Three Creeks Meadow area, located about 16 miles from Sisters, Oregon, provides multiple equestrian camping options at 6,500 feet elevation. The surrounding Deschutes National Forest contains over 140 miles of designated horse trails through volcanic terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with potential for frost even in August.
What to do
Alpine lake access: Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp offers direct trail access to mountain lakes. "Multiple hiking trails from the campground. 3 Creek Lake is .75 mile away," notes William B., highlighting the proximity to water recreation.
Mountain biking trails: The Peterson Ridge Trail system connects to Chipmunk Mountain Basecamp, offering varied terrain for cyclists. "We really like this spot because you can walk into town but far enough outside that it has a lot of privacy. The PRT trail system is close by," reports Huey W.
Fishing opportunities: The shallow waters at Driftwood Campground provide accessible shore fishing. "The lake is deeper and easier to bank fish," writes Daisee Mae S., who visited in September when "frost was setting in."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Three Creeks Meadow Campground offers larger camping areas. "Gorgeous hikes and large sites. Sometimes other campers can be obnoxious with motorcycles and road in gets very rough the last few miles," explains J D., giving practical context about the tradeoffs.
Scenic mountain views: Scott Lake Campground provides dramatic landscapes. "Views of Three Sisters makes for the most breathtaking sunrise and hiking around the lake is beautiful. There is also hiking up to Tenas Lakes or Scott Mountain that makes for a good day trek," says Aaron P.
Family-friendly water access: Shallow lakeshores make swimming safer for younger visitors. "The site we stayed had had plenty of privacy and lake front access. The lake is very shallow so it was kid friendly," notes aaron S. about Driftwood Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly in the final miles to most high-elevation sites. "The road to this camp site is just as bad if not worse. Take it slow if you have a big rig or don't have 4 wheel drive," cautions Daisee Mae S. about Driftwood Campground.
Limited amenities: Most sites offer basic services only. "No fee, no water, no trash, and no electricity," explains Daisee Mae S., though toilets are available at established campgrounds.
Ranger patrols: Forest Service personnel regularly monitor camping areas for safety and rule compliance. At Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping, "Rangers come through every few days to make sure everything is safe and taken care of. When it became 'no fires allowed' a ranger went to every camp site with people and asked if he could leave the information papers," reports Tia A.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shallow swimming areas: Certain lakes provide safer water recreation for children. "The lake is very shallow so it was kid friendly," confirms aaron S. about Driftwood Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: High elevation means warm days but cold nights. "It was around the 15th of the month when we decided to leave because frost was setting in," shares Daisee Mae S. about camping near Three Creeks Lake in September.
Consider equestrian-friendly sites: Horse camping creates unique experiences for children. At Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping, "A couple of the trainers even allowed my oldest onto their horses with permission after she asked," writes Tia A., describing positive interactions with other equestrian campers.
Tips from RVers
Know your vehicle limits: High-clearance vehicles fare better on forest roads. "I would definitely come back, but with a vehicle equipped for the road," advises Daisee Mae S. after navigating rough terrain to Driftwood Campground.
Check site specifications: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs despite remote locations. "We managed to get our 40' DP in here a year ago, but it was rough the last 10 miles or so. I have heard the road is improved," shares J D. about Three Creeks Meadow Campground.
Consider solar power: Many dispersed sites work well for solar setups. At Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping, "Great for solar. Just if you don't have it set on top, you will have to move it throughout the day," recommends Tia A., noting the practical considerations for off-grid power.
