Smiling River Campgrounds

For Oregonians who are drawn to the pristine beauty of crystal-clear rivers and the serene embrace of a Ponderosa Pine forest, Smiling River Campgrounds near Camp Sherman is an absolute gem. Nestled along the banks of the upper Metolius River within the vast Deschutes National Forest, this campground offers a truly authentic Central Oregon outdoor experience. It's a place where the sounds of the gentle river provide a constant lullaby, and the air is filled with the scent of pine, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Smiling River Campgrounds is highly regarded by visitors for its cleanliness, safety, and thoughtful spacing between campsites. As one delighted camper shared, it's an "Amazing! Clean and safe campground, nicely spaced, with restrooms and water, as well as being next to a river. Fly fishing is allowed there. Camp host was polite and very helpful, as well as friendly! Great experience for us all." This feedback highlights the dedication to providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all who visit. The spacious tent spots and pull-through parking cater to various camping preferences, making it accessible for everything from a small tent to a camp trailer.

What truly sets Smiling River apart is its direct connection to the world-renowned Metolius River, a spring-fed tributary of the Deschutes. This makes it a mecca for fly-fishing enthusiasts, with abundant opportunities to cast a line for rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. While the river trail, a popular route for hikers, might occasionally lead people past your riverside site, this slight trade-off is well worth the unparalleled access to such a vibrant natural environment. Smiling River Campgrounds offers a genuine Central Oregon adventure, making it a beloved destination for locals seeking both relaxation and recreation amidst stunning natural beauty.

Smiling River Campgrounds is located at Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA. This places it in the heart of Central Oregon, along the upper Metolius River within the Deschutes National Forest. It's approximately 20-30 minutes northwest of the charming town of Sisters, a popular hub for outdoor activities and local amenities.

To reach Smiling River from Sisters, you typically travel northwest on Highway 20, then north on Forest Road 14, and finally north on Forest Road 1419. The roads are generally well-maintained, suitable for both RVs and tents. The campground's proximity to Camp Sherman (just one mile north of the Camp Sherman Store) is a significant advantage, offering convenient access to a local general store for any last-minute supplies, snacks, or even fly-fishing gear. While the area provides a wonderful sense of being "away from it all," it's worth noting that cell service is typically not available at the campground, allowing for a true digital detox. This blend of natural immersion and convenient access to a charming small town makes Smiling River an ideal retreat for Oregon locals.

• Campsites: Smiling River Campground offers 36 single-family campsites. These sites are generously spaced and can accommodate various setups, from multiple tents (up to 3, as per a review) to camp trailers and RVs (up to 50 feet in length). Each site includes a picnic table and a metal fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires (when permitted by fire restrictions).

• Restrooms & Water: The campground provides well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets (though water systems may be turned off in colder months to prevent damage). Potable drinking water is available from spigots throughout the campground during the operating season.

• Camp Host: A friendly, polite, and very helpful camp host is typically on-site. They play a crucial role in ensuring the campground runs smoothly and visitors have a positive experience.

• Firewood: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, which is a convenient service for campers.

• Reservations: While some sites might be available on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are accepted for a significant portion of the season (typically mid-May to mid-September) and are highly recommended, especially during peak times. Sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

• Waste Disposal: Trash receptacles are provided for convenient waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean.

• Vehicle Limits: Generally, one RV with a tow vehicle per single site, or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate one extra vehicle for an additional fee.

• Generator Use Restrictions: To maintain peace, generator use is typically prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

• Pristine Metolius River Access: The campground is directly adjacent to the Metolius River, a designated Wild and Scenic River known for its incredibly clear, cold, spring-fed waters. Many sites offer beautiful river views and direct walk-in access.

• World-Class Fly Fishing: The Metolius River is a renowned destination for fly fishing. Anglers can target rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout (catch and release only for some species), and kokanee salmon, often right from the campground's edge. It's a favorite spot for local anglers.

• Spacious and Secluded Sites: Reviews consistently highlight the spaciousness of the campsites, which are often "nicely spaced" and offer "more privacy than Camp Sherman CG" with natural foliage providing a good amount of seclusion.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The area offers extensive trail systems, including the Metolius-Windigo Trail (over 100 miles long, popular for hikers, bikers, and horses) and the East Metolius River Trail. These trails provide diverse scenic terrain, from riverside strolls to routes through coniferous forests.

• Year-Round Operation (Seasonal Water): While the main operating season with full amenities is from May to October, the campground itself may be open year-round. However, potable water is typically shut off in late September to prevent freezing, so winter campers need to plan accordingly.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest and riparian habitat attract a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyote, and various migratory birds and native fish, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation.

• Proximity to Camp Sherman Store: Being just one mile from the Camp Sherman Store is a significant convenience for quick resupplies, fishing tackle, or a treat.

• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Smiling River offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, a truly magical experience in the Central Oregon high desert night sky.

To make reservations or inquire further about Smiling River Campgrounds, use the following contact information:

Address: Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA (This general address covers the campground's location.)

Reservations Phone: (877) 444-6777 (Toll-free, managed by Recreation.gov)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Same as above)

For specific information regarding the Deschutes National Forest or the Sisters Ranger District, which manages the area:

Sisters Ranger District Phone: (541) 549-7700

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season from May to September, as this is a popular campground. You can also find current conditions, alerts (like fire restrictions or trail closures), and detailed information on Recreation.gov or the U.S. Forest Service website for the Deschutes National Forest.

For Oregon locals, Smiling River Campgrounds offers an almost quintessential Central Oregon camping experience, making it an incredibly suitable and sought-after destination. Its prime location on the Metolius River, just a short and scenic drive from Sisters, means that a world-class outdoor escape is easily accessible from various parts of the state. This convenience is a significant factor for Oregonians looking to maximize their time enjoying nature without lengthy travel.

The unique draw of the Metolius River is a major highlight. For the countless fly-fishing enthusiasts across Oregon, this campground provides direct access to some of the state's most revered fishing waters, with ample opportunities to test their skills against diverse trout species and salmon. Beyond fishing, the surrounding Deschutes National Forest offers a vast playground for hikers and bikers, with trails that cater to various skill levels, allowing for immersive exploration of the beautiful Ponderosa Pine forests and volcanic landscapes.

The campground itself is designed for comfort and privacy, with "nicely spaced" and "roomy" sites, ensuring a peaceful retreat. The presence of clean restrooms and water, along with a friendly and helpful camp host, adds to the overall positive experience, making it a welcoming environment for families, couples, or solo adventurers. While the occasional hiker passing through riverside sites and the lack of cell service are noted, these factors often contribute to the desired sense of disconnection and true immersion in nature that many Oregonians seek. Smiling River Campgrounds isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a cherished local spot that embodies the natural beauty, recreational abundance, and peaceful escape that define the Central Oregon outdoor lifestyle, inviting locals to return season after season to create lasting memories.

Smiling River Campgrounds

Camp Sherman, OR 97730, USA