Lower Canyon Creek Campground

This is one of several campgrounds along the gorgeous Metolius River, which emerges from underground and runs so clear it seems blue. The campground is pretty open so not a lot of privacy, but it’s surrounded by beautiful ponderosa pines and very peaceful. Accessible by a very decent gravel road. Trailhead at the campground takes you along the river where you can see springs coming right out of the hillside. One centrally located vault toilet was relatively clean. Campground was empty midweek in early Spring.

Spent several days camping at Lower Canyon Creek and it was peaceful and full of wonder.  No running water but that’s ok because there was also no CELL COVERAGE 🤙👍 either.  One (very clean) vault toilet available.  Put the devices and social media away and soak in the beauty.    Seriously, put them away (airplane mode and pictures only).  

We were tent camping in site 2. This is the best site in my opinion.  You’re right on the point of the camp ground.  Your tent door will open up to an aqua pool where Lower Canyon Creek meets the Matolius River.  The Matolius is 100% spring fed maintaining a consistent 40 degree temperature so swimming is not advised.  But a quick dip will rejuvenate and energize your soul.  You fall asleep to the sound of the river as the stress of 2020 melts away.  The nights  were cool and the days warm.  Fished a lot and hiked the surrounding trails. It was hard to leave and return to life (and cellular coverage).....booo! If you have a small RV (r-pod, tent trailer) site 1 and 4 will accommodate you.  Visit this place, you won’t regret it.

The Lower Canyon Creek Campground lacks in many common amenities, but it more than makes up for this with its seclusion and selection of quality sites.

Whether you're in the mood for fishing, hiking, exploring the back roads, or a relaxing get away, this is the place.

A few pro tips:

The dispersed camping spots you'll see along the Canyon Creek road are all free to stay. Spots on the main loop require payment at the information board.

There is no running water at this campground so plan ahead. The Camp Sherman store sells water at a premium down the road a few miles. Campers share a two-sided pit toilet. If you're staying in the dispersed sites, you'll have a decent walk each way.

There is a trail head at the far end of the campground. Don't miss this walk. Less than a mile down the path you'll find natural springs gushing from the side of a hill. Keep following this path to the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery. If you have children, they'll love seeing the fish in all different stages of growth.

There is one dispersed site that is the absolute gem of the entire area. I won't give away this secret, but if you're looking, you'll probably find it. Please do everyone a favor and leave any site you stay in cleaner than you found it.