Frissell Crossing Campground
4.3527 reviews57600 McKenzie Highway, McKenzie Bridge, OR, 97413, USA
Quick Facts
2,600 ftPrice
$18 - $36/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from April 30 t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
2,600 ftPrice
$18 - $36/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Open from April 30 t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Frissell Crossing Campground
$18.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $18 to $36 for standard non-electric campsites during the peak season from April 30 to September 6. Reservation service fees may...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$18.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider801-226-3564
What Campers Say
4.35
Recommended
Based on 27 reviews
11 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulspaciouswell-maintainedsites
Some mention
reservation
"Reviews of Frissell Crossing Campground are generally positive, with users praising its quiet and secluded atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to hiking and other outdoor activities. Common complaints center around inconsistent maintenance of restrooms and facilities."
Fees & Passes at Frissell Crossing Campground
$18 - $36/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum 14-night stay within a rolling 60-day period.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made any time before check-in, with a $10 fee applied. Late cancellations (with...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official American Land & Leisure website.
Best Time to Camp at Frissell Crossing Campground
Summer brings perfect camping weather to Frissell Crossing, with warm days cooled by mountain breezes and starlit nights that showcase the Milky Way in all its glory. During peak season, you'll enjoy comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and campfire gatherings. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though heavy snowfall may limit access—making this truly a fair-weather destination for most adventurers.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 30 to September 6 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from April 30 to September 6. The campground is closed outside this period.
About Frissell Crossing Campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Willamette National Forest, Frissell Crossing Campground offers an authentic escape to the wilderness where time seems to slow down. This hidden gem, crafted by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934, invites you to experience camping as it was meant to be—simple, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature. With its vault toilets and hand-pumped water, this rustic retreat strips away modern distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of the forest and the gentle murmur of the nearby South Fork McKenzie River.
Frissell Crossing Campground caters to campers seeking a primitive, back-to-nature experience. The campground primarily supports tent camping and does not offer modern amenities like RV hookups or lodging.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this living piece of American history, where the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every carefully placed stone and thoughtfully designed campsite. Created during the Great Depression as part of President Roosevelt's New Deal, Frissell Crossing stands as a testament to the young men who built America's outdoor infrastructure. Their craftsmanship from 1934 continues to welcome visitors nearly a century later, connecting modern campers to an era when conservation and public works transformed the nation's wild spaces into accessible treasures.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect camping weather to Frissell Crossing, with warm days cooled by mountain breezes and starlit nights that showcase the Milky Way in all its glory. During peak season, you'll enjoy comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and campfire gatherings. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though heavy snowfall may limit access—making this truly a fair-weather destination for most adventurers.
ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet above sea level, Frissell Crossing offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during summer months. This elevation places you in the sweet spot of the Cascade foothills—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet accessible without the challenges of true alpine camping. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of evergreens, while the elevation provides stunning vantage points for sunset viewing and creates the perfect conditions for those seeking respite from lowland temperatures.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden light filtering through a cathedral of towering Douglas firs, their ancient trunks rising like pillars into the morning mist. Frissell Crossing cradles you in a lush tapestry of Pacific Northwest beauty, where vibrant rhododendrons paint splashes of pink and purple beneath the forest canopy, and delicate vine maples dance in the breeze. The South Fork of the McKenzie River sings its timeless song just steps from your tent, offering both a soothing soundtrack and refreshing spots for wading on warm afternoons. Creek-side campsites provide front-row seats to nature's theater, where you might spot deer coming to drink at dawn or hear the haunting call of owls as darkness falls.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Willamette National Forest, Frissell Crossing occupies a magical corner of Oregon's Cascade Range where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. At 2,600 feet elevation, the campground sits in a transitional zone where lowland and montane ecosystems merge, creating exceptional biodiversity. The South Fork of the McKenzie River has carved its path through volcanic soils over millennia, nurturing the magnificent Douglas fir forests that tower overhead. This verdant sanctuary, adorned with native rhododendrons and graceful vine maples, showcases the Pacific Northwest's signature blend of water, forest, and mountain that has captivated visitors for generations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground lacks official indications of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. Campers with specific needs should plan accordingly.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and accommodate multiple tents, as noted by users who set up two tents with room to spare. However, some campers found the sites smaller than expected for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyThe layout of campsites provides a good level of privacy. One user specifically described the sites as 'not right on top of each other,' allowing for a secluded camping experience.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for better access to water and views. Bring extra toiletries during holidays as restrooms may run out of supplies.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14-night stay within a rolling 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 8 people per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 10 campsites spread around an open meadow and near the river. Sites are described as spacious and private.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 30 to September 6. The campground is closed outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, both online and via their mobile app or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available first-come, first-served, but no specific quantity was detailed. Fill patterns not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before check-in, with a $10 fee applied. Late cancellations (within one day of arrival) will also forfeit the first night's fees. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee if new dates differ completely.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Frissell Crossing Campground offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities in a serene environment. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and nature viewing. The area is surrounded by natural attractions, including the Three Sisters Wilderness, Box Canyon Trail, and Cougar Lake Reservoir. The proximity to Terwilliger Hot Springs is another significant draw.
Hiking
There are numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area, including the Box Canyon Trail and Mink Lake Basin Trail. One reviewer mentioned 'some nice trails that lead into the Three Sisters Wilderness for some great hiking.' Trails vary in difficulty and offer opportunities to explore the lush forest and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in the South Fork of the McKenzie River. A camper noted, 'Great spot for fly fishing. Keep in mind the cutthroat trout are all native and must be released.' Regulations apply, so anglers should verify local guidelines.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the nearby creek and river areas. However, there are no designated swimming areas, and accessibility may vary depending on the specific campsite location.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible within 10 miles of the campground, offering opportunities for enthusiasts to explore the rugged terrain.Wildlife viewing
The campground is excellent for wildlife viewing. Commonly spotted animals include birds, deer, frogs, and squirrels. One camper highlighted their experience, saying, 'The wildlife I have seen here are birds, deer, frogs and squirrels.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and canoeing are not explicitly supported, but visitors may independently engage in such activities in nearby water bodies.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must comply with local fire safety regulations. Visitors are encouraged not to move firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the presence of wildlife like bears, and limited access to potable water without prior treatment. The site is primitive with no cell service.
Weather at Frissell Crossing Campground
42
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are likely in Blue River, OR, approximately 24 miles away. Specific services such as hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations were not explicitly detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 30 to September 6 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, though some users mentioned delays in trash removal during certain periods. There are no dedicated recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the South Fork of the McKenzie River and provides creek-side access.
Common complaintsMaintenance issues such as unclean restrooms and trash accumulation during busy periods have been noted. Some visitors reported poorly maintained reservation tags.
HostThe campground is managed by American Land & Leisure. Some reviews have criticized hosts for being absent or unhelpful.
Campground Map
57600 McKenzie Highway, McKenzie Bridge, OR, 97413, USA
Driving directionsFrom Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19). Turn right on Aufderheide Drive and continue south about 3/4 mile. Veer right at the Y and continue 20 miles to Frissell Crossing Campground.
The access is via paved roads for 20 miles along Aufderheide Drive. Road conditions were not explicitly mentioned but the limited reviews suggest it can be a trek to get there.Nearby places
Blue River (24 miles, approximately 35 minutes)
Eugene (51 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes)
Springfield (47 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies would likely be in Blue River, OR, about 24 miles away. Specifics on groceries, camping supplies, or fuel were not provided.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
27 reviews
Frissell Crossing Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Frissell Crossing Campground are generally positive, with users praising its quiet and secluded atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to hiking and other outdoor activities. Common complaints center around inconsistent maintenance of restrooms and facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the peaceful setting, spacious campsites, proximity to natural attractions, and opportunities for recreation. One user called it 'the perfect place to hear nothing but the rushing...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include inconsistent maintenance of vault toilets, particularly during busy weekends, and occasional delays in trash removal. One camper noted, 'Restrooms were out of TP during a full...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra supplies, particularly toilet paper, and being prepared for a lack of cell service. Filtering or boiling the hand-pumped water is also advised.
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, but reviews highlight a preference for early or late summer to avoid overcrowding and maintenance lapses. Fall camping is desirable but unavailable due to seasonal...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places on Earth.' - Anne Starke
2. 'No showers and have to use an old-style water pump.' - Israel J Bynum
3. 'Small, clean, well-maintained...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 06 receives consistent praise for its privacy, size, and river access. One user called it 'the bomb-diggity' and another described it as excellent. Site 09 was noted for being cramped when...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific feedback on accessibility features is available.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews highlight the campground as a dog-friendly location. One camper appreciated the forest service roads for dog walks during less intense activity days.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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