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Jack Creek Campground sits on Jack Creek and is located near a chain of campgrounds one right after another that dot the nearby Metolius River. The campground is flat and ideal for RVs. It has large sites with plenty of parking. 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. Facilities Jack Creek 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. 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. ADA Access: N
From Sisters, OR: Travel 12.4 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 4.5 miles north on Forest Road 12, and then 0.6 miles north on Forest Road 1230.
Hike up to the source of Jack Creek from the campground. Maybe about 2 miles each way, the headwaters are mysterious and geologically interesting; the whole creek comes out of the rock at the edge of a relatively new lava flow. Its output volume and temperature variation (this water is VERY cold) throughout the year are essentially nonexistent. Geologists have been unable to determine where it comes from, but it is very pure and is drinkable at the source. Calcium deposits at the source show that the water is likely mineral-rich. This place is sacred to many people - it is common to see people in quiet meditation or spreading ashes of loved ones.
It was great! We showed up there without a reservation for a night. Was not sure if there were any openings and the gentleman that goes around to the campgrounds to clean and make sure all is good took the time to check out his list and help us find a space. He was amazing! Beautiful location and great creek to play in for kids and adults alike.
Way too many spiders crawling about. The bats flying above at night were adorable. The restrooms overflowed. The highlight was the fistfight we observed the first and second night in the campground. Eventually the neighbors show up and started shooting the bats indiscriminately. Great trip, glad we all lived through it!
Beautiful, we went to the trailhead which is down the same road as the campground. The trail is beautiful especially once you get near the creek and the trees and greenery is lush. It's only a 1/2 mile so 1 mile total trail but worth it
Large camping space, good tree cover, beautiful creek, clean bathrooms. Will come back!
