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Map showing campground location near Mckenzie Bridge, Oregon
Camper submitted image from French Pete CampgroundView 29 Photos
FacilitiesMap showing campground location near Mckenzie Bridge, Oregon

French Pete Campground

6 ReviewsAdd Review

Willamette National Forest holds French Pete Campground along the upper McKenzie River corridor, where Forest Road 19 (the Aufderheide) branches off Highway 126 near Blue River, Oregon. The campground runs fewer than 20 sites, with several positioned directly on the small river that feeds the McKenzie. Water levels drop noticeably by late summer, but in spring the river reaches close to the campsites. An on-site camp host sells firewood and, according to multiple visitors, keeps the pit toilets cleaned regularly.

River access is the defining feature here. Campers consistently mention swimming and exploring up and down the waterway as the main daytime activity. Sites are mostly spaced apart, though a few share river frontage. Reviewers note that neighbors are generally audible but respectful. Wildlife sightings are worth taking seriously: cougar activity has been reported close to camp, and anyone traveling with dogs should keep pets secured at night. The French Pete Trail departs from just across the road, and Terwilliger Hot Springs sits a short distance back down Road 19.

Bring all supplies before arriving. The drive out to services is long enough that a forgotten item becomes a real inconvenience. Reservations are available, which matters during peak summer weekends when the river-adjacent sites fill first. The campground operates from early May through mid-September, and Jon S. notes campers should expect mosquitoes and ticks "when hiking or picnicking along the creek from spring through fall." Those planning a longer trip through the area can explore campgrounds near McKenzie Bridge or check dog-friendly camping around Willamette National Forest for additional options.

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Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Stage 2 Fire restrictions are currently in effect that prohibit charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills. Only gas or propane stoves are permitted following specific instructions. When the cook stove, lantern or campfire is fueled solely by gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel or propane with an on/off switch and flammable vegetation is cleared a minimum of 3-feet away from open flame on all sides

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Map & DirectionsFrench Pete Campground is located in Oregon near Mckenzie Bridge

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Blue River, Oregon, travel four miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19). Continue on Aufderheide Drive for 11 miles to French Pete Campground.

Address

French Pete Campground
Blue river, OR 97413

Coordinates

44.04225 N
122.2083889 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - French Pete Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

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33%
17%
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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Numerous guests pointed out the campground's beautiful old-growth forest setting with moss-covered sites near a swimmable river. Many mentioned the exceptionally helpful camp host and nightly bathroom cleaning. Wildlife including cougars are present, so pet precautions advised.

Reviewed Sep. 6, 2022

Great family friendly campground

Nice quiet campground where the sites were mostly spaced out. The ones along the river are especially nice (although some sites do share their river access) we had tons of fun exploring up and down the river during our stay. Traveled with myself, 1 dog and my 6 year old son.

Site15
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2022

Beautiful and moderately spaced campground

Our trip there a few weeks ago was fantastic! We got a great spot next to the river, and got to explore a bit of the large reservoir. Campgrounds were moderately busy, we could hear and see our camp neighbors but everyone was respectful and quiet

Site7
Month of VisitAugust
  • Play button icon
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by jade H., August 26, 2022
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 15, 2022

One of my favorites! *cougar warning*

Tucked back in the deep forest lays old french pete, everything’s covered in moss and old growth, the camp host was so sweet and was willing to help with anything. The bathrooms were cleaned nightly! The river running behind the campground is beautiful and swimmable.

One night there were 4 of us and one time we woke up to hearing a cougar screaming, it was definitely close by, under 400ft. We managed to go to bed and woke up around 4am by a huge cat running past our heads in the tent. This was approximately June 2021. There are a lot of cougars so beware it traveling with dogs or any animal, keep them inside with you. Definitely a gem.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Autumn O., July 15, 2022
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Autumn O., July 15, 2022
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Autumn O., July 15, 2022
Reviewed Sep. 8, 2019

Ranger review: Banner and Oak Baseball hats at French Pete campground

Ranger review of Banner and Oak Baseball hats at French Pete campground, Oregon.

As a Ranger for the Dyrt I have the pleasure and opportunity to test and review product every so often, this is my review of the Banner and Oak "Sierra" and "Nebo" baseball hats; conducted at French Pete campground off hwy 126 in Oregon.

Campground Review

   French Pete campground is a smaller, somewhat primitive campground located in Oregon, Off hwy 126 and the Aufderheide forest road #19. It has less than 20 sites, two pit toilets, water and trash services and costs less than $20 per night. They also offer wood sales from the onsite camp host. French Pete is not a year round campground, and does not offer full hookups.

    My site, #16 was in the rear off the grounds right on the small river that feeds the Mckenzie. It being late August the river was low, but you could tell that if you stayed in spring during the snow melt, the river would come right up to your "doorstep" or tent step; if you will.

  Within the campground there is not much for the kids other than enjoying nature and learning the outdoors. Up hwy126 though, you will find many hiking opportunities and waterfalls such as Tamolich blue pool, and Sahalie/Koosah falls. They are some distance from the site, but are highly suggested for anyone who enjoys the scenery Oregon has to offer. If you don't want to venture too far, there is the French Pete trail across from the campground, and just a ways back down 19 is a very popular (clothes optional) "Terwilliger" hot springs.  Just be ready, as this is the most popular hot springs around this area.

  Overall a decent campground off the beaten path, I suggest bringing all your necessitates with you as it is a trek to get back to services and would break the solitude that this campground offers.

Product review

**https://bannerandoak.com/collections/hats?gclid=CjwKCAjwzdLrBRBiEiwAEHrAYkMK0KP-YclvbaiBT0CkYv8WHgI2EaDywGGzLmmeX9GR68j7oJOEbhoC9H0QAvD_BwE
**

https://youtu.be/y6BpvP4_n3A

   Banner and Oak are U.S.A. based and everything is made here as well. They offer clothing geared towards the outdoors and have a small selection of apparel based accessories.

   I chose the "Nebo" baseball hat; named for the mountain, and the "Sierra" baseball hat; not sure of the origin of that name…

Both hats are ol' school snapback, with high crowns and a slight curve to the bill. Personally I prefer fully curved bills like I used to wear playing baseball. You can hand curve these to fit your style, but I noticed that they don't hold a curve too well. No biggy, just means I have to re-curve each time I wear them.

  They are very well made, with stitched on patches and outdoors inspired logos. I have received many compliments on how they look and how they fit. I recommend checking out their site to see if you can find a style you like, you wont be disappointed.

Site16
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Tj B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Tj B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of French Pete Campground by Tj B., September 8, 2019
  • (17) View All
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

Glad I Helped Save French Pete (1969 ff)

The fate of the French Pete Creek drainage -- one of the last relatively untouched drainages that connected the lower-elevation and higher-elevation western Cascades --was uncertain when I marched to "Save French Pete" with my University of Oregon Outdoor Program colleagues and 3000 other supporters in 1969.

Years later (1977-78?), we gathered at this campground to celebrate the preservation of French Pete and the establishment of this campground for future generations. It is a lovely, green place to camp year-round, IMHO. (Be prepared for cold and wet weather from September-July and rain year-round.)

Be prepared for mosquitoes and ticks when hiking or picnicking along the creek from spring through fall.

Month of VisitJune
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do visitors rate French Pete Campground and what do reviews say?

French Pete Campground receives consistently high ratings, with most visitors giving it 4-5 stars. Campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere where sites are well-spaced, providing privacy while still allowing for a community feel. The campground is praised for its beautiful old-growth forest setting with moss-covered surroundings, creating a serene environment. Many visitors highlight the friendly and helpful camp host who keeps the facilities well-maintained, with bathrooms cleaned nightly. The riverside sites are particularly popular, offering direct access to the water and natural beauty.

What amenities are available at French Pete Campground in Oregon?

French Pete Campground offers clean restroom facilities that are maintained nightly by the camp host. The campground features designated camping sites with soft grassy areas that provide natural padding for tent camping. Several sites are situated along the river, offering water access, though some riverside sites do share access points. The campground is staffed by an on-site host who assists visitors with questions and needs. While not extensively developed, the natural setting and basic facilities provide a comfortable camping experience in the forest.

Are there good photo opportunities at French Pete Campground?

Yes, French Pete Campground offers excellent photography opportunities. The old-growth forest setting with moss-covered trees creates a magical backdrop for nature photography. The river running behind the campground provides beautiful water shots, especially with sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. Seasonal elements like morning mist rising from the water add atmospheric qualities to photos. The natural forest environment, complete with lush vegetation and wildlife, presents numerous chances to capture the essence of the Cascades ecosystem.

What recreational activities are available near French Pete Campground?

French Pete Campground offers numerous recreational activities centered around its natural features. The river running behind the campground is perfect for swimming, wading, and exploration. Visitors can hike along the riverbanks or access nearby trails through the old-growth forest. A large reservoir is within exploring distance, providing opportunities for water activities. The surrounding Cascade wilderness area offers more extensive hiking options, connecting to both lower and higher elevation zones. Families particularly enjoy river exploration, with children and adults alike finding entertainment in the natural water features and forest surroundings.

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