Within Willamette National Forest, Limberlost Campground provides a small-scale camping experience along a McKenzie River tributary. This Forest Service facility operates from May through September, accommodating RVs up to 32 feet across approximately 12 sites. The campground sits adjacent to Highway 242, though traffic remains light since the road primarily serves cyclists and seasonal access to higher elevations.
Sites vary considerably in character and privacy. Several spots position campers directly beside the creek, while others face the highway corridor. "Some of the spots are right on the river so you can fish right from your firepit," notes Tj B.. The facility includes vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables at each site, plus trash service. No water, electricity, or dump stations operate here.
The location serves as a staging point for multiple waterfall hikes. Proxy Falls trailhead lies just up Highway 242, while eastbound travelers can reach Sahalie Falls, Koosah Falls, and the Blue Pool. Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens sits 1.3 miles north for post-hike soaks.
Reservations are available through the standard Forest Service system, though walk-up sites sometimes remain open. Cell service varies by carrier, with some reporting no coverage.
Description
Overview
After a fun filled day exploring the area, relax and fall asleep to the sound of the babbling Lost Creek at this secluded and quiet Group site that's made up of 12 sites. Towering Douglas fir and cedar trees surround this small, rustic and compact campground. The campgrounds name was derived from "Girl of the Limberlost," a classic novel by American writer and naturalist, Gene Stratton-Porter. The campground offers vault toilets and garbage service. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table. There is no drinking water available at the campground. Firewood is available at Olallie Campground. Hikers, swimmers, and anglers alike will delight with nearby Three Sisters Wilderness Area, Mt. Washington Wilderness, and Lost Creek. Those interested in relaxing will enjoy a soak in nearby Belknap Hot Springs. If you have an interest in biking, several trails outside of the Wilderness areas are available.
Recreation
Hikers, swimmers, and anglers alike will delight with nearby Three Sisters Wilderness Area, Mt. Washington Wilderness, and Lost Creek. Those interested in relaxing will enjoy a soak in nearby Belknap Hot Springs. If you have an interest in biking, several trails outside of the Wilderness Areas are available.
Facilities
The campground offers vault toilets and garbage service. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table. There is no drinking water available at the campground. Firewood is available at Olallie Campground.
Natural Features
Located near the Three Sisters Wilderness Area, Limberlost is surrounded by fir and cedar forest. The vine maples and thimbleberry in the area help provide privacy and shade for some sites. With the babbling Lost Creek in the background, Limberlost will not disappoint.
Nearby Attractions
Both general stores and restaurants are nearby in the towns of McKenzie Bridge and Blue River.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLimberlost Campground is located in Oregon near Mckenzie Bridge
Directions
From McKenzie Bridge, travel east on Hwy 126 to Hwy 242. Follow Hwy 242 approximately 2 miles east to Limberlost Campground.
Coordinates
44.1740222 N
122.0535722 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 4 min from Eugene, OR
- 1 hr 15 min from Bend, OR
- 1 hr 32 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 39 min from Corvallis, OR
