Riverside Campground

For us Oregonians, the pursuit of truly untouched natural beauty often leads us off the beaten path, far from the distractions of modern life. If your ideal camping experience involves quiet solitude, the soothing sounds of a pristine river, and an authentic connection with the wilderness, then Riverside Campground in Camp Sherman is a destination that perfectly aligns with that vision. Nestled along the crystal-clear Metolius River within the stunning Deschutes National Forest, this campground offers a delightfully primitive and peaceful escape, inviting you to unplug and immerse yourself in the serene heart of Central Oregon.

Riverside Campground is not for those seeking glamping amenities or constant connectivity. Instead, it caters to the true nature enthusiast who appreciates simplicity and the raw beauty of the outdoors. It's a place where the towering Ponderosa pines provide a canopy, the gentle murmur of the Metolius River is your soundtrack, and the absence of crowds allows for genuine tranquility. This campground is a beloved spot for locals who cherish the opportunity to disconnect entirely, making it an ideal choice for a rejuvenating weekend or an extended stay where peace and natural beauty are the top priorities. Prepare to embrace a more rustic adventure, and in return, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience.

Riverside Campground is located at 12500 SW River Rd, Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA. This places it directly on the banks of the iconic Metolius River, within the breathtaking confines of the Deschutes National Forest in Central Oregon. For Oregon locals, the journey to Camp Sherman is often a scenic and anticipated part of the adventure, winding through picturesque landscapes that prepare you for the tranquility ahead.

The campground's direct proximity to the Metolius River is its defining geographical feature, offering campers immediate access to its renowned crystal-clear waters. The Metolius is a unique spring-fed river that flows north from the base of Black Butte, known for its consistent flow and cold temperatures, making it a prime habitat for various fish species and a popular destination for fly fishing. The campground is part of a cluster of similar primitive sites in the Camp Sherman area, which is celebrated for its natural beauty and commitment to maintaining a low-impact environment.

Accessibility to Riverside Campground involves navigating forest service roads, typical for a primitive camping experience. While the exact condition of SW River Rd can vary, it is generally passable for most vehicles, but caution is always advised. It is crucial to be aware that this area is truly "off the grid." As reported by previous visitors, there is "zero cell service" (literally none) and no Wi-Fi, meaning you are fully unplugged once you arrive. This necessitates careful planning: download your directions, maps, and any essential information before you leave an area with connectivity. The drive from major towns like Sisters is manageable, leading you into a serene environment where the sounds of the river and the forest are your only companions. This intentional remoteness is a significant part of the campground's appeal for those seeking true solitude.

Riverside Campground is characterized by its primitive nature, meaning its services are basic but functional, focusing on providing essential amenities while preserving the natural environment.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets. Reviewers note there are "only two vault toilets" for the campground. While primitive, their cleanliness can vary; however, they fulfill the basic restroom need.

• No Potable Water On-Site: This is a crucial point for campers – you must "bring your own water." There is no potable water source available within the campground itself, so come prepared with sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

• No Cell Service or Wi-Fi: As a truly "off-grid" location, Riverside Campground offers no cell service or Wi-Fi connectivity. This is a deliberate feature for those seeking to completely disconnect.

• Tent-Only (Implied by "Tote Your Gear"): While not explicitly stated as tent-only, the requirement to "tote your gear 3-5 mins into the forest" strongly implies that sites are designed for tent camping and are not accessible directly by vehicle, contributing to the quiet and undisturbed atmosphere.

• Individual Campsites: Sites include basic amenities like a fire ring and picnic table, standard for primitive campgrounds.

• Absolutely Beautiful Area: The natural surroundings are consistently described as "absolutely beautiful." The lush forest, combined with the pristine Metolius River, creates a stunning backdrop for camping.

• So Peaceful and Not Crowded: A major highlight is the profound sense of peace and tranquility. Visitors emphasize that the campground is "so peaceful and not crowded," offering a rare opportunity for genuine solitude in nature.

• Riverside Location: Being directly on the Metolius River allows campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of the water, and provides easy access for activities like fly fishing (catch-and-release, fly-fishing only on the Metolius) or simply enjoying the river's beauty.

• True Disconnection: The complete lack of cell service and Wi-Fi forces and encourages a full digital detox, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in their surroundings and enjoy uninterrupted time with nature or companions.

• Rustic and Primitive Experience: For those who appreciate traditional, no-frills camping, Riverside offers an authentic primitive experience. The need to carry gear a short distance into sites adds to this rustic charm and helps maintain the secluded feel.

• Proximity to Other Metolius Basin Attractions: While secluded, the campground is part of the larger Camp Sherman area, which includes attractions like the Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform, Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery, and extensive hiking trails (such as portions of the Metolius-Windigo Trail). This allows for day explorations within the beautiful Metolius Basin.

• Stargazing Opportunities: Far from light pollution, the clear Central Oregon nights offer incredible opportunities for stargazing.

It is imperative for prospective campers to fully understand the primitive nature of Riverside Campground. The requirement to carry gear "3-5 mins into the forest" from your vehicle means packing light and efficiently. The absence of potable water necessitates bringing all your own water supplies, which requires careful planning for longer stays. While vault toilets are available, campers should be prepared for basic facilities. These are not drawbacks for the right kind of camper, but rather characteristics that contribute to the unique, undisturbed experience this beautiful, secluded spot offers. Embrace the simplicity, and you'll find true peace here.

Address: 12500 SW River Rd, Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA (within the Deschutes National Forest)

As a primitive Forest Service campground, direct phone contact for the specific campground might not be readily available. For information, reservations (if applicable, though many primitive sites are first-come, first-served), and current conditions, it's best to contact the managing ranger district or use the federal recreation reservation system:

Sisters Ranger District (local office for the area): (541) 549-7700

Recreation.gov (for federal campground information and reservations): (877) 444-6777

It is highly recommended to call the Sisters Ranger District for the most up-to-date information on road conditions, open status, fire restrictions, and any specific requirements before planning your trip to this primitive site.

For us Oregonians, Riverside Campground in Camp Sherman offers precisely the kind of authentic, unplugged nature experience we often seek to balance our busy lives. It's perfectly suited for locals for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, its genuinely primitive and secluded nature allows for a complete escape from urban noise and digital distractions. The "zero cell service" is not a drawback but a feature, encouraging a true digital detox. This is a rare and valued commodity in today's connected world, enabling deeper connection with nature and companions without interruptions. For those of us who appreciate the quietude of the forest and the soothing sounds of a pristine river, Riverside delivers peace in spades.

Secondly, its location on the Metolius River within the Deschutes National Forest places you in one of Oregon's most iconic and beautiful natural areas. We understand the allure of these clear, cold waters for fly fishing, and the surrounding forests for peaceful walks. The opportunity to "tote your gear 3-5 mins into the forest" means that the camping areas are truly nestled within the trees, offering a unique sense of immersion that many developed campgrounds lack. This contributes to the feeling of being truly "away from it all."

Finally, while the amenities are basic (vault toilets, no potable water), this simplicity aligns with the expectations of many seasoned Oregon campers who prioritize natural beauty and solitude over creature comforts. It's a place that asks you to be prepared and self-sufficient, and in return, rewards you with an unparalleled sense of tranquility and connection to the wild. For locals seeking a peaceful, uncrowded, and truly beautiful place to camp and reconnect with the raw, untamed spirit of Oregon, Riverside Campground is an absolute gem. It’s a chance to experience the Metolius Basin as it was meant to be enjoyed—quietly and purely.

Riverside Campground

12500 SW River Rd, Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA