Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)
4.7517 reviewsP.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Tent-only nonelectric sites are $18 per night during peak and first-come, first-served seasons, with an additional $2 for holiday nights. Displayed rates exclude discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked along the pristine upper Metolius River in Central Oregon, Riverside Campground invites adventurers to experience true wilderness camping at its finest. This walk-in, tent-only sanctuary offers an intimate connection with nature, where the sound of rushing crystal-clear waters serves as your soundtrack. Days here unfold with world-class fly-fishing opportunities, scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, and easy access to fascinating nearby attractions like the educational Metolius Fish Hatchery and the mesmerizing Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform, where you can watch native trout navigate the crystal waters.
Riverside Campground is exclusively a walk-in, tent-only facility, catering to campers seeking a more primitive experience. RVs and trailers are not permitted.
Historical SignificanceThis area holds stories etched into every trail and waterway. The nearby Metolius-Windigo Trail, carved through the wilderness in the 1980s, offers hikers an intimate alternative to the famous Pacific Crest Trail, winding through landscapes that have captivated explorers for generations. Just a short drive away, the mysterious Lava River Cave invites visitors to journey deep into Oregon's volcanic past, exploring underground passages formed by ancient lava flows that once shaped this dramatic landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Riverside Campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome campers into a season of outdoor splendor. Crisp mountain mornings give way to pleasantly moderate afternoons, perfect for exploring the surrounding wilderness. While occasional rain showers refresh the forest and feed the river, most days offer ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. The moderate breezes that sweep through the pines carry the fresh scent of the forest and provide natural air conditioning during warmer afternoons.
ElevationPerched at 3,076 feet in the shadow of the majestic Black Butte, Riverside Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where cool, pine-scented air invigorates your senses. This elevation creates the perfect climate for comfortable camping, with temperatures that remain pleasant even during summer's peak, while the surrounding forest canopy provides natural shade and shelter.
Natural Features and SceneryHere, at the magical birthplace of the Metolius River, spring waters bubble up from mysterious underground sources near Black Butte, creating one of Oregon's most enchanting waterways. The campground is embraced by a tapestry of towering ponderosa pines, fragrant Douglas firs, and other conifers that create a cathedral-like atmosphere. This rich ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters - from graceful mule deer browsing in meadows to elusive cougars padding through shadows, playful coyotes, vibrant migratory birds filling the air with song, and native trout dancing beneath the river's surface.
Geological RegionRiverside Campground sits at the heart of Central Oregon's volcanic wonderland, where the spring-fed Metolius River emerges like magic from the base of Black Butte's ancient cinder cone. This remarkable geological setting showcases nature's artistry - from the porous volcanic soils that filter pristine groundwater to create the river's legendary clarity, to the surrounding forests that thrive in the nutrient-rich volcanic earth. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where fire and water have sculpted a paradise for modern-day adventurers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is walk-in tent-only and does not allow RVs or trailers, which may limit accessibility for some visitors. Campsites require hauling equipment a short distance from the parking area.
Sites SizeSites are described as "large" and "well laid out," providing ample room.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are "spaced out" with decent shade, offering a moderate level of privacy. However, one user expressed concerns about others walking through their site unnecessarily.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest choosing sites closer to the river for the best experience and avoiding sites near high-traffic paths or toilets for privacy.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include 012 ('situated in Ponderosa pines, large sites'), 008 ('spaced out sites,' 'near clean bathrooms'), and 015 ('near river access, large sites').
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed until NOON the day following the reserved arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out time is NOON.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights, and a total of 28 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated, but reviews suggest room for one vehicle and possibly one additional vehicle for a fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features walk-in only tent sites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Vault toilets are centrally located.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 23 to September 20 for reservations. Out-of-season period is September 20 to May 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered during May 1 to May 21 annually. Null for specifics on site counts.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 fee deducted. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. No modifications are possible once the reservation start date begins.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing at Riverside Campground. Fishing in the Metolius River offers opportunities for rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. Hiking options include riverside trails and subalpine forest routes. Nearby attractions expand recreational options with activities like bird watching at the Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform and exploring geological features at Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
Hiking
The area offers a variety of hiking trails, including riverside paths and subalpine forest routes. The East Metolius River Trail is a highlight, connecting to Camp Sherman and offering scenic views.Fishing
The spring-fed Metolius River is noted for its "stunning setting for fly-fishing" and supports species such as rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon.Wildlife viewing
The area supports a diverse range of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, cougars, migratory birds, and native fish. Bird watching is particularly popular at the Metolius Research Natural Area.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions such as the Lava Lands Visitor Center and Newberry National Volcanic Monument offer interpretive programs and exhibits on the local landscape and history.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No opportunities for water sports like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits, subject to fire restrictions during dry weather.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include icy/fast-moving river conditions, hot and dry periods leading to fire risk, and encounters with wildlife like coyotes or cougars.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions, but there are no active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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 are likely in Sisters, Oregon. Specific details regarding hospitals and police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 20 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available within walking distance of the campsites.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Metolius River headwaters. River is described as shallow and slow-moving in some areas or icy in others.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include loud neighbors and people walking through campsites unnecessarily. Limited parking space for additional vehicles was also mentioned.
HostNull.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 4.4 miles north on Forest Road 14.
Access involves paved highways and forest roads. Seasonal closures or road conditions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Sisters (approximately 14 miles, 20 minutes), Bend (approximately 38 miles, 45 minutes), Redmond (approximately 34 miles, 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Sisters, Oregon, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials. Specific store details are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.8
17 reviews
Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly praised for its scenic location near the Metolius River, large and well-laid-out campsites, and clean facilities. Complaints primarily focus on noise and occasional lack of privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Large campsites, clean vault toilets, access to the Metolius River, and a peaceful setting are frequently mentioned. Reviewers also appreciate the absence of generators and the opportunity for a more...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from neighboring campers and people walking unnecessarily through campsites are noted as downsides. Some users expressed disappointment with the limited parking for additional vehicles.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply as there are no hookups. Prepare for a short walk from the parking area to your campsite. Be mindful of fire restrictions and check for updates on conditions.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with positive reviews highlighting the area's beauty and recreational opportunities. However, heat waves can impact comfort levels, as noted by one reviewer.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The pit toilets are pretty clean and people knew to keep the lid down so they didn’t smell too badly."—Heather M. 2. "Large campsites situated in Ponderosa pines. Short walk to the Metolius...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 008 received mixed reviews; it is close to the toilet but some felt privacy could be improved. Site 012 is noted for its spaciousness and good shade.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews address pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025