps even nostalgic camping experience, Camp Comfort in Douglas County offers a glimpse into the serene heart of the Umpqua National Forest. This is a place where modern conveniences take a backseat to the raw beauty of nature, fostering a deep connection to the outdoors.

Camp Comfort is aptly named, even with its primitive offerings, for the sense of peace it instills in its visitors. It's a place where generations have forged lasting memories, particularly those tied to traditional outdoor pursuits. As one heartfelt review shares, they "Grew up going here to elk hunt with family. So many good memories. Glad to be going back today." This sentiment speaks volumes about Camp Comfort's enduring appeal as a cherished spot for family traditions and a deep-rooted connection to Oregon's wilderness.

It's important for prospective visitors, especially locals, to be aware of the campground's operational status. A critical point highlighted by recent reviews indicates that the campground was "Still closed (7/3/2023) for UNSAFE Conditions. Fallen trees (root damage) on campsites." This underscores the need to "call the forest service ask them to make sure that is open for you before you drive all the way there." This proactive step ensures a safe and successful trip, demonstrating responsible recreation within our national forests.

Despite potential closures for maintenance, the essence of Camp Comfort remains appealing: a beautiful place to go camping, perfect for those who seek solitude and a break from the everyday. It offers around "5 campsites" with basic amenities, fostering a more intimate experience than larger, more developed campgrounds. For Oregonians who value authenticity, quiet, and a place to truly unwind amidst the towering trees, Camp Comfort holds a special, timeless allure.

Camp Comfort is nestled deep within Douglas County, Oregon, officially located within the expansive Umpqua National Forest. While its address is broadly listed as "Douglas County, OR, USA," specific directions are crucial for accessibility. It is typically accessed by following "Killer Road out of Canyonville to Tiller," which is described as "the fastest way to get there." This places it in a beautiful, forested, and somewhat remote region of Southern Oregon, characterized by its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

To reach Camp Comfort from Canyonville, you would generally turn off southeast Main Street onto southeast 3rd Street / OR-227. Continue on OR-227 for approximately 23 miles until reaching the town of Tiller, OR. From Tiller, turn left onto County Road 46 (South Umpqua Road) and continue for about 26 miles to Camp Comfort Campground. This journey involves significant stretches on county and forest service roads, which may be unpaved or gravel for sections, and subject to varying conditions depending on the season and recent weather. A vehicle with good clearance is often recommended for navigating these rural routes.

The campground's location near the Upper South Umpqua River also suggests accessibility to scenic waterways and potential recreation along the river. While it offers a sense of seclusion, it's still within a reasonable drive for many Oregonians, for instance, approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes from Grants Pass or 3 hours and 36 minutes from Eugene, making it a viable option for a weekend wilderness escape. The remote setting enhances the experience for those seeking true solitude away from more frequented areas.

For Oregon locals, understanding the nuances of driving on forest service roads and checking conditions beforehand is key to accessing this charming, off-the-beaten-path campground. Its very remoteness is part of its charm, promising a peaceful retreat deep within Oregon's forested heartland.

Camp Comfort is a primitive campground, which means it offers basic, essential services tailored for self-sufficient campers who seek a rustic outdoor experience. Based on information from the Umpqua National Forest and camper reviews, the services typically available include:

• Campsites: The campground features "5 campsites," each equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit. These designated sites help manage impact and provide a clear space for campers to set up their tents.
• Vault Toilets: There are "2 vault toilets" available. These are basic, non-flush restroom facilities designed for human waste management in remote settings. Campers should be prepared for this type of amenity.
• No Potable Water: It is clearly stated that "potable water is not available at this site" and "no drinking water" is provided. Campers must bring all their own potable water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or be prepared to filter/treat water from natural sources like the South Umpqua River if available, strictly following safety guidelines.
• No Garbage Disposal: Campers are required to "pack it out," meaning all trash and waste must be carried out of the campground. This adherence to Leave No Trace principles is crucial for maintaining the pristine environment.
• Campfires Allowed (in pits, when permitted): Campfires are allowed "in developed fire pits when conditions allow." Visitors must always check for current fire restrictions and bans, especially during Oregon's dry summer months, and exercise extreme caution.
• Quiet Hours: "Quiet hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m." are enforced to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Maximum Length of Stay: There is a "maximum length of stay anywhere on the forest is 14 days," allowing for extended enjoyment of the area.
• Pet-Friendly (with leash requirement): Dogs are typically allowed in the campground but "must be on leash" for the safety of wildlife and other campers.
• No OHV/ATV Use in Campground: "OHV/ATV use prohibited in the campground" helps maintain the quiet and natural atmosphere.
• Fee Site: The cost is typically "$10 for campsite" and "$5 for extra vehicle."

Camp Comfort offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a unique and appealing destination for those seeking a tranquil and authentic outdoor experience in Oregon:

• Profound Seclusion and Tranquility: The campground is a "beautiful place to go camping" that provides a deep sense of peace, appealing to those who "kinda want to be alone" and escape the noise of everyday life.
• Traditional Hunting Base: For many Oregonian families, Camp Comfort serves as a cherished base for activities like "elk hunt," creating multi-generational memories and fostering a connection to traditional outdoor pursuits.
• Old-Growth Forest Setting: The presence of "large old-growth cedar and fir trees provide shade to campers," creating a majestic and naturally cooling environment, particularly in spring when "rhododendron are a burst of color."
• Access to South Umpqua River: Located "near the Upper South Umpqua," the campground offers easy access to the river, perfect for "swimming, picnicking, and hiking" and a refreshing escape on hot summer days.
• Hiking Opportunities: Camp Comfort serves as the trailhead for "Camp Comfort Trail #1586, a short but rewarding trail that leads to a rocky outcrop overlooking the beginning of the South Umpqua River." "Deer Lick Falls Trail #1568," another short trail to a popular swimming hole, is also nearby.
• Rustic, Authentic Camping: With its primitive amenities (vault toilets, no potable water), Camp Comfort delivers a genuine backcountry-style experience, ideal for self-sufficient campers.
• No Reservations Needed (Typically): While current status must be checked, many primitive forest service sites are first-come, first-served, offering flexibility.
• Affordable Fees: The modest fee structure makes it an economical choice for extended stays or frequent visits for locals.

For inquiries or to obtain the most current information regarding Camp Comfort, especially concerning its operational status due to safety concerns (e.g., fallen trees), it is essential to contact the managing authority. As Camp Comfort is located within the Umpqua National Forest, the relevant Ranger District is the primary point of contact.

Address: Douglas County, OR, USA (Specific access via Forest Service roads from Canyonville/Tiller)

It is strongly recommended to contact the Tiller Ranger Station of the Umpqua National Forest. Their information is:

Tiller Ranger Station

Address: 27812 Tiller Trail Highway Tiller, OR 97484

Phone: (541) 825-3100

Hours: Thursday and Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)

Always call ahead to confirm that the campground is open and safe for visitors, especially given past closures for unsafe conditions. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on road access, fire restrictions, and any other alerts for the area.

For Oregon locals, Camp Comfort is more than just a campground; it’s a cherished, rustic retreat that embodies the very spirit of our state's wild beauty. Its suitability for locals lies in its unique blend of accessible remoteness, traditional outdoor appeal, and the profound sense of peace it offers. This is the place where families create enduring memories, particularly through activities like elk hunting, forging a timeless connection to the land.

While its primitive nature requires preparedness – bringing your own water and packing out all trash – these aspects only enhance the authenticity of the experience. It calls to the Oregonian who seeks genuine solitude, a break from crowded spaces, and the simple joy of a campfire under a vast, star-filled sky. The very act of confirming its open status with the Forest Service becomes part of the adventure, ensuring a safe journey to this "beautiful place."

Camp Comfort is a testament to the fact that true comfort in the outdoors often comes not from lavish amenities, but from the raw, unfiltered embrace of nature. For those who yearn for a quiet, meaningful escape into the heart of the Umpqua National Forest, Camp Comfort stands ready to welcome you, provided it is safe to do so, promising a truly unforgettable Oregon outdoor experience.

Camp Comfort

Douglas County, OR, USA