Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground

Friendly camp host, nice drinking water pump. A few nice spots in the river.

As we had never heard of Clatsop State Forest, we were quite fortunate that one of our Oregonian friends recommended this campground. Established in 1947, Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground is one of the oldest established campgrounds in Clatsop County, Oregon. Located on the Lower Nehalem River, with Spruce Run Creek winding it's way through the camping area. this beautiful, yet quaint campground is open year round, has 32 drive in sites and 5 walk in tent sites.

We were lucky enough to secure a perfect site on the river. Even though we were there in late September, this is a very popular campground for locals and fills up very fast. All sites are first come, first serve. And county staff in the park ensure that no one is allowed to save an un-occupied site for late arrivals. Most of the campsites offer full or filtered shade. Sites are small and not all level, but there are a few pads that can accommodate a 32' travel trailer or motorhome. The campground features vault and flush toilets. There is only one hand pump drinking water source. Although, there was no camphost on site, county staff was there everyday to sell wood and clean restrooms, which by the way were very clean. In fact, the entire campground was immaculate. Walking paths offer safe passage down to the rivers edge to fish, swim or just soak up the stunning scenery. Every day we saw bald eagles, herons and other water fowl flying over the river.

You also have access to some hiking right from your site. The trailhead for the Spruce Run Creek Trail is located at the campground. This trail is a moderate to difficult two-mile climb over the Coast Range ridges. We did take a "snapshot" of this heavily wooded trail, before deciding we prefer the sanctuary of the river and a cool drink. A short drive up the mountain will reward you with beautiful Lost Lake, a 14-acre natural forest lake which locals say has some good trout fishing. There is also a trail around the lake.

There is no cell service within the campground, but it is available a short drive up the road at the Hwy 26 intersection. Dining and shopping is also located nearby on Hwy 26.