Vincent Creek Recreation Site

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Vincent Creek Recreation Site

Situated along the Smith River in beautiful western Oregon, the Vincent Creek Recreation Site is a popular camping destination and a peaceful outdoor sanctuary. The scenic piece of natural land is administered and protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a federal government agency that maintains many similar sites across the western United States. Lovers of camping and outdoor recreation from all over the country often seek out BLM areas to take advantage of the well-kept campgrounds. Many are also drawn in by the numerous opportunities for activities like hiking, fishing, mountain biking, boating, and climbing in unique and beautiful settings.

The Vincent Creek Recreation Site, which is mostly known for its quiet campground and the overall serenity of the surrounding area, is found just 35 miles from the large city of Eugene, OR. The gorgeous Pacific Coast is just 20 miles west of the site, and the majestic woodlands of Siuslaw National Forest lie directly north.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Sweet Creek Trail

The Sweet Creek Trail is nestled into the Siuslaw National Forest near the town of Mapleton. The lushly forested out-and-back trail isn't too challenging, and even beginner hikers should be able to traverse it. Due to the beautiful scenery, serene atmosphere, and picturesque waterfall, the Sweet Creek Trail is very popular, so you'll most likely be sharing it with quite a few others during your hike. This trail, which is lovely to visit at any time of the year, gives visitors a great taste of Oregon's natural beauty.

Length: 1.8 miles

Intensity: Easy

Kentucky Falls Trail

Also located in the dense woodlands of Siuslaw National Forest, the Kentucky Falls Trail will take you on a scenic trek to three breathtaking waterfalls and a lovely swimming hole. Although the hike isn't overly difficult, the first half of the out-and-back trail is primarily downhill, so hikers must deal with a tiring ascent on the way back. To prepare for the return journey, many visitors stop for some rest and enjoy an energizing snack while taking in the view of the falls. The Kentucky Falls Trail is open and easily accessible year-round, and you're more than welcome to bring your dogs along with you.

Length: 3.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing & Boating

You won't need to travel far from the Vincent Creek Recreation Site to enjoy some quality angling. As it happens, the calm waters of the Smith River flow right through the recreation site. The most common fish in the North Fork of the Smith River are trout and salmon, with your most likely catches being winter steelhead and sea-run cutthroat trout. The Smith River is entirely suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and floating as well. If you travel along the river, you'll find several boat launching areas. If you just want to cool off on a hot day, the Vincent Creek BLM site also features a small swimming hole that will serve you well.

Climbing

Established climbing destinations are sparse in the area around the Vincent Creek Recreation Site. There are, however, several steep and challenging hiking routes with high elevations in the region, which you'll find while exploring the nearby forested areas. Alternatively, if you head to some of the beaches along the Oregon Coast, you may find scattered opportunities for bouldering.

Wildlife Viewing

Depending on whether you're exploring the nearby beaches, forests, or rocky headlands of the area, there are a variety of creatures you might encounter. From the beautiful sandy beaches, you might spot sea lions or pelicans. If you're hiking through the wooded trails, you'll want to be on the lookout for black bears and Roosevelt elk. You may also spot the majestic flight of a bald eagle above or observe colorful butterflies fluttering through the air.

Picnicking

The on-site campground at the Vincent Creek Recreation Site features multiple picnic tables, as well as a vault restroom. Your picnicking opportunities aren't limited to the campground, though. With a nearby river, creek, and peaceful woodland areas in every direction, you may find that your most enjoyable option is to locate a comfortable clearing and use a blanket to set up your own custom picnic site in whichever area you prefer.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

You should be able to manage RV camping at the Vincent Creek Campground. However, none of the five campsites found there will feature hookups or any significant amenities. If you search for "BLM camping near me," you will find several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area. One option is the nearby Fawn Creek Campground. However, you'll likely need to travel a bit to find an RV park or more modern campground. One of the closest options with full RV hookups is Sawyers Rapids Park, located to the south of the site near Umpqua Myrtle State Park.

Free Camping

The area surrounding the Vincent Creek Recreation Site offers numerous places to enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping. Several established campgrounds in the area are either entirely free or require only a tiny fee, including the Vincent Creek Campground itself. Other options within a few miles include the Smith River Campground and the aforementioned Fawn Creek Campground. You can also enjoy dispersed camping in just about any area along the Smith River if you're willing to stake out a makeshift campsite.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Vincent Creek Recreation Site BLM trip

If you're visiting the Vincent Creek Recreation Site and planning to stay at the Vincent Creek Campground, remember that it's only open between Memorial Day and September 30th. If you're visiting during a popular time, such as a weekend during June or July, be aware that the campground may be full. Since there are only five campsites, this is not an uncommon occurrence. In that case, your most convenient option will be to travel west along the Smith River to one of the other nearby small campgrounds. The BLM site is located deep in a remote area away from large communities, so remember to fill your RV with extra food, water, and first-aid supplies. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

During your visit to the Vincent Creek Recreation Site, please be respectful of the land, the wildlife inhabitants, and your fellow human visitors. Please do not leave any trash or waste behind at the site or remove anything natural from the land. Campsites should only be set up on durable land, and campfires should be kept as small as possible. In general, please make an effort to plan ahead when it comes to your travel, activities, and camping as doing so will make it easier to keep your impact on the land minimal.

Vincent Creek Recreation Site Location

To reach the Vincent Creek Campground from Eugene, follow I-5 S for 31.6 miles, then take exit 162 to merge onto OR-38 W. After 6.6 miles, turn right onto OR-38 W/W B Ave, and continue to follow it for 27.5 miles. When you reach BLM Rd 22-9-14.0, turn right, and remain on it for 5.9 miles. Continue onto Wells Creek Rd, and take an immediate left to stay on Wells Creek Rd. Continue for 0.7 miles, then take a right on BLM Rd 3-3 and follow it for 3.9 miles. Turn left when you reach Vincent Creek Fire Rd. After 0.3 miles, it will turn slightly right and become Vincent Creek Rd. After 0.2 more miles, turn right to remain on Vincent Creek Rd, and follow it for 3.4 miles. Finally, turn right onto BLM Rd 36-0, and you'll reach the campground after only 0.1 miles.

Ready to visit Vincent Creek Recreation Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.