Camping at BEAV

Overview of Willamette Mission State Park and BEAV Campground

Willamette Mission State Park is an expansive and beautiful park located in the Willamette Valley near Salem, Oregon. It offers a rich array of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages, including camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, and miles of trails for biking and hiking. The park is also home to a significant piece of Oregon's history, including the mission built by Rev. Jason Lee in 1834, which is now an important historical site.

One of the camping options within Willamette Mission State Park is the BEAV group camp. This campground is designated for large group camping and is an ideal spot for organizations, families, or friends who want to stay together in a single large campsite.

BEAV Campground Details

Amenities & Facilities:

• Group campsite: BEAV is specifically tailored for group camping, accommodating multiple tents and a large number of campers.
• Fire pits: Usually one or more communal fire pits are provided for campfires and cooking.
• Picnic tables: Ample seating and table space for meals and activities.
• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available, but it's important to check if these are flush toilets or vault toilets.
• Water access: Potable water access for cooking and drinking.
• Parking: Ample parking for vehicles and possibly trailers, depending on the group size.

Activities:

• Trails: The park has multiple trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Boating and Fishing: Access to water bodies for non-motorized boating and fishing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities for bird watching and encountering local wildlife.
• Historical Sites: Explore the history of the mission and the park's past.

Reservation and Group Size

Group sites like BEAV usually require advanced reservations. The park may have specific restrictions on group size - both minimum and maximum - due to space limitations or environmental impact considerations. Additionally, there might be a fee associated with renting the group site that could vary by season or size of the group.

Park Regulations

Fires and Cooking:

• Campfires must be contained within designated fire pits.
• Always extinguish fires before leaving or retiring for the night.
• Sometimes, due to dry conditions, fire bans may be in place.

Pets:

• Pets are typically allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Alcohol:

• Alcohol consumption may be allowed within the campground, but it’s important to verify current regulations and any specific rules that apply.

Quiet Hours:

• Respect quiet hours, which typically start in the late evening and extend until morning.

Safety and Preparedness

Wildlife:

• Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife to the campsites.
• Be aware of the local wildlife and know how to respond to any encounters.

Weather:

• Be prepared for changing weather conditions by bringing suitable clothing and gear.
• Check the forecast ahead of time to be ready for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures.

First Aid and Emergencies:

• Bring a well-stocked first aid kit for any minor injuries.
• Know the park's emergency procedures and closest medical facilities.

Leave No Trace:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the park.
• Pack out all trash and leave the site as you found it, or better.

Accessing BEAV Campground

Make sure to check the most current information regarding driving directions, park hours, and the condition of access roads. Some parks might have gates that close at certain hours, and others might have occasional road closures due to maintenance or weather-related events.

Before heading out to BEAV in Willamette Mission State Park, it's recommended to check the latest updates from the park's official website or contact the park directly to get the most reliable and recent information for planning a successful and enjoyable camping trip.