Candle Creek Campground

Show on map541-323-1746jen@hoodoo.com
P.O. BOX 249
SISTERS, OR 97759

Overview

Candle Creek Campground sits at the confluence of the Metolius River and Candle Creek. It is at the end of the Metolius Valley and on the river where the rapids start. This unique location makes it a very popular spot among locals.

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

Candle Creek Campground can accommodate RV, trailer or tent-campers however water and electric hookups are not available. Due to the gravel access road this facility is not the best for RVs or passenger cars although they can be accommodated. Drivers should go slow and use caution. 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.

Charges & Cancellations

Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

Camp site features

Across 10 camp sites:

  • Fire pit: all 10 sites
  • Picnic table: all 10 sites
  • Pets allowed: all 10 sites
  • Longest RV: 18 ft
  • Largest party: 6 people

Fees

Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

Directions

From Sisters, OR: Travel 12.4 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 12.3 miles north on Forest Road 12, and then 1.6 miles east on Forest Road 1200 980.

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 12 PM.

Reviews

47 reviews
5 stars
25
4 stars
15
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
5
Lisa S
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 2 months ago
Candle Creek CG is located at the confluence of the Metolius River and Candle Creek. It's beautiful, but very dusty. A sign encouraging drivers to go slow would be very helpful. Also, the road leading in could be graded. Thanks!
Rick E
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 3 months ago
Spacious campspots, great location.
Twila J
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 3 months ago
Matthew S
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 4 months ago
Very peaceful except for the river roaring which made it quite nice for not hearing the other campers.
tony c
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 4 months ago
Excellent site.
Jacob V
Loop:Loop 1
Site:
Reviewed 4 months ago
Beautiful, quiet campground. You really get a lot of privacy and quiet by venturing beyond the paved road campgrounds along the river. There isn't river access here, due to the rapids, but it is beautiful nonetheless. Vault toilet extremely clean, even had an air freshener.
Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Reserve

Season dates

Walk In season

Apr 30, 2027 – May 20, 2027

First come, first served

Peak season

May 21, 2027 – Sep 25, 2027

Reservable online

Walk In season

Sep 26, 2027 – Oct 16, 2027

First come, first served

Walk In season

Apr 28, 2028 – May 18, 2028

First come, first served

Peak season

May 19, 2028 – Sep 23, 2028

Reservable online

Walk In season

Sep 24, 2028 – Oct 14, 2028

First come, first served

Camp Sites

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