Lower Bridge Campground
Lower Bridge Campground earned its name for being located on the Metolius River where it flows under the corresponding bridge. You can't miss the beauty of this campground with its towering ponderosa pines and incense cedars providing ample shade.
Lower Bridge 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 and drinking water available.
Need to Know
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. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the 24-hour Fire Precaution information 800-523-4737 or the Deschutes National Forest 541-383-5300.
- This facility is pet friendly so long as animals are picked up after and kept on their leashes.
Single site fees include 1 vehicle and 1 legally towed vehicle. Any additional vehicles are subject to an extra vehicle fee on-site, space permitting.
- Prevent the spread of invasive species by inspecting and cleaning packs, equipment and tires before using lake or trails.
Click here for more information about Deschutes National ForestDon'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. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
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. ‘Location’ means the occupied area, the occupied campsite, and the National Forest System lands in the immediate vicinity thereof. Camping or occupying any location on all National Forest lands for more than 28 calendar days total during a calendar year is prohibited.
Natural Features
The headwaters of the adjacent Metolius River are at Metolius Springs at the base of Black Butte, a 3,076-foot cinder cone. The clear, cold river flows north from the springs through diverse coniferous forest and a landscape of volcanic activity. The area provides habitat for mammals such as mule deer, coyote and cougar. Migratory birds and native fish also call the area home.
Nearby Attractions
The Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform allows visitors the chance to view a variety of types of fish while the Metolius Research Natural Area gives bird watchers ample opportunities. Visit the Metolius Fish Hatchery or Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery display ponds to observe and feed different types of salmon and other fish.
The Metolius-Windigo Trail, open to hikers, bikers and horses, is more than 100 miles in length and begins near the Metolius River headwaters west of the town of Sisters, Oregon. The trail was created in the 1980s primarily to serve long-distance horse riders seeking an alternative to the Pacific Crest Trail.
Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, and the unique geological landscape of Newberry National Volcanic Monument draw visitors to the region as well. It is a great starting point for visitors to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors can also explore the Lava River Cave, located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. At 5,211 feet in length, the northwest section of the cave is the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon.
Recreation
Hiking and fishing top the list of recreational activities for visitors.
For anglers, the spring-fed Metolius river offers a stunning setting for fly-fishing. The clear, cold water supports rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout and kokanee salmon.
For day hikers and backpackers, the area offers a wide variety of scenic terrain, ranging from riverside trails to routes in subalpine forests.
Contact Information
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P.O. BOX 249 SISTERS OR 97759
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 541-323-1746
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Sisters, OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 13.6 miles north on Forest Road 14.
Available Campsites
- Site 01, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 10, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 04, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 06, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 11, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 03, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 07, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 05, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 09, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 12, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 08, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
