Susan Creek Campground

For us Oregonians, the lure of a pristine river, towering trees, and the promise of a truly rejuvenating outdoor experience is hard to resist. Southern Oregon, particularly the region around the North Umpqua River, offers some of the most captivating natural beauty in our state. Nestled along the banks of this renowned Wild & Scenic River, Susan Creek Campground stands out as a consistently beloved destination, celebrated by locals for its exceptional cleanliness, privacy, and an abundance of nearby recreational opportunities.

This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained retreat managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), where the sounds of the river and the rustling leaves create a symphony of relaxation. From its welcoming camp hosts to its direct access to world-class fly fishing and extensive trail systems, Susan Creek Campground offers an ideal basecamp for anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in Oregon’s natural splendor. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the specifics of Susan Creek Campground, covering its strategic location and accessibility, the impressive array of services it provides, its many standout features and highlights, essential contact information for planning your visit, and ultimately, why this particular campground is perfectly suited for Oregon locals seeking both tranquility and adventure.

Susan Creek Campground is located at N Umpqua Hwy, Roseburg, OR 97471, USA. More precisely, it’s situated approximately 29 to 29.5 miles east of Roseburg along Highway 138, also known as the North Umpqua Highway. This places it directly on the banks of the emerald-green waters of the North Umpqua Wild & Scenic River, making it easily identifiable and accessible.

The accessibility of Susan Creek Campground is a significant advantage. The drive from Roseburg is primarily on a well-maintained highway, meaning it's "very easy" to reach for all types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Unlike some more remote forest camps, there's no need to navigate rough gravel roads for extended distances. The campground itself has "paved pads" at each site, ensuring a level and clean surface for parking vehicles and setting up camp. This ease of access, combined with its central location within a corridor known for its outdoor activities, makes it a convenient and desirable destination for a wide range of campers. The campground is open seasonally, typically from late April to mid-November, with specific opening and closing dates varying slightly each year, so it's always wise to check with the BLM for current operating schedules.

Susan Creek Campground provides an impressive range of services and amenities that go above and beyond what might be expected from a non-hookup campground, ensuring a comfortable and highly enjoyable stay for its visitors.

• Exceptionall Clean Facilities: A consistent highlight in reviews is the cleanliness of the campground. Visitors frequently praise the "exceptionally clean" sites, "clean bathrooms and showers," and even mention "Zen patterns in the gravel" raked by attentive hosts. This dedication to cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Hot Showers: One of the most appreciated amenities is the availability of "free hot showers." These showers are often described as "private, separated rooms," offering a level of comfort and privacy not always found in public campgrounds.
• Flush Toilets: The bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets, providing a more comfortable and hygienic experience compared to pit or vault toilets found in more primitive sites.
• Potable Water: "Drinkable water, with spigots placed regularly throughout the campground," is readily available. This eliminates the need for campers to haul in all their drinking water, a major convenience.
• Private Campsites: With "29 total sites," the campground is designed to offer privacy. Sites are "separated from adjacent sites by trees," and "trees and greenery separating the sites help provide privacy," creating individual havens for campers.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite comes equipped with a "paved parking spur, table, fire ring and grill." Some sites even have "separate fire pits and barbecue grills," offering versatile cooking options. Many sites are also "large, very level," and their picnic tables and grills are in "excellent shape."
• Direct River Access Trails: "Many campsites had trails leading to the river," allowing for easy and direct access to the North Umpqua. Even if a site doesn't have a personal trail, "there were other trails available to all" leading to the river.
• On-Site Firewood: "Firewood on site only $5 a bundle" makes it incredibly convenient to have a campfire, with camp hosts often willing to split more if supplies run low.
• Dedicated Camp Hosts: Visitors consistently commend the "very good host" and "friendly camp host" who help "keep things running smoothly," providing assistance and maintaining the campground's high standards.
• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are available, promoting a clean environment and easy waste disposal.
• Amphitheater: The campground features an amphitheater where BLM staff may present educational programs, especially during peak season.

Susan Creek Campground's appeal extends beyond its excellent amenities, offering a wealth of natural features and recreational opportunities that make it a truly outstanding destination.

• The North Umpqua River: Its prime location "right along the beautiful emerald-green waters of the North Umpqua Wild & Scenic River" is arguably its biggest highlight. This river is famous for its stunning beauty, clear waters, and as a world-class fly-fishing destination.
• Exceptional Fly Fishing: Angling on the stretch of the river directly accessible from the campground is "limited to fly-fishing only," drawing enthusiasts from across the country for the "elusive salmon and steelhead." Regular fishing for other species is available nearby in other sections of the river.
• Abundant Hiking and Biking Trails: "Lots of close hiking and scenic trails" are available. The famous 79-mile long North Umpqua Trail, popular with hikers and mountain bikers, can be accessed directly from the campground by trail or road. The campground is also linked by the "Emerald Trail" along the forested river bank to the Susan Creek Day-Use Area and beyond to the Tioga Bridge.
• Susan Creek Falls: An "easy 0.8-mile hike to the beautiful 50 ft. Susan Creek Falls" starts right across Highway 138 from the Susan Creek Day-Use Area (just downstream from the campground). This provides a stunning natural attraction easily reachable for a day trip. Other waterfalls like Toketee, Watson, Surprise, and Misty Grotto Falls are also relatively close by.
• Swimming and Birdwatching: The river offers opportunities for "swimming" in suitable areas, and the diverse forest habitat is excellent for "birdwatching," with "soaring osprey" commonly spotted.
• Proximity to Market: The convenience of a "market right down the road" is a practical highlight, allowing campers to easily resupply without traveling far.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground loop is a "popular route for kids to bike," and the well-maintained, level sites make it easy for families to set up. The overall clean and safe environment contributes to a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
• Wildlife Viewing: The "diverse habitat within the National Forest" means it is home to a wide array of wildlife, including blacktail deer, with opportunities for responsible wildlife watching.

Susan Creek Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For reservations and detailed information, contact the BLM Roseburg District Office.

• Address: Susan Creek Campground, N Umpqa Hwy, Roseburg, OR 97471, USA
• Phone: (541) 440-4930 (This number typically connects to the BLM Roseburg District Office, which manages the campground.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 541-440-4930 (Same number, formatted for international dialing.)

Reservations for campsites at Susan Creek Campground are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made through Recreation.gov (www.recreation.gov) or by calling their toll-free line at 1-877-444-6777. Some sites are available for reservation up until the day of arrival, while others may be first-come, first-served. It is always wise to check the official BLM Roseburg District Office website (www.blm.gov/office/roseburg-district-office) for the most current information on seasonal opening and closing dates (typically April to November), any fire restrictions, trail conditions (especially after the 2020 Archie Creek Fire, which impacted some nearby areas and required hazard tree removal), and specific campground regulations.

For us Oregon locals, Susan Creek Campground represents the epitome of a perfect outdoor escape, offering a blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to the very best of the North Umpqua region. It’s a place that genuinely caters to our love for the outdoors, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation.

The consistently "exceptionally clean" campsites and facilities, including the highly praised "hot showers" and "flush toilets," are a huge draw. We appreciate campgrounds that are well-maintained, showing respect for both visitors and the natural environment. The privacy offered by sites "separated by trees" allows for a truly peaceful retreat, a cherished quality for those of us seeking to unwind from the daily grind without feeling overcrowded. This attention to detail, often attributed to the "very good host," creates a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

Beyond the comfort, Susan Creek Campground is a springboard for quintessential Oregon adventures. Its direct access to the North Umpqua River, renowned for its "fly-fishing only" stretches, is a magnet for anglers. For hikers and mountain bikers, the extensive North Umpqua Trail system, accessible right from camp, provides endless opportunities to explore the lush forest and riverine landscapes. The proximity to stunning natural landmarks like Susan Creek Falls and other majestic waterfalls along the highway further enriches the experience, offering easy day trips to iconic Oregon sights.

The convenience of a "market right down the road" and the availability of firewood on-site ensure that essential needs are easily met, allowing us to focus on enjoyment rather than logistics. For Oregonians who cherish clean, private, and activity-rich camping experiences in a beautiful river setting, Susan Creek Campground is a true gem. It's a place where lifelong memories are made, where you can reconnect with nature, and where the spirit of Oregon's outdoor lifestyle truly thrives. We will definitely "go again," and we highly recommend it to our fellow locals seeking their next adventure.

Susan Creek Campground

Susan Creek Campground, N Umpqa Hwy, Roseburg, OR 97471, USA