French Pete Campground

We just got back from French Pete and are already planning our next visit. Most sites back right up to the river and plenty of space between camp spots. Great location for fly fishing, hiking and visiting local Hidden Lake. But the best thing: Thom, Amy and Ted, camp hosts. They helped us find the best site, helped us navigate the best hiking and even told us about local hidden treasures. It was great and hope they are still there when we get back.

Quiet, fully wooded campground 12 miles south of Hwy 126, on Forest Road 19 (the scenic Aufderheide). There are 17 mostly very large sites, with plenty of room for more than one tent (a few very small ones). Some are reservable on recreation.gov, some are first come first serve. During the week, there were several choices. We didn't see any problem at all with the water, and there is easy access to the river from most sites. It's about 3 miles from both Terwilliger Hot Springs and the swimming area in Slide Creek CG. The French Pete trailhead is directly across the road, down a small access road (no sign), which gives you access to a great trail up and along the river. The tiny towns of Rainbow and McKenzie Bridge have a few restaurants about a half-hour away. Unfortunately, Blue River was totally destroyed in the 2020 fire. All in all, a great campground in a great location.

Great campground, clean and close to the shallow stream (connected to the river ). Bring drinking water . Shade and not to many mosquitoes.

The most beautiful campground in the Willamette Valley

Nice campground with different spaces, some of which are along a stream. You would have to bushwack your way to the streams though. Bring your own water or a good filter. The well water in the campground is consistently brown. The hosts stated it is safe for drinking. The host said the forest ranger tests the water monthly for quality and deems it safe for drinking. Aside from the well water, the campsites are good sized and somewhat private.