The Willamette National Forest area spans over 1.6 million acres with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 10,000 feet at the highest peaks. Campgrounds near Blue River sit along the McKenzie River where water temperatures remain cold year-round, typically between 38-45°F even during summer months. The western slopes receive significant rainfall creating the dense forest canopy that provides natural shade at most campsites.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Proxy Falls Trail offers a 2-mile loop hike through lava beds with access near Limberlost Campground. "Limberlost is super close to Proxy Falls trailhead that has a beautiful waterfall," notes Johnny G. The trail takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete depending on how long you spend photographing the falls.
Explore Clear Lake: Visit the crystal-clear waters at Coldwater Cove Campground where you can see underwater features from the surface. "The water is crystal clear and blue. Extremely clean restrooms, nice campgrounds, on the McKenzie River! You can see down 35ft into the lake it's so clear," reports Autumn O. The lake maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 38°F, making it unsuitable for swimming but perfect for kayaking or rowboat rentals.
Hot springs access: Spend time soaking at nearby hot springs from Belknap Hot Springs. "The hot spring fed pools are so amazing. The hidden garden is something out of a movie," writes Josh K. The main pool stays between 102-104°F and day use passes cost $8-15 depending on season and age.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Several sites at Paradise In Oregon offer direct river access. "Site 17 is perfect and has river access in the back! Campground is clean, bathrooms are clean, the host is really cool," shares Johnny G. These premium riverside sites typically book 3-6 months in advance during summer season.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We were able to have a shuttle pick us up right at the entrance," notes Marette H. about accessing the McKenzie River Trail from Paradise Campground for wildlife viewing hikes.
Seclusion and privacy: Certain campsites offer more separation from neighbors. At Ice Cap Campground, "Site 20/21 seemed to have the most privacy. 21 has stairs down to it and is slanted, can't fit more than a 5/6 person tent but it is right on the creek and very peaceful!" according to Tiffany T. Campers recommend arriving mid-week when possible to secure more private spots.
What you should know
Potable water limitations: Some campgrounds have unreliable water sources. At Olallie Campground, one camper noted: "The 'potable' water was very iffy. When I stayed there the water was a gross yellow and the test results hadn't come back for it. Definitely bring plenty of drinking water along."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans may be in effect, particularly late summer. "We went to check in to our beautiful site on the river but the smell of smoke was so overpowering. We drove to service and realized the wildfire was very close," reports Alyson M. about a cancelled stay at Olallie Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Prepare for minimal or no cellular service. "No cell service at all. Love it!" shares Jamie about Ice Cap Campground. Verizon works sporadically at certain campgrounds but most areas have no reliable service, requiring preparations for offline navigation.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming areas: While the McKenzie River runs cold year-round, certain spots provide safer water access for supervised children. At Blue River Reservoir Roadside Camping, "Absolutely a beautiful spot tucked away! Off the main road with a few dispersed spots spaced out very nicely. Not the easiest access to the river but if able easy enough," shares ChiAnn M.
Kid-friendly explorations: Several short trails accommodate younger hikers. "Kids had fun climbing on the rocks and huge trees. Site backed up to volcanic rock area," Jenn M. writes about Coldwater Cove Campground, where children can explore safely within view of camp.
Wildlife education opportunities: The area offers natural learning experiences for children. One camper at French Pete noted, "We had tons of fun exploring up and down the river during our stay," mentioning that salamanders and small aquatic life provide engaging discoveries for young naturalists.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "The sites are pretty small so better for smaller rigs. The McKenzie river is spectacular and runs through the Belknap lava flows which turn the water this amazing blue as well as crystal clear," explains Jill R. about Olallie Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully as facilities are limited. Paradise Campground offers a sanitary dump station, while most other campgrounds in the area do not provide this service. RVers should arrive with empty tanks or know the nearest facilities.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. "The site itself is slanted at the picnic table and around the fire pit but it isn't horrible," Jamie notes about Ice Cap Campground, suggesting RVers bring extra leveling blocks for comfort.
