Campground · Day Use Area · South Santiam · Highway 20, east of Sweet Home
Trout Creek Campground
A Civilian Conservation Corps–era campground from the 1930s along the South Santiam, with a free day-use area of its own — covered shelters, grills, and the Menagerie Wilderness trailhead directly across the highway.
More detail
Getting there & parking+
From Sweet Home, follow Highway 20 east approximately 19–20 miles. The day-use area is accessed through the campground.
Facilities & accessibility+
- Covered shelters at the day-use area, with grills and fire rings
- Garbage service
- 3 vault restrooms in the campground (2 double, 1 single), with accessible options
- Hand pump well drinking water in the campground — none at the day-use area itself
Nearby attractions+
The Trout Creek Trail (2.8 miles) sits right at camp, and the Menagerie Wilderness is accessible from the Trout Creek Trailhead directly across Highway 20. Also close to Walton Ranch Interpretive Trail and Rooster Rock Trail (3.3 miles).
Choose what brings you here
At this day-use area
What’s here+
River and stream fishing, day hiking, swimming, wildlife viewing, and picnicking are all listed activities. Many spots sit right on the river, tucked under Douglas-fir and Hemlock shade. The Menagerie Wilderness trailhead is directly across Highway 20.
Camping here
Reservations & fees+
Reservable via Recreation.gov up to 6 months ahead; remaining sites first-come, first-served (cash/check only on-site, no refunds). Check-in 2:00 p.m., check-out 12:00 p.m. Max stay 14 days in a 60-day window. Dogs leashed (max 6 ft) or under physical control.
Fishing & boating access+
River fishing and wading on the South Santiam are confirmed. No boat launch documented — treat as bank-fishing and wading access only.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions +
Is there a fee for the day-use area?
No — Trout Creek Day Use Area is free, open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Does Trout Creek Campground take RVs?
Yes — 4 pull-through sites accommodate RVs from 24 to 40 feet, plus standard nonelectric sites and 2 tent-only spots.
Do I need a reservation?
Some of the 24 sites can be booked ahead on Recreation.gov (up to 6 months out); the rest are first-come, first-served, cash/check only.
How far from Sweet Home?
About 19–20 miles east on Highway 20.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes — leashed dogs are welcome (leash no longer than 6 feet, or under direct physical control).
Official campground details — Willamette National Forest →
Official day-use site details — Willamette National Forest →
