Nestled within the ancient trees at the meeting point of Sheep Creek and the South Santiam River, House Rock Campground offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the Willamette National Forest. This captivating destination provides campers with a variety of recreational opportunities, from hiking historic trails to swimming in refreshing waters and fishing for native trout.
Exploring House Rock Campground: Amenities and Accommodations
House Rock Campground features 17 campsites spread across upper and lower loops, accommodating trailers up to 22 feet long. Drinking water is readily available from hand pumps in both loops, and accessible vault toilets are provided for convenience. The campground also boasts a dedicated picnic area with tables and grills, perfect for enjoying meals amidst nature’s beauty.
Each campsite includes a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill. While campfire wood isn’t readily available within the park, visitors can purchase it from nearby vendors or bring their own. Linn County Parks staff may occasionally sell firewood within the campground. The campground roads and parking spurs are composed of packed dirt and rock.
Reserving Your Spot at House Rock
Reservations for House Rock Campground can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. For first-come, first-served campsites, payment can be made via cash, check, or the convenient Scan and Pay system through the Rec.Gov app. Please note that Scan and Pay transactions are non-refundable and function similarly to cash payments in a fee tube. Download the Rec.Gov app before arrival, as cellular service may be limited. The site fee covers one vehicle; additional vehicles incur an $8 fee per vehicle.
Immerse Yourself in Nature: Hiking and Recreation
The adjacent House Rock Trail, a 0.8-mile loop, invites hikers to explore the area’s natural beauty. A portion of this trail overlaps with the historic Santiam Wagon Road, once used for transporting livestock across the Cascade Mountains. Beyond the House Rock Trail, adventurers can explore other trails in the Tombstone Pass Area, including the challenging Iron Mountain Trail.
The confluence of Sheep Creek and the South Santiam River provides ample opportunities for recreation. Many campsites offer direct riverfront access to shallow swimming areas, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. Anglers can also try their luck at catching native cutthroat trout in the clear waters.
Essential Information for Your Visit to House Rock
- Check-out time is 12:00 noon.
- No electric hookups are available.
- Firearms, fireworks, and chainsaws are prohibited.
- Please adhere to the “Don’t Move Firewood” policy to prevent the spread of invasive species. Obtain firewood locally to protect the health of the forest.
For more information about the Willamette National Forest, please visit the official website. Contact Linn County Parks at 541-967-3917 for campground inquiries. House Rock Campground provides a memorable outdoor experience, combining the beauty of old-growth forests with the recreational opportunities of the South Santiam River.
