McKee Bridge Community Kitchen

For Oregonians seeking an idyllic and affordable setting for family reunions, community gatherings, or simply a beautiful day out by the river, McKee Bridge Community Kitchen in Jacksonville, OR, offers a truly special experience. While not a traditional overnight campground, this hidden gem is a designated day-use area and a registered National Historic Site, providing a rustic yet well-equipped space for group activities. Situated along the picturesque Applegate River, it's a place where laughter echoes among the trees, and the refreshing waters invite a cool dip on a warm summer day.

Oregon's diverse landscapes offer countless outdoor opportunities, but finding a dedicated space that perfectly blends natural beauty with practical amenities for a group can be a challenge. McKee Bridge Community Kitchen fills this niche, providing a unique and charming venue that celebrates the state's heritage. Its Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) masonry and beautiful stone fireplace lend a sense of timelessness and craftsmanship, while its modern features ensure comfort and convenience. For locals, this spot is an invaluable resource – a serene escape that feels worlds away from the everyday, yet remains easily accessible for creating cherished memories with loved ones. It’s a testament to the community spirit and natural splendor that define the Applegate Valley.

McKee Bridge Community Kitchen is located at 6941 UPPER APPLEGATE ROAD (DIST OFFICE), Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA. It is nestled along the banks of the Applegate River in Southern Oregon, within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

Access to McKee Bridge Community Kitchen is relatively straightforward. From Jacksonville, Oregon, you'll travel approximately 8 miles south on Highway 238 to the community of Ruch, OR. From Ruch, turn left onto Upper Applegate Road (County Road 859). Continue south for roughly 8 miles until you reach the McKee Bridge Day Use Area, which will be on your left. The site is easily identifiable by the historic McKee Covered Bridge, which is a prominent landmark in the area.

While the location is remote enough to offer a peaceful escape, it's generally well-maintained and accessible by paved roads. However, as with any journey into a national forest, it's always wise to ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Cell service can be spotty in some parts of the Applegate Valley, so downloading maps or printing directions beforehand is advisable, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. The ease of access, combined with its secluded feel, makes it a convenient yet immersive destination for Oregon residents looking for a group outdoor venue.

Services Offered:

• Covered Kitchen Shelter: The centerpiece of the area is a large, covered kitchen shelter, ideal for group meal preparation and dining regardless of weather.
• Barrel BBQ: Equipped with a barrel BBQ for grilling.
• Fire Pit: A designated fire pit for campfires and gatherings (check for current fire restrictions).
• Horseshoe Pits: Two horseshoe pits provide recreational entertainment for visitors.
• Easy River Access: Direct and easy access to the Applegate River for swimming and cooling off.
• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available, both within the covered shelter and in surrounding open areas.
• Public Toilets: A public toilet is available on site.
• Potable Water: Potable water is generally available at day-use areas like this (it's always good to confirm current availability with the Forest Service).
• Day-Use Only: This is a day-use area, meaning no overnight camping is permitted at the Community Kitchen site itself.
• Rental Option: The covered kitchen facility is available to rent, making it a dedicated space for private group events.
• Parking: Ample parking is available for visitors.

Features / Highlights:

• Historic Significance: The Community Kitchen is a registered National Historic Site, constructed with large pine timbers and featuring Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) masonry, including a beautiful stone fireplace. It dates back to 1937.
• Proximity to McKee Covered Bridge: Located adjacent to the historic McKee Covered Bridge (built in 1917), Oregon's oldest and longest surviving covered bridge, adding a unique cultural element to the natural setting.
• Beautiful Applegate River Access: The "river is beautiful and super clean," providing an "incredibly beautiful spot to spend 100° summer day" for swimming and enjoying the cool water. It's described as having "gently sloping shallow for little kids to splash, but it does get deep in the middle of the river."
• Ideal for Family Gatherings: Repeatedly praised as a "great spot for a family get together," offering facilities that cater to group events.
• Affordable Rental: The covered kitchen is noted as being "very affordable to rent," making it accessible for various budgets.
• Secluded yet Accessible: Offers a sense of being "far from the madding crowd" with "only one or two other people there" even on hot summer days, while still being relatively easy to reach.
• Scenic Picnic Area: Shaded by a "lovely mix of large fir and ponderosa trees," providing a pleasant environment for picnics and relaxation.
• Recreational Opportunities: Besides swimming and horseshoes, the surrounding area offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
• Community Hub: Historically and currently serves as a central point for community events, fostering a strong local connection.

Contact Information:

Address: 6941APPLEGATE RD (DIST OFFICE), Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA

Phone: (541) 702-2369

Mobile Phone: +1 541-702-2369

For inquiries regarding rental availability, reservations, and specific operational details for McKee Bridge Community Kitchen, it is best to contact the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, as it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The provided phone numbers connect to the District Office responsible for the area. You can also typically find reservation information through Recreation.gov by searching for "Mckee Bridge Community Kitchen."

McKee Bridge Community Kitchen is an outstanding choice for Oregon locals, particularly those in Southern Oregon, who are looking for a unique and memorable venue for their next outdoor gathering. Its appeal lies in its distinct blend of historical charm, practical amenities, and stunning natural beauty. For families planning reunions, friends looking for a picturesque picnic spot, or organizations hosting an outdoor event, the "affordable to rent" covered kitchen with its barrel BBQ and ample space makes it incredibly suitable.

The "beautiful and super clean" Applegate River, with its "easy river access for swimming," is a major draw, providing a refreshing escape during Oregon's warm summers. The serene atmosphere, where you might find "only one or two other people there" even on a 100° day, offers a true respite from crowded public spaces. Beyond its functional aspects, the historical significance of the site, adjacent to the iconic McKee Covered Bridge, adds a layer of cultural appreciation to any visit. For locals seeking a place that feels authentically Oregonian, where they can create lasting memories amidst nature's tranquility and community spirit, McKee Bridge Community Kitchen is a truly special and highly recommended destination. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple pleasures in a magnificent setting.

McKee Bridge Community Kitchen

6941APPLEGATE RD (DIST OFFICE, Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA