The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has closed most seasonal non-motorized campgrounds in the Tillamook, Clatsop, and Santiam state forests as the agency transitions to winter operations. Seasonal off-highway vehicle (OHV) campgrounds are scheduled to close November 2.
According to a Monday post on the Tillamook State Forest blog, the annual closures are intended to address public safety and seasonal staffing limitations. The agency stated: “The closures are primarily done for public safety and are impacted by seasonal staffing levels,” the post said.
Several sites in Tillamook State Forest are now closed for the season, including Jones Creek, Nehalem Falls, and Morrison Eddy campgrounds. The Jones Creek day-use area remains open, while Reehers Camp and Stagecoach horse camps are also listed as closed.
Gales Creek Campground was already closed before the broader seasonal shutdown. An ODF status entry updated September 18 listed the campground, trailhead, and day-use area as closed due to forest operations. Under the usual schedule, the trailhead and day-use area remain accessible year-round, while the campground typically operates from late May through early October.
Some motorized camping facilities remain available temporarily. Browns Camp and Jordan Creek OHV campgrounds are scheduled to close November 2. Browns Camp operated on a reservation-only basis this season, with bookings handled through ReserveAmerica, according to the Banks Post.
Northrup Creek Horse Camp in Clatsop State Forest is an exception to the broader closure schedule and is expected to remain open through November 30.
Visitors seeking winter camping options still have several designated locations to consider. In Tillamook State Forest, Keenig Creek Campground, which has 12 walk-in tent sites, and Diamond Mill OHV Campground are listed as open throughout the year.
Other year-round designated camping areas include Cedar Creek, Cook Creek, East Fork Trask, Hollywood/Edwards Creek, Jordan Creek, North Fork Trask, North Fork Wilson, and South Fork Trask Designated Campground. These sites have limited amenities: none provides drinking water, and most do not have restrooms.
ODF also permits dispersed camping in Oregon’s state forests year-round without a fee or permit. Campers must follow agency requirements governing campsite locations, campfires, sanitation, and length of stay.
The closures illustrate how seasonal operating decisions in outdoor recreation depend on more than visitor demand. Staffing, access, maintenance, and safety considerations can determine which facilities remain available during colder months.
For private campground and RV park operators, the schedule also underscores the importance of communicating seasonal closures and alternative facilities clearly. Keeping booking calendars, website listings, signage, and guest communications current can help visitors make informed plans and reduce confusion when some sites close while others remain open.
ODF maintains a campground status list for the Tillamook, Clatsop, and Santiam state forests on its website. Visitors should check current conditions before traveling, particularly when planning trips to remote sites with limited facilities.
