Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp

For Oregonians seeking a tranquil and authentic outdoor experience far from the clamor of everyday life, Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp offers a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature. Tucked away within the magnificent Umpqua National Forest near Clearwater, this forest camp provides a peaceful, secluded setting right by the serene waters of Lemolo Forebay. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate the quiet simplicity of primitive camping, where the focus is on the beauty of the surroundings rather than extensive amenities. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves the gentle lapping of water, the scent of pine, and the starry Oregon sky, Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp is a destination worth considering.

Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp operates on a first-come, first-served basis, embodying the spirit of spontaneous adventure and offering a refreshing alternative to reservation-heavy campgrounds. This makes it a perfect choice for those who prefer to embark on spur-of-the-moment camping trips, confident that a peaceful spot awaits. With basic but essential facilities like fire pits and picnic tables, it’s designed for campers who are self-sufficient and eager to immerse themselves fully in the natural environment. Whether you're an angler hoping to cast a line, a quiet observer of wildlife, or simply looking for a serene place to pitch your tent or park your small RV, this camp offers a delightful escape into the heart of Southern Oregon's wilderness.

Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp is located deep within the Umpqua National Forest, specifically near 7G9R+8Q, Clearwater, OR 97447, USA. This places it in a picturesque and somewhat remote area of Southern Oregon, making it a true escape from urban environments. The campground is nestled alongside the Lemolo Forebay, offering a beautiful waterside setting.

To reach Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp, visitors will typically travel on well-maintained forest roads. From Roseburg, Oregon, the most common access point, one would generally head east on Oregon Route 138 (OR-138), also known as the Diamond Lake Boulevard. This scenic highway winds its way through the Umpqua National Forest.

After approximately 70 miles on OR-138, you would typically turn onto a Forest Service road that leads to the campground. Specific directions often involve turning onto Forest Road 4785 from OR-138 and then following signs for the forebay or the specific camp. While some parts of the access roads may be unpaved, they are generally passable for most vehicles, including those with small trailers or RVs, under normal weather conditions. However, it's always advisable to check current road conditions with the Umpqua National Forest, especially during the shoulder seasons or after significant weather events. Its location, while providing a sense of seclusion, still offers relatively convenient access to key attractions along the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway.

• Individual Campsites: Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp provides several individual campsites. These sites are typically laid out to offer a sense of privacy and space between campers.

• First-Come, First-Served: This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are accepted, so plan to arrive early, especially during popular summer weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.

• Suitable for Tents & Small RVs: The campsites can accommodate both tent campers and those with smaller recreational vehicles or vans. While RVs are welcome, there are no hookups available (electric, water, sewer).

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and sturdy surface for dining, meal preparation, and general use.

• Fire Rings: Campers will find fire rings at each site, ideal for building campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. (Remember to always check for current fire restrictions before lighting any fire, especially in dry seasons).

• Vault Toilets: Basic, well-maintained vault toilets (pit toilets) are available at the campground, offering essential restroom facilities.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for all visitors to understand that there is NO potable (drinking) water available at Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or have a reliable method for filtering/treating water from natural sources if available nearby.

• Trash Cans (limited): While some reviews mention trash cans, responsible campers should always be prepared to pack out all trash and waste, adhering strictly to Leave No Trace principles, especially in primitive forest camps.

• Quiet, Secluded Atmosphere: A consistently praised feature of Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp is its tranquil and quiet ambiance. It’s a place where you can truly escape the noise and crowds, allowing for deep relaxation and immersion in nature.

• Lakeside Setting & Fishing: Being situated on the Lemolo Forebay provides direct access to still waters, making it an excellent spot for fishing. The forebay is known for trout, offering peaceful angling opportunities right from the shore or a small boat launched nearby. One review specifically mentioned "Boat ramp and potential fishing in lake."

• Direct Water Access: The camp's location directly by the forebay means campers are just steps away from the water, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the peaceful views.

• Surrounded by Umpqua National Forest: The campground is enveloped by the majestic Umpqua National Forest, offering stunning natural scenery with towering trees and fresh forest air. This provides ample shade and a true wilderness feel.

• Proximity to Umpqua Hot Springs: A major draw for many visitors to this area is the renowned Umpqua Hot Springs, often just a 10-15 minute drive from the campground. These natural thermal pools offer a unique opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Nearby Waterfalls: The area is famous for its breathtaking waterfalls. Within a short drive, you can access magnificent natural wonders like Toketee Falls, Clearwater Falls, and Watson Falls, each offering unique viewing and hiking experiences.

• Access to Hiking Trails: The Umpqua National Forest is crisscrossed with numerous hiking trails catering to various skill levels, allowing campers to explore the diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to forested ascents.

• Scenic Drives: The campground's location provides easy access to sections of the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway, a renowned route offering spectacular views of rivers, forests, and volcanic formations.

Address: 7G9R+8Q, Clearwater, OR 97447, USA (located within the Umpqua National Forest)

As Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is a more primitive forest camp, it does not have a direct phone number for site-specific inquiries or reservations. For general information, current conditions, fire restrictions, or road status in the Umpqua National Forest and surrounding area, it is best to contact the relevant Umpqua National Forest Ranger District:

North Umpqua Ranger Station:

Phone: (541) 496-3532

Umpqua National Forest Supervisor's Office:

Phone: (541) 440-4930

It is always highly recommended to call one of these offices before your trip to get the most up-to-date information on the campground's operational status and any important alerts.

For Oregonians who cherish a quieter, more authentic outdoor experience, Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp offers an ideal retreat right in their own state. Its relatively accessible yet wonderfully secluded location within the Umpqua National Forest makes it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the bustle of more crowded areas without venturing too far from home.

The first-come, first-served system appeals to the spontaneous spirit of many Oregon outdoor enthusiasts, allowing for flexible trip planning. For locals, this campground provides a genuine opportunity to reconnect with nature, offering a peaceful setting by the forebay where fishing, quiet contemplation, or simply enjoying the forest sounds are the primary activities. While the absence of potable water requires a bit more preparation, this also aligns with the self-sufficient ethos of many experienced campers, ensuring a more rustic and rewarding experience.

Moreover, its strategic location provides easy access to some of Oregon's most iconic natural landmarks. Imagine a day of hiking to the majestic Toketee Falls, soaking in the natural warmth of Umpqua Hot Springs, and then returning to a tranquil campsite by the water to enjoy a campfire under a sky full of stars. Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to experiencing the profound beauty and serenity of the Umpqua National Forest, making it an excellent choice for any Oregonian seeking an enriching and peaceful outdoor adventure.

Fish Creek Forebay Forest Camp

7G9R+8Q, Clearwater, OR 97447, USA