Sheep Bridge
04 reviews63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD
Sheep Bridge
$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
The standard nonelectric site fee is $21.00 per night, with an additional $2.00 surcharge during holidays. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Where the pristine Deschutes River meets the expansive waters of Wickiup Reservoir, Sheep Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Pacific Northwest experience. This peaceful retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV travelers to its shaded sites, though the campground maintains its rustic charm without electrical hookups. Essential comforts await with well-maintained picnic tables, clean vault toilets, and fresh drinking water, while the convenient boat ramp opens up endless possibilities for water adventures on the reservoir's glassy surface.
Sheep Bridge Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, but does not offer utility hookups. There are no cabins or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceJust a scenic drive away lies the awe-inspiring Newberry National Volcanic Monument, where ancient geological forces have sculpted one of Oregon's most fascinating landscapes. Visitors can explore the mysterious depths of Lava River Cave, Oregon's longest lava tube, where underground passages tell the story of fiery eruptions that shaped this land thousands of years ago. This volcanic heritage permeates the entire region, offering campers a chance to sleep atop ancient lava flows and witness firsthand the powerful forces that created Central Oregon's dramatic terrain.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground experiences the dynamic beauty of Central Oregon's changing seasons, with crisp mountain air and variable conditions that add to the adventure. While winter brings a crystalline coating of frost and occasional snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, the peak summer season rewards visitors with gloriously stable weather perfect for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. The dry mountain air and moderate temperatures during camping season create ideal conditions for outdoor activities, though wise campers come prepared for cool evenings and the occasional summer shower.
ElevationNestled in the heart of the Cascade foothills, the campground sits at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers refreshing relief from summer heat while remaining accessible throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryThe marriage of river and reservoir creates a stunning aquatic playground surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. The Deschutes River arrives here after its journey through volcanic canyons, pooling into the vast expanse of Wickiup Reservoir where anglers chase prized rainbow trout, feisty kokanee salmon, protected bull trout, and mountain whitefish. Morning mist often dances across the water's surface while osprey dive for breakfast, and the surrounding forest provides a verdant backdrop of emerald greens that shift to gold with the setting sun.
Geological RegionSheep Bridge Campground rests within the magnificent Deschutes National Forest, a landscape sculpted by fire and ice over millennia. This remarkable ecosystem showcases Central Oregon's volcanic legacy through its pumice-laden soils, ancient lava flows, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. The mighty Deschutes River has carved its path through this volcanic wonderland, while Wickiup Reservoir stands as a testament to human engineering harmoniously integrated into nature's grand design. Dense forests of evergreens cloak the volcanic slopes, creating a diverse habitat where mountain wildlife thrives among the remnants of Oregon's fiery past.
Campsite details
Sites SizeFairly decent-sized campsites, according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the lack of shrubbery, which does not block sound between campsites.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites closer to water (e.g., 004) are recommended for easy access to recreational activities. Sites further from the road may provide quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight Campsites 014 and 004 for proximity to water and size.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by noon the day following your arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out time is NOON.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights
- maximum yearly stay is 28 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate one extra vehicle for an additional fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of multiple individual sites with basic amenities, arranged around a loop near the Deschutes River.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens on May 23, 2025, and closes on October 18, 2025, for reservations. First-come-first-served is available from May 15, 2026, to May 21, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through their mobile app, or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the first-come-first-served season from May 15 to May 21, outside the reservable season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee and must be made before midnight of the day prior to check-in. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fees. No changes or cancellations are allowed once the reservation start date has begun.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sheep Bridge Campground offers access to several recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating. It is particularly noted for being a great base for fishing enthusiasts, with nearby waters hosting rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. The campground is also close to trailheads leading into the Three Sisters Wilderness.
Hiking
There are numerous trailheads within a short drive from the campground, leading into the Three Sisters Wilderness. Specific details about trail lengths or difficulty are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is highly rated at Sheep Bridge. The Deschutes River and Wickiup Reservoir provide habitats for species such as rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon.Boating
A boat ramp is available at the campground for river access, making it convenient for boating activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed during such periods.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions. Wildlife like bears and insects may pose risks, and caution is advised regarding firewood transport to prevent invasive species.
Active alertsNo active alerts are currently specified.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 Bend, Oregon, which is approximately 26.8 miles away and includes hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is from May 23 to October 18.
Trash and recyclingNo explicit information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the meeting point of the Deschutes River and Wickiup Reservoir, offering excellent access to fishing and boating activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention dust, lack of shade, and noise disturbances from ATVs late at night.
HostNo campground host is present, which has led to occasional issues with late-night disturbances.
Campground Map
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Bend, Oregon: Travel 26.8 miles south on Hwy 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 11.0 miles west on County Road 43, then continue 4.6 miles west on Forest Road 42 , and finally 0.8 miles south on Forest Road 4260.
The campground is accessible via paved roads for most of the journey. However, the final segment, Forest Road 4260, may be more challenging due to its unpaved nature. Seasonal weather conditions may further affect accessibility.Nearby places
Bend, Oregon (26.8 miles, approximately 35 minutes)
Wickiup Junction (11.0 miles, approximately 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available at Wickiup Junction (approximately 11 miles away), which includes fuel, groceries, and basic camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Sheep Bridge has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Sheep Bridge Campground are mixed. Positive comments focus on the campground's fishing opportunities, general quietude (barring occasional ATV disturbances), and basic but sufficient facilities. Negative aspects include the dusty environment, limited shade due to tree removal, and lack of privacy between sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent highlights include the campground's proximity to excellent fishing spots, walking distance to waterfront areas, and well-maintained vault toilets. One user specifically praised the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include 'very dusty' conditions, 'not much shade,' and the absence of a campground host to enforce quiet hours. Another common issue is the limited privacy between campsites due to minimal...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood, as scavenging may be necessary despite the trimmed wood on-site. Opt for nearby twin lakes for family-friendly swimming opportunities. Campers should note that the water pump...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's dryness and dustiness, which can be exacerbated by the limited shade.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Other than the ATVs at night, fairly quiet.' - Steven S.\n- 'The vault toilet was well-kept and clean.' - Stephanie W.\n- 'Good spot for fishermen, but maybe not the most family-friendly.' -...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 014: Noted for being quiet overall but disturbed by ATVs at night.\nSite 004: Close proximity to water and clean vault toilets.\nSite 007: Adequate as a fishing destination base camp.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025