H
Halley 
Scout
ScoutMeissner Sno-Park/Trailhead
Sno park dispersed camping
Great little spot for dispersed camping.
Camping near Camp Sherman, OR
366 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Metolius River corridor near Camp Sherman, Oregon features multiple small National Forest campgrounds spread along the riverbanks, creating a network of camping areas rather than large consolidated facilities. Camp Sherman Campground, Allen Springs, Smiling River, and several other developed sites provide access to the renowned fly-fishing waters of the Metolius. Most campgrounds accommodate tents and smaller RVs, while Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort offers cabin options approximately 15 miles south. The Camp Sherman General Store serves as a central hub for supplies, located within walking distance of several riverside campgrounds.
Road access throughout the area remains good during summer months, though campfire restrictions are common due to wildfire concerns. Most Metolius River campgrounds have vault toilets and limited amenities, with no hookups or running water at many sites. "There is not water at this campground or any of the others along the Metolius River. The only place you can fill up on potable water is at the Camp Sherman store," noted one visitor. Cell service is virtually nonexistent along the river corridor, though some spots near higher elevations provide limited connectivity. Campgrounds typically operate from May through September, with a few remaining open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends.
Riverside camping represents the primary draw for visitors, with most campgrounds offering direct water access and proximity to the Metolius River Trail. Several campers mentioned the exceptional fishing opportunities, particularly for fly fishing enthusiasts targeting rainbow trout and bull trout. The area experiences significant insect activity during early summer, with multiple reviews warning about mosquitoes and yellow jackets. A visitor commented, "Around the beginning of summer, the mosquitoes start coming out, and they are unbearable. Bring lots of bug spray." Wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery provide additional recreational opportunities. The Metolius River itself remains cold year-round, making it better suited for fishing than swimming, especially for families with small children.
Best Campgrounds near Camp Sherman (366)
1. Camp Sherman Campground
"Great trails for hiking along the river banks. Nice and quiet. Campsites are spread out and quite large."
"Great river walk. Many nearby attractions. Camp Sherman store .8 Miles from campground. Good all around campstore and deli. River is fly fishing only."
from $27 - $29 / night
Check Availability2. Creekside Sisters City Park
"The campground is very clean and right on the west edge of Sisters, Oregon. Very good location, right near the highway, but easy walking into all the fine shops in Sisters."
"The campground is in Sisters, OR., which is a great little town in Central Oregon, a jumping off location for lots of outdoor activities."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability3. South Shore Suttle Lake
"So empty sites with a few belongings and no people...while others were driving around hoping for an empty site. Easy trailer/RV parking, as it's just roadside above the site. "
"This is a very pretty medium-sized lake. The sites are fairly large and well spaced, so you don't feel too cramped."
from $30 - $32 / night
Check Availability4. Blue Bay
"This campground sits next to Suttle Lake. It was a great campground that was a short walk to the lodge where there are water sports rentals, a camp store, and small deli. "
"Being Oregon, it was pretty cool while we were there. Because of this, there was no swimming in the lake. However, we had quite the view! Be aware that there is a ridiculous amount of chipmunks here."
from $30 - $62 / night
Check Availability5. Big Lake
"This hidden gem can’t be seen from the highway. But it’s a quick drive down a improved road to it,s clear refreshing waters with fishing and plenty places to swim."
"This was a great little lakeside campground with easy water access, and bathrooms (pit toilets) onsite. It is really dusty, which was expected."
from $28 / night
Check Availability6. Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort
"There is an on site pool and outdoor gathering place, a general store, propane vending, a dog walking path and large property behind the park to take pets with a reminder to clean up and pack it out."
"From the put-put golf course near the check-in, to the store and the lovely lake, this is a great place for kids as well as adults."
from $43 - $78 / night
Check Availability7. Candle Creek Campground
"While there were some harrowing moments getting to this campground with our 16' pull-behind toy hauler(last mile or so is dirt road with a couple of knarly soft sand areas that you have to plow through"
"The river is very swift and dangerous- is be very worried about young children near the banks. The creek side is calmer but ice cold and swift as well. Rugged.
7 is our favorite."from $21 - $23 / night
Check Availability8. Tumalo State Park Campground
"This is one of our favorite campgrounds in Oregon. We did have a harder time backing in our 35ft trailer due to the more narrow road but over all wasn’t that bad."
"Very solid, typical Oregon state campground."
from $32 - $128 / night
Check Availability9. Allen Springs Campground
"Beautiful, peaceful campground open year round on the Metolius River, about 15 mins. from Camp Sherman store. Only a few sites are large enough for smaller trailers/RVs (7,11,12,9 &13)."
"Incredibly peaceful, close to the Camp Sherman store for supplies. Wood available for purchase at the camp host."
from $28 - $32 / night
Check Availability10. Jack Creek Campground
"No running water source but nearby creek is great for rinsing off and cooling down. Camping lots were very spacious and relatively quiet and bathrooms were adequate."
"This campsite is tucked away and close to several trailheads (jack lake, bear valley). We just went this last week on a Wednesday so it was very quiet."
from $21 - $23 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 48 min from Bend, OR
- 1 hr 51 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 53 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 53 min from Eugene, OR
Recent Camping Photos near Camp Sherman, OR
606 Photos of 366 Camp Sherman Campgrounds
Derek N.
Cold Springs Resort
Teresa R.
Camp Sherman Campground
Chloe L.
Gorge Campground
Laura M.
Smiling River Campground
Erin P.
Lower Canyon Creek Campground
Mark F.
Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite
Ashley B.
Blue Bay
Abbie S.
South Shore Suttle Lake
Kelly
Allen Springs Campground
Bridget H.
Scout Lake
Stacy L.
Pioneer Ford Campground
Jason G.
Indian Ford Campground
Recent Reviews near Camp Sherman, OR
1758 Reviews of 366 Camp Sherman Campgrounds
- MMelissa W.
TravelerBlue River Reservoir Roadside Camping
Lots of sites
Definitely worth checking out. As far as I can tell there’s no dispersed camping close to the lake, but there’s plenty once you drive past. I managed to find one that had an opening in the trees so I could use starlink. Only a couple vehicles drove past me over the 3 days I stayed there. There is a lot of burn area, but I definitely suggest taking a drive when you first turn onto the road, hand a left and wind your way up the mountain for stunning views of the area and even the Sisters in the distance. FYI, that drive probably isn’t good for trailers or big rigs since it’s narrow with a steep drop and i have no idea where you’d turn around.
- MMelissa W.Traveler
Alder Flat
Burn area
This area is completely burned and while I’m sure it’s fine setting up here for a night in a pinch, it’s definitely not somewhere you’d want to stay for more than that. The river is beautiful, but many of the surrounding dirt roads and campgrounds are closed.
Tianna D.ScoutColdwater Cove Campground
Very clean
We had a wonderful time paddle boarding at clear water! We went to clear water cove campground to park and unload and met the best camp host! She even let us use her cigarette lighter to air up our boards since our vehicle's cigarette lighter wasn't working! Her name was Caroline, she was wonderful! She also had two dogs, peanut and Wednesday. I will for sure come back!
Travis A.
RangerJefferson County Fairgrounds RV Park - DURING EVENTS ONLY
Great place to resupply
Great place to rest up and resupply. This RV Park offers full hookups, restrooms, showers, dumpsters and a dog park. It's centrally located close to everything. The spots are gravel and level. Each with a picnic table and small grill. The Host is very friendly and helpful. I would stay here again. I'm a Full time RV'er pulling a 20' travel trailer
S
GuideFrissell Crossing Campground
Quiet, good for small groups or solo
I really liked this campground, but it might not be for everyone so a few heads-up.
This is a small, quiet space. I think 12 spots (some are doubles). As of 7/26 the host is at a different site (French Pete) which is not super close (you are probably not going to walk there to get firewood, but maybe you are, I don't know), 15-20 min drive. Don't rely on needing to make store runs. About 1 hour away, maybe.. and BYO, they do not come every day. Regardless, vault toilets were surprisingly clean on a packed holiday weekend. There is a water pump, it looked clear, I didn't drink from it tho.
Everyone I met was kind, quiet, and respectful; some folks been coming here for so long they might as well be hosts, very knowledge! Too bad it isn't better preserved in terms of local trails. There were dogs at every site (which was fine with me...)
It was confusing, because the river side sites appeared first come first serve online, but all had advance reservation signs on them. These are easily the biggest and most accessible sites. There are some great tent sites not right on the river though. You'll need to do extra exploring to find your way to the water. Most people in these sites seemed to drive out and back for the day to do things in the area.
I was in site 9. Minimal privacy between neighbors, but it would be good for a joint reservation with 10 and has a perfect hammock spot. Stayed shady and cool. Site 8 on the other side has the brighter, warmer morning sun. If you like that.
IMO the drive time shared are way off. It was about 2.5 hours from Eugene, 2 hours to Oakridge. No way is it any less than 2.5 to drive to Bend. From Mackenzie Bridge to the campground is 1 hour alone. And there are deer crossing. So take it easy.
Note that NF19 from Mackenzie River along Cougar Dam might be closed either seasonally or longer and it's not clearly communicated to campers with reservations. It is a very long way out of the way if you are coming from the north side and then have to go around.
Kevin M.RangerLava Lake Resort
A perfect Place and a Perfect Campground
Lava Lake Campground is, in my opinion, just about the perfect campground. It sits right on a beautiful, large lake with an easy walk down to the water, where you can swim, boat, fish, or just relax and take it all in.
The campsites are spacious with plenty of room, and the whole campground was very neat, clean, and well cared for. The bathrooms are basic pit toilets, but they were fine and did the job.
One of the best parts is how quiet and peaceful it was. There are also plenty of great hiking trails nearby, which I really loved. Between the lake, the spacious sites, the hiking, and the quiet setting, Lava Lake Campground is a place I would absolutely recommend and would gladly return to.
- JJuan carlos M.Guide
Blue River Reservoir Oregon
Blue River Reservoir
Yes I recommend everyone to go tent/Rv Camping at the Blue River Res. It’s completely free there is absolutely no toilets. You have to make one out there or just take yourselves one from a store. You can swim there & go fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, also you can have an open fire just make sure you guys check that there is no restrictions. It’s an absolutely beautiful place. Also make sure you take your garbage with you also. Very peaceful and the people that camp there are very nice and respectful. Quite hours are at 10pm but sense there is free camping. There is no quiet hours lol. Camper’s are respectful anyways. I recommend everyone to go and check it out you will definitely not regret it. Not sure if anyone believes in Bigfoot. Just a heads up. There is activity out there and you will hear footsteps, Howelling, tree breaking, and rock clacking, and also rock throwing. We also experienced all of that. Didn’t bother us one bit. Just FYI pretty cool to experience all of that. Very peaceful and relaxing. The water is beautiful and the color is mesmerizing. All we ask for everyone that camps there to please keep it clean so others can enjoy that little peace of paradise. Godbless you all and we hope you enjoy this amazing beautiful Free Dispersed Camping area. We give it a 5 star rating 100%.
- EEileen G.Scout
Peterson Ridge Road Dispersed
Plenty of privacy amongst the equines
Stayed two weeks in this location and enjoyed it. This forested area is surrounded by upscale homes with horses. Very enjoyable location. Went to Sisters for services.
Guide to Camp Sherman
Camping spots near Camp Sherman, Oregon offer exceptional fly-fishing access at elevations between 2,900 and 3,000 feet with old-growth ponderosa pine forests surrounding the sites. Most campgrounds remain snow-free between late May and mid-October, with seasonal temperatures typically ranging from 40°F nights to 85°F days during peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking the Metolius River Trail: Access trailheads directly from Allen Springs Campground for scenic river views. "Trail runs right through the campground, but we saw no one. Good hike along the river," notes one visitor who enjoyed the secluded path.
Fishing at Suttle Lake: Bring fishing gear to South Shore Suttle Lake for trout fishing from shore or boat. A camper mentioned, "Canoe around the lake and landed some fish," making it ideal for anglers of all experience levels.
Explore the headwaters: Take a short walk from Jack Creek Campground to see where Jack Creek begins. "We walked the easy hike up to the headwaters of Jack Creek. Pretty neat to see it get its start right out of the mountainside!" reports one visitor who enjoyed this geological feature.
Visit the fish hatchery: The Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery near Camp Sherman offers educational opportunities. "Right next to hatchery, so you can see every step of a fish! Baby until they take them to stock other ponds/reservoirs etc. So interesting for kids to show them each growing stage for the fish!!"
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Candle Creek Campground offers well-spaced campsites along the water. "Sites are large with plenty of room between sites. No running water and one pit toilet," reports a camper who appreciated the quiet setting.
Sound of flowing water: Many campers value the white noise from the rivers. "We could hear the wildlife hustle and bustle as we were tucked away in our tent," shared one visitor at Camp Sherman Campground, while another noted, "The river at night is so peaceful."
Level tent spots: Most riverside campgrounds feature flat, spacious tent pads. "HUGE sites (we could have had 6 more people with us each in their own tent), right on the rushing whitewater of the Metolius," reports a camper who stayed at Candle Creek Campground.
Proximity to hiking trails: Camping locations provide immediate trail access. "Situated right between the Metolius and Candle Creek (which is really a small river), so all sites are essentially waterfront," notes one camper who enjoyed exploring the surrounding trails.
What you should know
Limited water sources: Many Metolius campgrounds lack potable water. At Blue Bay Campground, visitors note "Potable water is available at spigots throughout the campground," but this isn't true at all locations.
Road conditions vary: Some campsites require navigating rough roads. "The road was pretty darn rough this year. Trucks or good clearance recommended," warns a Candle Creek visitor, while another adds, "While there were some harrowing moments getting to this campground with our 16' pull-behind toy hauler."
Seasonal insect activity: Yellow jackets and mosquitoes appear during summer months. A Blue Bay camper warned, "Lots of mosquitoes and other reviews mentioned chipmunks," while another noted "Bring bug repellant!"
Extreme fire restrictions: During summer months, campfire bans are common. Bring alternative cooking methods for safety. "Due to changes in weather, Oregon has had a record year for yellow jackets and wasps," noted one camper, indicating the dry conditions that contribute to fire danger.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly fishing spots: Camp Sherman Campground offers accessible fishing for beginners. "Great trails for hiking along the river banks. Nice and quiet. Campsites are spread out and quite large," explains one visitor who enjoyed family activities along the water.
Low-traffic campsites: Look for sites away from main roads for child safety. "This campground was very quiet and in a beautiful location next to Jack Creek. The campsites were big and private," shares a visitor who appreciated the secure setting.
Educational opportunities: Visit the fish hatchery for hands-on learning. "The Metolius itself is beautiful. At this viewing Bridge by the Hatchery, you can see very small baby fish all the way up to full size before they stock the lakes with them."
Trail difficulty considerations: The 3.6-mile Suttle Lake loop trail offers family-friendly hiking. "The 3 mile trail around the lake is flat and enjoyable. Rentable canoes and kayaks at the lodge!" notes a visitor about the accessible recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort accommodates larger rigs with full hookups. "Site 11 is perfect for those who prefer to be near a spa-like bath house in an RV park. Heated floors, huge showers. Fantastic," reports one satisfied RV camper.
Leveling challenges: Many forest service campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Not all sites are leveled for every parking. Check site length to your needs and bring leveling blocks in case!" advises a camper who stayed at Big Lake Campground.
Generator restrictions: Most riverside campgrounds prohibit or restrict generator use. "Generators are really not appropriate next to tent campers," notes one visitor who experienced noise issues at Three Sisters Overnight Park.
Dry camping preparation: Most sites near the Metolius River lack hookups. "The sites are close together, with no hookups or running water at many sites," notes a visitor, emphasizing the need to bring sufficient water for your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available near Camp Sherman?
What camping options are available near Camp Sherman?
Camp Sherman offers numerous riverside camping options along the Metolius River. Allen Springs Campground is open year-round with a few sites suitable for smaller trailers/RVs, though it's primarily tent camping. For more exploration options, Jack Creek Campground provides a great base for visiting Suttle Lake. Other nearby options include Riverside, Lower Bridge, Smiling River, and Pioneer Ford campgrounds, all situated along the Metolius River. If you prefer camping closer to civilization, Indian Ford Campground offers proximity to Sisters, while South Shore and Blue Bay campgrounds at Suttle Lake provide lakeside experiences. Most Camp Sherman area campgrounds are within the Deschutes National Forest.
What amenities and facilities are available at Camp Sherman campgrounds?
What amenities and facilities are available at Camp Sherman campgrounds?
Campgrounds in the Camp Sherman area offer varying levels of amenities. Riverside Campground is considered "primitive with convenience" - it lacks running water but sits directly on the Metolius River and is just 10 miles from Sisters for additional services. Smiling River Campground features 35 sites with river views and scenic sunsets. Most Camp Sherman area campgrounds have vault toilets (though quality varies), fire rings, and picnic tables. Firewood is often available for purchase from camp hosts. The Camp Sherman store, accessible from several campgrounds, provides supplies, souvenirs, and deli options. Water sources vary by location - some have potable water while others rely on natural sources like creeks. Cell service is limited in most areas, with Verizon spotty or non-existent near some campgrounds.
Where are the best campgrounds in Camp Sherman, Oregon?
Where are the best campgrounds in Camp Sherman, Oregon?
The Camp Sherman area features several outstanding campgrounds along the Metolius River. Camp Sherman Campground offers spacious sites, river edge locations, and easy access to hiking trails along the river banks. It's within walking distance to the Camp Sherman store for supplies and souvenirs. Lower Bridge Campground is highly praised for its 12 large, spread-out sites that provide excellent privacy, even during busy holiday weekends. The peaceful sound of the Metolius River accompanies campers to sleep. Other excellent options include Riverside Campground for a primitive-yet-convenient experience, and Allingham Campground, which offers intimate camping with river access and is part of the network of smaller Forest Service campgrounds designed to maximize enjoyment of the Metolius.
Keep Exploring