hills creek reservoir

Tired of paying for a spot in a campground, but want to spend your camping trip on the water? Hills Creek Reservoir is the place for you then! Heading out of Oakridge, Oregon along Hwy 58, you turn onto FR-21 and follow the road along the lake.Along the way, you see a number of turnouts to park for a fishing or hiking adventure. However, head to the top of the lake near the headwaters and you will find about 8 established camping spots just off the road. There is no fee for these spots, and they are right on the water, making these a priceless camping locale!The spots are clean and open. Some have more shade than others, so plan your trip accordingly and try to get there as early as possible! There is also plenty of driftwood (especially in the later summer months when the water is lowest), so we didn't have to worry about bringing firewood with us.The lake is warm (about 65 degree water), and the spot where the headwaters mix with the lake water is a relaxing area of cold and warm water mixed together. The waters are clear and as green as an emerald and sparkle in the sun to invite you in to escape the heat. There is also a bridge to jump from if you're into that sort of thing. The height varies depending on the time of year, from about 10 feet to about 40 feet. We were jumping at 25 feet in mid-July.All-in-all this is a great family spot to spend a few days away from it all!!