getting a site at Zumwalt Campground
Woohoo! It's high noon on Thursday before Fair and you are headed into Zumwalt camp ground. The first thing you need to remember is to drive slow and safe.
There will be people walking on the road going into the park. Inside, vehicles and people will be everywhere. It is delightfully controlled chaos. Be patient, take your time, your weekend should have already begun.
The next thing you need to have ready are your tickets. Camp staff want see your tickets as you head in and you will need them ready to be scanned at registration.
The next thing you need to have ready are your tickets. Camp staff want see your tickets as you head in and you will need them ready to be scanned at registration.
registration
Since 2016, we have been purchasing tickets through Lane County Parks and that have allowed barcode reading during checkin. This speeds up the process compared to the the way we used to check in when registration was always backed up when the gates opened. Be super nice to the wonderful volunteers at registration they have a tough job keeping all of us organized and heading in the right direction.
Experienced Camper Tip: Getting into Zumwalt on Thursday afternoon is exciting and hectic, but remember to not allow yourself to get stressed out. Everyone WILL fit and you WILL get a great spot and WILL have a fabulous time. Relax, smile and enjoy the rush.
stake your claim
Once you have checked-in and have an armband you are free to find your place to camp. For first timers this process can can be a little stressful. The situation is like the Oklahoma land rush and 1500 people have to find their place in 9.8 acres of land. If you've never been to Zumwalt before, you can refer to the map on this website. Perhaps the best approach is to simply drive around and let your heart tell you where you need to be. Many veterans Zumwalt campers have been camping in the same spot for many years. It sounds hurried hot and competitive but actually it's one of the many fun aspects of camping and Zumwalt. There is plenty of space, reunions, hugs and cold beverages to go around. On thing to keep in mind as you're searching for a spot is noise. The further you camp from the bonfire and the waterfront the more quiet things will be late at night.
at your campsite
When you arrive at that special spot in the park where you want to camp, the first thing you need to do is put out your tent and a couple chairs. This will establish your claim to some of the space. The second thing you do is introduce yourself to your neighbors or reconnect to those people you've been camping with all those years at this location. Find out how many people your neighbors are expecting. Figuring out the demand for space when you arrive will help avoid conflict later on when real estate gets tight. Collaborate with folks to get the core camps established and make space for all the people who are coming. Everyone will fit, but it may take open hearts and compromise.