Drews Creek Campground

Oregon, a state renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from towering forests to high desert landscapes, offers an unparalleled array of outdoor experiences. For residents of the Beaver State who cherish a quiet, authentic wilderness escape, Drews Creek Campground near Lakeview presents a unique and unassuming option. Tucked away in the expansive Fremont-Winema National Forest, this small, rustic campground is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude, a true connection with nature, and a tranquil base for exploring the diverse landscapes of Southern Oregon.

Unlike larger, more amenity-rich campgrounds, Drews Creek focuses on providing a back-to-basics experience, where the sounds of the creek and the shade of ponderosa pines create a serene atmosphere. It's a place where the stars shine brightly, and the pace of life slows down, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. While it might not be for everyone, especially those seeking full hookups and extensive facilities, its simplicity is precisely its charm for the right kind of adventurer. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Drews Creek Campground, detailing its unique location, the essential services it provides, its noteworthy features, crucial contact information, and ultimately, why it is a perfectly suited destination for Oregonians looking for a truly peaceful and authentic outdoor experience close to home.

Drews Creek Campground is situated near Lakeview, OR 97630, USA, within the sprawling Fremont-Winema National Forest. Its specific location is along Drews Creek, a few miles from Drews Reservoir. It is approximately 20-35 miles southwest of the town of Lakeview, placing it in a somewhat secluded yet accessible part of Southern Oregon's high desert and forested region.

Access to Drews Creek Campground generally involves a drive from Lakeview. One set of directions indicates taking Oregon Highway 140 west from Lakeview toward Bly, then turning left on Andy Hill Road, continuing south on Andy Hill Road, and finally turning right onto Dog Lake Road to reach the campground. Another direction suggests traveling about 25 miles west on Highway 140, then turning left onto Forest Road 3715 for 6 miles, followed by a right onto Forest Road 3817 for a short distance to the entrance. While described by some as "pretty easy to find" and "not too far off the main highway," visitors should be prepared for forest service roads, which may be gravel. The campground is typically open seasonally, from mid-May through mid-October, with reduced services outside of peak summer months. It's crucial for visitors to check current road conditions and seasonal access with the Fremont-Winema National Forest before heading out, as weather can affect accessibility in this high-elevation area.

Drews Creek Campground is a "very small campground" with a rustic and primitive approach to its services, appealing to campers who prefer a more natural setting.

• Campsites: The campground typically features a very limited number of designated campsites, often noted as "3 spaces" or up to "3 single sites." There are also mentions of "two group sites big enough for 30 to 50 people" and a day-use area with picnic tables, fire rings, and horseshoe pits. Each site usually comes with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are generally well-maintained for a rustic setting. Reviews indicate there might be one for the campground and one for the day-use area.
• No Potable Water: It is critical for visitors to understand that Drews Creek Campground does NOT have potable water directly available at the sites. Campers must "pack plenty of water" for all their needs, including drinking, cooking, and washing. However, some sources suggest that "potable water" might be available "at Fish Lake campground which is just a few miles down the road," which could be an option for resupply.
• No Hookups: As a primitive campground, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It is best suited for tent camping or small, self-contained trailers/RVs.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites at Drews Creek are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. This can be beneficial for spontaneous trips but also means arriving early during peak season is advisable.
• No Fee: Historically, the campground has been listed as "free," or with "No fee" for usage. Visitors should verify this with the Forest Service as conditions and fees can change.

These basic services align with the campground's emphasis on providing a quiet and natural camping experience.

Despite its small size and rustic nature, Drews Creek Campground offers distinct features and highlights that make it appealing to those seeking peace and a connection with nature in Southern Oregon.

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: A consistent highlight from reviews is that the campground is "very quiet" and offers a peaceful environment. Being "close to the road but no one drives there at night" contributes to its tranquility, making it a "decent place to stop" for a restful overnight stay or longer.
• Forested and Shady Setting: The campground is described as "forested, shady," and "under a majestic ponderosa pine canopy." This provides welcome shade during warmer months and a pleasant natural aesthetic.
• Proximity to Drews Creek: The campground is "next to Drew's Creek" or has a "bridge crosses over Drews Creek to the campground," offering direct access to the creek for those who enjoy the sounds of running water or want to dip their toes in.
• Access to Drews Reservoir: While not directly on the reservoir, the campground is "on the way up the river" to Drews Reservoir, which is "two miles from the campground." Drews Reservoir offers opportunities for "boating, water ski and swim to your heart's content," expanding the recreational options available nearby.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forested and riparian environment provides opportunities for nature viewing and observing local wildlife.
• Starry Nights: Away from significant light pollution, the campground likely offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.
• Ideal for Overnighters or as a Backup: While some reviews suggest there's "little reason to stay here unless the reservoir area is crowded," this highlights its value as a quiet alternative when other nearby, more popular spots are full. It's a "decent place to stop" for travelers passing through or seeking an easily accessible, quiet overnight stay.

These features combine to create a simple yet appealing outdoor experience for those who appreciate the untouched beauty and quietude of Oregon's national forests.

For specific inquiries regarding Drews Creek Campground, including its seasonal operating dates, current conditions, road accessibility, and any fire restrictions, it is essential to contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Fremont-Winema National Forest.

Address: Lakeview, OR 97630, USA (This is the general area for the campground, as specific street numbers are not typical for remote forest service sites. It is managed by the Lakeview Ranger District).

Phone: The main contact number for the Fremont-Winema National Forest Headquarters is (541) 947-2151. For more localized information specific to Drews Creek Campground, contacting the Lakeview Ranger District office at (541) 947-3334 would be most appropriate.

Given that Drews Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are not typically taken. Therefore, calling ahead or checking the official Fremont-Winema National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/fremont-winema) for the most up-to-date information regarding its operational status, any alerts, or closures due to weather or other conditions is highly recommended before planning your trip.

For Oregonians, Drews Creek Campground near Lakeview embodies a unique opportunity to embrace the simplicity and tranquility of our state's vast natural landscapes. This campground is particularly suited for locals who appreciate a rustic, no-frills camping experience, one that prioritizes peaceful immersion in nature over extensive modern amenities.

The consistent feedback about it being a "very quiet campground" where "no one drives there at night" speaks volumes to its appeal for those seeking a genuine escape from the clamor of daily life. The "forested, shady" setting under "majestic ponderosa pines" provides a refreshing and calming environment, offering a welcome respite during warmer months. While it might be small with only a "few spaces," this intimacy contributes to its secluded charm, allowing campers to truly feel connected to the wilderness.

For local outdoor enthusiasts, Drews Creek Campground serves as an excellent base, especially if more popular spots around Drews Reservoir are "crowded." Its proximity to Drews Reservoir, just "two miles from the campground," means that while you enjoy the quietude of the creek, you're still within easy reach of boating, water skiing, and swimming opportunities. The absence of potable water and hookups simply reinforces the self-reliant spirit that many Oregonians embrace when venturing into our national forests. It's an ideal spot for an overnight stop when traveling through the region or for a weekend getaway where the primary goal is to disconnect, enjoy the serene sounds of nature, and revel in the simple beauty of Oregon's high country. Drews Creek Campground offers an authentic, accessible slice of Oregon's wilderness, waiting to be discovered by those who value peace and simplicity above all else.

Drews Creek Campground

Lakeview, OR 97630, USA