How much does camping cost at Candle Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Candle Creek Campground range from $21-$23/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Candle Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Candle Creek Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Candle Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Candle Creek Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Candle Creek Campground?

Candle Creek Campground is open May 01 to October 16. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Candle Creek Campground?

Candle Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Candle Creek Campground have?

Candle Creek Campground has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Candle Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Candle Creek Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Candle Creek Campground?

Candle Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Candle Creek Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Candle Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Candle Creek Campground: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.98

45 reviews

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Top 9% in ORFall

Peace & Quiet

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,956 ft

Price

$21 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Opens May 23 annuall...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Hoodoo Recreation Services Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,956 ft

Price

$21 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Opens May 23 annuall...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Hoodoo Recreation Services Official Website

Get Directions

Candle Creek Campground

$21.00 - $23.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $21.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746Jen@Hoodoo.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Candle Creek Campground

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Nearby places

Sisters (approximately 25 miles, 40 minutes by car)

Weather at Candle Creek Campground

Current alerts(12)

Camping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Click here for more information about Deschutes National Forest .
Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests.
During your time in Central Oregon, you can find wildfire, prescribed fire and smoke information at centraloregonfire.org .

Best Time to Camp at Candle Creek Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of weather, colors, and solitude — days are crisp and clear (typically 50–70°F) with frosty mornings (25–40°F), and the ponderosa and aspen tones around the Metolius Valley peak in late September to early October. Fishing and wildlife viewing are excellent as trout feed actively and elk and deer become more visible, while crowds thin after the summer rush. Early fall also avoids the summer wildfire-smoke risk and takes advantage of the campground’s remaining open Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in OR

Fall called the 'sweet spot' with peak aspen/ponderosa colors, cooler days and fewer bugs.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to October 16. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Opens May 23 annually; reservable from June 24 to September 27. First-come, first-served availability exists during shoulder seasons. Closed from October 18 to May 1.

About Candle Creek Campground

Candle Creek Campground sits in the Deschutes National Forest foothills near Sisters, offering primitive tent and RV sites close to the Metolius River and Candle Creek. Operated by Hoodoo Recreation Services, this very small campground features spacious sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a quiet, remote setting where fall brings peak foliage and active trout.

The campground accommodates tent campers, small RVs, and trailers. Featuring a remote and rustic charm, the campground is primarily suited for those seeking a primitive experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of weather, colors, and solitude — days are crisp and clear (typically 50–70°F) with frosty mornings (25–40°F), and the ponderosa and aspen tones around the Metolius Valley peak in late September to early October. Fishing and wildlife viewing are excellent as trout feed actively and elk and deer become more visible, while crowds thin after the summer rush. Early fall also avoids the summer wildfire-smoke risk and takes advantage of the campground’s remaining open Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2956 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Metolius River emerges fully formed from underground springs at the base of Black Butte, a 3,076-foot cinder cone that dominates the skyline. The result is cold, exceptionally clear water that reveals every stone on the riverbed. Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western hemlock create a dense canopy over the campsites, though some areas lack thick undergrowth between sites. The volcanic geology beneath the valley feeds the springs that make this ecosystem work. Wildlife includes mule deer, elk (especially visible in fall), osprey, and eagles. The surrounding landscape shows the fingerprints of ancient lava flows and glacial carving.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations are included within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNearby attractions like the Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform and the Metolius Research Natural Area offer educational opportunities focused on fish and bird species.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights
maximum annual stay is 28 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most sites accommodate up to 6 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Site SizeMost campsites are described as 'huge' and spacious, accommodating multiple tents comfortably. For instance, one review mentioned room for 6 tents in a single site.

PrivacySites are well-spaced and offer privacy, aided by vegetation and the sound of the river. However, some users pointed out minimal undergrowth as a visual block.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 3 is not ideal due to proximity to restroom facilities. Sites 6 and 7 are recommended for privacy and scenic views.

Best CampsitesSites 6 and 7 get consistent mentions for their proximity to both Candle Creek and the Metolius River. One reviewer noted that some sites are large enough to fit six tents, though most campers won't need that much real estate.

Need help booking Candle Creek Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

This is a no water facility so campers will need to bring their own supply. Candle Creek Campground can accommodate RV, trailer or tent-campers however water and electric hookups are not available. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill and the campground has vault toilets available.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers recreational activities centered around its natural features. Hiking and fishing are the most popular pursuits. The Metolius River provides excellent opportunities for fly-fishing, with species like rainbow trout, whitefish, and kokanee salmon. Hiking trails, such as the Metolius River Trail, are accessible directly from the campground and offer diverse terrain, including riverside and subalpine forest paths.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at Candle Creek Campground. Vault toilets are the only restroom facilities provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is not explicitly mentioned. However, some reviews suggest limited connectivity due to the remote location.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

45 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Candle Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Candle Creek Campground is praised for its secluded and peaceful atmosphere, large campsites, and proximity to the Metolius River. Visitors appreciate the natural white noise and opportunities for hiking and fishing. However, the challenging road conditions and lack of water facilities have received criticism.

Review Summaries

Based on 45 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 45 reviews.

Site 3Loved
Site 3: Close to restrooms, not ideal for privacy..
Site 6Loved
Site 6: Large site with beautiful access to the creek..
Site 10Loved
Site 10: Spacious but challenging road access noted.
Site 1Mentioned
Site 1: Minimal river views and access..

What Campers Love

- Large, spacious campsites with privacy. - Proximity to the scenic Metolius River and Candle Creek. - Clean and well-maintained vault toilets. - Excellent hiking and fishing opportunities. - Quiet,...

Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

- Challenging access road, particularly for passenger cars. - Lack of potable water and clarification on firewood policies. - Dusty conditions and vehicle-generated dust. - Misleading online maps...

Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Avoid relying on Google Maps for directions; follow Forest Service guidance. - Bring sufficient water and understand firewood policies prior to arrival. - Reserve campsites in advance for...

Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is appreciated for its colors and lack of bugs, while summer attracts campers due to warmer weather but sees increased dust levels. The road may be more passable after recent grading.

Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The sound of the river is super relaxing and pleasant. Beautiful with fall colors in October!' (Rhonda Dodge) - 'We camped here with 3 tents, 6 people, and 2 dogs. The sites were all huge! It was...

Based on 45 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility concerns are not explicitly reviewed in detail.

Based on 45 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and some visitors have requested facilities like dog hitches near restrooms for convenience. Multiple families mentioned bringing dogs without issue.

Based on 45 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a quiet, budget-friendly base for fishing the Metolius River and exploring forest trails without crowds.

Skip if

You need reliable GPS navigation or paved access roads to reach your campsite.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.3

(118)

Lower Bridge Campground

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Lower Bridge Campground sits along the Metolius River in Deschutes National Forest, a short drive from Sisters. Managed by the Forest Service, this small riverside campground draws anglers and hikers seeking access to cold, clear water and forested trails. Sites are shaded and spacious, though underbrush is sparse.