Smiling River Campground

4.2·98 reviews
·Deschutes National Forest

Overview

Nestled in Deschutes National Forest, Smiling River Campground offers visitors some of the most stunning scenery in central Oregon and easy access to an abundance of recreational activities.

Great Facilities and Amenities

  • Campfire Allowed

    (All campsites have Campfire Allowed)

  • Checkin Time

    (All campsites have Checkin Time)

  • Checkout Time

    (All campsites have Checkout Time)

  • Driveway Entry

    (Majority of the campsites have back in)

  • Firepit

    (All campsites have Firepit)

  • Max Num Of People

    (Up to 6)

  • Max Num Of Vehicles

    (Up to 1)

  • Pets Allowed

    (All campsites have Pets Allowed)

  • Picnic Table

    (10 of 34 campsites have Picnic Table)

  • Shade

    (All campsites have Shade)

Natural Features

SMILING RIVER CAMPGROUND - Credits:
SMILING RIVER CAMPGROUND - Credits:
SMILING RIVER CAMPGROUND - Credits:
SMILING RIVER CAMPGROUND - Credits:
Many sites at this campground look out to Metolius River, a tributary of the Deschutes River.The headwaters of the river are at Metolius Springs at the base of Black Butte, a 3,076-foot cinder cone. The clear, cold river flows north from the springs through diverse coniferous forest and a landscape of volcanic activity.The area provides habitat for mammals such as mule deer, coyote and cougar. Migratory birds and native fish also call the area home.

Recreation

Smiling River Hero - Credits: USFS
Hiking and fishing top the list of recreational activities for visitors.For anglers, the spring-fed Metolius river offers a stunning setting for fly-fishing. Its clear, cold water supports rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout and kokanee salmon.For day hikers and backpackers, the area offers a wide variety of scenic terrain, ranging from riverside trails to routes in subalpine forests.

Permitted Equipment

  • rv-Up to 50ft

  • tent-Up to 50ft

  • trailer-Up to 50ft

Nearby Attractions

The Metolius-Windigo Trail, open to hikers, bikers and horses, is more than 100 miles in length, and begins near the Metolius River headwaters west of the town of Sisters, Oregon. The trail was created in the 1980s primarily to serve long-distance horse riders seeking an alternative to the Pacific Crest Trail.Lava Lands Visitor Center in Bend, Oregon, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits.

Additional Information

Campsites