Pine Rest Campground
4.7226 reviewsP.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Pine Rest Campground
$25.00 - $27.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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 season rates range from $25-$27 per night. An additional $2 holiday surcharge applies. Fees do not include discounts or taxes.
About this campground
Escape to Pine Rest Campground, where the crystalline waters of the Metolius River create a natural soundtrack for your tent-only wilderness retreat. Tucked away in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest, this riverside sanctuary offers intimate campsites steps from the water's edge, where morning mist dances above the current and evening light filters through towering pines. With convenient vault toilets and direct access to premier hiking trails and world-class fly fishing, Pine Rest delivers an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience for those seeking simplicity and natural beauty.
Pine Rest Campground is designed for tent-only camping, with no facilities for RVs or trailers. The campground is small and quiet, with sites primarily intended for individual or small-group camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with heritage at Pine Rest, where centuries of natural and human history converge. The nearby Metolius Fish Hatchery stands as a testament to conservation efforts that have preserved this pristine ecosystem for generations. Adventure seekers will discover they're camping along the legendary 100-mile Metolius-Windigo Trail, originally blazed as an equestrian alternative to the Pacific Crest Trail. This historic route continues to draw horseback riders and hikers who follow in the hoofprints of early forest explorers, connecting modern visitors to the pioneering spirit of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing mountain climate that defines Pine Rest, where crisp mornings greet you with temperatures that can dip to a bracing 35°F even during summer months. The campground's high-elevation setting creates perfect conditions for cozy campfire evenings and invigorating dawn hikes. While summer offers the most predictable weather, adventurous souls visiting during shoulder seasons should pack layers and rain gear, as mountain showers and early snowfall can surprise visitors with dramatic weather shifts that showcase nature's raw beauty.
ElevationPerched at 3,076 feet above sea level, Pine Rest offers a true mountain camping experience where the thin, pine-scented air invigorates your senses. This elevated paradise means you'll wake to crisp, dewy mornings that demand an extra layer and a steaming cup of coffee by the campfire. The altitude creates perfect conditions for stargazing through crystal-clear skies and provides natural air conditioning during warm summer days, making every breath feel like a refreshing reminder of your escape from lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where the spring-fed Metolius River weaves through ancient coniferous forests beneath the watchful presence of Black Butte's distinctive silhouette. This pristine ecosystem pulses with life—watch for mule deer grazing in meadow clearings at dusk, listen for coyotes' haunting calls echoing through the canyon, and stay alert for the occasional glimpse of a cougar's silent passage. Overhead, migratory birds paint the sky with their seasonal journeys, while beneath the river's glassy surface, native trout dart through underwater gardens of swaying vegetation, creating a complete wilderness tableau.
Geological RegionDiscover a landscape sculpted by fire and ice within the Deschutes National Forest, where ancient volcanic forces have created a dramatic backdrop for your camping adventure. The nearby Black Butte cinder cone stands as a monument to the region's fiery past, while subalpine forests blanket the cooled lava flows in emerald green. The star of this geological theater is the Metolius River itself—a miraculous spring-fed waterway that emerges fully formed from the earth, its constant flow a testament to the complex underground aquifers carved through porous volcanic rock over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for Pine Rest Campground.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, accommodating tents with ease.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some sites, such as Site 1, are described as secluded, while others like Site 2 have less privacy due to proximity to neighbors and views of nearby houses.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 1 for seclusion, Site 3 for its spaciousness and river proximity, and Site 6 for tent placement near the river.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 3, 5, and 6 are highly rated for privacy and proximity to the river. Site 7 is noted for its larger space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM on the reservation start date.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM on the reservation end date.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive days maximum per visit
- 28 total days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with seven tent-only sites organized in a single loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to October 18 (reservable season). First-come, first-served available from October 19 to December 31, and January 1 to May 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov (online and app). Phone contact available through 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityTent-only sites available first-come, first-served outside peak season (October 19 to May 21).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via contact center before the check-in date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Rest Campground provides a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, with hiking and fishing being the most popular. The scenic setting along the Metolius River enhances the experience for visitors engaging in these activities.
Hiking
The area offers a variety of hiking opportunities, such as riverside trails and routes in subalpine forests. Nearby, the Metolius-Windigo Trail—spanning more than 100 miles—is accessible for hikers, bikers, and horse riders.Fishing
Fly-fishing is a highlight of Pine Rest Campground. The Metolius River supports fish species such as rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon.Biking
Biking is supported in the area, with the Metolius-Windigo Trail being a notable option for bikers.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may observe a range of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, cougars, migratory birds, and various species of fish.Winter Activities
Some user reviews highlight the campground as a good off-season destination, though no specific winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned as activities at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits available; fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters include raccoons (noted in user reviews); fire restriction advisories may be imposed during hot weather.
Active alertsNo active alerts.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.6 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
Nearest hospital and police services are in Sisters, approximately 9.6 miles away. Ranger stations are accessible in Sisters.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 18 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Metolius River, with immediate access to the river trail.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention lack of privacy and proximity to neighboring sites. Bathrooms were reported as occasionally dirty.
HostHosts are available at a nearby campground; they assist with outhouse maintenance and site changes.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 6.1 miles north on Forest Road 14, then 1.5 miles north on Forest Road 1419.
The campground is accessible via paved roads until Forest Road 1419, which may have unpaved sections. Seasonal road conditions may apply.Nearby places
Sisters (approx. 9.6 miles, 15 minutes), Bend (approx. 30 miles, 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies available at Camp Sherman General Store (~1 mile). Larger grocery stores and fuel stations in Sisters (~9.6 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.7
26 reviews
Pine Rest Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Pine Rest Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the serene environment, riverside location, and cleanliness of the facilities. However, some users noted occasional issues with toilet cleanliness and limited privacy at certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent praise includes the campground's proximity to the Metolius River, large and clean sites, and the quiet, rustic environment. The ban on RVs contributes to a peaceful atmosphere.
Based on 26 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include limited privacy at certain sites, views of nearby houses from some campsites, and occasional cleanliness issues with the vault toilets.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers suggest bringing your own water, as there is no water supply on-site. Site-specific advice includes choosing Site 1 for seclusion and Site 6 for its close proximity to the river.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the campground is enjoyable year-round, with off-season visits being particularly quiet and peaceful. However, campers should be prepared for chilly temperatures during late...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful spot on the Metolius River! Clean, quiet, great base camp for exploring the surrounding area.' - Joe Engel
2. 'Site 1 is my preferred site since it's really secluded, although you don't...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1: Secluded but no direct river view.
Site 6: Offers close proximity to the river and tranquility.
Site 5: Spacious but lacks shade in the afternoon.
Site 3: Notable for being clean and having...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Campground accessibility features are not detailed in the reviewed materials.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences for pet owners are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025