Watkins Campground

Open — Currently in off-season and open year-round for free walk-in camping. During off-season, park at the gate and proceed on foot. No services, water, or garbage disposal available. Operating season with full services and fees runs early May through mid-September.

About

Watkins Campground sits on Applegate Lake in the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon, providing a rustic camping experience in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Located 3 miles past Hart-Tish Park on Upper Applegate Road, this tent-only campground offers 14 individual campsites and one group site that can accommodate 20-50 people. All sites include picnic tables and fire pits, with wheelchair accessible facilities available. The campground's location on Applegate Lake provides excellent opportunities for water-based recreation including fishing, swimming, and motorized boating. Nearby hiking trails, including the Applegate Lake Trail and Collings Mountain Trail, offer additional recreation options. The campground operates with a moderate use level and maintains a quiet, natural setting above the lake. Campers should come prepared as no drinking water is available on-site. During the operating season, vault toilets and garbage disposal are provided. The campground enforces quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., prohibits fireworks and OHV/ATV use, and requires dogs to be leashed. Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.

Directions

From Ruch, OR, drive south on Upper Applegate Road for 18.5 miles, which takes you 3 miles past Hart-tish Park. Watkins Campground is located on the left side of the road.

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