The McKenzie River area around McKenzie Bridge sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in Oregon's western Cascade Range. The region transitions from dense Douglas fir forests at lower elevations to hemlock and true fir zones in higher areas. Most RV campgrounds near McKenzie Bridge, Oregon remain open from April through October, with seasonal closures common during winter months when temperatures drop below freezing and snow accumulation makes access difficult.
What to do
Golfing at nearby courses: Campers staying at Holiday Farm RV Park can access Tokatee Golf Club about a mile away, which one reviewer noted is "rated as one of the Best Courses in Oregon." Some visitors make the challenging drive up the old McKenzie cut-off road to the Dee Wright observatory at the summit.
Fishing in stocked waters: At Cold Springs Resort, guests can enjoy fishing in the Metolius River just feet from their campsite. "This river is the perfect habitat for Trout, so bring your fishing gear," according to a reviewer. The resort also offers a stocked pond specifically for youth fishing, located a short walking distance from the campground.
Hiking nearby waterfall trails: Multiple trail systems offer waterfall viewing within driving distance of McKenzie Bridge RV parks. A visitor to Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort mentioned, "We did a waterfall hike, went to Bend a couple times, went for dinner and drinks at the Barn in Sisters which is a food truck park."
What campers like
Riverside camping locations: Many RV sites in the McKenzie Bridge area feature direct river access. A guest at HooDoo's Patio RV Park remarked, "The spots near the water look really nice. You would be able to hear the River from your camp spot. These spots had fire pits." This creates a peaceful ambiance for overnight stays.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness remains a priority for many visitors to the region. At Edgewater RV Resort and Marina, a camper noted the park is "super clean, tidy, and has nice RV spots." The resort is "just steps away from Foster Lake" and offers easy access to "great hikes, including McDowell Falls."
Resort amenities: Several campgrounds in the broader region provide amenities beyond basic services. Visitors to Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort praise its facilities: "Very well kept and popular RV park in-between bend and sisters. Asphalt pads for RVs... excellent bathrooms, showers, playground, putt putt golf course and, in the back, there's a very pretty lake."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains challenging throughout the McKenzie Bridge area. A reviewer at Bend-Sunriver RV Campground shared that despite having WiFi, "they messed up our campsite assignment and it was taken by someone. They advised that campsites nearby are filled with mosquitos but we still just took one since nobody answered the phone, neither a call box."
Seasonal mosquito activity: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. A Bend-Sunriver RV Campground visitor warned that "only in the morning once we filled water tank and turned on engine, it was crazy — sworn of mosquitos attacked us."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite their natural settings. At Edgewater RV Resort, a reviewer mentioned "the road can get very noisy as it's popular with motorcycles." Similarly, at Deerwood RV Park, a camper noted "the only small drawback is the hwy traffic if in lots 45-70."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate campgrounds with dedicated activities. A parent staying at Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort mentioned, "This is a beautiful RV park. Very well kept, friendly people, close to Bend area... Camp store was well stocked. Laundry on site which was very reasonable."
Bike availability for kids: Some resorts offer bicycle access without requiring families to bring their own. At Cold Springs Resort, a visitor noted, "There are a handful of kids and adult bikes you can use," making it easier for families to explore the area without transporting bikes.
Consider local town attractions: Nearby towns offer family diversions. A camper at Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort suggested, "Stop in Sisters (5 minutes away) for good ice cream at BJs Old Fashioned Ice Cream."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations vary significantly: RVers should confirm utility placement before arrival. A guest at HooDoo's Patio RV Park observed, "Our spot was unique, the power and water were on the same side, if you back in they would be on the passenger side and the sewer didnt have a good connection so I located a nearby stump to weigh it down."
Jack pads required at some parks: Some RV parks in the region have specific requirements for protecting paved surfaces. A visitor to Deerwood RV Park noted, "ALL spots require jack pads. Having not stayed in too many parks with asphalt, this was a surprise for us. They did not mention at checkin, but we got a polite email the next morning."
WiFi reliability varies: Internet access can be inconsistent throughout the region. At Deschute County Expo RV Park, a reviewer shared, "I didn't get good WiFi. My TV couldn't connect. Although my laptop connected fine in the laundry room. The Internet speed was average."
