Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground

For us Oregonians, the call of the wild is often answered by the serene beauty of our lakes and forests. While our rugged coastline and towering Cascades draw many, there's a special charm to be found inland, nestled within the lush embrace of the Coast Range. Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground, part of the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Loon Lake Recreation Site in Douglas County, is precisely one of those cherished spots. It's a family-oriented destination that has been treasured by locals for generations, offering a refreshing escape with the unique bonus of a warm, sandy beach – a rare find in our typically rugged coastal region.

This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a complete recreation hub designed for endless summer fun. Imagine spending your days swimming in the clear, warm waters of Loon Lake, casting a line for some local fish, or paddling a kayak across its tranquil surface. The campsite itself provides ample shade from majestic old-growth trees, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for relaxation after a day of water play.

Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground represents the best of Oregon's accessible outdoor recreation. It combines the peace of a forest setting with the vibrant energy of a lakeside resort, all managed by the BLM. Whether you're planning a multi-day family vacation filled with water sports, or simply seeking a quiet weekend getaway surrounded by natural beauty, this campground consistently delivers. It's a place where childhood memories are made, and the simple joys of Oregon's great outdoors are celebrated.

Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground is located within the Loon Lake Recreation Site, in Douglas County, OR 97467, USA. More specifically, it is situated in the heart of Oregon's Coast Range, approximately 20 miles east-southeast of Reedsport, Oregon. Its elevation is a comfortable 392 feet, making it easily accessible without significant mountain driving concerns.

For Oregon locals, accessing Loon Lake is straightforward and scenic. From Reedsport, which lies near the confluence of the Umpqua and Smith Rivers on the Oregon Coast, visitors will head east on Loon Lake Road (County Road 24). This paved road leads directly to the recreation site. Reedsport itself is easily reached via U.S. Route 101 for those coming from coastal communities, or via Oregon State Highway 38 (Umpqua Highway) for those traveling from inland areas like Roseburg or Eugene.

The accessibility of the campground is excellent, featuring paved parking pads at campsites. This makes it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including tents, trucks, trailers, and RVs. The location within the Coast Range means it's nestled among Douglas-fir, western hemlock, red alder, and bigleaf maple trees, providing abundant shade and a classic Oregon forest atmosphere. The proximity to Reedsport (about 20 miles) means essential supplies and services are within a reasonable driving distance, while the campground itself offers a true escape into nature. Loon Lake is also less than an hour's drive from charming Winchester Bay on the Pacific Ocean and serves as a gateway to the vast Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, expanding the possibilities for day trips and exploration for locals.

Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground, as part of the larger Loon Lake Recreation Site managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a good range of facilities designed to enhance a family-friendly camping and recreation experience. While it maintains a natural feel, it provides key amenities for comfort and convenience.

• 53 Campsites: The campground features 53 individual campsites. These sites are versatile and can accommodate tents, trucks, trailers, and RVs, catering to a variety of camping styles.
• Paved Parking Pads: All campsites are equipped with paved parking pads, ensuring easy setup and a clean surface for vehicles.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite includes a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire ring for campfires (subject to current fire restrictions). Many sites also have a barbecue grill.
• Tent Pads: Most campsites feature a designated tent pad, providing a level and cleared area for tent setup. Double sites offer two picnic tables and larger or multiple tent pads.
• Flush Toilets and Vault Toilets: The recreation site offers both flush toilet facilities and vault toilets, providing convenient and maintained restroom options for campers.
• Children's Play Area: A dedicated children's play area is available, making it an excellent choice for families with younger campers.
• Day Use Area: The site includes a day-use area with additional picnic tables and barbecue grills, ideal for visitors not staying overnight or for larger gatherings.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is on-site, often used for educational programs, ranger talks, or group gatherings, enhancing the recreational experience.
• Boat Launch and Fishing Dock: Direct access to Loon Lake is facilitated by a boat launch for motorized and non-motorized vessels, and a fishing dock, making it easy to enjoy the lake's water activities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that there is no drinking water available at Loon Lake Recreation Site. Campers must bring all the water they will need for their entire stay, including for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Hookups: While RVs are accommodated, there are generally no electric, water, or sewer hookups at the campsites, requiring campers to be self-contained or prepared for primitive utility use.
• Operating Season: The site typically operates from Memorial Day weekend to September 30th each year.

Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground, and the broader Loon Lake Recreation Site, boast numerous features and highlights that make it a premier destination for camping and outdoor activities in Oregon's Coast Range.

• Warm, Sandy Beach: A standout feature, particularly rare in the Oregon Coast Range, is the presence of a "warm, sandy beach." This provides an inviting space for swimming, sunbathing, and general waterplay, making Loon Lake a true family favorite.
• Excellent Water Recreation: The lake itself is perfect for a myriad of water activities including swimming, fishing, boating (motorized and non-motorized), kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing. The calm, wind-protected waters are ideal for all skill levels.
• Lush Old Growth Forest Setting: The campground is nestled within a beautiful forest dominated by Douglas-fir, western hemlock, red alder, and bigleaf maple trees. This provides abundant shade for campsites and a serene natural backdrop, characteristic of Oregon's coastal mountains.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Treasured by locals for generations, Loon Lake is known as a family-friendly recreation site, offering amenities and activities that cater to all ages. The children's play area and varied water activities contribute to this appeal.
• Diverse Wildlife and Birding: The rich forest ecosystem supports a diverse variety of bird life, including the seldom-seen Marbled Murrelet and Spotted Owl, alongside common species like Steller's Jay and Osprey. Signs of larger animals such as raccoon, bear, elk, deer, and bobcat are also evident, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Waterfall Trail: A short, 1/4-mile trail to a scenic waterfall on adjacent Elliott State Forest land begins at the south end of the day-use area, providing an easy and rewarding hiking opportunity.
• Accessibility for Various Campers: With 53 campsites designed to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, along with paved parking pads, the campground is accessible and convenient for a wide range of camping preferences.
• Day Use Amenities: Beyond camping, the day-use area offers picnic tables, barbecue grills, a designated swim area, and a fishing dock, making it an excellent spot for day trips or combining with an overnight stay.
• Proximity to Oregon Coast Attractions: While nestled inland, Loon Lake is less than an hour from charming Winchester Bay and the vast Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, offering easy access to coastal activities like tidepooling, expansive beaches, and OHV riding.

Campground Name: Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground (Part of Loon Lake Recreation Site)

Address: Douglas County, OR 97467, USA (General area. For precise physical location, search for "Loon Lake Recreation Site" or "7273 Loon Lake Road, Reedsport OR 97467").

For general information or campground inquiries for the Loon Lake Recreation Site, including Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground, please contact the managing office:

Coos Bay District Office (Bureau of Land Management - BLM)

Phone: (541) 756-0100

The operating season for Loon Lake Recreation Site is typically from Memorial Day weekend through September 30th. Reservations for some campsites may be available through Recreation.gov, while others might be first-come, first-served. It is always recommended to check current operating dates, fees, and conditions directly with the BLM office or on Recreation.gov before planning your visit.

For us Oregonians, Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground is a beloved destination that truly embodies the essence of a perfect summer getaway. We appreciate places that offer both the tranquility of nature and abundant recreational opportunities, and Loon Lake delivers on all fronts. It's a family-oriented site that many of us have grown up visiting, making it a place where new memories are forged and cherished traditions continue.

What makes this campground particularly suitable for locals is its unique combination of features within our diverse state. Finding a "warm, sandy beach" outside of the traditional Oregon Coast is a delightful surprise, making Loon Lake a true gem for swimming and water play. We value the convenience of having dedicated facilities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allowing us to fully embrace our love for water activities without having to travel far. The shade from the "old growth trees" provides a quintessential Pacific Northwest forest experience, offering a cool respite during warm summer days.

Furthermore, its location in the Coast Range offers a convenient escape for residents from both the Willamette Valley and the immediate coast, without requiring a long journey over major mountain passes. The clean facilities, including flush toilets, and the presence of a children's play area, cater perfectly to family outings, which are a cornerstone of Oregonian recreation. Despite not having potable water on-site (a common preparedness for us experienced campers), the overall experience of Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground makes it an ideal, well-rounded, and deeply cherished spot for us to reconnect with nature and enjoy the best of what Oregon has to offer.

Loon Lake Lower Marina Campground

Douglas County, OR 97467, USA