Riverside Campground

Star0
4 reviews
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

3,000 ft

Price

$12 - $18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

16 campsites

Season

Open tentatively fro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

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Riverside Campground
$12.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees range from $12 to $18 per night depending on site selection and additional vehicle charges. Holders of Golden Age and Golden Access...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
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

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

1 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacypeacefulsites

"User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful setting and spacious sites. Some express disappointment that the Metolius River cannot be seen or heard from the campsites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Riverside Campground

44.4424, -121.6337

Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 4.4 miles north on Forest Road 14.
The campground is accessible by paved roads; however, the water system and services are seasonal, which could affect accessibility during colder months.
Nearby places
Sisters: Approximately 9.6 miles northwest (travel time varies depending on traffic and road conditions).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Sisters, Oregon, approximately 9.6 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Riverside Campground

From May through September, Riverside Campground welcomes visitors with warm, dry summer days perfect for outdoor adventures. The Mediterranean-like climate brings sun-drenched afternoons ideal for hiking and exploring, while evenings cool down to comfortable sleeping temperatures. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings remind visitors of the elevation, and the seasonal water systems may be affected by early cold snaps, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May–Sept; warm, dry summer days described as ideal for outdoor activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open through Sept 21; early fall fine but limited access for later fall conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 2; spring access is limited to late spring if systems are operational.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed in winter; operational dates given May to Sept.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season coincides with its operational dates from May to September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open tentatively from May 2, 2025, to September 21, 2025.

About Riverside Campground

Tucked away in the serene upper reaches of the Metolius River valley, Riverside Campground offers an intimate tent-only experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat. This walk-in campground provides a unique blend of solitude and accessibility, where campers can immerse themselves in the tranquil forest setting. Despite its riverside name, the campground maintains a hushed atmosphere, set back from the water's edge in a quiet grove where the forest takes center stage.
Riverside Campground exclusively offers tent camping at walk-in sites. It is not suited for RV camping, group camping, or other accommodations.
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Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-out
The last reservation ends at noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.

Amenities available

Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Riverside Campground offers limited recreational activities. Hiking trails are available nearby, including the Metolius River Trail (#4020), which spans 10 miles.
HikingThe Metolius River Trail (#4020) is accessible for day hikes. It covers 10 miles and is suited for foot traffic.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSeasonal cold weather may affect water availability and camping conditions.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Riverside Campground

Reviews

0.0
4 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Riverside Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful setting and spacious sites. Some express disappointment that the Metolius River cannot be seen or heard from the campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews

What Campers Love

"Sites are widely spaced and provide lots of privacy." "The campground is peaceful and nestled among Ponderosa pines."
Based on 4 reviews

Common Concerns

"The river cannot be seen or heard despite the campground name." "Potable water is not available on-site."
Based on 4 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water as potable water is unavailable. Be mindful that the river is not visible from campsites.
Based on 4 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Services are available from mid-May to early September. Campers should note that water systems may be affected by weather, leading to early shut-off.
Based on 4 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Contrary to the campground name, the Metolius River cannot be seen or heard from the campsites." "This is an excellent campground for large groups."
Based on 4 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

There are 16 tent-only walk-in sites. Reviews do not provide specific feedback on individual site numbers.
Based on 4 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available.
Based on 4 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No explicit mention of pet policies or experiences is provided.
Based on 4 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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