The Deschutes National Forest camping area sits at elevations between 4,000 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions with cool nights even in summer. Camping options near Blue River and McKenzie Bridge provide easy access to hiking trails and water recreation. Winter closures affect most campgrounds from October through April due to snowfall.
What to do
Mountain biking: The area around Paradise In Oregon offers excellent trail access for biking enthusiasts. "Large private sites, beautiful river, and really nice mountain biking. What more could you ask for," notes Jeff K. The campground connects to the McKenzie River Trail which runs directly past the entrance.
Hot springs soaking: Several developed hot springs provide relaxation opportunities after hiking. The Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens offers hot spring pools for soaking. "The hot spring fed pools are so amazing. The hidden garden is something out of a movie," shares Josh K. The springs are accessible year-round with two different temperature pools.
Fishing spots: Many campgrounds provide direct river access for fishing. "Limberlost campground is a smaller campground with about 12 sites set on a McKenzie river feeder stream. Some of the spots are right on the river so you can fish right from your firepit," explains Tj B. Trout fishing is particularly productive in the McKenzie River system.
What campers like
River access: Campers consistently praise sites that border waterways. At Olallie Campground, "The bottom loop spots are to die for! Love watching the American dippers 'dip' under this Bombay sapphire colored McKenzie River," writes Ash C. Site selection heavily influences the camping experience, with riverside spots booking quickly.
Private settings: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites despite their developed nature. "Sites by the River should be the premier spots. Zero space or privacy between them," notes Chris T. about Belknap Hot Springs, highlighting the importance of site selection for privacy preferences.
Camp hosts: Helpful staff enhance the camping experience at many locations. At Sunnyside Campground, "our second night there drove by and asked if we needed any firewood, very friendly!" reports Kaitlyn P. Many campgrounds share hosts who oversee multiple nearby facilities.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have little to no cellular connectivity. "No cell service (ATT/Verizon)," reports Adam D. about Sunnyside Campground. This disconnection from technology extends throughout most of the McKenzie River corridor.
Weather variability: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. "It got pretty chilly at night," mentions Jenna B. about her stay at Olallie Campground. Temperature drops of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common.
Wildlife awareness: Cougar Crossing Campground lives up to its name according to visitors. "The last time I stayed here we were woke up twice by 2 massive cougars running past our heads in the tent, they were so big they woke up us by the sound of them running!" warns Autumn O. Wildlife encounters require appropriate food storage and situational awareness.
Tips for camping with families
Selecting the right loop: When camping with children, site location matters significantly. At Lava Lake Campground, "We have a 45ft 5th wheel and it fit here, was a little tight but it works. Very pretty area, the lake had great fishing, you can rent boats here as well. We loved the wooded sites and we even had some deer napping outside our camper after dinner," reports Sam F.
Riverside activities: Many sites provide natural entertainment for children. "The river is nearby; some campsites are even closer. It's pretty rocky, but nice to put your feet in after a long hot hike," notes Erika B. about Sunnyside Campground. Water safety remains important as currents can be strong.
Bathroom accessibility: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Vault toilet and boat ramp," mentions Hannah M. about McKenzie Bridge campground. Most sites feature vault toilets rather than flush facilities, and shower access is limited to campgrounds with developed amenities.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size and access. For Blue River Reservoir Roadside Camping, "I didn't want to destroy the rating, but currently closed as of August 14th," reports Jackson R., highlighting the importance of checking seasonal access conditions before arrival.
Site selection: RV-friendly sites vary significantly between campgrounds. "Huge site, my site was pretty close the the next but again, huge area!" notes Darcy M. about Lava Lake Campground. Many sites accommodate larger rigs but may lack privacy between neighboring spots.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds in the region provide minimal services for RVs. "It is a nice campground with reserved and 1st come come sites. The pit toilets are non smelly, a lodge across the road with some supplies and boat rentals," explains Diana S. about facilities at Lava Lake. Most sites lack hookups, requiring self-contained capabilities.
