Hemlock Lake Remote Camp

For those of us who call Oregon home and yearn for a true escape into the quieter corners of our magnificent state, Hemlock Lake Remote Camp offers an experience that truly delivers on serenity. Tucked away in Douglas County within the vast Umpqua National Forest, this campground is a "beautiful 28 acre man-made reservoir surrounded by stands of mixed conifers." It’s the kind of place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the hustle and bustle of daily life fade into the background, making it perfect for an "R&R weekend."

As Oregonians, we often seek out those less-traveled paths, destinations that offer a raw and authentic connection to the wilderness without being overly developed. Hemlock Lake Remote Camp perfectly fits this description. It’s a "quiet and secluded" spot that provides a classic primitive camping experience, where the focus is firmly on the natural environment. While it lacks some modern amenities, its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere are its greatest assets, appealing to those who prioritize tranquility and self-sufficiency in their outdoor adventures.

The lake itself is a significant draw, consistently stocked with trout, providing "good fishing from the banks or by boat." Its designation as an electric motors only lake ensures a quiet and undisturbed water experience, ideal for peaceful angling or simply enjoying the still reflections of the surrounding forest. This commitment to maintaining a calm environment is a major highlight for locals who value a truly peaceful lakeside retreat.

While access may involve gravel roads, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis (though it has experienced temporary closures), Hemlock Lake Remote Camp rewards the prepared camper with an immersive forest and lake experience. For those of us living in Oregon, ready to disconnect and embrace the unadulterated beauty of our natural landscapes, Hemlock Lake offers a tranquil haven. Let's explore what makes this remote gem a suitable choice for your next escape.

Hemlock Lake Remote Camp is located in Douglas County, OR, USA, specifically within the expansive Umpqua National Forest. It's nestled at an elevation of approximately 4,400 feet, surrounded by dense stands of mixed conifers, providing a classic Pacific Northwest forest setting.

To reach Hemlock Lake, a common route from Roseburg, Oregon, involves driving east on Highway 138 to Glide (approximately 18 miles). From Glide, you continue east for about 16.5 miles on County Road 17, which then transitions into Forest Service Road 27. You'll continue on the well-signed Forest Road 27 for another 15.5 miles. Finally, a turn onto Forest Road 495 for approximately 0.7 miles will lead you to the Hemlock Lake Campground. The roads are described as gravel, and campers should be prepared for typical forest service road conditions. Maximum recommended vehicle length is 14 feet, suggesting it's more suited for tent campers or smaller RVs/trailers.

Despite being labeled "remote," its accessibility from major routes like Highway 138 (a scenic byway) means it's not entirely off the grid for those familiar with forest road navigation. This balance of seclusion and manageable access makes it appealing to Oregon locals seeking a genuine wilderness experience without extreme difficulty. It's about 22 miles east of Glide, offering a deep forest immersion that is still within a reasonable drive for a weekend trip from many parts of Southern Oregon. It's worth noting that due to winter snows, access can be difficult between October and March, making the warmer months the primary season for visitation.

Campers should be aware that all sites are generally first-come, first-served. It is always wise to check the Umpqua National Forest website for current conditions and any temporary closures before planning your trip, as the campground has been noted to be "Temporarily Closed" for seasons in the past.

• Campsites: The campground offers 9 individual campsites, 1 double campsite, and 3 tent-specific campsites, totaling 13 sites. All sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits.
• Vault Toilets: Two vault toilets are available on-site. These are primitive, non-flush toilets, and visitors often find them to be clean.
• No Drinking Water: A critical detail for campers is that there is no potable drinking water available at the campground. Visitors must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• Garbage Disposal: Trash receptacles are provided for waste disposal, helping to maintain the cleanliness of the area.
• Boat Ramp: An unimproved boat ramp is located at Hemlock Meadows, approximately half a mile around the east arm of the lake, providing access for boats.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, sewer, or water hookups at individual campsites, signifying a true primitive camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no advance reservations are typically taken. This requires flexibility in travel plans.
• Fees: A per-campsite fee (e.g., $10) and an extra vehicle fee (e.g., $5) are usually charged.
• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are enforced between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Campfire Pits: Fire pits are provided at each site, but campers must adhere to current public use restrictions, which may prohibit campfires during high fire danger.
• No OHV/ATV Use: Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are prohibited within the campground itself.

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: Hemlock Lake is a serene 28-acre man-made reservoir surrounded by lush mixed conifers, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Excellent Trout Fishing: The lake is regularly stocked with trout (including rainbow trout and kokanee salmon), providing "good fishing from the banks or by boat." It's a popular spot for anglers.
• Electric Motors Only Lake: A significant highlight is the restriction to only electric motors on the lake, which maintains a quiet and peaceful environment, free from the noise of gas-powered boats.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Reviews and descriptions consistently emphasize the "incredibly quiet and peaceful" nature of the campground, ideal for those seeking to "escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life."
• Hiking Opportunities: Scenic hiking trails are available in the area, including a loop trail around Hemlock Lake and the Yellow Jacket Loop Trail #1522, which connects to other trails like Flat Rock Mt. Trail #1526, offering diverse landscapes from high elevation timber to alpine meadows with wildflowers.
• Natural Beauty: The setting amidst Douglas fir, western hemlock, and other native vegetation, along with the presence of wildflowers in spring, enhances the natural appeal.
• Small, Intimate Campground: With only 13 campsites (9 single, 1 double, 3 tent-specific), the campground fosters a more intimate and less crowded camping experience.
• Picnic Area: A designated picnic site with a grill is available for day use, separate from the campsites.
• Wildlife Viewing: The quiet, forested, and lakeside environment provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Accessibility for Smaller Vehicles: While remote, the gravel roads are generally navigable for vehicles up to 14 feet, making it accessible for tent campers and smaller RV setups.

Address: Douglas County, OR, USA. (Specifically, within the Umpqua National Forest, accessed via Forest Road 27 and 495 from Highway 138.)

As a remote, first-come, first-served campground, Hemlock Lake Remote Camp typically does not have a direct, dedicated phone number. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions, fire restrictions, seasonal closures, or any alerts, Oregon locals should contact the managing agency for this area, which is the Umpqua National Forest.

Umpqua National Forest Supervisor's Office (Roseburg):

Phone: (541) 440-4930

North Umpqua Ranger District:

Phone: (541) 496-3532 (This district directly manages the area around Hemlock Lake).

It is highly recommended for Oregonians to check the official Umpqua National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/umpqua) or call the relevant Ranger District before planning their trip, especially concerning temporary closures (as the campground has been closed for seasons in the past) and current fire restrictions.

For Oregon residents seeking an authentic, peaceful, and truly immersive outdoor experience, Hemlock Lake Remote Camp stands as an exceptional choice. It embodies the essence of "remote" camping that many Oregonians cherish, offering a direct pathway to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the raw beauty of our state's wilderness.

The campground's suitability for locals lies in its unwavering commitment to a quiet, natural environment. The 28-acre lake, restricted to electric motors only, ensures a serene experience perfect for peaceful fishing, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the stillness of the water. This focus on tranquility is a significant draw for Oregonians who often seek respite from noise and crowds.

While the amenities are "bare bones" – no drinking water, no hookups, and vault toilets – these are precisely the characteristics that appeal to the self-sufficient, prepared Oregon camper. We understand that bringing our own water and being ready for a primitive experience is a small price to pay for the unparalleled beauty and solitude that Hemlock Lake offers. The presence of picnic tables, fire pits (when allowed), and designated sites makes it comfortable enough without compromising its rustic charm.

Furthermore, the abundance of nearby hiking trails, from the leisurely loop around the lake to more challenging paths like the Yellow Jacket Loop, caters to our state's love for exploration and adventure within diverse natural settings. The opportunity for excellent trout fishing adds another layer of appeal, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

In essence, Hemlock Lake Remote Camp is a hidden gem for the Oregon local who values quietude, natural beauty, and a genuine, unpretentious camping experience. It’s a place to recharge, fish, hike, and simply be present in the stunning embrace of the Umpqua National Forest – a true testament to the wild heart of Oregon.

Hemlock Lake Remote Camp

Douglas County, OR, USA