Blue River sits along the McKenzie River in Oregon's Cascade Mountains, where elevations range from 1,450 to 3,500 feet across nearby camping areas. The region features volcanic terrain with lava flows and crystal-clear springs maintaining water temperatures around 38-40 degrees year-round. Cabin accommodations vary significantly in amenities across campgrounds, with peak reservation demand occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
What to do
Kayaking Clear Lake: Explore the underwater petrified forest at Clear Lake with morning paddling trips when the water is calmest. Clear Lake Resort offers boat rentals for non-motorized vessels. "Rented a boat for the morning and had a blast," shares one visitor who stayed in a rustic cabin.
McKenzie River Trail exploration: Hike sections of this 20+ mile trail system directly from Olallie Campground. "The McKenzie river is like something out of a Disney movie," notes a camper. The trail passes through lava fields and along turquoise waters, though some sections are challenging for bikes.
Hot springs soaking: Reserve time at the spring-fed pools at Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens. "The hot spring fed pools are so amazing. The hidden garden is something out of a movie," writes one reviewer. Pools operate on a reservation system with different hours for overnight guests versus day visitors.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Many campers appreciate sites backing directly onto flowing water. At Olallie Campground, "the bottom loop spots are to die for!" according to one reviewer. Sites on the lower loop provide natural white noise from the rushing river and feature unique blue water flowing through volcanic rock.
Unplugged experience: The lack of connectivity helps visitors disconnect from technology. "Couldn't get a phone signal the whole time, so freeing and easy to be present!" reports a camper. Most campgrounds in the area have minimal to no cell service, particularly those further from Highway 126.
Varied accommodation styles: River Bend County Park provides multiple options including creekside cabins. "Peeked inside some of the creekside cabins. Those look super cute," writes a visitor who enjoyed the park's access to the South Santiam River, which offers swimming opportunities during summer months.
What you should know
Water systems vary: At Olallie Campground, the hand pump requires effort and sometimes produces questionable water. "The water was a gross yellow and the test results hadn't come back for it... definitely bring plenty of drinking water," advises a camper. Many campgrounds recommend bringing drinking water or purchasing it locally.
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, even in summer. "It got pretty chilly at night," reports a visitor to Olallie Campground. Evening temperatures can drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach into the 80s.
Reservation planning: The most desirable cabin locations book months in advance, especially waterfront options. For Coldwater Cove Campground, visitors recommend: "Book early for this one. It is right on a running river, with the greenest tree canopy. Every site is spacious, clean, and has a view."
Tips for camping with families
Group accommodations: For larger family gatherings, specialized group sites offer communal facilities. At Longbow Organization Group Camp, "All the 'alpine' shelters that you sleep in have 3 walls and the wall that's missing faces the river and has a fireplace in front of each one," explains a repeat visitor who considers it "one of the highlights of my summer!"
Swimming access variations: Water entry points differ dramatically between sites. At Coldwater Cove, "there is accessibility to the lake, but it's down a steep lava rock path. You may be able to navigate a paddle board through it, but it almost killed us to schlep 2 55lb kayaks down and back."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mornings offer the best chance to observe local birds and animals. One visitor to Olallie Campground enjoyed "watching the American dippers 'dip' under this Bombay sapphire colored McKenzie River" - a unique water bird that submerges to feed in fast-moving currents.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When choosing RV sites, consider road noise factors. At Detroit Lake, "there are a lot of spots that back up to the highway and you can definitely hear cars," warns a reviewer, suggesting that waterfront sites provide better sound insulation from traffic.
Level site availability: Many campgrounds feature concrete pads that help keep equipment dry in rainy conditions. River Bend County Park offers "nice level sites with water and electric. Dump station on site," according to a reviewer who appreciated the park's well-maintained facilities.
Kitchen setup limitations: Most cabin accommodations have minimal cooking facilities, requiring alternative meal planning. "Kitchen facilities range from nonexistent to basic," with many locations providing only outdoor fire pits or grills. RVers recommend bringing compact cooking equipment.
