By Alex Paul
Linn County Communications
A new yurt at River Bend Campground near Cascadia, has received accolades from not only visitors, but also Parks Director Stacey Whaley and Park Ranger Kade Pulliam.
The 20-footer was constructed late last summer and opened to the public in September.
It is the fourth yurt at River Bend and is being praised for its outstanding accessibility for all, including someone who may use a wheelchair, and for its outstanding view of the South Santiam River.
The 20-footer is single-level, plus it features some very nice amenities such not one, but two fire pits — propane and wood — and an outdoor kitchenette.
“It is popular and people are just learning about it,” Pulliam said. “It is fully ADA accessible, plus it has a wrap-around deck and a propane-powered firepit on the back side. It features a kitchenette with lights and it is easily accessible from the parking lot.”
Pulliam said there is a bar top that seats three or four people and is wheelchair-accessible.
“There are three new moveable benches and a wood-fired firepit as well,” Pulliam said.
And the cherry on top of the ice cream sundae is the beautiful view of the South Santiam River.
“It’s only about 35 yards from the river,” Pulliam said. “We did some clearing and the view is amazing,” Pulliam said.
As with other Linn County Parks cabins and yurts, furniture was constructed by Brett Teztlaff, Daisy Brennemen and Amanda Shaw, Pulliam said.
“I love this yurt and especially the flooring,” Pulliam. “We went with a natural look. We installed tongue and groove planks, burnished them with fire and then covered it with a clear coating like what goes on gym floors. It is beautiful. We’re excited to see how it works out.”
Pulliam said that although pets are allowed in park cabins (with a pet deposit) they are not allowed in yurts.
Whaley said the new unit is close to the cabin area.
Whaley said the new yurt is the 16th yurt installed by parks staff in recent years. Two more yurts were added at Clear Lake in 2024.
“People really like yurts because they feel like camping, but everything is all set up for them when they arrive,” Whaley said. “There are comfy beds and a kitchen. They are light and airy and have a vaulted ceiling feel to them.”
Whaley said the 20-foot yurt sleep up to five people and rents for $125 per night, during the spring and summer months. It rents for $100 per night from November through March.