Are you planning a summer getaway while your child attends one of Oregon State University’s camps? Corvallis offers the perfect mix of camp excitement and family relaxation. In many ways, Corvallis is ideal for a family summer trip. It’s conveniently located in the heart of the Willamette Valley and an easy drive from the Central Oregon Coast. Best of all, there are plenty of challenging and enriching youth activities thanks to Oregon State University’s camps and summer programs. 

When looking into Corvallis summer camps for younger kids and teens, you will find that Oregon State University offers everything, ranging from athletic camps to arts. Not only do participants have fun while learning, but they also get a taste for college life. 

Places to Stay in Corvallis During OSU Summer Programs

Some programs are overnight camps with nonresidential options, while others are day programs. If you are planning a family trip or your child prefers not to stay in the OSU dorms, a Corvallis guest house is an alternative to a standard hotel or bed and breakfast.

Fernwood Circle Guest Houses have well-equipped kitchens, private outdoor spaces often with a grill, comfortable bedrooms, and cozy living rooms. Basically, we offer everything you need to feel at home, even while away from home. 

Often, it works out to be a good value compared to booking two or more rooms when a family travels together. 

While your kid is at camp, you can catch up on work since each guest house includes high-speed internet and dedicated workspaces. Or, you can have your own adventures in and near Corvallis. 

 

Activities in or Near Corvallis Outside of the Camps

Corvallis is a vibrant small city with plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the summer. No doubt, the camp schedule will keep your child busy, but you may still want to have a few adventures together.

Indoor Activities for the Family

If it’s rainy or you’re looking for indoor fun, Corvallis has many options. Located downtown, the Corvallis Museum is a must-visit to learn more about local history. It’s also conveniently located near Riverfront Park and unique shops like The Toy Factory. 

If you prefer more activity, Valley Rock Gym offers drop-in indoor bouldering and climbing as well as family climb nights. Not only is it a great option for family fun, but it’s also a great choice if you are looking for something to do while your kid is busy at camp. They offer drop-in rates for climbing, yoga classes, and gym use. 

Other indoor Corvallis activities include S & K Wacky Bounce, Escape Corvallis, The Art Center, as well as Corvallis Parks and Recreation and Public Library activities. For plays and shows, check out the Whiteside Theatre, Majestic Theatre, or PRAX (Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts on the OSU campus). 

Whether you’re exploring museums or catching a show at the Majestic Theatre, there’s no shortage of ways for families to make lasting memories in Corvallis beyond the camp experience. For more details about local indoor activities, check out our guide to Corvallis area museums. 

Photo by Carlo Prearo from carloprearophotos via Canva Pro

Outdoor Family-Friendly Activities

The city’s extensive park system offers something for everyone. Corvallis boasts over 90 scenic trails, including the accessible paths of Bald Hill Natural Area and the beautiful OSU Research Forests, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the Willamette Valley’s natural beauty.

Avery Park features playgrounds, picnic areas, a rose garden, and even a retired train engine for kids to climb on. Willamette Park is another favorite, with disc golf, biking trails, and river access for paddling or fishing. The William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge, just a short drive south, offers peaceful nature walks and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a great spot for a family day trip.

Otter Beach is a delightful outdoor leisure pool run by the Osborne Aquatic Center and the Corvallis Parks and Recreation Department. It includes shallow play areas, a water current channel, spray toys and a slide. They also have an outdoor lap swimming area. If you want to cool off or relax in the sun, it’s an easy activity. 

For those who prefer to hike or bike, the Corvallis to Coast (also known as Corvallis to Sea) trail network features several publicly accessible trails running between Corvallis and Newport. If you are not up to spending days completing the whole trail, the different legs of the trail are options for a day or afternoon adventure. 

Easy Day Trips

As the name suggests, Corvallis is in the heart of the Willamette Valley. This makes it an ideal home base if you want to explore surrounding natural spaces, Mary’s Peak mountain, ocean beaches, wineries, and other cities like Portland or Salem. 

The Central Oregon Coast is a scenic drive away, making it perfect for a day trip. Within about an hour, you can be at the coast near attractions like Newport’s historic bay front, charter boat tours, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and Oregon’s beautiful ocean beaches. If you prefer a city break or trip to the Oregon Zoo, Portland is a little over 90 minutes away. Eugene, Albany, and Salem are also easy day or afternoon trips. 

Corvallis along the river, photo by Daphne Zheng via Canva Pro

Where to Learn About Oregon State University Camp Programs

Since there are so many camp options, we encourage you to look up the specific activities that interest you for the latest information. 

Oregon State University Camp and Summer Program Resources:

  • Precollege Programs for a taste of college life.
  • JumpstART for artists, including graphic design, photography, and more.
  • Invent for technology and science with camps throughout the state.
  • Beaver Athletic Camps offers various sports, including rowing, football, gymnastics, basketball, and volleyball.

Sometimes, when searching for OSU summer programs, people want information about 4-H camps. OSU Extension is involved with a variety of 4-H camps, including family camps in different locations, such as the Oregon State Fair. 

 

Are you visiting Corvallis with your family? Why not stay at a cozy guest house rather than a standard hotel?

For available accommodation, visit Fernwood Circle Guest Houses.