Alder Springs Campground
05 reviews.
Alder Springs Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
There is no fee to camp at Alder Springs Campground, according to user reviews.
About this campground
Tucked away along the legendary McKenzie Pass Highway, Alder Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into Oregon's pristine wilderness. This hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat beneath a cathedral of towering Douglas fir trees, where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind whispering through ancient branches. As your gateway to the Linton Lake Trailhead and the magnificent Three Sisters Wilderness, this rustic campground serves as the perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking both tranquility and exploration.
Alder Springs Campground caters primarily to primitive tent campers with a focus on a rustic, natural setting. There is no reservation system, and the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Alder Springs follows the storied McKenzie Pass Highway, a historic route that has connected communities and carried travelers through these mountains for generations. This scenic byway tells tales of early pioneers, Native American trading paths, and the evolution of Oregon's outdoor heritage. The nearby Linton Lake Trailhead serves as your portal to the Three Sisters Wilderness, where volcanic peaks stand as silent sentinels over a landscape that has captivated explorers and nature lovers for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsWhile winter transforms this mountain sanctuary into a snow-laden wonderland with temperatures dipping between 28°F and 41°F, accompanied by substantial snowfall averaging nearly 7 inches and gusty winds reaching 31.5 mph, the true magic of Alder Springs emerges during the warmer months. Spring through fall unveils ideal camping conditions, when gentle breezes replace winter's fierce winds and wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Plan your visit during these milder seasons to fully experience the campground's serene beauty without the challenges of winter weather.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation within the Cascade Range, Alder Springs offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, and the forest takes on a distinctive mountain character that changes with each passing season.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden sunlight filtering through a dense canopy of Douglas fir giants, their massive trunks creating natural rooms within the forest. Previous visitors consistently describe Alder Springs as a sanctuary for the soul—a place where the modern world fades away and nature's symphony takes center stage. The campground's intimate setting fosters moments of profound solitude and self-reflection, while the surrounding wilderness beckons with hidden waterfalls, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear mountain lakes waiting to be discovered.
Geological RegionAlder Springs rests within the volcanic wonderland of the Three Sisters Wilderness, part of the expansive Willamette National Forest. This dramatic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient lava flows created the foundation for today's lush forests. The towering Douglas firs that shelter your campsite grow from soil enriched by volcanic ash, while the nearby peaks of the Three Sisters—Faith, Hope, and Charity—stand as majestic reminders of the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details regarding accessibility features for disabled campers are provided in the sources.
Sites SizeNo specific data about site sizes (e.g., standard, large) is noted.
Sites PrivacyCampers have commended the campground for its quiet and respectful atmosphere. "Very nice and quiet campground. Everyone is respectful of their own space," says a user review.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are located near the McKenzie Pass Highway and may provide convenient access for those hiking the Linton Lake Trail.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
14 days maximum as indicated by user reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Group camping facilities are not mentioned in the sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis per user reviews; sites remain occupied for extended stays due to remote location.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Alder Springs Campground revolve around its scenic location and proximity to the Linton Lake Trailhead in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Hiking opportunities dominate the activity options, as highlighted by both official sources and user reviews.
Hiking
Hiking is a central activity at this campground due to its immediate access to the Linton Lake Trailhead. According to the official description, this trailhead is located directly across the highway from the campground. User reviews emphasize its convenience for hikers, with one stating, "Besides being by the main road, this spot is perfect if you're going to hike the Linton Lake trail."Biking
A user review notes that the campground is on the Transamerica Bicycle Trail, making it suitable for bike enthusiasts. "On the Transamerica Bicycle Trail... Spent a very pleasant night here," reflects on its popularity among cyclists.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned in the sources.Water Sports
Water sports are not listed as an activity at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews report the lack of a water source on-site; visitors must bring their own water. Its remote location and rugged nearby wilderness may require caution.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingReviews and official sources emphasize the importance of packing out trash. "Be sure to pack out your trash and be respectful of the area!" is urged in one user review.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near the Linton Lake Trailhead, offering lake access.
Common complaintsSome users mention the absence of a water source as a drawback; others note that sites are often occupied due to the campground's free and remote nature.
HostUser reviews describe Tom and Mary as wonderful hosts, though their association with Alder Springs is unclear.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 3 miles to Highway 242. Follow Highway 242 east for 9 miles to Alder Springs Campground.
Access to Alder Springs Campground is via paved roads along Highway 242. No specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain noted.Nearby places
McKenzie Bridge (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Alder Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's remote and peaceful location, its cleanliness, and its free access. Some praise it as a convenient base for hiking in the Three Sisters Wilderness, while others appreciate its solitude and quiet atmosphere.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commend the campground's natural beauty, tranquility, and access to hiking trails. "Beautiful area to camp at and explore," one user review says. Others emphasize its free access and the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A recurring concern is the lack of potable water. "Only drawback, no well, or pump; so bring your own water," one user mentions. Additionally, its remote location and popularity mean it can be hard...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Pack in your own potable water as there is no well or pump available. Arrive early to secure a site as it is first-come, first-served and can fill up quickly. Be prepared to pack out all trash.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is described as well-suited for warm days, but reviews suggest it is less suitable for cold, wet, or snowy conditions.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Conveniently located and FREE. Rarely available because it’s first-come, first-served only," "Beautifully maintained! Tom and Mary were wonderful hosts. The view is incredible," "Very nice and quiet...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or details are mentioned in the sources.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No direct reviews specifically comment on accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address the campground's pet policies.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025