Alder Springs Campground

Star4.17
8 reviews
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Quick Facts

3,727 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Alder Springs Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
There is no fee to camp at Alder Springs Campground, according to user reviews.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

4.17

Satisfactory

Based on 8 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hiking

"User reviews highlight the campground's remote and peaceful location, its cleanliness, and its free access. Some praise it as a convenient base for hiking in the Three Sisters Wilderness, while others appreciate its solitude and quiet atmosphere."

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Campground Map

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Alder Springs Campground

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Driving directionsFrom McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 3 miles to Highway 242. Follow Highway 242 east for 9 miles to Alder Springs Campground.
Access to Alder Springs Campground is via paved roads along Highway 242. No specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain noted.
Nearby places
McKenzie Bridge (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Alder Springs Campground

While winter transforms this mountain sanctuary into a snow-laden wonderland with temperatures dipping between 28°F and 41°F, accompanied by substantial snowfall averaging nearly 7 inches and gusty winds reaching 31.5 mph, the true magic of Alder Springs emerges during the warmer months. Spring through fall unveils ideal camping conditions, when gentle breezes replace winter's fierce winds and wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Plan your visit during these milder seasons to fully experience the campground's serene beauty without the challenges of winter weather.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Described as well-suited for warm days and a popular base for hiking in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Fall likely pleasant but can be wet/cool; fewer explicit reviews for this season.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.5 / 5

Spring variable with lingering snow/mud at this elevation; fewer positive notes than summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Substantial snowfall and low temps; reviews say less suitable in cold/snowy conditions.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: null
  • Current Alerts: null

About Alder Springs Campground

Tucked away along the legendary McKenzie Pass Highway, Alder Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into Oregon's pristine wilderness. This hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat beneath a cathedral of towering Douglas fir trees, where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind whispering through ancient branches. As your gateway to the Linton Lake Trailhead and the magnificent Three Sisters Wilderness, this rustic campground serves as the perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking both tranquility and exploration.
Alder Springs Campground caters primarily to primitive tent campers with a focus on a rustic, natural setting. There is no reservation system, and the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Stay Limit
14 days maximum as indicated by user reviews.


Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Alder Springs Campground revolve around its scenic location and proximity to the Linton Lake Trailhead in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Hiking opportunities dominate the activity options, as highlighted by both official sources and user reviews.
HikingHiking is a central activity at this campground due to its immediate access to the Linton Lake Trailhead. According to the official description, this trailhead is located directly across the highway from the campground. User reviews emphasize its convenience for hikers, with one stating, "Besides being by the main road, this spot is perfect if you're going to hike the Linton Lake trail."
BikingA user review notes that the campground is on the Transamerica Bicycle Trail, making it suitable for bike enthusiasts. "On the Transamerica Bicycle Trail... Spent a very pleasant night here," reflects on its popularity among cyclists.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews report the lack of a water source on-site; visitors must bring their own water. Its remote location and rugged nearby wilderness may require caution.
Active Alertsnull
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Alder Springs Campground

Reviews

4.2
8 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Alder Springs Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's remote and peaceful location, its cleanliness, and its free access. Some praise it as a convenient base for hiking in the Three Sisters Wilderness, while others appreciate its solitude and quiet atmosphere.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews

What Campers Love

Users commend the campground's natural beauty, tranquility, and access to hiking trails. "Beautiful area to camp at and explore," one user review says. Others emphasize its free access and the...
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Based on 8 reviews

Common Concerns

A recurring concern is the lack of potable water. "Only drawback, no well, or pump; so bring your own water," one user mentions. Additionally, its remote location and popularity mean it can be hard...
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Based on 8 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Pack in your own potable water as there is no well or pump available. Arrive early to secure a site as it is first-come, first-served and can fill up quickly. Be prepared to pack out all trash.
Based on 8 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is described as well-suited for warm days, but reviews suggest it is less suitable for cold, wet, or snowy conditions.
Based on 8 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Conveniently located and FREE. Rarely available because it’s first-come, first-served only," "Beautifully maintained! Tom and Mary were wonderful hosts. The view is incredible," "Very nice and quiet...
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Based on 8 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers or details are mentioned in the sources.
Based on 8 reviews

Accessibility Features

No direct reviews specifically comment on accessibility features.
Based on 8 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address the campground's pet policies.
Based on 8 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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