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Smiling River Campground

In

Deschutes National Forest

34 sites · RV, Tent

You can’t help but be happy when you’re camping at a place called “Smiling River." With 36 prime sites up for grabs next to the mighty Metolius River, your grin will extend from one bank to the next! You can reserve your site ahead of time, and make sure you check out the campground website for alerts and closures before you cast off.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

34 sites

RV, Tent

Explore 766 campgrounds near Deschutes National Forest

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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Deschutes National Forest

Sage Ridge

47mi from Smiling River Campground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bend, OR

Our unique location is close to Bend city limits and right next to Horse Ridge Mountain Biking Trails. BLM land surrounds the area, and is even accessible from the upper part of our property. Come out and enjoy the high desert and expore the juniper forest. We have tent camping sites and one tipi. We are currently in the process of still building out our glamping pods. However in the mean time you can currently book a stay at thoses sites for tent camping. The tent sites offer a comfortable setting for your tent in the sandy dirt. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit. We have a small community area! There you will find a mini outdoor kitchen with a blackstone and a bbq. (We have no water on-site) This is also where the trash bins are located. There is also a basketball hoop, yoga deck, and pull up /hanging bars. Next to the community area is where you will also find the bathroom, which is a clean porta potty. Come enjoy wandering the juniper forest and sage brush in Central Oregon’s high desert. We are next to 100’s of acres of BLM land, including the Horse Ridge Mountain Biking Trail System. There is hiking, biking, horse trails and ATV trails all nearby. Our open skies are great for daydreaming and stargazing. Come see how bright the milky way is out here Sage Ridge. Sage Ridge is only 15 miles east of Bend right off of Hwy 20.

Cabin on the Rim

19mi from Smiling River Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Culver, OR

Cabin on the Rim is a beautiful and quiet off the grid getaway. A studio cabin overlooking the Crooked River Canyon. It is nestled into the cliff side on the back end of a 110 acre working horse ranch. Enjoy gorgeous sunrises peaking over the canyon walls and beautiful sunsets tucking themselves in behind the cascade mountains.

Lava Rock Experience!

36mi from Smiling River Campground · 3 sites · Lodging · Seventh Mountain, OR

Stay just feet from the Newberry Monument lava flow, right on the edge of Newberry Monument National Park. Fall asleep under an unparalleled view of the stars—just outside of town with minimal light pollution—and wake up to the sounds of nature, as free-range chickens, quail, and deer wander near your tiny home. Enjoy the privacy of off-grid living without giving up essentials like power, Wi-Fi, and restroom access. Notes: • Pets must be leashed at all times due to free-range ducks and chickens on or near the property. • Pets may not be left unattended in the unit while you’re away. • A detached bathroom and laundry are available in a shared utility space. • Non-smoking property.

Cozy Shop ADU

23mi from Smiling River Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Redmond, OR

Cozy & Peaceful ADU Near Smith Rock Cozy and peaceful ADU on the property! Sit back and relax in the outdoor seating area by the propane fire pit, or enjoy the air-conditioned indoor space. You’ll have quick access to Smith Rock State Park, Redmond, and the Deschutes River — the perfect landing spot to relax and recharge while enjoying all that Central Oregon has to offer. Just 15 minutes from the Redmond Airport. Please note: there is no TV available — enjoy the outdoors or bring your own device to stream your favorite shows.

Lucky Six Ranch

31mi from Smiling River Campground · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bend, OR

Lucky Six Ranch is located 5 miles from the edge of NE Bend OR surrounded by sagebrush, juniper, pastures, and mountain views. Enjoy the seasonal adventures around the Central Oregon Area including Mt Bachelor, Smith Rock State Park, Tumalo State Park. Grab a bite at one of the many food carts in town and relax under the stars at the ranch. Say hi to the goats and cats and listen to the coyotes, hawks and quail. Stretch, do yoga, mediate in the tipi space. This campsite space works well for self contained camper vans/trucks, tent camping. The tipi space can be used for camping/sleeping in good weather. However- Please note, it is OPEN, un-heated, and during times of rain/snow, it is not weather proof. You are welcome to use your own portable propane or electric heaters at your own risk. No fires or cooking is allowed inside the tipi space.

Calico Princess

36mi from Smiling River Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Deschutes River Woods, OR

A peaceful retreat on the ranch, lots of open pasture and wildlife. Multiple RV spaces with electrical and well water, and a few tent sites. Lots of open space and sunshine for walks, clear sky’s for starry nights, a frog pond, larger pond with mature aspen grove and bench, campfires*, motorcycles**. birds, deer passing through. Resident cats, Ike, Rose and Haze can be seen out hunting. Streams and ponds June-Sept. Rpod not included. Cameras onsite, but campsites are not covered. Kid friendly with some playground equipment. Very private, lots of spaces to choose from. Kid friendly, including a climbing dome and a trampoline, and some other obstacle course items. Cows and goats to follow around. Afternoon shade on the bench by the main pond next to the aspen grove and a bit of a trickling creek when the pond is full. 10 minutes from downtown Bend and all it has to offer. 5 mins north on Brookswood to the Old Mill District, and the Deschutes river (and trail). Chickens on site for fresh eggs (starting Sept ‘25)

Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

35mi from Smiling River Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR

Shelter at Castle Rock Farm – A Private Sanctuary Camping Paradise Sanctuary Escape | Wildlife Viewing | Pet-Friendly | Covered Shelters | Stunning Scenery | Exclusive and Peaceful Escape to Castle Rock Farm, a breathtaking 1893 homestead nestled at the base of Castle Rock in the heart of the stunning Willamette National Forest located in McKenzie Bridge. This one-of-a-kind, private wildlife and birding preserve offers an unforgettable camping experience with covered shelters designed for comfort in all weather conditions. Ultimate Privacy & Seclusion – No noisy highways, busy roads, or misleading locations. Just peace, quiet, and nature. Camping in Comfort – Stay dry with covered gathering spaces, a deluxe canvas tent on a wooden platform, and handcrafted furniture made from sustainably sourced lumber. Breathtaking Scenery & Wildlife – Camp under a majestic Big Maple Tree, next to a babbling brook, with Great Gray Owls, Pileated Woodpeckers, and over 150 bird nesting boxes surrounding you. A true birder’s paradise! Outdoor Adventure Awaits – Just minutes from King Castle Trail, Blue Pool, hot springs, waterfalls, lakes, and endless trails for hiking, biking, rafting, and paddleboarding. Eco-Friendly & Handcrafted – No pesticides, no herbicides—just nature at its purest. Every structure is professionally built by expert craftsmen, using heritage-cut lumber from windfallen trees. Furry Friends Welcome! Two friendly yellow labs roam the property and love to join on morning and evening walks.Hand-feed native wild cutthroat trout in the private pond. Forage for wild strawberries along the nature trails. Enjoy the peaceful sound of the wind whispering through the trees and birds singing all around you 🏕️ Group Camping & Events: Need space for a group? The Big Maple site accommodates up to 50 tents for special events, weddings, birding groups, biking/running retreats, and more. 🚴‍♂️ Adventure-Ready: We can connect you with local rafting trips, bike/mountain bike rentals, and hiking shuttle services for a hassle-free experience. This is not just another campsite—it’s a sanctuary. Come disconnect, unwind, and immerse yourself in nature at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm. ✨ Book your stay today and experience camping like never before! ✨

FourLeafs (McKenzie River Retreat)

34mi from Smiling River Campground · 6 sites · Tents · Cascadia, OR

No RV's or camper trailers! Welcome to our enchanting Outdoor Stay Area, nestled among the tall, mystical firs of McKenzie Bridge in the breathtaking McKenzie River Valley. Enjoy nature's embrace! Message a special request if you are seeking a group site or event booking for multiple sites or to book campsites plus indoor accomodations in the Hygge A-Frame (listed on AirBnB and VRBO). Gather around our central communal campfire area, adorned with rustic log benches. Cook on the swing out grill over a complementary wood fire when allowed. As summer matures, and burn bans no doubt crop up, we provide a propane campfire ring which you may enjoy between 8-10pm, while permitted. Message before booking to confirm any campfire details or requests. I'm always happy to answer any questions. I live on site but generally the Outdoor Stay Area is self-serve unless I have a special request to cater. Tent sites are covered with wood chips for a comfortable night's rest. Hose water is available. As well, we've added an insulated "drinking water hose" for improved taste and water quality. During your stay explore the wealth of outdoor activities in the McKenzie River Valley, from hiking and fishing to relaxing by the river (1/2 mile walk), biking, golf, a soak in one of three hot springs in our area or visit historical sites. View waterfalls or book a white water adventure with a local guide! The area's wildlife, including deer, elk, grey fox and various bird species, provide a daily delight. If you like birds, you will adore the Swainson’s Thrush birdsong that paints the air in the mornings and evenings here. Our Outdoor Stay Area is a gateway to adventure with towering firs and lush greenery creating an enchanting atmosphere. Whether seeking solitude or company, our camp is perfect for your retreat. By respecting guidelines and mother earth, we maintain the beauty and integrity of this special place together. Thank you in advance . We have recently added two security cameras overlooking the general area of camp

Sunny Ponderosa Camp

34mi from Smiling River Campground · 1 site · RV · Bend, OR

Park in our large wrap-around driveway under our beautiful Ponderosa pines and fall asleep to the gorgeous view of the stars with no obnoxious streetlights. Don’t worry, we have a flood light and cameras to keep you and your stuff safe! Then wake up to the smell of our Juniper trees and watch our local group of mule deer grazing through the yard with views of Tumalo Mountain. Just across the street starts the Canal Trail that heads East and West. A 5 min bike ride East along the trail will take you to a Fred Meyer Grocery store, Starbucks, and much much more. Or take the Canal Trail West through the massive 123+ acres of forested public land that connects directly to the Deschutes River Trail (only 4 mins away). Once there, the outdoor activities are endless! Great fishing, bouldering, biking, swimming, rafting, and nature viewing spots are all within a couple minute walk from our home. Heading to the Old Mill or Hayden Homes Amphitheater for some shopping, a concert, restaurants, or drinks? It all starts 3/4 of a mile down the hill! If you’re viewing this posting, you probably already know all the amazing outdoor and sporting opportunities, entertainment, shopping, and eating that our beautiful town of Bend offers. If you’re still not sure, we’ll be right here to help you find the perfect spot to go! We’ll be continuing to add photos and facilities as time goes on to help better serve you. We appreciate your interest and hope that if the dates don’t work out this time, we get to meet you on your next trip to Bend. Cheers!

Rags To Rescues Sanctuary

16mi from Smiling River Campground · 2 sites · Lodging · Sisters, OR

Welcome to Rags to Rescues! Nestled on our serene 165-acre farm, we offer two unique stays: The Bunkhouse and The Cottage on the Pond. Whether you're seeking a rustic getaway or a peaceful retreat by the water, every stay directly supports our mission of compassionate and sustainable animal care. The Bunkhouse: A cozy, fully furnished space with rustic charm and modern amenities, perfect for solo travelers or couples. The Cottage on the Pond: A charming one-bedroom retreat, ideal for individuals or couples looking for a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. During your visit, you’ll experience the rhythms of farm life—whether you choose to relax in nature or engage in hands-on activities. Your stay helps provide care for our rescued animals and sustains our mission. We are proud to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all, including individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. At Rags to Rescues, diversity is celebrated, and your presence enriches our community. Important Details: *Pet Policy: A pet deposit is required if you're bringing a furry friend. Please add the pet deposit in the “Extras” section when booking. Maximum of 2 dogs allowed. *Cancellation Policy: We offer a 14-day money-back cancellation policy to allow other guests the opportunity to book a stay. Thank you for supporting Rags to Rescues Sanctuary, where relaxation, purpose, and community come together in harmony. We look forward to hosting you! **Tax-ID: 99-1736093

The Camp

34mi from Smiling River Campground · 28 sites · RVs · Bend, OR

Welcome to The Camp, Bend's premier RV park where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Oregon. Situated less than a mile from downtown Bend and just off Highway 97, we offer fully renovated sites with stunning mountain views, modern amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions. Join us for a unique camp-cation experience that promises relaxation and adventure for the whole family, pets included. At The Camp, we cater to all adventurers with a variety of back-in RV sites tailored for everything from vans to larger RVs, offering dimensions to suit every need. Each site boasts full hookups, gravel pads with concrete and artificial grass lounging areas, and access to top-tier amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay amidst Bend's natural beauty. The Camp offers an array of amenities to enhance your experience, including a spacious community area with a fire pit and BBQ grills, clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. We prioritize your comfort with WiFi access, family-friendly spaces, and a dedicated onsite dog area, ensuring a welcoming environment for all our guests. Bend, Oregon, uniquely merges urban appeal with the thrill of the outdoors, boasting a vibrant mix of cultural sites, like the Deschutes Historical Museum, and top-notch dining, including the acclaimed Ariana Restaurant. Adventurers can scale Smith Rock, kayak the Deschutes River, or explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, offering endless exploration opportunities. The culinary scene is equally diverse, from the innovative dishes of Ariana Restaurant to the craft brews of Deschutes Brewery, highlighting Bend's dedication to quality, creativity, and local tastes, appealing to both food lovers and casual diners.

Comfortable converted Woodshed

32mi from Smiling River Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Bend, OR

Our Bend Ranchette is located just outside the city limits of Bend, OR. Downtown Bend is about five miles away. Come, stay, camp, play! Parking: the gravel driveway is west of our main driveway and marked with an orange cone. Once you park you will see the Shedteau straight ahead. Feel free to check out our property. We always like to recommend happy hour at the pond! This property is our primary residence and we are usually around but will respect your privacy! Please let us know if we can be of any assistance during your stay.

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LocationSmiling River Campground, Deschutes National Forest, Oregon, United States

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What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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