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Gorge Campground is part of a chain of campgrounds one right after another that dot the upper portion of the Metolius River.
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.
Gorge Campground can accommodate RV, trailer or tent-campers however water and electric hookups are not available. This is a no water facility so campers will need to bring their own supply. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill and the campground has vault toilets available.
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.
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.
From Sisters, OR: Travel 9.6 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 6.1 miles north on Forest Road 14, then two miles north on Forest Road 1419.
Great sites against the Metolious. Decent spacing and privacy from others
This is a small, first come first serve campground next to the Metolius River that is accent to the Pine Rest Campground, Smiling River Campground, Allingham Campground, and Camp Sherman. There is no running water at the Gorge Campground, but other standard campground amenities are there - garbage service, toilets, and waste water receptacles. There are a few sites that face the river but they are all are shaded for some of the day. I would come here again to explore the area more!
Liked this campground. Would love if there was running water and flush toilets!
Love the views great fishing at times of year and has a very family friendly place
My favorite of all the campgrounds at camp sherman. Good for dry RVing and tenting. No drinking water spouts anymore, but it's an easy trip to a neighboring campground to fill jugs. Right on the river, large spaces. Been coming here 30+ years
