Sisters offers tent camping opportunities in a high desert environment at 3,182 feet elevation. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 85°F with cold nights dropping below 45°F even during peak season. The forest service lands here feature ponderosa pine forests transitioning to sagebrush terrain, creating distinct camping microclimates throughout the region.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground provides easy access to waterfall views with minimal hiking required. "Half mile easy hike to the waterfall but the trail keeps going another Half-ish mile for a slightly longer walk. Lots of fishermen and folks walking the trail in the morning," notes Anna P.
Rock climbing: Smith Rock State Park Campground serves as a convenient basecamp for climbing enthusiasts. "Smith Rock is world-famous for being a rock climbing mecca. There's even a practice wall here!" explains Eva W. For beginners, guided instruction is available through local outfitters starting at $95 for half-day sessions.
Lake activities: For water-based recreation, Round Lake offers good paddling and fishing opportunities. "Round Lake is a nice place for canoe or kayak. Easy access from 20E," explains Natalie T. Another camper mentioned, "The lake itself is shallow till about 50 feet out where its a straight drop to a black abyss. Fishing is great for Rainbows and Cutthroat trout."
What campers like
Mountain views: Dispersed camping on FS Road 1514 provides panoramic scenery. According to Kelly H., "We spent some time driving around the Sisters area looking for a spot with a view. Found a beauty! Some of the surrounding area has experienced previous forest fires, which was actually a benefit in this case. It opened up views of the North and Middle Sisters."
Primitive solitude: Jack Lake Campground offers a more rustic camping experience. "Love this place. Lots of primitive camping right off the road. Beautiful views. Great hikes," shares Olivia S. The campground connects to several trailheads with minimal development.
Shower facilities: Smith Rock State Park Campground provides better bathroom amenities than most places near Sisters. Campers appreciate that "the bathrooms are unbelievably clean and you can take a shower for $2. Alongside the outer wall of the bathrooms, there's a giant sink and dish washing area."
What you should know
Seasonal fire restrictions: Fire bans become common in summer months across all camping areas. At Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, campers should "assume that fire bans will be in effect the minute you leave home and plan your meals accordingly" as Aaron advises. Always check current fire restrictions before arrival.
Limited trailer access: Many sites have size constraints for RVs. One camper at Steelhead Falls noted: "There is a sign on the way in indicating 30ft length max, but there is no mention on the BLM site. They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total). There are only 2 spots and the end loop where a trailer will fit."
Road conditions: Forest service roads require careful navigation. At Harrington Loop Rd - Dispersed, Jordan P. reports, "The campsites all appear well taken care of and clean. There are fire rings at some sites. It can get pretty dusty though when the wind picks up." Washboard roads are common, especially approaching Round Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible hiking: Upper Three Creek Sno-Park offers family-friendly trail access during summer months. "This is a large lot with access to trails. Came here during the summer so there was no snow, and the lodge was closed. But it's a good quick stopover place with bathrooms available," notes Alex P. Most trails start with gradual elevation gain suitable for children.
Swimming options: Round Lake provides family swimming opportunities in shallow water. As one reviewer mentioned, "Lake is great for swimming and floating," making it ideal for families with children who need gradual water entry points. The lake warms sufficiently for comfortable swimming by mid-July.
Shade requirements: When tent camping Sisters, Oregon during summer, portable shade structures become essential. At Steelhead Falls, Aaron recommends: "Things to consider bringing for comfort: Shade. A canopy or whatever is reasonable for your group. It also gets hot and it's dry."
Tips from RVers
Dispersed options: FS Rd 1514 Dispersed camping accommodates larger vehicles with space for multiple setups. "The area is large enough for several rigs, including large ones. There were 2 established fire rings and we could tell the site gets used through the summer," reports Kelly H.
GPS coordinates: Navigate carefully as mapping applications may provide incorrect directions. One RVer at FS Road 1514 advised: "Only issue is the provided GPS coordinate isn't correct. It send me close by but down a long awful gravel road. Took an hour on gravel with my trailer. When I drop the pin on Google these are the coordinates to use: 44.208262,-121.615200."
Limited hookup sites: No electrical or water hookups exist at dispersed camping areas around Sisters. Harrington Loop Road offers suitable parking for larger vehicles but requires complete self-sufficiency. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries for stays exceeding 24 hours.
