Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp

For Oregonians seeking a truly quiet and intimate connection with nature, Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp offers a delightful and often overlooked retreat within the majestic Umpqua National Forest. Tucked away near Idleyld Park, this small, free campground provides a serene setting that's a world away from the bustling, more crowded camping destinations. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate the peaceful sounds of the forest, the proximity to stunning natural landmarks, and the simple joys of primitive camping. If you're a local looking to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that makes Oregon so special, Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp could be your next favorite discovery.

What truly sets Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp apart, as highlighted by those who have visited, is its intimate size. With "only 6 spots, so never crowded," it promises a level of tranquility and personal space that is increasingly rare in popular outdoor areas. This makes it perfect for individuals, couples, or small families who desire a peaceful experience without the noise and commotion often found in larger campgrounds. While one review mentions that "Water is unsafe for swimming or kayaking" in the immediate forebay, the overall consensus points to a "Great little camp ground!" and a location that offers much to explore nearby. The rustic charm, combined with its free access, positions Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp as a hidden gem for Oregon locals eager to embrace the untamed beauty of their state in a truly undisturbed fashion.

Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp is situated on NF-999, near Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA, deep within the Umpqua National Forest. This places it in a prime location for exploring the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities of Southern Oregon's Cascade Mountains. Idleyld Park itself is a small community known as a gateway to the North Umpqua River corridor, famous for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and hot springs.

For Oregon residents, accessing the campground typically involves a scenic drive. From Roseburg, a common starting point in Southern Oregon, you would generally travel east on OR-138 (Diamond Lake Highway). From there, various forest roads lead to the Lemolo Lake area. Specific directions from reviews indicate that from the Umpqua Hot Springs sign, you continue on the road, take the first left onto a gravel road, continue past a bridge and past the Lemolo 2 Forebay, and the campground is immediately on your left. While the "road is good until the last turn," visitors should be prepared for typical National Forest roads – the final mile or so to the campground is often an "unimproved road" or "dirt road" with some potholes, but generally manageable by any vehicle. Reviewers have confirmed that vehicles ranging from passenger cars to transformed school buses and travel trailers have successfully navigated the access road.

The remote setting contributes to the campground's peaceful atmosphere, but it also means limited amenities and potentially spotty cell service (some users reported 2-3 bars of Verizon LTE, others no T-Mobile service). Therefore, downloading maps or having physical copies is advisable. Despite its secluded feel, its proximity to major attractions like Umpqua Hot Springs (approximately 10-15 minutes away) and Toketee Falls makes it an excellent base for exploring the region's natural wonders.

• Free Campsites: Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp is a free campsite, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for campers.

• Limited Number of Sites: There are only about 6 designated campsites, ensuring a private and uncrowded experience. These sites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a spot.

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

• Fire Rings/Fire Pits: All sites include a fire ring or pit, allowing for campfires (always subject to current fire restrictions, so check Umpqua National Forest regulations before lighting a fire).

• Vault Toilets (Pit Toilets): The campground provides basic vault toilets (also referred to as pit toilets) for sanitation. Reviewers generally find them clean and stocked with toilet paper, although bringing your own is always a good idea.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to be aware that there is no potable (drinkable) water available on-site. Campers must bring their own water supply for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Natural water from the forebay can be used for other purposes, but should be filtered or treated if consumed.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed, but should be kept on a leash and cleaned up after, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

• No Designated Showers or Kitchen Facilities: This is a primitive forest camp, so there are no showers, kitchen facilities, or trash services (pack it in, pack it out principle applies for garbage).

• Quiet and Uncrowded Atmosphere: With only 6 sites, the campground offers a remarkably peaceful and secluded environment, allowing for true relaxation and immersion in nature. This is a consistent highlight from visitor reviews.

• Proximity to Umpqua Hot Springs: One of the major draws is its close proximity (approximately 10-15 minutes drive) to the popular Umpqua Hot Springs, providing a fantastic opportunity for a relaxing soak after a day of adventuring.

• Near Toketee Falls: The stunning Toketee Falls, a picturesque waterfall, is also a short drive away, offering another incredible natural attraction to explore.

• Lakeside/Riverside Setting: The campground is located next to the Lemolo #2 Forebay, offering "beautiful views" of the water and opportunities for tranquil relaxation by the water's edge, though the water itself may not be suitable for swimming or kayaking due to safety concerns (e.g., strong currents or hazards like a low-head dam).

• Excellent Base for Exploration: Its location in the Umpqua National Forest provides easy access to numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and fishing spots in the broader region along the North Umpqua River.

• Free Camping: The fact that it's a beautiful, well-maintained site with basic amenities and no charge makes it incredibly appealing to budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a less commercialized camping experience.

• Verizon Cell Service: Some reviewers reported having a decent Verizon signal (2-3 bars LTE), which can be a significant advantage in such a remote area for basic communication or navigation, though it's not guaranteed.

• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by tall pine trees, the campground offers ample shade and a classic Pacific Northwest forest experience, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the serene sounds of nature, including a "fairly loud waterfall sound" from a nearby water control structure that some find relaxing.

Address: NF-999, Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA

As Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp is a free, first-come, first-served campground within the Umpqua National Forest, there is no direct phone number specifically for the campground itself. It operates as a more primitive, self-service camping area.

For the most up-to-date information regarding road conditions, fire restrictions, water availability, or any alerts that might affect your visit, it is best to contact the Umpqua National Forest directly.

Umpqua National Forest (Diamond Lake Ranger District - which oversees this area):

Phone: (541) 498-2531

Website: Check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Umpqua National Forest for current conditions and alerts.

For Oregonians, Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp is an exceptionally suitable destination, offering an authentic and unpretentious outdoor experience deeply rooted in the state's natural charm. Its most compelling feature for locals is its intimate scale – with only six spots, it guarantees a level of quiet and personal space that is increasingly difficult to find in more publicized campgrounds. This makes it an ideal escape for those truly seeking to disconnect from urban noise and reconnect with the serene sounds of the Umpqua National Forest. It's a place where you can genuinely unwind without feeling crowded, a highly valued commodity for residents looking to truly "get away from it all."

The fact that it's a free campsite is another significant draw for Oregon locals, making a beautiful and peaceful outdoor adventure accessible without any financial barrier. This affordability allows for more frequent and spontaneous trips into the wilderness, fostering a deeper connection with the natural landscapes of their home state. While it means embracing a more primitive style of camping – packing in your own water and packing out your trash – these are practices familiar and often preferred by seasoned Oregon campers who value environmental stewardship and self-sufficiency.

Furthermore, the campground's strategic location provides unparalleled access to some of Southern Oregon's most iconic natural attractions. The short drive to the popular Umpqua Hot Springs offers a unique opportunity for relaxation, while the majestic Toketee Falls provides a breathtaking sight for photographers and nature lovers alike. The surrounding Umpqua National Forest offers a vast playground for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, catering to the active lifestyles common among Oregon residents. It’s a versatile base camp, perfect for weekend adventurers or those seeking an extended immersion in the region's diverse ecosystems.

In essence, Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp embodies the spirit of accessible wilderness that many Oregonians cherish. It offers a no-frills, deeply peaceful, and naturally beautiful setting that encourages genuine outdoor engagement. It’s a true local gem for those who appreciate solitude, stunning scenery, and direct access to some of Oregon's most beloved natural wonders, making it an excellent choice for any resident looking to experience the wild heart of their state.

Lemolo #2 Forebay Forest Camp

NF-999, Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA