Cold Springs Campground (Or)
4.1360 reviewsPO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Campground opens May...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Campground opens May...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCold Springs Campground (Or)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for a standard nonelectric campsite during peak season is $25, with an additional $2 charge on holidays. Reservation fees ($8 online,...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-323-1746
What Campers Say
4.13
Satisfactory
Based on 60 reviews
71 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quiethikingsites
"The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.98. Positive highlights include the serene natural environment, spacious campsites, and proximity to the town of Sisters. Common complaints focus on outdated facilities, lack of potable water at times, and occasional issues with camp hosts."
Fees & Passes at Cold Springs Campground (Or)
$25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights; total stay of 28 nights per calendar year.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled online before the scheduled arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Deschutes National Forest Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Cold Springs Campground (Or)
Experience the magic of changing seasons at Cold Springs, where each time of year paints the forest in different hues. Summer brings warm, dry days ideal for camping under star-filled skies, while autumn transforms the aspens into a golden spectacle—though pack those extra layers as nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing. With remarkably low dew points averaging 28°F and predominantly clear skies during cooler months, you'll enjoy crisp, comfortable conditions perfect for campfire gatherings and stargazing.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - October 18, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Campground opens May 23, 2025, and closes October 18, 2025 (peak season). It operates on a first-come, first-served basis from May 01, 2026, to May 21, 2026.
- Current Alerts: Possible fire restrictions and seasonal closures due to weather conditions.
About Cold Springs Campground (Or)
Escape to Cold Springs Campground, where towering Ponderosa Pines create a natural cathedral overhead and quaking aspens dance in the breeze. This family-friendly haven is blessed with a babbling spring that winds through the heart of the campground, creating a refreshing microclimate perfect for afternoon naps in hammocks and morning coffee by the fire. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for a woodland adventure, scanning the canopy for colorful songbirds, or pedaling along forest paths, Cold Springs offers the perfect basecamp for your outdoor pursuits.
Cold Springs Campground caters to tent and RV campers with standard nonelectric sites. Its natural environment and amenities make it ideal for traditional camping experiences.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of changing seasons at Cold Springs, where each time of year paints the forest in different hues. Summer brings warm, dry days ideal for camping under star-filled skies, while autumn transforms the aspens into a golden spectacle—though pack those extra layers as nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing. With remarkably low dew points averaging 28°F and predominantly clear skies during cooler months, you'll enjoy crisp, comfortable conditions perfect for campfire gatherings and stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own 'forest oasis in the hot and dry high desert of Central Oregon,' as countless visitors have lovingly described Cold Springs. Here, nature has crafted a verdant sanctuary where a crystal-clear spring nurtures a tapestry of lush vegetation beneath the protective embrace of ancient Ponderosa Pines. Golden-barked giants stand sentinel while delicate aspens cluster near the water's edge, their leaves whispering secrets in the mountain breeze. This enchanting blend of forest and water creates a cool, shaded retreat that feels worlds away from the surrounding high desert landscape.
Geological RegionPerched within the magnificent Deschutes National Forest, Cold Springs Campground showcases the dramatic transition between Central Oregon's high desert and the majestic Cascade Mountains. This unique location features a thriving Ponderosa Pine ecosystem interspersed with moisture-loving aspens that flourish near natural springs. The campground exemplifies the region's remarkable diversity, where volcanic soils and mountain watersheds combine to support these towering forest communities amid an otherwise arid landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly documented in the source material. However, the campground's natural terrain and lack of flush toilets may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as large and spacious. One review mentioned, "The sites are big, the trees are awesome." Another camper wrote, "Very spacious. Quiet campground."
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer good privacy with natural barriers like tall grasses and dense greenery. For instance, a user stated, "Our site situated in the center of the loop backed right up to the creek and had plenty of privacy from the tall grasses and dense greenery."
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the spring offer lush vegetation and added privacy. Avoid sites adjacent to vault toilets due to odors when the wind picks up.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights
- total stay of 28 nights per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site
- most sites allow 1 extra vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop road with 23 individual sites, offering various levels of privacy and proximity to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground opens May 23, 2025, and closes October 18, 2025 (peak season). It operates on a first-come, first-served basis from May 01, 2026, to May 21, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and its associated app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered during the off-peak season (May 01, 2026 - May 21, 2026).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online before the scheduled arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No changes or cancellations are allowed once the start date begins.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cold Springs Campground provides diverse activities for visitors, including hiking, bird watching, and biking. The area offers scenic trails and opportunities to explore nature, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Hiking
The nearby trails offer opportunities for both casual strolls and more adventurous hikes. The campground is close to the Sisters Wilderness Trails, adding to its appeal for hikers.Biking
Bicycling is a favorite pastime within the campground's loop road. The terrain is suitable for families and casual cyclists.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting is ideal for bird watching and nature observation. The presence of a small creek and the Ponderosa Pine forest attracts various bird species, making it a serene spot for wildlife enthusiasts.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed due to dry weather conditions. Check centraloregonfire.org for updates.
- Quiet hours are officially from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, enforced by the camp host.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling trees during high winds, as noted by a user review mentioning a tree falling at night, causing injury. Wildlife like chipmunks may attempt to steal food.
Active alertsPossible fire restrictions and seasonal closures due to weather conditions.
Weather at Cold Springs Campground (Or)
47
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 22.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include a hospital in Bend (approximately 30-35 minutes drive), police services in Sisters (approximately 5-10 minutes drive), and ranger stations in the Deschutes National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 18, 2025.
Trash and recyclingReviews and materials do not describe specific trash or recycling facilities. Campers are reminded to 'pack it in, pack it out.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground has a small spring running through its center and is near other water bodies in the Deschutes National Forest.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the condition of vault toilets ('stinky,' 'could be cleaner'), lack of potable water, and poor management by some camp hosts.
HostCamp hosts vary in quality, with some described as welcoming and helpful, while others have been criticized for rude and passive-aggressive behavior.
Campground Map
PO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 4.2 miles west on Highway 242 (McKenzie Pass Highway).
The campground is located just off Highway 242, offering straightforward access from Sisters, Oregon. The roads leading to the campground are paved and in good condition, though users should be aware of potential seasonal closures.Nearby places
Sisters (4 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes drive), Bend (approximately 24 miles, 30-35 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, groceries, and fuel are readily available in the nearby town of Sisters (approximately 5-10 minutes drive).
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
60 reviews
Cold Springs Campground (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.98. Positive highlights include the serene natural environment, spacious campsites, and proximity to the town of Sisters. Common complaints focus on outdated facilities, lack of potable water at times, and occasional issues with camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 60 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the large, well-spaced sites and the beautiful Ponderosa Pine forest. Many noted the campground's quiet and secluded atmosphere. For example, one review stated, "Great place to relax...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include outdated vault toilets, occasional lack of potable water, and issues with camp hosts. One camper mentioned, "The camp host was rude!" while others noted maintenance issues like...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing water during drier months, as the hand pump might be out of service. Campers also advise choosing sites away from vault toilets due to odor. One reviewer suggested, "Be...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall camping is noted for freezing temperatures, while summer stays highlight the campground's shade as a relief from heat. However, summer also sees occasional overcrowding and noise issues.
Based on 60 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A great camp site with spacious sites, a quiet atmosphere, and only a few miles from Sisters." - Steve J. "Loved this place. So many beautiful trees everywhere." - Linda A.
Based on 60 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 009 is frequently mentioned as spacious and quiet. Site 021 is noted for its privacy and proximity to the creek. However, Site 011 received mixed reviews for being spacious but near poorly...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features, but some comments suggest the natural terrain and lack of flush toilets may create challenges.
Based on 60 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Specific feedback regarding pets is minimal, but one review noted issues with off-leash dogs and management oversight.
Based on 60 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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