Allen Springs Campground
4.6669 reviewsPO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Allen Springs Campground
$28.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$28.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $28 to $30 depending on the season and site type, with a $2 holiday surcharge. Reservation service fees apply.
About this campground
Escape to a serene riverside retreat where towering Ponderosa Pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite. This intimate campground along the crystal-clear Metolius River offers an authentic wilderness experience, with sites thoughtfully designed for tent camping enthusiasts seeking a genuine connection with nature. While RVs can navigate to some spots, the layout truly shines for those who prefer sleeping under canvas beneath the starlit forest canopy.
Allen Springs Campground is best suited for tent camping, with limited facilities for RVs. Walk-in sites are also available, making it a popular choice for campers seeking a more primitive and serene experience.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the magnificent Deschutes National Forest, this campground serves as your gateway to one of Oregon's most treasured landscapes. For generations, outdoor enthusiasts have been drawn to this forest's unparalleled natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, making it a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest's outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, this mountain paradise comes alive with perfect camping weather. Warm, sun-dappled days invite endless exploration, while cool evenings around the campfire create lasting memories. The peak season brings mild temperatures that make every outdoor adventure comfortable, whether you're fly fishing at dawn or hiking scenic trails in the afternoon warmth.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's mountain setting provides that perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere that makes every breath of pine-scented air feel refreshing and pure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a shady forest sanctuary where ancient Ponderosa Pines filter the sunlight into a gentle, green glow. The star attraction, the pristine Metolius River, flows nearby with its famously clear, spring-fed waters that maintain a constant cool temperature year-round. This enchanting combination of old-growth forest and riverside access creates an idyllic backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Geological RegionDiscover the magic of camping in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest, where the legendary Metolius River has carved its path through ancient volcanic landscapes. This remarkable ponderosa pine ecosystem represents one of Central Oregon's most pristine environments, offering campers a front-row seat to the region's dramatic geological story written in lava flows, spring-fed rivers, and towering evergreens.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information available about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSome campsites are spacious, while others are more compact. Sites #12 and #13 are noted for being particularly large and offering direct river access.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies significantly between sites. Some sites are described as secluded, while others are closely clustered or intersected by hiking trails.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along the river trail (e.g., #11, #12, and #13) are recommended for views and proximity to the river.
Best CampsitesSite #12 and #13 are highlighted for their spaciousness and views of the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights and up to 28 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCircular layout with sites better suited to tents than RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to October 18 during reservable season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered from October 19 to December 31 and January 1 to May 21 annually.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed anytime before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations will also forfeit the first night’s use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Allen Springs Campground provides opportunities for outdoor recreation in a serene forested setting. Activities include hiking, biking, birdwatching, and nature exploration. The proximity to the Metolius River also allows for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by a network of hiking trails, including the Metolius River Trail, which offers scenic views and access to nearby attractions such as the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery.Fishing
Fishing in the Metolius River is a popular activity. User reviews highlight the abundance of fish and the scenic beauty of the river. Some users also mention the helpful tips provided by the camp host on fishing spots.Biking
Biking opportunities are available on nearby trails, providing an additional way to explore the area's natural beauty.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the campground, with mentions of otters and a variety of birds being sighted along the river.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the campground is closed to reservations after mid-October, limiting its winter usability.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as activities at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are No generator use allowed between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters and fire risks due to dry weather.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include facilities in Sisters, OR, approximately 20.7 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 18.
Trash and recyclingGarbage cans are available, but some reviews mention issues with overflowing trash bins during peak periods. Additionally, there is a separate bin for cans and bottles for recycling.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly along the Metolius River.
Common complaintsComplaints include vault toilets being odoriferous and trash being overfilled during busy periods.
HostCamp host Matthew Allred is praised for his helpfulness and attentiveness.
Campground Map
PO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 11.1 miles north on Forest Road 14.
The campground is accessible via Highway 20 and Forest Road 14, with no information on seasonal closures or terrain challenges.Nearby places
Sisters (approximately 20.7 miles, 30 minutes travel time).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Sisters, OR, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.7
69 reviews
Allen Springs Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Allen Springs Campground is widely praised for its serene setting along the Metolius River and its suitability for tent camping. However, some complaints focus on the maintenance of facilities, particularly the vault toilets and garbage disposal.
Review Summaries
Based on 69 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful river views," "quiet and peaceful," "great access to hiking trails." Many users also appreciate the helpfulness of the camp host, with one reviewer stating: "Matthew, the camp host, was...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues with vault toilet odor, overflowing trash bins, and limited privacy in some campsites. Additionally, the lack of potable water on-site is a common inconvenience noted by campers.
Based on 69 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply and be prepared for a rustic camping experience. Consider site #16 for its spaciousness and proximity to the river.
Based on 69 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for camping due to warm weather and access to outdoor activities. However, overcrowding during peak season can lead to maintenance issues.
Based on 69 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The Metolius River trail runs through the campground and offers beautiful views." "Campsite #16 is very large and just up from the river." "Be aware that the river trail does go through the...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #12 and #13 are highly recommended for their large size and river views. Some campers noted that site #8 has limited privacy due to its proximity to site #7.
Based on 69 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 69 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
User reviews did not mention pets or pet-friendly features.
Based on 69 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025