Camp Sherman on the Metolius River

Camp Sherman combines the landscape of the Metolius River with hiking trails, fish viewing, and places where the town’s history and community life can be experienced. The Camp Sherman Campground is located along the banks of the scenic Metolius River in the Deschutes National Forest. Those planning a trip with varied interests can combine nature experiences, regional highlights, and events for a diverse stay here.

Metolius River and unique nature experiences

Camp Sherman is located on the Metolius River, designated as a Wild and Scenic River. A notable starting point for exploring the river is the Headwaters of the Metolius: This is where the Metolius River emerges from an opening in the ground and develops into a river. Other special places along the Metolius River include the Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform and the Metolius Research Natural Area. They give the river landscape different focal points and make it clear that a visit does not have to be limited to just one type of nature observation.

Hiking, watching fish, and staying by the water

Hiking is one of the most important recreational activities at the Camp Sherman Campground. The West Metolius River hike is a 5.5-mile round-trip hike from Lower Canyon Creek Campground to Wizard Falls Hatchery. This specific distance helps with planning a day without implying a walking time or a particular level of difficulty.

Wizard Falls Hatchery has a pond facility for displaying fish. There is also a platform for observing fish in the settling pond. The hatchery can be reached either through Camp Sherman or via Forest Service Road 14. For travelers interested in the river landscape and fishing, another important point is that only fly-fishing is permitted in the upper section of the Metolius River near the headwaters by Camp Sherman; artificial flies and lures are not allowed there.

History and local community life

Camp Sherman also offers specific points of interest away from the river and hiking trails. The Camp Sherman Store was founded in 1918 by farmers from Sherman County. Today, the store offers a grocery store, a deli, and a fly-fishing shop. In this way, the town’s historical development is connected with a practical place to visit during your stay.

The Camp Sherman Community Hall was built entirely by volunteers in 1949. It is used for meetings of the Camp Sherman Community Association and public events. The annual Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Camp Sherman Community Association is part of the local events calendar; it takes place in July and serves as a fundraiser. The Cabin Fever Potlucks in January and February encourage friends, families, and neighbors to come together.

Choose accommodation based on your travel plans

When looking for a vacation rental or vacation home in Camp Sherman, it is worth deciding on your preferred focus first. Those who mainly want to hike, experience the Metolius River, and watch fish can include the nature and outdoor experiences mentioned above in their daily plans. Those who also want to learn about the area’s history and local community life can include the Camp Sherman Store, the Community Hall, and the events mentioned above.

Other places you can consider when planning your trip include Madras, Terrebonne, and Warm Springs.

For the overview of the broader area: Jefferson County.