Indian Ford Campground
4.1442 reviewsP.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Indian Ford Campground
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
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
Peak season rate is $21 per night for standard nonelectric sites with an additional $2 fee on holidays. First-come, first-served availability during shoulder seasons has the same pricing. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Deschutes National Forest, Indian Ford Campground offers an intimate escape with just 13 peaceful campsites. Here, towering Ponderosa Pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and rust-colored trunks standing like ancient sentinels over this tranquil forest retreat.
Indian Ford Campground accommodates RV, trailer, and tent camping. Specific group or luxury camping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceThis camping haven serves as your gateway to the legendary Sisters Wilderness Trails, where generations of hikers have traced paths through volcanic landscapes. Just a short drive away, the fascinating Newberry National Volcanic Monument tells the explosive story of Central Oregon's fiery past, while the mysterious Lava River Cave invites explorers to venture underground through ancient lava tubes.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, pine-scented days perfect for outdoor adventures, while crisp autumn mornings herald the changing seasons. As winter approaches, the forest transforms into a quieter realm where temperatures plummet and snow may dust the pine boughs, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and seasonal beauty.
ElevationNestled in the mid-elevation forests of the Deschutes region, the campground sits comfortably below 5,000 feet, where the air remains crisp without the breathlessness of higher altitudes. This sweet spot elevation creates ideal conditions for both relaxation and exploration throughout most of the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babble of Indian Ford Creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay, winding through the campground like nature's own lullaby. Majestic Ponderosa Pines filter golden sunlight through their branches, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. Well-maintained trails beckon hikers and mountain bikers to explore deeper into this enchanting landscape, where every turn reveals new vistas of Oregon's natural splendor.
Geological RegionIndian Ford Campground sits at the crossroads of Oregon's most dramatic geological features within Deschutes National Forest. The surrounding Ponderosa Pine ecosystem thrives in volcanic soils, while nearby Indian Ford Creek has carved its path through this ancient landscape. The proximity to Newberry National Volcanic Monument places you in the heart of a region shaped by volcanic forces, where cinder cones, lava flows, and pristine forests create a diverse tapestry of natural wonders.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as generously sized, spacious, and not crowded. Multiple reviews echo sentiments like "large and open, surrounded by the pine forest" and "HUGE CAMP SITES, VERY ENJOYABLE."
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers decent privacy between sites, as noted in reviews such as "sites are large and well spaced," and "sites are very separated so you have a lot of privacy." However, highway noise may detract from the outdoor experience.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Site 12 offers great access to Black Butte and Sisters area biking trails. Site 09 is ideal for proximity to creek and trails."
Best Campsites"Campsites 11 and 12 are reported as spacious and near trails. Site 09 is noted for proximity to creek and bike trails."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
"Check-in time is noon on the reservation start date."
Check-out
"Check-out time is noon."
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights
- total yearly stay limited to 28 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Policies allow one RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites accommodate one extra vehicle for an additional nightly fee.
Groups
Group camping options are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"13 campsites organized in a single loop. Sites are spacious, well-maintained, and provide privacy."
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to September 27, 2025, during peak season; first-come, first-served availability in shoulder seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability only during shoulder seasons from September 28 to October 18 and May 01 to May 21, with limited spots likely to fill quickly.
Cancellation Policy"Reservations can be canceled anytime prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur an additional fee of forfeiting the first night's fee."
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Ford Campground offers recreational opportunities primarily focused on hiking and biking. The surrounding Ponderosa Pine forest provides a shaded environment for bird and nature watching. Proximity to Sisters Wilderness Trails and other attractions like the Lava Lands Visitor Center further enhances the recreational experience.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by numerous hiking opportunities. Reviews and authoritative sources mention trails that connect to the nearby town of Sisters and the Black Butte Loop. "There are great trails to explore just off the campground," one user noted.Biking
The campground is described as a great starting point for biking. Trails leading into Sisters and other areas are accessible directly from the campground. One reviewer praised the "great easy single-track bike trail right from the campground into Sisters."Wildlife viewing
The Ponderosa Pine forest surrounding the campground offers opportunities for bird and nature watching. However, specific wildlife species are not mentioned.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions such as the Lava Lands Visitor Center and Newberry National Volcanic Monument offer interpretive programs and exhibits about the area's unique geological landscape and history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates seasonally and is closed during the colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- "Campfires allowed subject to seasonal restrictions. Visitors encouraged to use local firewood to prevent invasive species."
- "Quiet hours enforced between 10 PM and 7 AM."
Hazards
General hazards"Proximity to highway 20 may result in road noise. Wildlife precautions include bringing food storage solutions, as lockers are not available."
Active alerts"Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry conditions. Wildfire information can be found at CentralOregonFire.org."
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
Emergency services available in Sisters, OR (approx. 5.6 miles): Sisters Fire Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and Sisters Community Health Center.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 27 (Peak Season); Shoulder season dates: September 28 to October 18 (first-come, first-served availability).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities have been reported as inconsistent, with one reviewer stating, "trash was full for two days." Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water features"Indian Ford Creek runs through the campground. Suttle Lake and Metolius River are nearby attractions."
Common complaints"Road noise due to proximity to Highway 20, lack of water facilities, and dusty conditions were recurring themes in user reviews."
Host"Campground host frequently described as friendly and helpful by users."
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 5.6 miles northwest on Highway 20.
"Easy access directly off Highway 20, but campers should expect some road noise due to proximity."Nearby places
Sisters (5.6 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Bend (approx. 25 miles, about 40 mins)
Black Butte Ranch (approx. 11 miles, 15 mins)
Nearby supplies
Sisters, OR (approx. 5.6 miles) offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.1
42 reviews
Indian Ford Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Indian Ford Campground highlight its spacious sites, proximity to hiking and biking opportunities, and its simple and quiet atmosphere. However, consistent complaints include road noise from the nearby highway and the lack of water facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Generously sized and well-spaced sites."
- "Great location close to Sisters and trails."
- "Quiet and peaceful atmosphere."
Based on 42 reviewsCommon Concerns
- "Road noise from the nearby highway."
- "No water facilities available on-site."
- "Dusty conditions during the dry season."
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Campers are strongly advised to bring their own water, as none is available on site.
- Avoid the campground during peak dry and dusty periods.
- Consider earplugs or other noise-canceling measures...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is not possible as the campground closes for the season. In summer, the campground is noted for its dustiness and dry conditions, with significant road noise impacting the experience.
Based on 42 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "If you can get past the road noise this place is really nice." (Spencer Lewis)
- "This is a small but beautiful campground." (Candice Young)
- "We had a great experience at this campground. It was...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Campsite 11: "Minimal" and dusty conditions noted. (1-star)
- Campsite 09: "Sites are large and well spaced. Great access to biking trails." (5-star)
- Campsite 08: "Spacious, quiet, and woodsy but...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the available data or reviews.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some reviewers mentioned dogs enjoying nearby trails, but there is no detailed information on pet-specific policies or facilities.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025