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State Forest Recreation ​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Many areas in the Santiam State Forest are now open. The latest information is posted to the Santiam State Forest recovery page.

The 2020 Labor Day fires burned about 16,000 acres on the forest. ​ Here you can see more about ODF's recovery efforts. Some areas remain closed due to heavy damage.

Reservations are available for all group sites on the Clatsop and Tillamook state forest through ReserveAmerica.com​. For the 2022 summer season, the reservations for each site will go live at 6 a.m. (PT) on Feb. 15, 2022, and allow for reservations to be placed up to six months in advance (please be aware this will not cover the entire season, so check back six months prior to any des​ired date).​

Reservations can be made online for Northrup Creek Horse Camp​ and Santiam Horse Camp on ReserveAmerica.com​.

Visitors holding reservations will be notified by email if your reservation is cancelled or modified. If visitors need to cancel, the standard refund policy applies.​

Please visit the Public Fire Restrictions page for current fire restrictions. 

Recreate responsibly

​Keeping popular outdoor areas sanitary and safe from fire is critical. Here’s how you can recreate responsibly:

Before you go​

  • If you're ill, stay home.
  • Prepare for your visit with food, water, clothing, toilet paper, hand sanitizer and knowledge to have a safe visit.
  • Consider visiting during off-peak times (weekdays rather than weekends) if possible.
  • Have alternate options if your destination is crowded.
  • Check your local fire regulations if allowed, build campfires only in sites with existing rings or pits.​

During your visit

  • Bring hand sanitizer or soap and water – although restrooms are open, most are vault toilets and do not have running water.
  • Leave no trace: Be prepared to pack out what you pack in, and bury any human waste where restrooms are not available.
    • Please do not make someone else clean up your poop!
  • Stick to low-risk activities to reduce stress on local emergency response and health care systems.
  • Watch for signs in the forest for more information.​

State forest recreation does not operate with any general fund tax dollars. State forest operations are funded through timber harvest, user fees, and donations. Please consider donating to the non-profit Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust​.