Fall River Campground
4.1642 reviews63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OR 97701, USA
Fall River Campground
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak and first-come, first-served seasons are priced at $21 per night with an additional $2 holiday charge.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Deschutes National Forest, Fall River Campground offers an intimate escape from the crowds. This hidden gem beckons tent campers and fly fishing enthusiasts to discover its peaceful riverside setting, where the gentle murmur of Fall River creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Small in size but rich in tranquility, this lesser-known retreat provides an authentic connection with Oregon's pristine wilderness.
Fall River Campground offers a rustic camping experience with primitive facilities, making it ideal for tent campers and small trailers. "Primitive sites along the Fall River," (Joe Bob) and "Camp is small, not really camper-friendly, which is nice" (J*S*).
Historical SignificanceWhile Fall River Campground may not boast grand historical monuments, its significance lies in preserving the timeless tradition of simple, authentic camping experiences that have drawn outdoor enthusiasts to Oregon's forests for generations.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground experiences the dynamic moods of Central Oregon's climate, where warm summer days invite outdoor adventures, though occasional dust clouds may drift through on particularly dry spells. Nature's unpredictability adds character to your stay—from refreshing rainstorms that awaken the forest's earthy scents to sun-drenched afternoons perfect for riverside relaxation. Each season paints the landscape differently, offering returning visitors new experiences throughout the year.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation within the Deschutes National Forest, the campground offers that perfect mountain air quality that makes every breath feel refreshing and restorative.
Natural Features and SceneryExperience the magic of camping beside one of nature's most enchanting phenomena—just a quarter-mile upstream, crystal-clear spring water bubbles mysteriously from the earth, giving birth to Fall River. Towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across your campsite. The river, generously stocked with brook and rainbow trout throughout the season, flows with a gentle persistence that lulls campers to sleep and greets them with morning serenity.
Geological RegionSet within the volcanic wonderland of Deschutes National Forest, Fall River Campground showcases one of the region's geological marvels. The river emerges from underground springs—a testament to the area's unique volcanic geology—before beginning its winding journey through ancient forests to eventually merge with the mighty Deschutes River. This remarkable spring-fed system maintains consistently cool temperatures year-round, creating an ideal habitat for trout and a refreshing oasis for visitors.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites tend to be on the smaller side, suitable for tents or small trailers. "Sites were like camping in a talcum powder bottle" (Levi G), and some users suggested improvements for leveling and space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some users found the spacing adequate: "Campsites are nice sized and with decent privacy... ample shade" (Taylor LeBlanc), while others noted issues: "No trees between us at all. It was super awkward" (5 of Us).
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIf privacy is a priority, drive through the campground to select a site with better tree coverage. Avoid site 6 due to noise from the host's dogs and generator.
Best CampsitesSite 4 is highlighted as being close to the river (about 40 meters).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in is recommended for NOON
- sites must be occupied by NOON of the following day to hold reservations.
Check-out
Check-out time is NOON.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned or supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features around 14 sites spread across Loop 1. Sites are smaller and intended mostly for tents.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23, 2025, and closes September 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during first-come, first-served season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled ahead of the arrival date for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellation incurs the first night's use fee. Once the reservation start date has begun, modifications are not possible.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Fall River Campground offers access to several enjoyable outdoor activities. A key feature is the Fall River Trail, which provides scenic views of the crystal-clear river. Fly fishing is another highlight, with legal-sized brook and rainbow trout stocked in the river multiple times a year. Camping and hiking are popular, as noted in user reviews: "Great hiking trail along the river" (David Elmore) and "Fantastic place to fish and camp" (Owen Christy). Biking and wildlife viewing are also possible.
Hiking
The Fall River Trail is a primary attraction accessible from the campground, offering scenic views of the river. User reviews frequently praise this trail: "Campers can enjoy the nearby Fall River Trail which offers frequent views of crystal-clear Fall River."Fishing
Fishing is limited to fly fishing only. The river is stocked regularly with brook and rainbow trout. "We saw multiple fish in the river" (Taylor LeBlanc) and "It is one of the best places for access and predictable good size catches of rainbow trout" (D M).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, with a variety of natural attractions like the river and trails. "Great for taking wildlife photos and enjoying being present in nature" (Kylie B).Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Water sports are not supported, but fishing is a key activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is dusty, and the entry road is rutted, which could pose challenges. Lack of water facilities requires campers to bring their own supply.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some users noted issues with maintenance. "It’s also littered with trash. The dumpster is literally across from the camp host yet not even the host seems to care at all to clean it up" (Mikala S).
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Fall River, with some sites offering direct access to trails leading to the river.
Common complaintsSome user reviews cite excessive dust and poorly maintained roads. Issues with the camp host's availability and campsite cleanliness were also noted.
HostMixed reviews about the camp host; some report friendliness while others mention neglect.
Campground Map
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OR 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, OR: Travel 17.3 miles south on Hwy 97, then 12.2 miles southwest on County Road 42.
Access is generally good with a paved road up until the entry of the campground. Some user reviews highlight that the entry is rutted and may pose challenges for low-clearance cars.Nearby places
Bend (approximately 29.5 miles), La Pine (approximately 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.2
42 reviews
Fall River Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Users highlight the natural beauty of the Fall River and activities like fly fishing and hiking. However, concerns include dustiness, maintenance issues, and lack of water. "Beautiful river" and "Nice small campground" dominate positive sentiments, while complaints include "dirty campsite" and "filthy toilets."
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the scenic views, river access, and peaceful environment. "Fantastic place to fish and camp" (Owen Christy) and "Campsites are nice sized and with decent privacy" (Taylor LeBlanc).
Based on 42 reviewsCommon Concerns
Key issues include dusty conditions, maintenance problems, and lack of water facilities. "The campground needed more gravel on roads/parking areas to mitigate dust" (Levi G) and "Filthy toilets and...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and prepare for dusty conditions. Select campsites with shade and privacy. Some visitors recommend scouting out sites before reserving.
Based on 42 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer. Positive reviews highlight the great trails and river activities. Negative reviews focus on the heat and dust. Winter activities are not available as the...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We stayed in site 4, and it was about 40 meters from the river, which was nice." (Taylor LeBlanc). "Sites were like camping in a talcum powder bottle." (Levi G).
Based on 42 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 4: Positive reviews for proximity to the river. Site 6: Noted for noise from the host's generator. Site 8: Highlighted for river access.
Based on 42 reviewsAccessibility Features
Not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are mentioned in passing, but no specific pet-related policies or features are noted.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025