Union Creek - Rogue River

Summary

Union Creek Campground is located 18 miles west of the majestic Crater Lake National Park in southwestern Oregon, near Medford. It is surrounded by an old growth forest and has 73 campsites, providing access to fishing, swimming and trails for hiking. Facilities include picnic tables and fire rings, drinking water, vault toilets and a public pay phone. Nearby attractions offer breathtaking views and additional outdoor activities.

Overview

Union Creek Campground was constructed in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corp. The campground is located 18 miles west of Crater Lake National Park and in the midst of an old growth forest. There are 73 campsites, each site is unique and not recommended for trailers over 26 feet long. There are 3 full hook up sites located near the day use area parking lot that can accomodate most size trailers and allow off highway vehicles.  

Union Creek Resort is within walking distance of most sites and provides access to a convenience store, restaurant, ice cream shop and lodging. The Rogue River and Union Creek ( a 15 mile long tributary) are located within the campground and present opportunities for fishing and swimming. 

Please note: This is the Union Creek Campground located in southwestern Oregon in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest near Medford. This is not the Union Creek Campground located in eastern Oregon near Baker City.

Recreation

The entire length of the Upper Rogue River is closely followed by the Upper Rogue River Trail. The trail is hiker-only and easily traveled for short segments at a time. Hikers can also enjoy the Rogue Gorge Trail System that travels from Rogue Gorge Day Use through Union Creek Campground and down to Natural Bridge Day Use Area. 

Facilities

Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Drinking water and vault toilets are located throughout the campground. There is no cell phone service but a public pay phone is available near the Union Creek Resort Store. Firewood is available for purchase at the Campground Host Site.

Natural Features

The Upper Rogue River is fed by snowmelt and springs originating on the peaks of the Cascade Range, including the slopes of Mt. Mazama—the volcanic caldera that contains Crater Lake. Along the uppermost portion of the Upper Rogue, the river is narrow and shallow, but very swift. The river has, for a two-mile stretch, carved more than 200 feet down into the Mazama pumice (which was deposited about 8,000 years ago during the explosion that created Crater Lake). Downstream, the Upper Rogue passes through the narrow, turbulent Rogue Gorge of black lava and soon plunges entirely underground (into a lava tube) for about 250 feet at Natural Bridge. Interpretive trails at both of these places provide good views of the river, with signs that explain the natural history. 

contact_info

Nearby Attractions

Diamond Lake Resort, Crater Lake National Park, Lost Creek Lake, Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, National Falls, Rogue Gorge, Natural Bridge and Mount McLoughlin are all wonderful sights to see.