Gorge Campground

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 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. The 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, providing 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. The Metolius and Wizard Falls fish hatcheries have display ponds where you can 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.